Spring turns The Netherlands into a breathtaking display of flowers. And where else do you go to soak in the beauty of spring? At Keukenhof, of course– dubbed as the most beautiful spring garden in the world. It’s home to about 7 million bright and blooming flowers, from tulips to carnations, roses, lilies to daffodils, planted in the sprawling 79-acre Keukenhof Park. Planning to visit here soon? Here are some things you should know about Keukenhof to make the most of your trip.
Best Time to Visit
Keukenhof is open from March 23 to May 14 this year. But while there is no exact date as to when it’s more recommended to visit Keukenhof, at the start of the spring season, daffodils, hyacinths, crocuses, and early tulips bloom much earlier. The rest blooms in the later part of spring. It’s best to visit in the morning, before 10 am or at 4 pm onwards for a quieter, less crowded stroll. Visit during weekdays to avoid the crowds, too.
Things to Do in Keukenhof
More than strolling and taking photos around the spring garden, there are other activities to do in Keukenhof:
See its gardens
There are several mini gardens to see including this vast spring garden. If you prefer a quiet and relaxing area, go to Reconnection Garden and Green Tea Garden, where you can enjoy a cup of tea while admiring tasty plants. Head to Cottage Garden for a lively and lovely day out with indigenous plants. Tropical Beach Garden feels like a trip to the beach, complete with sands, boats, and hammocks on display. Lastly, there’s the Red Romance garden for a romantic spot in the midst of the park.
Ride a boat and see the windmill
One of Keukenhof’s highlights is the boat ride along the canal, where you can enjoy a quiet cruise surrounded by tulip fields. This boat ride takes you to pretty scenery while listening to a tour guide. You’ll also be able to see an authentic Dutch windmill, placed perfectly in the middle of the flower park for a picture-perfect attraction.
Bike around the park
Why walk when you can pedal your way through the beautifully manicured gardens of Keukenhof? Bicycle rental is available at the park for tandem rides, solo, or kids. Whether you’re a biking beginner or a seasoned one, there are different cycling routes for your convenience–all with a splendid tulip farm view.
Play with kids at the playground
There are places made for kids too– there’s a playground, a maze, an animal meadow, or play scavenger hunt so they can easily enjoy their time at the park.
Witness a flower show
Every week during its eight-week run, Keukenhof holds different flower displays. See a spectacular flower display in various park pavilions, and get ready to be amazed by these visually striking blooms.
Enjoy a heartwarming performance
To make the spring garden more alive and cheerful, a special performance will be available to celebrate the start of spring. Don’t miss this show!
Watch the flower parade
Giant floats decorated with colorful flowers will parade through the Bollenstreek area on April 22! Catch this flower parade and be at the garden before 11 am to get the best views and see all these beautiful floats!
Take photos of art
Aside from flowers, you’ll spot some sculptures and artworks created by talented artists around the gardens. Feel free to snap a photo of these fantastic art pieces that make the place a hundred times more attractive.
How to Get to Keukenhof
By bus
The most ideal way to visit Keukenhof is by buying a combi ticket consisting of transportation and entrance fees to the park. Get a comfy seat on a shuttle bus ride from Amsterdam to Keukenhof for a hassle-free trip!
There’s also the Keukenhof Express Bus at the Netherlands train stations or at the Schiphol Airport. Take Bus 858 which goes directly to Keukenhof. Make sure to come early to avoid long lines at the bus station.
By car
If you’re traveling via private car, head to A4 exit Nieuw-Vennep and A44 exit Lisse. You can also search for Stationsweg 166A, Lisse via your navigation app, or follow Keukenhof road signs.
Tips
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- Keukenhof is the much-anticipated attraction in The Netherlands come spring. Make sure to book your tickets in advance! Also, get in early before the crowds come.
- The best time to visit for taking photos is early in the morning just in time for the sunrise, or after sunset.
- Get yourself a map to navigate Keukenhof Gardens easily.
- If you’re interested to see certain kinds of bloom, stay updated by checking their website and social media pages for flower reports.
- Guided tours are most recommended, so you get to explore the vast gardens conveniently.
Details
Location: Stationsweg 166A, 2161 AM Lisse, Netherlands
Opening time: March 23 to May 14, 2023
Operating Hours: 8 am to 7:30 pm
Website: https://keukenhof.nl/en/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visitkeukenhof/
Email: info@keukenhof.nl
Experience a springtime wonderland in the best spring garden in the world! Want to know about other attractions in Europe? Find more adventures on KKDay!
