Tulip Route in Holland: discover the best tulip fields in the Netherlands
Every year, the tulips in bloom in Holland attract thousands of visitors. No wonder, because as soon as the first colorful fields open, a unique atmosphere is created. Perhaps you have also dreamed of experiencing this natural spectacle with your own eyes? Our comprehensive guide to the most beautiful tulip routes in Holland shows you where you can best see tulips in Holland and gives you valuable practical tips for planning a trip to the best tulip fields in the Netherlands!
Where to see tulips in Holland?
The Netherlands offers numerous places where you can admire tulips in all their glory. Our recommendation: plan enough time to explore several places and gather different impressions of the Dutch tulip blossom.
The best tulip fields in the Netherlands
If you want to experience the most beautiful tulip fields, we particularly recommend the areas around Keukenhof and Lisse in the Bollenstreek as well as Flevoland and Noord-Holland. In Lisse you will find colorful fields right next to Keukenhof. Flevoland scores with wide, peaceful landscapes and particularly clear photo motifs. Noord-Holland delights with tulip fields along the coastal route, which leads through dune landscapes and charming little towns. Each area offers unique perspectives and unforgettable impressions. So plan enough time to enjoy the diversity of these regions in peace.
Tulip route around Keukenhof – the classic
The most famous tulip route in Holland leads directly to the Keukenhof in LisseAs the largest flower park in Europe, Keukenhof delights visitors with millions of tulips in countless varieties and colors. From here you can cycle or drive along the tulip fields towards Noordwijkerhout or Hillegom. We particularly recommend the small cafés along the route, where you can stop for a cozy break.
Best time to travel: mid-April to early May.
Getting there: Amsterdam is an ideal starting point, from there you can easily reach Lisse by rental car or public transport.
Tickets: Be sure to buy tickets for Keukenhof online early to avoid long waiting times on site.
Hotel recommendation: The Hotel Van der Valk Sassenheim-Leiden* (advertisement) is strategically located, offers comfort and is perfect for a stopover.
Insider tip: Tulip route in Flevoland
If you want to enjoy the tulip season in Holland away from the crowds, we recommend the region FlevolandThis route is less crowded, but you will find particularly beautiful and extensive tulip fields here. Photographers love this area for the secret photo spots and the quiet atmosphere.
Best time to travel: end of April.
Getting there: Almere or Lelystad are good starting points, accessible by car or train.
Hotel recommendation: Leonardo Hotel Almere City Center* (advertisement), centrally located and ideal for reaching the best photo spots early in the morning.
Tulip Route through Noord-Holland – from Alkmaar to Den Helder
Another beautiful tulip route runs along the coast in Noord-Holland from Alkmaar to Den Helder. Impressive flower fields, dunes and idyllic villages await you along the way. Ideally, combine this route with a visit to the traditional cheese market in Alkmaar.
Best time to travel: mid to late April.
Getting there: Alkmaar is easily accessible by train or car and is an ideal starting point.
Hotel recommendation: Grand Hotel Alkmaar* (advertisement), charming and centrally located in the old town.
Cycling on the Bollenstreek Route
You can experience the tulip blossom sustainably and particularly intensively on the cycle route through the Bollenstreek This approximately 35-kilometer route between Haarlem and Leiden is also ideal for less experienced cyclists. There are numerous places to stop along the way to try regional delicacies.
Best time to travel: mid-April.
Getting there: Haarlem and Leiden are both easily accessible by train and offer bike rentals at the stations.
Hotel recommendation: Boutique Hotel Staats in Haarlem* (ad), from there you can optimally start your tour.
Our personal experiences – Enjoying the tulip routes in Holland with all your senses
We are always fascinated by how intense the colors and scent of the tulip fields are. Our personal recommendation: Visit the tulip fields early in the morning, before there are many visitors. The special light and the quiet atmosphere are unforgettable. Also treat yourself to breaks in the small cafes along the routes and enjoy regional specialties.
Questions and answers about the best tulip routes in the Netherlands
When is the best time to travel on the Tulip Route in Holland?
The perfect time to experience the tulips in bloom in Holland is from mid-April to early May. During this time, most fields are in full bloom and the spectacle of color is breathtaking. But be careful: the exact flowering time depends heavily on the weather. If the spring is particularly warm, the flowers sometimes open earlier. A cooler spring, on the other hand, can delay flowering somewhat. If you are flexible, it is worth keeping an eye on the flowering calendar or even planning at short notice.
Which tulip route in Holland is the most beautiful?
It all depends on what you are looking for! The route around Keukenhof is certainly the most famous and impresses with millions of tulips in countless colors and varieties. But it is also the most popular - in other words: it can get quite crowded here. If you would rather enjoy the spectacle in peace, you should take a look at the tulip route in Flevoland. Here the fields are more spacious and you can often walk or take photos for hours without meeting many people. And then there is the route from Alkmaar to Den Helder, which can be wonderfully combined with a trip to the coast. For cycling fans, the Bollenstreek route is a real highlight, as you can discover the flower fields in a relaxed manner on two wheels.
Is Keukenhof really worth it or are there nicer alternatives?
Keukenhof is undoubtedly spectacular - a huge park full of tulips in every color imaginable, beautifully arranged and with many themed areas. But it is also one of the Netherlands' most famous tourist attractions, which means lots of visitors, especially during peak flowering season. If you don't mind that, a visit is absolutely worth it! If you prefer something a little quieter, the tulip fields in Flevoland or along the Noord-Holland route are great alternatives. Here you can see the tulips in their natural environment and admire them without crowds.
How can you explore the best tulip fields in the Netherlands – by car, bike or train?
That depends on how you want to travel! With a car you are flexible and can combine different regions. The car is ideal for the Flevoland route or the route from Alkmaar to Den Helder. The Bollenstreek route, on the other hand, is perfect for a bike tour - you cycle 35 kilometers through one of the most beautiful tulip regions in the Netherlands. Train travel is also possible: cities such as Haarlem, Leiden or Alkmaar are well connected, and from there you can rent a bike locally or continue by bus. But the most lasting and intense experience of the tulip bloom is definitely on a bike!
What insider tips are there for an unforgettable tulip trip?
Getting up early is worth it! In the morning, when the first rays of sun move over the fields, the light is particularly magical - and you have many places almost to yourself. And you shouldn't just head for the well-known spots: In Flevoland there are some secret photo spots that aren't in any travel guide. Another idea: plan an overnight stay near the tulip fields so that you don't just go on a day trip, but can enjoy the flowering season in peace and quiet. And while you're in Holland, be sure to try a piece of fresh apple pie with cream in one of the small country cafés - a perfect break during your Tulip Route Holland!
More things to know
- Holland landmarks
- Netherlands travel destinations
- Three destinations in March, April and May
- What you need to know about getting to the island of Texel
Source: own research on site following invitations from the tourism authorities to several research trips. We would like to thank the tourism authority in Holland just like To the Netherlands. Our opinions definitely remain our own.
Text: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
Photos of the best tulip fields in the Netherlands: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
Video Where to see tulips in Holland: © Copyright Petar Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
