The Netherlands is a small country in Western Europe renowned for its picturesque tulip fields and vibrant springtime blooms. Every year, thousands of visitors flock to the tulip fields to take in the sight of bright, rainbow-colored flowers stretching out across the horizon. From cycling through the tulip fields to exploring the local villages and tulip festivals, there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in the Netherlands’ colorful tulip culture. In this guide, you will learn how to explore the tulip fields of the Netherlands and make the most of your visit in Holland!
Whether you want to see the tulip fields near Amsterdam, explore the iconic Keukenhof, or just see as many of the brilliant Dutch tulips as possible, this post will help you see all the colorful flower fields!
Something mind blowing happens every March through May in Holland: straight lines stretching for miles of the most brilliant colors you’ve ever seen come to life. The tulips are in bloom! I knew I had to see these incredible fields and flower displays in person.
I made a plan to head to the Keukenhof in Holland, one of the world’s largest flower gardens in Lisse, The Netherlands. I also wanted to try and squeeze the tulip fields around The Netherlands in on the same day.
One didn’t happen.
But sometimes the best of plans are the ones that go awry.
That’s why I’ve created the ultimate guide to tulips in Holland as well as all the tulip fields around The Netherlands to ensure you make the best plan and get to see as many tulips as possible. In this post I’ll share with you how to see the tulips for free, when and where to see them, guide to Keukenhof, and more!
It was a stunningly gorgeous day in Central Europe. Living in Heidelberg, Germany, we planned to simply drive the five and a half hours from our home to the Keukenhof tulip garden in The Netherlands. However, those plans were foiled when our dog sitter’s bus was over 2 hours late. Despite already purchasing tickets to Keukenhof, it closes at 7:30 and we arrived just past 8pm. With the blazing sun setting, we decided instead to head to the tulip fields nearby at sunset.
Doing some quick research, I found that most of the fertile tulip fields were located in Lisse, Flevoland, and Noordoostpolder.
I headed to Flevoland and found a perfect little route of fields stretching for miles which promised miles of tulips. This website actually provides a handy route of where you can stop and admire the tulips as you drive or bike.
I assumed with this gorgeous light and the number of tourists coming to see the tulips the fields would be covered with people. To my delight, we were the only ones, save for a few farmers tending to their tulips, who were admiring the fields.
The colors of the tulips were so vibrant it almost hurts your eyes. Deep saturated reds, bright pigmented yellow, soft flamingo pink, and brilliant orange in straight as an arrow rows blanket the landscape. I’d seen images online and thought for sure the photos were over-saturated with Instagram filters, but I was wrong. It’s hard to capture the amazing colors in person. The colors are so rich I could stare for hours.
Because no one was around it was easy to snap all the pictures your heart could desire of the real tulip farm! Be aware- there are signs to not walk in the fields. We spoke with the farmers and specifically asked how far we could walk in. They just want to ensure that people are not trampling their precious and beautiful livelihood. Ask them questions- they are happy to tell you more about their tulips.
The next day, we got up bright and early to be some of the first visitors of Keukenhof and again, beat the crowds.
We went to the fields the Thursday before Easter- one of the busiest times of the year. However, we dodged the crowds and this ultimate guide to the tulips Holland will give you some very useful tips.
Free Tulip Fields in The Netherlands
You can frolick to your heart’s content through the free tulip fields all around The Netherlands. To me, this is the best way to get up close and personal with the fields and really see how the tulips bloom.
Where Are the Tulip Fields In The Netherlands
When you make your way around The Netherlands, you’re likely to see the tulip fields along your route everywhere. However, there are a few specific locations that boast dozens of fields, concentrated in one area. If you head here, you are guaranteed to see tulips during the season.
If you’re looking to find tulip fields in the Netherlands, the best option is to visit the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse. This is one of the largest flower gardens in the world, covering an area of 32 hectares, and it is home to an impressive variety of tulips. The gardens are only open for a few weeks each year – usually from late March until mid-May – so it is important to plan ahead if you want to visit. Other places you can find tulips in the Netherlands include Noordoostpolder and Flevoland, as well as the bulb fields of the North Holland province.
