The Complete Guide to Tulip Season in Holland
The Netherlands transforms into a spectacular canvas of color during tulip season, attracting millions of visitors from around the world. This florist guide will help you make the most of this extraordinary natural phenomenon.
When is Tulip Season?
Peak Season: Mid-April to Early May
Tulip season in Holland typically runs from mid-March through mid-May, with the absolute peak occurring during the last two weeks of April and the first week of May. However, timing can vary by 1-2 weeks depending on weather conditions, with warmer springs bringing earlier blooms and colder weather extending the season.
Monthly Breakdown:
Late March: Early varieties begin blooming
Early to Mid-April: Season builds momentum
Late April: Peak bloom period
Early May: Season continues strong
Mid-May: Late varieties and season's end
Where to See the Best Tulips
Keukenhof Gardens
Located in Lisse, Keukenhof is the world's largest flower garden and Holland's most famous tulip destination. Open only during tulip season (typically March 21 - May 12), it features over 7 million flower bulbs across 79 acres. The gardens showcase not only tulips but also daffodils, hyacinths, and other spring flowers in meticulously designed displays.
Bollenstreek (Bulb Region)
This area between Leiden and Haarlem is the heart of Holland's flower bulb industry. The region features endless fields of colorful tulips, creating the iconic striped landscape seen in photographs. Key towns include:
Lisse: Home to Keukenhof
Hillegom: Surrounded by flower fields
Noordwijkerhout: Beautiful rural tulip fields
Sassenheim: Traditional bulb-growing area
Noordoostpolder
Located in the province of Flevoland, this area has become increasingly popular for tulip viewing. The Tulip Route here offers over 100 kilometers of cycling and driving routes through colorful bulb fields, often with fewer crowds than the traditional Bollenstreek area.
Texel Island
The largest of the Wadden Sea Islands features stunning tulip fields with a unique coastal backdrop. The island offers a more tranquil tulip experience away from the mainland crowds.
Planning Your Visit
Best Times to Visit
Weekday mornings: Fewer crowds, better photography light
Late afternoon: Beautiful golden hour lighting
Avoid weekends: Especially during peak season when crowds are heaviest
Weather Considerations
Spring weather in Holland can be unpredictable. Pack layers, waterproof clothing, and comfortable walking shoes. Check weather forecasts and bloom reports before traveling, as heavy rain or late frost can impact flower displays.
Accommodation
Book accommodations well in advance, especially for late April visits. Consider staying in:
Amsterdam: Excellent transport connections, but most expensive
Haarlem: Charming city closer to flower fields
Leiden: Historic university town with good access to Bollenstreek
Local B&Bs: Often found in flower-growing towns for authentic experiences
Transportation Options
Public Transport
Holland's excellent public transport system makes tulip viewing accessible without a car. The NS (Dutch Railways) offers special tulip season tickets and packages. Buses connect major towns in the Bollenstreek region.
Cycling
Cycling is quintessentially Dutch and offers an immersive way to experience tulip fields. Many areas have dedicated tulip cycling routes. Bike rentals are widely available, and many accommodations offer bicycle loans.
Driving
Renting a car provides maximum flexibility for exploring remote fields and following the official tulip routes. However, parking can be challenging during peak times, especially near Keukenhof.
Organized Tours
Various companies offer tulip tours ranging from half-day trips to multi-day experiences, often combining tulip viewing with visits to traditional crafts, cheese farms, and historic towns.
Photography Tips
Technical Advice
Golden hours: Best light occurs shortly after sunrise and before sunset
Overcast days: Provide even lighting that prevents harsh shadows
Wide-angle lenses: Capture the expansive field landscapes
Macro lenses: Perfect for detailed flower portraits
Composition Ideas
Include traditional Dutch windmills as focal points
Use leading lines created by tulip rows
Incorporate cyclists or traditional Dutch elements
Capture reflections in the numerous canals and waterways
Frame shots with blooming tree branches
Respectful Photography
Always stay on designated paths and never walk through flower fields. Many fields are private property, so respect barriers and signs. Some locations may charge photography fees for commercial or professional shoots.
Cultural Experiences
Local Festivals
Many towns host tulip festivals during the season, featuring parades, markets, and cultural performances. The Bloemencorso (Flower Parade) from Noordwijk to Haarlem is particularly spectacular, typically held in late April.
Traditional Crafts
Visit traditional wooden shoe workshops, cheese farms, and windmills to experience authentic Dutch culture alongside the tulip viewing.
Local Cuisine
Try local specialties like stroopwafels, Dutch cheese, and seasonal asparagus dishes. Many restaurants offer special tulip season menus featuring local ingredients.
Practical Information
Costs
Keukenhof admission: Approximately €19.50 for adults
Parking: Can range from €6-10 per day at popular locations
Bike rentals: Typically €10-15 per day
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes suitable for potentially muddy paths
Weather-appropriate clothing (layers recommended)
Camera with extra batteries
Water and snacks for longer field exploration
Cash for parking and small vendors
Crowds and Timing
Expect significant crowds during peak season, especially on weekends and holidays. Early morning visits (before 10 AM) and late afternoon (after 4 PM) typically offer the best experience with fewer people.
Beyond Tulips
While tulips are the main attraction, Holland's spring season offers additional flower varieties including daffodils, crocuses, and hyacinths. Many locations also feature beautiful cherry blossoms and magnolia trees, extending the floral experience beyond just tulips.
The tulip season in Holland represents one of the world's most spectacular natural displays, combining stunning natural beauty with rich cultural traditions. Whether you're seeking the perfect photograph, a peaceful countryside experience, or an immersion into Dutch culture, tulip season offers an unforgettable journey through one of Europe's most beautiful spring landscapes.
