Tucked away in the heart of the Netherlands, Keukenhof is a dazzling spectacle of color and fragrance that blooms to life each spring. Known as "The Garden of Europe," this iconic park in Lisse spans 32 hectares and showcases an incredible array of over 7 million tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, and other spring flowers. For flower enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers, a visit to Keukenhof is an unforgettable experience.
A Historic Bloom
Keukenhof's origins date back to the 15th century, when it served as a hunting ground and herb garden for Countess Jacoba of Bavaria. The name "Keukenhof" translates to "kitchen garden", referring to its original purpose of providing fresh herbs for the nearby castle.
The landscape as we see it today was designed in 1857 by the same architects behind Amsterdam’s Vondelpark—Jan David Zocher and Louis Paul Zocher—who shaped the park in the English landscape garden style.
In 1949, a group of Dutch flower bulb growers transformed Keukenhof into a spring exhibition to promote the country’s world-renowned flower industry. The first public season in 1950 drew 236,000 visitors, and Keukenhof has been flourishing ever since.
A World-Renowned Destination
Today, Keukenhof is a global attraction, welcoming over 1.4 million visitors each season from more than 100 countries. Remarkably, 80% of visitors come from abroad, with Germany, the United States, France, and the UK leading the way.
What to Expect When Visiting Keukenhof
Keukenhof is more than just a flower park—it’s a celebration of Dutch horticulture and an immersive sensory experience. Here’s what you can look forward to:
🌷 Breathtaking Flower Displays – Wander through themed gardens, stunning floral mosaics, and intricate flower sculptures.
🚶♂️ Walking and Boat Tours – Stroll along 15 kilometers of walking paths or take a whisper boat ride through the surrounding tulip fields for a unique perspective.
🌿 Pavilions and Exhibitions – Visit pavilions featuring flower shows, floral art, and interactive displays about the history and future of tulips in the Netherlands.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Attractions – Keukenhof offers playgrounds, a petting zoo, and scavenger hunts for children, making it a great day out for families.
🎨 Photography Paradise – Whether you’re a professional or just snapping shots for Instagram, Keukenhof’s landscapes are picture-perfect.
Plan Your Visit
Opening Dates (2025 Season): March 20 – May 11
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Tickets: Prices start at €20.50 for adults and €9 for children (4-17 years).
How to Get There:
By Car: Located 40 minutes from Amsterdam, with parking available.
By Public Transport: Direct Keukenhof Express buses run from Amsterdam, Schiphol Airport, Haarlem, and Leiden.
A Must-Visit for Tulip Lovers
Keukenhof is a bucket-list destination, offering a short but spectacular window to experience Dutch tulips at their peak. Whether you’re admiring the sea of blooms, enjoying a relaxing boat ride, or discovering the history of the tulip trade, Keukenhof is a springtime wonder that shouldn’t be missed.
Ready to visit? Book your tickets early and prepare for a floral experience like no other!