Keukenhof is one of the largest flower gardens in the world. Located in Lisse Netherlands, this picture-perfect park attracts more than 1 million visitors annually during the Spring season. For eight weeks out of the year, visitors from all over the world come to see the infamous Dutch tulips and a variety of flora. Lilies, daffodils, and hyacinths are some of the 7 million flower bulbs are planted here each year by the hands of a few diligent gardeners. Any flower and nature lover will find Keukenhof to be an amazing experience.
What is the best time to visit Keukenhof gardens?
From March to May is when the flowers start to show but April is the best to see the tulips in full bloom. Your experience may vary if you visit too early when the flowers are budding or later in the season when they start to fade. However, all this highly depends on how the weather plays out. April is also the busiest period. I recommend visiting during the weekdays, particularly Mondays-Thursdays when it’s the least crowded. Mornings are the ideal time to visit because you will have the park to yourself to explore at leisure. After 10 am is when the buses and tourist groups start to roll in. Peak time starts during lunch and around 4 pm is when the crowds start to dwindle.
Another thing to note is that Keukenhof has been closed for over a year so tourists from around the world are expected to visit. My advice is to book tickets in advance online and not days before. The great thing is that you’re able to modify your dates if you end up running late or arriving early to Keukenhof.
How much are tickets to Keukenhof?
Entrance tickets are €18.50 euros for adults and €9 for children. If you’ll be coming to the gardens by car, parking tickets are €6 euros. For groups tickets are €17.00 for up to 200 people.
How long does it take to walk through the park?
Keukenhof is nearly 80 acres of landscape so you can spend about half a day strolling through the paths and pavilions. I recommend spending a solid 3-4 hours at Keukenhof. There is so much to see so don’t forget to wear a comfortable pair of walking shoes.
How many varieties of flowers grow here?
Over 800 varieties of tulips, lilies, daffodils, irises, hyacinths, roses, and other flowers are grown at Keukenhof. My personal favorites are the purple hyacinths, yellow-orange tulips and cherry blossoms.
Each year there is a new theme
No matter if you have visited Keukenhof in the past, every year there is a new theme that provides a unique experience. The theme for 2022 is Flower Classics.
What can you do at Keukenhof?
Keukenhof is suitable for people of all ages. Here are an array of activities that everyone can do.
Check out the pavilions
There are indoor exhibits that have daily flower shows on display. Visit all three, Beatrix, Orange Nassau, and the Willem-Alexander Pavilions, which are named after Dutch royal family members. The Willem-Alexander Pavilion featured the largest and most incredible tulips I’ve encountered in my life. There are beautiful displays of flowers in every color, size, and shape imaginable. In addition, if the weather decides to take a turn the pavilions are great to take shelter from the rain or wind.
Take a boat tour
Keukenhof offers electronic-powered whisper boat tours. For 45 minutes visitors can enjoy a cruise along the canals and surrounding tulip fields.
Climb the windmill
The windmill at Keukenhof dates back to 1892 and provides a beautiful view of the tulips fields. Entrance is free of charge.
Rent a bike
Check out the surrounding tulip fields and explore the area by renting a bicycle. Near the main entrance, there is a rental service that will provide bikes and various routes to cycle and sightsee. This is the perfect way to end the day after visiting the gardens.
Are there activities for children?
Planning your visit to Keukenhof with the family? There are a number of activities to keep the children busy and entertained. Located near the entrance is a petting zoo withdifferent types of animals. I personally loved the large rabbits and family of sheep. Children can participate in a scavenger hunt where they can solve puzzles, brain teasers and learn facts on how tulps grow. There is also a playground and maze for the kids as well.
What is there to eat at Keukenhof?
There are a number of restaurants and food stalls around the park. We brought lunch with us but after a few hours of walking we started to feel a bit peckish. There was no way I was passing up an order of poffertjes (mini Dutch pancakes) accompanied by fresh hot coffee.
Is Keukenhof worth visiting?
Keukenhof is one of the most visited destinations in the Netherlands so many locals find it to be an overrated tourist trap. I tended to agree with the locals on this because of all the years that I’ve resided in the Netherlands, Keukenhof was never on my bucket list. I was leery due to hearing about the hoards of tourists that would trek here. However, while there is an element of truth to this I still think thateveryone should experienceKeukenhof at least once in their life.
Helpful pointers for visiting Keukenhof
- The weather in the Netherlands changes frequently so ensure to check the forecast ahead of time. Keukenhof is evidently best to visit on a sunny day.
- Wear layers. As I mentioned, the temperature changes so if it gets too warm or cold you can easily add or remove another layer.
- Bring your own snacks and water because food is quite expensive. We packed lunch and had a picnic outside by the flowers.
- If you have seasonal allergies I recommend bringing the appropriate medications.
- Don’t forget to take sunscreen since you’ll be outdoors for a few hours.
- The park is wheelchair-friendly and offers electric and manual wheelchairs for use.
