Explore Keukenhof: A Blooming Wonderland of Tulips in the Netherlands

Welcome to Keukenhof Gardens, one of the world’s largest and most stunning flower gardens, located in the heart of the Netherlands. Known as the "Garden of Europe," Keukenhof is a magical destination that showcases over 7 million flowers, including 800+ varieties of tulips, spread across 32 hectares of vibrant landscape.
 

Open for just a few weeks each spring, Keukenhof is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for flower lovers, photographers, and travelers looking to witness the Netherlands at its most colorful. As your virtual travel guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan the ultimate visit—from best times and how to get there, to must-see highlights and insider tips.

📍 Where Is Keukenhof Gardens?

Location: Lisse, South Holland, Netherlands

Distance from Amsterdam: ~40 km (about 35 minutes by car)

Region: Bollenstreek (Bulb Region), famous for its tulip fields

🌸 History of Keukenhof Gardens

Keukenhof dates back to the 15th century when it served as the herbal garden for Teylingen Castle, providing ingredients for the kitchen—hence the name Keukenhof, meaning "kitchen garden" in Dutch.

In 1949, a group of flower growers and exporters transformed the area into a spring exhibition to promote the Dutch flower industry. Today, it’s one of the Netherlands’ most visited attractions, drawing over 1.5 million visitors each season.

🕰️ Keukenhof Opening Times

Keukenhof is open only 8 weeks a year, typically from mid-March to mid-May. Dates change slightly each year depending on bloom timing.

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM daily

Best Bloom Time: Mid-April (especially for tulips)

🌺 Top Attractions in Keukenhof Gardens

1. 🌷 The Tulip Fields

Though the garden itself is stunning, the vast fields surrounding Keukenhof are equally mesmerizing. These multi-colored stripes of tulips stretch across the landscape like a living rainbow.

🟢 Tip: You can rent a bike or book a helicopter tour to view the fields from above.

2. 🌸 Themed Flower Shows

Every year, Keukenhof features a new theme reflected in flower shows, mosaic displays, and sculptures. Past themes have included "Romance in Flowers," "A World of Colors," and "Flower Power."

💡 Check the official website for the current season’s theme and highlights.

3. 🏛️ Flower Pavilions

Keukenhof is home to five main pavilions, each dedicated to a particular flower or theme:

Willem-Alexander Pavilion: Over 1,000 varieties of tulips on display

Oranje Nassau Pavilion: Seasonal flower shows (roses, lilies, etc.)

Beatrix Pavilion: Exotic orchids and anthuriums

Juliana Pavilion: History of the tulip and its journey from Turkey to Holland

Wilhelmina Pavilion: Smaller exhibitions and themed displays

4. 🌳 Landscaped Gardens & Water Features

Designed by leading Dutch landscape architects, Keukenhof is a masterpiece of manicured gardens, tranquil ponds, and artistic flower beds.

Highlights include:

Japanese Garden

Natural Woodland Walk

Historical Garden (featuring old tulip varieties)

Inspirational Gardens (modern and sustainable planting styles)

5. 🧸 Keukenhof for Kids

Keukenhof is family-friendly with several attractions for children:

Miffy Playground

Petting zoo with farm animals

Scavenger hunt map

Maze

Interactive Tulipomania exhibit

📸 Best Photo Spots

Windmill and Tulip Fields – Classic Dutch scene

Flower mosaics – Each season has unique art made entirely of blooms

Japanese Bridge – A picturesque wooden bridge over a pond

Mirror Lakes – Capture flower reflections in water

Beatrix Pavilion orchid displays – Vivid color contrasts for indoor shots

🎟️ Tickets and Pricing

✅ Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues, especially during weekends and Easter holidays.

🚗 How to Get to Keukenhof

From Amsterdam:

Keukenhof Express Bus (Line 852): From RAI Station – direct route (~35 min)

Train + Bus: Train to Schiphol Airport or Leiden, then take Keukenhof shuttle

Car: Freeway A4 or A44 → Follow signs to Lisse/Keukenhof. Paid parking available.

🚲 Bicycles are available for rent at the entrance if you want to explore the surrounding fields.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Keukenhof

The park has multiple cafes, kiosks, and food trucks offering Dutch and international cuisine.

🌿 Picnicking is allowed, so feel free to bring your own food.

🛍️ Souvenirs and Shopping

Visit the Keukenhof gift shops for:

Tulip bulbs (certified for export)

Wooden clogs

Dutch cheese and treats

Flower-themed souvenirs and textiles

🟢 For shipping tulip bulbs abroad, ask staff to guide you to export-approved varieties.

📆 Suggested One-Day Itinerary

🌤️ Best Time to Visit Keukenhof

Mid-April is ideal for peak tulip bloom

Early mornings (before 10:00 AM) and weekdays offer fewer crowds

The season is brief—book in advance, especially for late March to early May weekends

📚 Fun Facts About Keukenhof

Over 7 million bulbs are planted manually each year

Tulips originated from the Ottoman Empire (modern-day Turkey)

Keukenhof covers an area of 32 hectares (79 acres)

The word "tulip" comes from the Persian word for turban

Every year features a different floral theme and layout

🧭 Nearby Attractions to Combine with Keukenhof

Tulip Fields of Lisse – Bike or drive through the colorful fields

Flower Parade (Bloemencorso) – April parade with floral floats (check dates)

Noordwijk Beach – 15 minutes away for a relaxing seaside break

Amsterdam – Combine with city exploration or canal tour

✅ Why Visit Keukenhof Gardens?

Keukenhof isn’t just a garden—it’s a celebration of spring, Dutch tradition, and natural beauty. With its vivid colors, rich history, and immersive floral experiences, it’s one of the most unforgettable places to visit in the Netherlands.

Whether you’re a photographer, a nature lover, or just looking for a peaceful day among the flowers, Keukenhof is a once-a-year spectacle not to miss.