TULIP FIELDS IN THE NETHERLANDS ( +TOP PLACES, INFO, MAP)

The tulip fields in the Netherlands are one of the biggest attractions and one of the most beautiful things to experience in the Netherlands.  Walking through the tulips surrounded by a kaleidoscope of colors is a Dutch bucket list for many travelers. From quaint villages to endless rows of tulips a trip to Netherlands during the tulip season will be an unforgettable experience.

As a local to the Netherlands that has also experience as a tour guide in Amsterdam and some other areas in the country, I have put this guide together to give you the best advice on where to see tulips in the Netherlands and help you preparing to make the best out of your trip.

Let’s jump into the guide!

ABOUT THE TULIP FIELDS IN THE NETHERLANDS

The tulip fields in the Netherlands with its vibrant colors are one of the most captivating shows in the world. These flowers are a national icon in the Netherlands and a synonym of the Dutch culture and attract thousands of visitors each Spring during the so-called tulip season.

The tulips are not original from The Netherlands, they originated in the Ottoman Empire in the 16^th century and entice the minds of botanists and aristocrats with their profound beauty.   However, the Netherlands is the home place for tulips these days and the Dutch people made it their home and they become a symbol of national pride.

In the 17^th century during the Dutch Golden Age the tulips bulbs became a very precious  commodity and it was then that their popularity become so much that it became what is known as “Tulip Mania”. During this period the tulips price increased to extraordinary levels and these bulbs were traded for exorbitant sums of money making some money for some and ruining others, when the market crashed.

The passion of the Dutch people for tulips has endured until these days and today the Netherlands is the world larger producer and exporter of these flowers. Every Spring  millions of tulips bloom across the Dutch countryside. From the most common reds and yellow tulips to the delicate pink and purples, the diversity of tulips fields colors is a true spectacle not to be missed when visiting the Netherlands in Spring.

Thousands of traveler’s flocks to the Netherlands during the tulip season to witness this marvel of colors.

The experience for visitors of wandering through the tulip fields is a one in an unforgettable experience that pays tribute to the century’s old Dutch tradition.

WHEN SHOULD I VISIT THE NETHERLANDS TO SEE TULIPS?

The best time to see tulips in the Netherlands is typically from from mid-April to early May.  This is the period known as the tulip season when the tulips are in full bloom. However the exact time might be slightly different per year due to weather conditions and the specific location in the Netherlands. It is a good idea to always check the tulip forecast before planning your visit.

WHERE ARE THE PLACES TO SEE TULIPS IN THE NETHERLANDS

GOEREE OVERFLAKKE

The Goeree Overflake is an island municipality located in the southwestern part of the Netherlands. It is not very well known part of the country for the tourists fields and it offers an off the beaten path beautiful destination to enjoy these colofurl flowers..

In Goeree-Overflakkee, tulips typically bloom from mid-April to early May. You can enjoy tulips in the island in agricultural fields, gardens and parks. The island serene rural areas are the perfect setting to enjouy the beauty of the tulips in bloom.

The visitors can take strolls or bike rides along the islands scenic landscape. There are also some events and festivals happening during the tulip season.

This is the perfect destination for travleers seeking off the beaten path alternatives to seeing tulips in the Netherlands.

HOW TO GET TO GOEREE OVERFLAKKE FROM AMSTERDAM

To travel from Amsterdam to Goeree-Overflakkee, you have several transportation options, including a combination of train, bus, and ferry.Check the 9292 website for planning.

1. Train from Amsterdam to Rotterdam:
   • Start your journey by taking a train from Amsterdam Centraal Station to Rotterdam Centraal Station. Trains between these two cities run frequently and the journey takes approximately 40-50 minutes.
2. Train or Bus from Rotterdam to Goeree-Overflakkee:
   • From Rotterdam Centraal Station, you have a couple of options:
     • Train: Take a train from Rotterdam Centraal Station to Rotterdam Blaak Station. From there, you can catch a train to either Dirksland or Middelharnis, both of which are towns on Goeree-Overflakkee. The train journey to Dirksland or Middelharnis takes around 30-40 minutes.
     • Bus: Alternatively, you can take a bus from Rotterdam Zuidplein to Middelharnis or another destination on Goeree-Overflakkee. The bus journey duration varies depending on the route and may take around 1 to 1.5 hours.
3. Ferry to Goeree-Overflakkee (Optional)

Depending on your final destination on Goeree-Overflakkee, you might need to take a ferry. For example, if you’re traveling to Ouddorp, there’s a ferry service from Hellevoetsluis to Haringvliet Haven. You can drive or take a bus to Hellevoetsluis and then board the ferry to cross the water to Goeree-Overflakkee.

THE FLEVOLAND ROUTE

The Flevoland region in the Netherlands is very well known for its breathtaking tulip fields that enthrall visitors during its blooming season from Mid April to early May.  During these couple of months Flevoland landscape mutates into a kaleidoscope of colors. You can follow one of its tulip toutes that revolver around Dronten, Zeewolde and Lelystad. There are designated bike paths and walking trails to walk around the fields.

There are several events during the tulip season such as the Flevoland route, that will bring you to the most stunning areas of the tulip fields.

HOW TO GET TO THE FLEVOLAND ROUTE FROM AMSTERDAM

You can get to Flevoland in different modes of transportation, check the 9292 website for planning.

