Spring in the Netherlands: When the Tulips Bloom and Where to See Them

Spring in the Netherlands is an explosion of color and fragrance, with tulips as the undeniable stars of the season. If you dream of seeing endless fields of multicolored flowers, strolling through the scents of hyacinths and daffodils, or admiring spectacular creations at the Flower Parade, then this article is for you! We’ll tell you when is the best time to visit the Netherlands for tulips, the most beautiful places – from the famous Keukenhof gardens to lesser-known flower fields – and offer useful tips for an unforgettable experience. Get your camera ready and let’s set off on a journey through flowers!

Tulips and the Netherlands

Although tulips are not originally from the Netherlands, they’ve become a national symbol and an essential part of Dutch cultural identity. Bringing color and joy every spring, tulips have a fascinating history here, marked by the famous “Tulip Mania” of the 17th century – considered the world’s first speculative economic bubble. Today, the Netherlands is the largest producer and exporter of tulips and flower bulbs globally, and tulip season attracts millions of visitors each year, eager to admire the breathtaking landscapes created by the colorful fields. Festivals, parades, and tulip-themed parks turn spring into a true celebration of flowers that continues to fascinate and inspire people from all over the world.

When is Tulip Season in the Netherlands?

Tulip season in the Netherlands typically starts in mid-March and lasts until early May. However, the peak time – when the fields are in full bloom – is usually between mid- and late-April. Of course, this depends somewhat on weather conditions: a warm spring can bring earlier blooms, while a colder one may delay them.

It’s also good to know that tulips aren’t the only flowers that color the Dutch landscape during this time. In March and early April, you’ll mostly find fields of daffodils and fragrant hyacinths, with tulips reaching their peak a bit later. There are also differences in blooming times between regions – areas closer to the coast or further south may see flowers bloom earlier than others.

To enjoy tulips in their full splendor, plan your visit for the second half of April, when your chances of seeing the most spectacular landscapes are highest.

The Best Places to See Tulips in the Netherlands

Keukenhof – The Flower Park

Located in Lisse, between Amsterdam and The Hague, Keukenhof is known as the most beautiful flower park in the world and a must-visit during tulip season. Here, over 7 million flowers await you, with spectacular gardens and themed exhibitions that will take your breath away at every turn. It’s where creativity, nature, and floral design blend perfectly, offering a true spectacle of color.

Why go: In addition to an incredible variety of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths, Keukenhof features meticulously designed theme gardens, pavilions with unique floral arrangements, and even open-air art exhibitions. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of spring and take memorable photos.

Helpful tips:

• Buy tickets online – this is essential! Even Keukenhof’s official website states that you cannot enter without a pre-purchased ticket. I bought my ticket via GetYourGuide, and even though I arrived about an hour earlier than my time slot, I had no issues entering. The voucher is scanned directly at the gate; no need to stop at the ticket counter.

• Arrive as early as possible – to enjoy the flowers in peace, without crowds. The ideal time is around 7:00 – 7:30 AM. I arrived at the park at around 11:30 AM, and it was already quite crowded until about 4:30 PM.

• Keep realistic expectations – personally, I accepted that it would be crowded and didn’t let that spoil my joy. I had already been in the Netherlands for over a week and had seen tulip fields in various forms, and going alone helped me focus on the experience without the pressure of capturing perfect crowd-free photos.

• Boat ride – inside Keukenhof, you can take a 45-minute boat cruise through the flower fields for an extra fee (€10/adult, €5/child). But beware: tickets sell out fast! For example, by 12:00 PM, the first available cruise was at 5:15 PM. Yet another reason to arrive early.

Accommodation near Keukenhof:

If you want to stay close to the park and avoid long morning commutes, consider lodging in Lisse or nearby towns (Hillegom, Noordwijkerhout). Many guesthouses and hotels in the area offer beautiful views of flower fields or easy access to bike routes among tulips. Popular options include:

• Hotel de Duif Lisse – just a few steps from Keukenhof.

• Boutique Suites Lisse – ideal for those seeking modern comfort close to nature.

• B&B De Vier Seizoenen – a cozy and traditional option in a quiet area.

