Keukenhof Tulip Gardens, Lisse, The Netherlands

An image of the Netherlands imprinted in a lot of people’s minds is that of a field of tulips in various colors bathed in sunshine. The tulips have long been an icon that stands for what being Dutch is. If you are visiting the Netherlands because of that beautiful scenery in your imagination, you need to book a trip to the Keukenhof Tulip Gardens to witness those amazing views in real life. The Keukenhof has a long history that goes back into the 15th century among the Dutch royalty. In modern times, the park has a mission and objective to put forward the best of Dutch heritage especially in the flower sector. Flower companies participate in the annual Keukenhof flower showcase which gives visitors a great opportunity to view almost seven million spring bulbs.

If you arrive at Schiphol Airport, getting to Keukenhof is very easy. You can take the Keukenhof Express Buses located in the airport. These buses take you directly to the main entrance of the park. Travel time usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. If you are close to Amsterdam Central Station, take the train to Schiphol Airport which runs for 15 minutes for at least 9 euros. If you are closer to Amsterdam Leidseplein, take bus 197 to the airport for 7.50 euros. Once in the airport, you can switch to the Keukenhof Express buses. Bus 858 will take you back to Schiphol Airport for at least 11 euros. Entrance fees are usually at 18 euros for adults, 8 euros for children ages 4-11, and free for children younger than 4.

You will most likely hear of combination tickets. Combination tickets are convenient ways of traveling to the park. These tickets include park entrance fees and bus tickets going to the park, as well as return tickets. Combination tickets for entrance fees and transfers to Amsterdam via Schiphol airport normally costs 29.50 euros, while combination tickets with transfers to Haarlem or Leiden are at 24.50 euros. These prices may vary during the 2019 season.

The park is not open for the entire year though. For 2019, Keukenhof opens its gates from March 21st to May 19th from 8AM to 7:30PM daily. Since Keukenhof exhibits various flowers, you have the opportunity to enjoy the blooms at different times so make sure to plan your visit accordingly. If you are interested in crocuses, snow whites, daffodils, hyacinths and early tulips, visit during the earlier parts of the season. It is best though to check the flower status of Keukenhof by going online and signing up for flower status updates. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, visit during Mondays to Wednesdays or any day from 11AM to 3PM. The morning light and the evening sun bring out the crowds, though as this is when the flowers are at their most beautiful.

In 2018, Keukenhof partnered with Booking.com to offer a chance for visitors to stay overnight in the park and wake up to the sight of flowers. The offer also includes a complimentary breakfast. For a unique experience, make sure to be on the lookout for this offer during the next Keukenhof flower festivals. The park also offers luggage compartments, picnic areas, and parking facilities.