Beyond its iconic windmills, the Netherlands is often affectionately called the “land of flowers,” where millions of tulips bloom in radiant colors each spring. Among the highlights of this floral kingdom is Keukenhof, a world-famous tulip garden that opens its gates each year for a limited season. Let’s explore the Keukenhof Tulip Garden in the Netherlands during spring 2025.
1. Introduction to Keukenhof Tulip Season
Located in the town of Lisse, just south of Amsterdam, Keukenhof—often referred to as the “Garden of Europe”—is recognized as one of the largest flower gardens in the world. It is the perfect place to witness the wonders of nature as spring arrives.
In the 15th century, the Keukenhof area was used to supply herbs to Countess Jacoba of Bavaria. After her death, the idea of creating a flower park emerged in 1949, initiated by a group of 20 growers and exporters. A year later, Keukenhof officially opened its doors to the public.
Covering about 32 hectares, the park is home to more than seven million tulips and over 100 other flower varieties. The displays are divided into five main pavilions named after Dutch royalty: Oranje Nassau, Juliana, Wilhelmina, Willem-Alexander, and Beatrix.
Each flower bed is carefully layered with three bulbs at different depths to ensure continuous blooms during the eight-week opening season. This design guarantees that visitors always see tulips in their full splendor.
With warm spring sunlight filtering through the trees, the garden transforms into a dazzling sea of colors and fragrances. Visitors often describe the experience as stepping into a living painting.
Practical Information
- Location: Stationsweg 166A, 2161 AM Lisse, Netherlands
- Ticket price: €19 (adults), €9 (children)
- Opening hours: 08:00 – 19:30 (late March – late May)
2. Best Time to Visit Keukenhof
The park is only open for eight weeks each year, from late March to late May. Mid-April is typically the peak season, when tulips bloom in their most vibrant colors. This is also when the garden hosts tulip festivals with unique themes and cultural activities.
3. Transportation to Keukenhof
Keukenhof is located in the suburbs and is easily accessible from nearby cities such as Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam. Visitors can travel by car or use public transport:
- Bus: Several direct bus routes from Amsterdam and other major cities run straight to Keukenhof, with ticket prices ranging from €23–35 per person.
- Train: Take a train from Amsterdam to Leiden Centraal station, then transfer to bus 854 to reach the park. A combined ticket costs around €50 per person.
Within the park, bicycles are available for rent, allowing visitors to explore the flower fields at a leisurely pace.
4. Highlights at Keukenhof Tulip Season
4.1 Keukenhof Molen
This area features an expansive tulip field framed by traditional Dutch windmills. One historic windmill built in 1892 still stands here. Visitors can climb the stairs inside to enjoy panoramic views of the colorful tulip fields below.
4.2 Keukenhof Castle
Built in 1642, Keukenhof Castle has stood for over 400 years. Its classic architecture and surrounding flower gardens create a picturesque setting that complements the tulip park nearby.
4.3 Willem-Alexander Pavilion
Named after the current King of the Netherlands, this pavilion covers about 6,000 square meters and is considered the heart of Keukenhof. It showcases hundreds of tulip varieties in every imaginable color and shape. In addition, this is the largest display of lilies in Europe, featuring 15,000 blooms across 300 different varieties.
4.4 Beatrix Pavilion
Dedicated to orchids, the Beatrix Pavilion spans about 2,500 square meters and is regarded as the finest orchid display in Europe. With its colorful paths and scenic walkways, it offers a peaceful retreat within the garden.
4.5 Wilhelmina Pavilion
Located at the far end of the park near the main lake, this pavilion is named after Queen Wilhelmina, who reigned from 1890 to 1948. Unlike the other pavilions, this area is home to a restaurant and a small historic cottage called “Keukenhof,” which once served as the original entrance to the park.
4.6 Boat Tour Around the Gardens
For a different perspective, visitors can board an electric “whisper boat” that glides quietly along the waterways surrounding the tulip fields. The 45-minute journey offers breathtaking views of the flower landscapes without disturbing the tranquil atmosphere.
4.7 Exploring the Tulip Fields
Beyond the garden itself, vast tulip fields stretch endlessly across the countryside, glowing in hues of red, yellow, and purple. Renting a bicycle is a popular way to explore these nearby fields and enjoy the beauty of the Dutch landscape.
5. Tips for Visiting Keukenhof
- The park is only open from late March to late May each year.
- Mid-April is usually the best time to see tulips in full bloom.
- Weekends are extremely crowded. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays.
- Do not step into the tulip fields, as this damages the flowers and the landscape.
- Tickets can be purchased in advance on the official Keukenhof website to save time.
A visit to Keukenhof during tulip season is an unforgettable experience, offering a chance to immerse yourself in one of the most spectacular floral displays in the world.
