Imagine endless fields where, in the spring months, a breathtaking spectacle unfolds. Millions of tulips, daffodils, hyacinths and other bulb flowers create a colourful carpet stretching from Haarlem to Leiden.

And in the heart of this floral paradise lies Keukenhof, the largest flower park in Europe, attracting millions of visitors from around the world every year.

Keukenhof is no ordinary park. It is a place where nature blends with art, where every corner becomes an inspiration for photographers and painters. It is a place where you can lose yourself in a labyrinth of colours and scents, where time stands still and you can fully savour the beauty of spring.

The history of this place dates back to the 15th century when it served as a hunting ground for Teylingen chateau. The name Keukenhof literally means "kitchen garden," referring to the fact that vegetables and herbs were grown here for the castle's kitchen.

In the 17th century, Keukenhof chateau was built, and the estate expanded into a vast area. In the 19th century, the gardens were redesigned in the English landscape style, which still forms the foundation of the park today.

The turning point came in 1949 when leading flower bulb growers and exporters decided to use the estate to create a unique exhibition. And so, Keukenhof as we know it today was born.

Keukenhof, nicknamed the Garden of Europe, is also a place where the art of gardening blends with a business spirit. It is a living gallery where Dutch growers showcase their most beautiful blooming creations and where important trade deals are made. Additionally, exhibitions of cut and potted flowers are held here every year.

The entire 32-hectare park, where up to 7 million bulb flowers bloom, is open to the public from March to May. It is designed so visitors can enjoy the flowers in full bloom from the beginning to the end of the season.

Each month brings new colours and scents. March enchants with golden daffodils, the first to peek out from the ground and welcome spring. They are followed by colourful crocuses and intoxicating hyacinths. Then, from April to mid-May, the spectacular tulip show takes over. Millions of these flowers in countless colours and shapes create stunning carpets of blooms across the flowerbeds.

But Keukenhof offers much more than just tulips. At the start of the season, delicate Japanese cherry blossoms also bloom, their white flowers lending the park an airy and light atmosphere. Later, they are replaced by clusters of azaleas and rhododendrons, adding yet another burst of colour.

In the park, you won’t just admire the beauty of the flowers—you’ll also learn fascinating facts about their history. For example, did you know that tulips arrived in the Netherlands via Austria from Turkey?

These flowers became so popular that in the 17th century, a single bulb could cost as much as a house. Yes, you read that right—tulips were more valuable than gold back then.

And what about the legendary black tulip, a symbol of wealth and power? At Keukenhof, you’ll uncover its secrets, too.

Last but not least, the park is also a place where new ideas blossom, and where you can find inspiration for your own garden.

Address: Stationsweg 166 A, Lisse

 

When and where to buy bulbs?

Tulips are grown for their bulbs. The flowers are cut shortly after blooming so that energy returns to the bulb, which is the most valuable commodity. After the season, the bulbs are dug up from the ground, cleaned dried, and made available for sale in the fall.

We ordered our bulbs in the spring during our visit to Keukenhof from one of the verified growers right on the premises. In the fall, they arrived safely by post at our home.

 

Tips for your visit:

Plan ahead: The tulip blooming season is very popular, so it’s worth booking your tickets in advance.

Comfortable shoes: You’ll do a lot of walking in the park, so don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes.

 

When to visit the park?

If you want to enjoy peace and quiet without large crowds, come to the park before 10:30 a.m. or after 4:00 p.m. It’s also less busy from Monday to Wednesday.

 

Tickets and parking:

Parking is available with a pre-purchased parking ticket. You can book your entrance ticket and parking voucher together online. The parking lot closes at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for the next season always go on sale in the fall of the previous year.

 

Our final tip:

Don’t miss the unique atmosphere of the Flower Parade (Bloemencorso) in Bollenstreek. You’ll find yourself in the middle of a sea of colours and the enchanting fragrance of millions of tulips, hyacinths and daffodils.

The biggest attraction of this nearly week-long spring celebration is the Saturday parade, where dozens of colourful floats and luxury cars decorated with an incredible number of flowers appear along the 42-kilometer route.

Each float is a unique work of art, telling its own story—whether it’s fairy-tale motifs, historical events, or abstract scenes, there’s something to captivate everyone.