For a truly special experience, some traditional farms also offer accommodation with direct views of tulip fields – a dream come true for any spring enthusiast!

Bollenstreek – The Heart of the Flower Fields between Leiden and Haarlem

One of the most beautiful regions to explore the charm of Dutch spring is Bollenstreek, known as the “bulb region.” Stretching between Leiden and Haarlem, this area greets you with endless tulip, daffodil, and hyacinth fields as far as the eye can see.

In early April, the air is filled with the sweet scent of hyacinths before tulips reach their blooming peak. Even if the tulips haven’t fully opened yet, walks here are a delight for the senses.

Why visit Bollenstreek:

• Stunning bike trails: Perfect for long, relaxing rides through flower fields.

• Accessibility: Close to Keukenhof, with easy bike rentals and access to authentic flower fields without the extreme crowds.

• Charming towns: Haarlem and Leiden are wonderful towns often overlooked. Stroll through their markets, explore canals and local museums, and enjoy the relaxed spring vibe.

Special photo spots:

• The Tulip Barn and Tulip Experience Amsterdam – locations specially designed for taking spectacular floral photos in spring-themed settings.

• De Tulperij – a free-entry site where you can admire and photograph the flower fields, enjoy a rustic café, hamburgers, and learn more about the cultivation process.

Tips:

• Rent a bike or join a bike tour from Lisse, Noordwijkerhout, or even Haarlem and follow the trails through the fields – the most authentic experience in the area.

• Book nearby accommodation to reach the fields early and avoid the crowds.

• Respect the flower fields: take photos from the edge or in designated zones.

Recommended accommodations in Bollenstreek:

• Boutique Suites Lisse – centrally located in Lisse, near flower fields and Keukenhof.

• Hotel Villa Flora Hillegom – a charming option in a quiet town, ideal for bike explorations.

• B&B De Zonnehoed Noordwijkerhout – rural lodging close to nature and flower fields.

Noordoostpolder – Tulip Festival in Flevoland

If you want to enjoy the charm of tulips in an authentic atmosphere, without the crowds of major tourist attractions, Noordoostpolder is the ideal place. Located in the Flevoland region around Emmeloord, this area hosts the annual Tulip Festival – an event that turns the entire area into a celebration of color and joy.

Why go:

The festival offers two well-marked routes:

• A 24 km bike route, perfect for exploring the fields at a relaxed pace.

• A 114 km car route, ideal for covering more distance in a single day.

Along the way, you’ll often find kids selling lemonade for €1 in front of their homes – a sweet and authentic experience.

There’s a wide variety of tulips and the chance to get close for amazing photos. Unlike other regions, in Noordoostpolder you won’t find hyacinths or daffodils – this is truly the kingdom of tulips.

Besides endless tulip fields, you’ll also find tulip mosaics – real floral works of art created by local communities in each village. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, with few foreign tourists, making for a much more genuine experience.

Tip: Rent a bike and follow the recommended route! That’s what we did, and it was a great decision: quiet roads, vast fields of flowers, and the chance to see rural Holland at its best.

Special places to visit:

• Tulip Experience Field – a specially arranged area for flower photography, with free access. You can also view the fields from above via helicopter rides (extra cost) – an unforgettable experience!

• Marknesse – a village where you can pick your own tulips directly from the field and pay at the end. A perfect activity for families and flower lovers.

Where to stay near Noordoostpolder:

• Hotel ’t Voorhuys, Emmeloord – centrally located, comfortable, and ideal for exploring the region. Modern rooms, good breakfast, and bike rentals available.

• B&B De Pipowagen, Marknesse – for a unique experience, stay in a traditional Dutch caravan turned into a cozy lodge.

• Bed & Breakfast Zonnehoeve, Bant – located in a renovated farm near the tulip fields. Quiet, nature-filled, and a great base for cycling routes.

Anna Paulowna – A Floral Paradise in North Holland

Named after a Russian princess and located in the municipality of Hollands Kroon, Anna Paulowna is one of the most colorful tulip destinations in the Netherlands. It’s less known internationally, which makes it a peaceful and authentic place to admire the blooms.

Why visit:

• Colorful fields: The area is famous for its expansive tulip fields that stretch out in vibrant rows – perfect for photographers and nature lovers.

