Every year, more than 1.4 million visitors flock to Keukenhof to see its breathtaking tulip garden in bloom. But before you book your tickets, there are a few things you should know to make the most of your visit.
You’ll want to arrive early, and if possible visit on weekdays. This will help you avoid the crowds and get a better view of the flowers.
1. Arrive Early
If you’re planning on visiting Keukenhof, the best tip is to book your tickets ahead of time. This way, you’ll avoid having to queue in a long line when you arrive at the park.
In addition, you’ll save money. You can purchase your ticket online in advance for a reasonable price, and it only takes two seconds.
Depending on when you visit, Keukenhof will show a variety of flowers from crocuses and hyacinths to daffodils and early tulips. But be aware that some flowers are only available in certain months, so be sure to check the flower reports before you plan your trip.
2. Bring a Camera
If you want to create the most memorable pictures of your Keukenhof trip, then it is important to bring a camera. It will allow you to capture the beauty of this stunning flower garden, as well as share it with your friends and family back home.
The key is to keep an eye out for the right locations to take your photos, and to be prepared to change lenses as you go.
The most obvious place to head to for great photo opps is the Beatrix Pavilion, located in the northern corner of the park near the entrance. It’s not filled with floral displays like the Wilhelmina Pavilion, but it does have a variety of orchids and a few Instagram-worthy spots.
3. Don’t Get Overwhelmed
If you are visiting Keukenhof, it is important to not get overwhelmed. As the gardens are so large, it can be difficult to navigate.
A good way to ensure you do not get lost is to buy a park map. These are sold at the main entrance of the garden.
Once you have a map, take your time and make sure to explore all the beautiful gardens. You will be surprised at how much there is to see.
Aside from the flowers, there are other things to do at Keukenhof, including a boat tour through the Lisse tulip fields or zipping around in an electric car. These are a fun and easy way to see the tulip fields.
4. Plan a Tour
If you want to see the beautiful tulips at Keukenhof, it’s best to go during the eight week period when they are in bloom. However, if you don’t have enough time to visit the tulip fields and gardens, you can still enjoy some of the other spring flowers like crocuses, daffodils, and hyacinths.
A day trip from Amsterdam to Keukenhof is one of the most popular and beautiful excursions in the Netherlands! Located just south of the city in Lisse, visiting the Keukenhof tulip garden is a great way to spend a few hours.
The easiest way to get to the park is by bus - there are regular buses from Amsterdam, Schipol Airport and Leiden (check the Keukenhof website for the latest schedule). A 25 euro Combiticket covers your roundtrip bus fare and skip-the-line entry to Keukenhof.
5. Don’t Miss the Inspirational Gardens
If you’re visiting Keukenhof with children, don’t miss out on the Inspirational Gardens. These areas are dotted throughout the park and offer a nice break from crowded displays of flowers.
You’ll find a variety of colourful spring flowers in these spaces including tulips, roses and lilies. In addition to the blooms, you’ll also be surrounded by beautiful sculptures and works of art.
You can take a guided tour of the gardens, which includes transport to and from the park and an entrance ticket. This option is a great way to save money and time.