5 Essential Tips Before Visiting Keukenhof (+ Where to Get Keukenhof Tickets)
5 Essential Tips Before Visiting Keukenhof (Including How to Get Tickets)
If you’re planning a spring trip to the Netherlands, there’s one destination that absolutely must be on your list: Keukenhof Gardens. Often called the “Garden of Europe”, Keukenhof is one of the world’s largest flower parks and a true spectacle of color and fragrance. But with limited seasonal openings and high demand, getting your Keukenhof tickets early and planning ahead are key to a perfect visit.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know before visiting Keukenhof — from ticket tips and travel options to hidden highlights and insider tricks. Let’s dive into the 5 essential things to know before you go!
1. Buy Your Keukenhof Tickets in Advance
Keukenhof is only open for about 8 weeks each year (typically mid-March through mid-May), and during this short window, the park welcomes over a million visitors. Needless to say, it’s busy. Booking your tickets in advance not only saves time but can also save money — and sometimes, it’s the only way to guarantee entry.
Where to Buy Keukenhof Tickets:
- Official Keukenhof Website – Offers standard day tickets and parking passes.
- Travel Platforms – Booking through tour providers (like Holland Experience) often includes skip-the-line access or combo packages.
- Third-Party Resellers .
Pro Tip: Opt for a combination ticket that includes round-trip transport. It can save you time, money, and stress.
2. Timing Is Everything: When Is the Best Time to Visit Keukenhof?
The park’s flower displays evolve over the season, so the “best” time depends on what you want to see. Most people visit Keukenhof for the tulips, and these usually reach full bloom in mid-to-late April.
Best Weeks for Tulip Season:
- Early Bloom: Late March – see crocuses, daffodils, hyacinths
- Peak Tulip Bloom: Mid-April to Late April
- Late Season: Early May – still beautiful, less crowded
Weekends and public holidays are extremely busy, so if possible, plan your visit on a weekday morning.
Check out the Keukenhof Flower Forecast for up-to-date bloom predictions.
3. Getting There: How to Reach Keukenhof from Amsterdam
Keukenhof is located in Lisse, about 40 kilometers from Amsterdam. It’s easy to reach, and you have several convenient options depending on your travel style:
Top Transportation Options:
- Keukenhof Express Bus – Runs from Schiphol Airport, RAI Station, and Leiden. Buses depart every 15 minutes during the season.
- Tour Packages with Transport – Includes hotel pickup, guide, and ticket. Ideal for first-time visitors.
- Driving – On-site parking is available for €10/day. Avoid weekends if you’re driving.
Combo Keukenhof tickets often cost only slightly more than standard tickets and include everything you need for a smooth day trip.
View Keukenhof Tours with Pickup
4. It’s Not Just Tulips: What to See Inside Keukenhof
While Keukenhof is globally known for its tulips, the park actually features over 7 million flower bulbs spread across 32 hectares. The grounds are divided into themed gardens, greenhouses, and scenic walkways.
Don’t Miss:
- Themed Gardens – Varying each year; from Japanese Zen gardens to Dutch countryside-inspired layouts.
- Indoor Pavilions – Featuring orchid shows, lilies, and flower art.
- Windmill & Boat Ride – A scenic canal cruise through nearby tulip fields (optional, extra fee).
- Tulpomania Pavilion – A mini museum dedicated to the history of tulips in Dutch culture.
There are also play areas and a petting zoo if you’re traveling with kids.
5. Practical Tips: What to Pack and Expect
Keukenhof is a walking park, so make sure you’re prepared for a full day outdoors. Here’s a short checklist to help:
What to Bring:
- ✔️ Comfortable shoes (you’ll walk several kilometers)
- ✔️ Phone or camera + portable charger
- ✔️ Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- ✔️ Snacks and a refillable water bottle (cafes are available, but lines can be long)
- ✔️ Light jacket or umbrella – Dutch spring weather can be unpredictable
Things to Know:
- ❌ No pets allowed (except service animals)
- ❌ No drones or bicycles allowed inside the park
- 🕐 Plan to spend 3–5 hours for a relaxed visit
Book Keukenhof Tickets with Holland Experience
Why book with us?
- ✅ Fast-track digital tickets (no printing required)
- ✅ Combo deals with hotel pickup
- ✅ 24/7 customer support
- ✅ Full refunds available up to 24 hours in advance
👉 Reserve Your Keukenhof Experience
Bonus: Other Day Trips Near Keukenhof
If you’re visiting Keukenhof, why not make a full day out of it? Here are some attractions:
- Giethoorn Village
- Zaanse Schans Windmills – Iconic Dutch landscape
- The Hague & Madurodam – Politics and mini-Holland models
- Beach Towns like Noordwijk – Just 10 mins from Keukenhof
We offer combo tours that include Keukenhof tickets plus Giethoorn Village in one seamless day trip.
🌍 Explore Day Trips from Amsterdam
Final Thoughts
Keukenhof is a seasonal paradise that draws visitors from all over the world. With a bit of preparation and an early ticket purchase, you’ll avoid the stress and focus on enjoying one of the most breathtaking flower experiences on Earth.
So whether you’re a photographer, a flower fanatic, or just visiting the Netherlands for the first time, make sure you book your Keukenhof tickets now — and don’t miss out on this once-a-year wonder!
