Spring has finally sprung in the Netherlands, and the temperature is creeping upwards as the land awakens from its wintry slumber. More than half of the country is blanketed in a sweep of pastoral farmland, which from March until May comes to life in a kaleidoscopic blaze of flowers. Tulips are synonymous with the Netherlands, and many farms in the provinces of South Holland, North Holland, and Flevoland are covered in a tapestry of spectacular blooms at this time of year. A visit to the tulip fields and the famous Keukenhof gardens is a great way to celebrate the change of seasons. We’ve put together a list of the best places to see tulips in the Netherlands, along with some tips on where to stay.
Noordwijk, South Holland
Tulip fields, Noordwijk, South Holland
Any flower fan knows the name ‘Keukenhof’ – but only true tulip connoisseurs know that the best way to experience these pretty petaled plants is by visiting a tulip field by bike. The town of Noordwijk and the small village of Noordwijkerhout are considered some of the top places to see tulips in the Netherlands.
If you have a day to spare, consider cycling through the flower fields of Noordwijk and towards the seaside town of Katwijk. It’s the perfect itinerary for a sunny day and a sustainable way to support local tulip growers. Many farms – such as the Tulperij – provide paid tulip excursions, too. Stay between the sea and the flower fields at Alexander Hotel in Noordwijk aan Zee.
Lisse, South Holland
Tulip fields, Lisse, South Holland
Not far from Noordwijk is the usually sleepy town of Lisse. However, springtime brings throngs of tulip-loving tourists to Lisse’s most famous attraction: the manicured Keukenhof gardens. If you prefer avoiding tourist hotspots in favour of seeing tulips in their ‘natural habitat’, then the tulip fields surrounding Lisse are a must-visit. Well-paved bike lanes carve out the best path for exploring the bollenstreek – or bulb belt – of the Netherlands. As with every tulip field that’s open to the public, respect for the flowers is a high priority, and visitors should refrain from touching these precious blooms.
Keukenhof, Lisse, South Holland
Keukenhof, Lisse, South Holland
The legendary Keukenhof is home to 32 hectares of fabulous flowerbeds, with seven million bulbs in jaw-dropping bloom. It’s open for two months a year – from late March to late May – and each year has a different theme. The theme for 2022 is ‘Flower Classics’, which pays homage to flowers as a symbol in art, architecture and design. Expect to see everything from the Girl with the Pearl Earring – with tulips, of course – to flower power designs reminiscent of the resistance movement of the 60s and 70s. Stay in the centre of town at Boutique Suites Lisse - Schiphol.
Amsterdam, North Holland
Tulip Festival, Amsterdam, North Holland
Amsterdam was at the heart of the 17th century’s tulip mania that swept across the nation. This was a brief period between 1634 and 1637 when the country was gripped in a tulip-trade frenzy, which caused the economy to bubble and eventually crash. Though tulips are still considered very desirable, Amsterdam has since shed its fervour for the flower. However, once a year, the Tulip Festival Amsterdam aims to revive tulip mania – sans the economic crash.
Running throughout April, this celebration of the national flower sees the city's notable buildings, as well as popular districts adorned with fresh blooms. All displays in public areas are free to enjoy, except for museum gardens, where regular ticket prices apply. When it comes to places to stay, it’s hard to beat the location of Hotel Weber, which is right by the centrally located Leidseplein. If you’ve got the pockets to push the boat out, check out Room Mate Aitana, a spectacular design hotel right on the riverside.
Haarlem, North Holland
Bloemencorso, Haarlem, North Holland
If the idea of tulips sitting in static beds doesn't quite cut it for you, then it sounds like you’re in need of a flower parade. During Bloemencorso, which means ‘flower parade’ in Dutch, a fleet of flowery floats trundles from Noordwijk to Haarlem, cheered on by rows of smiling spectators. Starting in the morning, it follows a 42-km route that ends up in Haarlem at nightfall, when marching bands usher the parade into town. It’s lively, colourful and a whole lot of fun. After a day of flower-based festivities, you’ll be grateful for a comfortable bed within a short walk of the parade. Retire to the Van der Valk Hotel and Amrâth Grand Hotel Frans Hals. Both of them score high for comfort and cleanliness, so you’ll be sure of a good night’s rest.
Noordoostpolder, Flevoland
Tulip Route, Noordoostpolder, Flevoland
For those flying into Amsterdam, Flevoland may seem a world away on the map. However, the Noordoostpolder tulip route makes for a lovely little day trip from the capital and is best experienced by car. Making the journey up north can also be more rewarding, as this province sees far fewer tourists than the other flower-spotting hot spots.
The countryside is full of fresh air, stunning colours and wonderful photo opportunities. Along this 100-kilometre route, you’ll pass fields carpeted with vivid shades of blooms, as well as wine tasting opportunities, galleries and little towns with their own slices of flower-based artwork. One such town is Kraggenburg, a quaint village typical of the Flevoland province. It’s here that you’ll find Hotel van Saaze, which is situated right along the Noordoostpolder tulip route.
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