When visiting the Netherlands in spring, you must not miss the beautiful flower fields in Lisse and the iconic Keukenhof Gardens. The Keukenhof Gardens is a seasonal garden open for about two months a year during the spring and early summer. It is home to about 7 million flower bulbs. The garden sees a lot of visitors, about 1.5 million annually, making it a happening place to enjoy the warm climate after the harsh winter. This article combines some of the top tips for visiting Keukenhof Gardens.
Plan your visit and book your ticket in advance
We recommend you plan your trip to the Keukenhof Gardens earlier, as it is a seasonal garden that stays open for about two months a year. In 2025, the garden will be open from 20 March to 11 May, and there will be a lot of rush from plant lovers and horticulturists worldwide. Book your preferred tickets early to comfortably plan your Netherlands itinerary and attend the famous Tulip and Flower festivals.
Choose the best time to visit to have a crowd-free experience
When visiting a seasonal garden, knowing the best time to go there, both during the day and the week, for a peaceful encounter amidst nature is essential. Weekdays are a good time to visit when the crowd is less. Early mornings from 8 am to 10 am are emptier slots as soon as the garden opens and you view the flower fields in the morning sun. Another good time is after 4 pm when the morning crowd gradually leaves the gardens, and you witness the sunset at the flower field horizon.
Book tickets that include transportation for convenient travel
Keukenhof is located in Lisse, about 40 kilometers from Amsterdam, and traveling there alone can sometimes be hasslesome. Therefore, we suggest you book tickets that include Keukenhof entry and transportation so that you conveniently reach Lisse and the garden, have enough time to go around the flower fields and return.
Carry small day bags for convenient storage.
On a day trip to Keukenhof, you can carry small day bags (25x55x45cm) with your essentials so that roaming the garden on foot is more effortless. If you must take your luggage, the garden has storage areas and lockers for smaller items.
Plan for a picnic amidst the beautiful scenery
The Keukenhof has a picnic space amidst the flower bulbs and scenic landscapes. You can pack your lunch and drinks, have personal time in the garden and absorb the warmth of nature.
Dress comfortably and wear comfortable shoes as it involves a lot of walking
Dress comfortably based on the time of day, as the sun’s rays can get hot as you walk around the open area of the park. Keukenhof has only walking paths throughout its premises, where you have to walk for kilometers from one end to another. Therefore, we recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes. Dutch spring is unpredictable and may have a few showers. Thus, carrying some rain gear and a light jacket for sudden weather changes while visiting the garden is better.
Use a Keukenhof Garden Map to walk around easily
The Keukenhof Garden covers an area of about 79 acres and is a vast space to move about without proper direction. Therefore, a map is necessary, as you can navigate through the different areas and show you specific places of interest.
Climb the historic Dutch windmill for a seamless view
Keukenhof has a historical Dutch windmill from the 1890s that gives a seamless view of the flower fields. You can climb the stairs to the observation floor and view the vast, colorful fields of dancing flowers.
Know the rules of not walking through the flower fields
It is important to heed the rules and regulations of the garden to preserve nature and maintain social decorum. Keukenhof is a walking-only space and allows wheelchairs, prams and buggies. It does not allow bicycles, segways, skates, scooters, etc. to move inside its premises. You cannot walk inside the flower bulb fields or grass unless specified to conserve nature.
Take a boat ride on the canals around the flower fields outside the Keukenhof Garden
Take a whispering boat ride on the electric boat in the canals surrounding Keukenhof. Floating through the canals allows you to see the flower fields differently.
Cycling or walking to visit the nearby attractions around the Keukenhof Garden
The Keukenhof Garden represents the Dutch countryside and is a wonderful place to start your journey around Lisse. You can rent a bicycle, roam around the area, and see the Netherlands’ flower stripe. Other places to visit include the 17th-century Keukenhof Castle, Lisse town, surrounding villages and more.
Know about the various Keukenhof events
This seasonal garden hosts several events during these 50-60 days of the year. Some include the famous Tulip Festival, the Bloemencorso Flower Parade, Holland Heritage Days, Easter celebrations, flower shows, Dutch classical music and band events etc.
FAQs
1. Can you bring a backpack to Keukenhof?
Yes, you can carry a backpack that measures 25x55x45 cm to Keukenhof. More oversized luggage has to be stored in the designated areas.
2. What to wear to Keukenhof?
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as you mostly walk around in sunny weather. For safety, carry a light jacket for sudden weather changes.
3. Can you take food into Keukenhof?
The garden allows packed food to be consumed in specific areas designated for picnics. However, the restaurants inside do not allow outside food.
4. How many visitors does Keukenhof have?
Keukenhof receives about 1.5 million visitors annually, making it one of the popular attractions during spring in the Netherlands. Due to its demand, we recommend that you book your tickets early.
5. Is there a windmill at Keukenhof Gardens?
Keukenhof has an 1890s wooden windmill that visitors can climb to observe the surrounding flower strip from the top.
Featured Image: Pexels.com