You’ll see fields scattered throughout all of Holland, but particularly in Bollenstreek, which is known as the “Bulb Region” with tulip farms in many of the cities and also near Keukenhof. Noordoorstpolder is a lovely area dotted with many tulips in the northern part of The Netherlands.
The main fields of tulips are located in Noord-Holland (North Holland, Flevoland), Zuid-Holland (South Holland), and Bollenstreek near Keukenhof. Keukenhof is about 30 minutes from Amsterdam.
Some cities with tulip fields in or nearby are Lisse, Noordwijk, Noordwijkerhour, Leiden, The Hague, Haarlem, and Katwijk.
Handy guides to the free tulip fields:
Flevoland tulip route and information found here.
Noordoorstpolder is the largest tulip field area in the Netherlands and you can find more here on Noordoorstpolder.
Keukenhof’s website is here and you can buy tickets ahead of time here.
This map shows where all the different tulip fields are and provides updates of blooms.
You can find out when the bulb flower parade takes place (usually mid April).
How To Get To The Tulips
The best and easiest way to see the fields is to drive. You’ll be able to see tons of fields and get away from the crowds. Of course, biking is also an option. You can take a bus from Amsterdam Airport directly to Keukenhof. You will find places everywhere to rent bikes but Keukenhof also offers bikes near their fields.
Best time to see the tulips
The tulip season goes from mid March to the end of May. Typically, and this changes depending on the season, the best time of the year to go is mid April.
This is when we went and it seemed like the tulips are in full bloom without losing their luster or petals. When planning your journey I suggest going early or later in the day, towards sunset. The enchanting colors of the petals seem to come to life as the sun sets. Of course, you can go any time throughout the day and still avoid the crowds. If you see a field, keep looking, there are more likely more nearby if you’d like a field all to yourself.
The fields present a patchwork quilt of stunning colors that blanket the fields. It’s an amazing sight to see and something everyone should add to their bucket list! Spring is a beautiful time to visit Europe in general, wisteria is rampant, daffodils are popping up, and a variety of flowers will intoxicate your senses.
There is also a festival of tulips that takes place in mid April called the Bulb flower parade. You can also attend the flower market called Aalsmeer which is the largest in the world!
Why tulips in the Netherlands?
Because this area of The Netherlands is 4 meters below sea level, it’s well suited for the cultivation of the tulips. Some of the land, such as in Flevoland, is reclaimed land, so it actually used to be part of the sea. These are prime conditions to grow tulips as far as the eye can see.
Guide to Keukenhof
Each year, millions of tourists flock to Keukenhof to see the magnificent display of tulips of every color imaginable. 7 million bulbs make Keukenhof one of the most famous places to see tulips. Nicknamed the “Garden of Europe” it’s no surprise that visitors are intoxicated by the beauty of the this beautiful, meticulously created landscape of tulips in every shape and size.
The best way to experience Keukenhof is to get there early, and if at all possible, avoid the weekends. This is when it’s exceptionally busy. We happened to go on the Thursday before Easter, so it was packed. But getting there at opening time meant there were little crowds and traffic. Also, parking was easy.
You’ll see the most variety of tulips here – flamingo pinks, deep purples, feathered edges, tulips the size of both your hands, and many more.
Allow for at least a few hours to enjoy Keukenhof. There are plenty of things to do. You can grab a bite to eat, explore the various tulips, and relax indoors at the market hall. You can even purchase tulips.
Opening – Keukenhof is only open in the spring from March through May. I HIGHLY suggest that you buy tickets ahead of time to skip the line and the crowds.
Cost – Prices for Keukenhof start at €17 for adults, €8.50 for kids, and if you’re in a large group they are €14.75 each.
Parking – You can park on site and I suggest that you buy parking ahead of time. Parking is €6 and again, I suggest that you purchase this ahead of time.