• Annual Flower Days (Bloemendagen): Usually held in late April, local residents decorate their gardens and create artistic mosaics using hyacinths, tulips, and daffodils. It’s a unique, community-driven festival full of creativity and color.

• Authentic Dutch countryside: The region offers a glimpse into rural Dutch life, far from tourist crowds.

How to get there:

Anna Paulowna is accessible by train from Amsterdam (approx. 1 hour and 20 minutes), with direct connections. You can also rent a bike at the station to explore the fields at your own pace.

Tip: Plan your visit to coincide with the Bloemendagen festival – it’s a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t find elsewhere in the country.

Recommended accommodations:

• Hotel The Ark, Anna Paulowna – a cozy option near the station and flower fields.

• B&B Boerderij de Waard – a farmhouse stay with a view of the tulips.

• Hotel van der Valk, Den Helder – for those who want a more luxurious base close by.

Less Touristy Fields

If you want to see tulips in all their splendor, but without the crowds of the famous spots, there are a few more remote regions where you can enjoy the beauty of the flowers in peace. Perfect for stunning photos and an authentic Dutch experience!

Goeree-Overflakkee Region (Province of Zuid-Holland)

In the south of the Netherlands, on the island of Goeree-Overflakkee, you’ll find gorgeous fields of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. Here, most of the flowers are grown for trade, and visitors are far fewer than in the more well-known areas. The rural landscape and peaceful atmosphere turn a simple walk into a true escape into nature.

Drenthe – Hidden Fields and Absolute Tranquility

The province of Drenthe, best known for its green landscapes and historic dolmens (Hunebedden), also hides a few spectacular flower fields, especially daffodils and tulips. Ideal for a bike tour or a relaxing walk.

West Friesland (North of Noord-Holland Province)

Between the towns of Medemblik, Enkhuizen, and Hoorn you’ll find tulip fields that rival those in more famous areas, but in a much less crowded setting. Bonus: the traditional architecture and picturesque villages make the entire area worth exploring.

A Must-See Event: The Flower Parade (Bloemencorso Bollenstreek)

Every spring, the Netherlands celebrates its flowers with a unique spectacle: the Flower Parade. Dozens of floats decorated entirely with tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths travel along a route of about 40 km, from Noordwijk to Haarlem, passing right through Lisse, near Keukenhof.

The event usually takes place at the end of April, during peak blooming season, and attracts thousands of visitors eager to admire the explosion of color and fragrance. It’s a spectacular tradition where creativity meets a passion for flowers.

🎟 Tip: If you want to see the parade from the front row, especially in popular places like Haarlem or Lisse, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance!

Tips for Great Tulip Field Photography

• Rent a bike or drive to explore at your own pace.

• Respect the crops: Only enter flower fields in areas specially arranged for visitors. Fragile roots can be damaged even by a simple accidental step.

• Ask farmers for permission if you want to get very close to the fields or take special photos.

• Buy a bouquet of tulips directly from local farms – support the community!

• Join organized tours if you want access between the rows without disturbing the plants.

• Check the weather: after a few rainy days, the fields can be harder to access.

• Pay attention to golden hours: early morning or sunset offer warm light and fewer crowds.

• Use a wide-angle lens to highlight the infinite stretch of the fields.

Conclusion: The Tulip Fields of the Netherlands – An Unforgettable Experience

Tulip season in the Netherlands is undoubtedly one of the most colorful and fascinating times of the year. It starts in March and ends in early May, with the peak in mid-April when the fields become a true mosaic of colors. Whether you choose to visit Keukenhof and its famous gardens, explore Bollenstreek by bike, get lost among the vast fields of Noordoostpolder, or enjoy a quieter experience in Anna Paulowna, each place offers a unique atmosphere and an excellent opportunity to connect with nature and experience spring in all its glory.

It’s essential to plan your visit ahead of time to enjoy quiet moments and perfect photos. Book your tickets early and choose an early morning visit to avoid the crowds. Also, respect the flower fields and don’t get too close to the delicate plants – each bloom is a symbol of the patience and hard work of Dutch farmers.

Still dreaming of endless fields of color? Maybe this is the year to see them with your own eyes!