More Information about seeing the Tulips in the Netherlands
What other types of flowers can be found in tulip fields in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands is renowned for its beautiful tulip fields, with vibrant colors popping up in springtime. But did you know there are other types of flowers in the Dutch tulip fields? In addition to their signature tulips, the Netherlands is home to several other types of flowers, including daffodils, irises, hyacinths, and lilies. Additionally, some of the more ornamental varieties, such as alliums, fritillarias, and muscari, can also be found growing in the flower fields. The combination of these diverse and beautiful blooms create a truly stunning sight that can’t be found anywhere else in the world.
How large are the tulip fields in the Netherlands?
The tulip fields in the Netherlands vary in size depending on where they are located. Most of the bulb fields are found in the province of Noord-Holland and measure anywhere from eight to twenty acres in size. However, some of the larger fields such as the Keukenhof Gardens located in Lisse, Netherlands, can measure up to seventy acres.
Are there any special events in the Netherlands related to tulip fields?
Of course! The Netherlands is well known for its tulip fields and there are several special events related to them throughout the year. The most well-known is the annual Keukenhof Tulip Festival, held in Lisse in late March and April. This festival features over 7 million tulips in over 800 different varieties, and visitors can enjoy activities like guided tours of the tulip fields, workshops, art and craft exhibitions, and more. The annual Tulip Festival in Noordoostpolder is another popular event, featuring a parade of colorful floats and the coronation of a Tulip Prince and Princess. There are also several other smaller festivals and events throughout the country, such as the Bloemencorso in Aalsmeer and the Bollenstreek Flower Parade in Zuid-Holland. Remember, it can get crowded so best bet is to go during the week.
How much do tulips cost in the tulip fields in the Netherlands?
It depends on the time of year and the type of tulips you are looking for. Generally, when tulips are in season (March-May), you can purchase bouquets of tulips from the tulip fields in the Netherlands for around 3-4 Euros. If you are looking for individual tulips, you can usually find them for about 0.50 – 1 Euro. As the season begins to end and the tulips start to wilt, the prices will drop significantly. You can absolutely buy tulips in Amsterdam, but just BE CAREFUL! I got my tulips taken from me in customs upon arrival in the USA.
Are there any restrictions on entering tulip fields in the Netherlands?
Yes, there are restrictions on entering tulip fields in the Netherlands. And it’s SO important to be respectful. In general, it is not allowed to enter private tulip fields. However, some tulip fields may be open to the public during special festivals like the Keukenhof Gardens or the Noordoostpolder Flower Festival. Additionally, there are some tulip fields that are open to the public year-round. It is important to check with the local tourist information office before visiting any tulip field to make sure you are allowed entry.
Are there any tours of tulip fields in the Netherlands?
Yes, there are tours of tulip fields in the Netherlands! Tulip fields are one of the country’s most iconic and beloved attractions, and there are lots of different tour options available for tourists looking to explore them. From bike and walking tours to organized bus trips, you can find a tour that fits your schedule and budget. No matter which tour you choose, you’ll be sure to have a beautiful and memorable experience in the Netherlands’ stunning tulip fields. Personally, I enjoyed renting a car to see the fields.
Are there any environmental initiatives to protect tulip fields in the Netherlands?
Yes, there are several environmental initiatives to protect tulip fields in the Netherlands. One example is the “Pollinator Paths” project, which was started by the Dutch government in 2018. This project aims to increase the number of bees, hoverflies, and other pollinators in the tulip fields of the Netherlands. Measures include the planting of flowering plants along the routes and the creation of nesting sites for pollinators. Additionally, the Netherlands is creating a network of biotopes to help preserve biodiversity and protect the tulip fields from pests and diseases. Finally, the Dutch government has implemented a “Nature Friendly Farming” initiative, which promotes sustainable agricultural practices and encourages farmers to grow tulips in an environmentally friendly way. It’s a great way to ensure the protection of this beautiful phenomenon!
Bottom line: I suggest you make time to do both. Enjoy Keukenhof’s manicured displays of tulips and luxuriate in the far-as-the-eye-can-see flower fields. Both are totally worth it.
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