1. By Car:
   • Renting a car in Amsterdam and driving to Flevoland is one of the most convenient options. Flevoland is easily accessible by road, and there are highways connecting Amsterdam to various parts of the region.
   • Simply input your destination within Flevoland into a navigation app or GPS device, and follow the driving directions. Signs along the way may also guide you to the tulip fields or scenic routes.
2. By Train and Bus:
   • From Amsterdam Centraal Station, take a train to one of the major cities in Flevoland, such as Almere or Lelystad. Trains run frequently between Amsterdam and these destinations.
   • Upon arrival in Almere or Lelystad, you can transfer to local buses that serve different areas within Flevoland. Some bus routes may take you closer to the tulip fields or starting points of the tulip route.
3. Organized Tours:
   • Another option is to join an organized tour from Amsterdam to the tulip fields in Flevoland. Several tour companies offer day trips or guided excursions specifically tailored to visiting tulip fields during the blooming season.
   • These tours typically include transportation from Amsterdam, guided commentary, and visits to various scenic spots and tulip fields in Flevoland

 Do you want the best view of the Flevoland tulip fields – Check this helipcopter tour

KEUKENHOF GARDENS

The Keukenhof Gardens, also called the “Garden of Europe,” is a world famous flower paradise located in Lisse. The area is over 79 acres size and there are not only tulips in the gardens, but also other flowers, suc as, including daffodils, hyacinths, and crocuses. However the tulips are the center of attention of the gardens every year as millions of bulbs get planted each year.

A visit to Keukenhof is a delight for your senses and you will be and it will be an unforgettable experience for nature lovers, photographers and flower enthusiasts.

HOW TO GET TO THE KEUKENHOF GARDENS FROM AMSTERDAM

You can get to the Keukenshof gardens using different modes of transportation, check the 9292 website for planning:

1. By Bus (Direct):
   • The most convenient way to reach Keukenhof from Amsterdam is by taking a direct bus operated by Keukenhof Express (bus number 858). The bus departs from Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport Plaza and Amsterdam’s Zuid (South) Station.
   • The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes from Schiphol Airport and around 55 minutes from Amsterdam Zuid Station. The bus drops you off directly at the entrance to Keukenhof Gardens.
2. By Public Transport (Train + Bus):
   • Another option is to take a train from Amsterdam Centraal Station to Schiphol Airport or Leiden Centraal Station. From there, you can transfer to the Keukenhof Express bus (858) that goes directly to Keukenhof Gardens.
   • Alternatively, you can take a train to Hoofddorp Station and then transfer to bus 859, which also goes to Keukenhof Gardens. However, this route may require more transfers and take longer compared to the direct bus from Schiphol Airport.
3. By Car:
   • If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car in Amsterdam and drive to Keukenhof Gardens. The gardens are located in Lisse, and the journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes by car, depending on traffic.
   • Keukenhof Gardens has ample parking available, but it can get crowded during peak visiting hours, so it’s advisable to arrive early if you’re driving.
4. Organized Tours:
   • Many tour companies offer organized day trips from Amsterdam to Keukenhof Gardens, often combining visits to the gardens with other nearby attractions such as flower farms or windmills.
   • These tours typically include transportation to and from Amsterdam, admission to Keukenhof Gardens, and sometimes guided commentary.

I recommend this highly rated tour to Keukenhof gardens from Amterdam

ZEELAND

Zeeland is a quant province in the southwest of the Netherlands and it offers a quiet environment to enjoy the beauty of the blooming tulips framed in scenic landscapes. This is an off the beaten path destination to see tulips in the Netherlands.

The tulip fields can be found spread around Zeeland, specially in areas around towns such as Middelburg, Goes, and Zierikzee. You can drive ot cycle throuh the picturesque villages and get to enjoy the tulip fields.

Zeeland’s mild climate and fertile soil provide an ideal environment for tulip cultivation, contributing to the region’s reputation as a hidden gem for tulip enthusiasts seeking a more intimate and off-the-beaten-path tulip experience in the Netherlands.

HOW TO GET TO ZEELAND FROM AMSTERDAM

1. By Car:
   • Renting a car in Amsterdam and driving to Zeeland is one of the most convenient options. Zeeland is accessible via major highways, and the journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on your destination within the province.
   • Simply input your destination in Zeeland into a navigation app or GPS device, and follow the driving directions. Signs along the way will guide you to your destination.
2. By Train:
   • You can take a train from Amsterdam Centraal Station to cities in Zeeland such as Middelburg or Goes. However, direct train connections to Zeeland from Amsterdam are not available. Instead, you’ll need to transfer trains at Rotterdam Centraal Station or another major hub.
   • The journey by train typically takes around 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the connections and route.
   • Once you arrive at your destination in Zeeland, you can explore further by local transportation options like buses or taxis.
3. By Bus:
   • While there are no direct buses from Amsterdam to Zeeland, you can consider taking a combination of buses and trains. For example, you could take a bus or train from Amsterdam to a major city like Rotterdam or Breda, and then transfer to a bus heading to Zeeland.
   • Be sure to check bus schedules and routes in advance, as they may vary depending on your specific destination in Zeeland.
4. Organized Tours:
   • Some tour operators offer day trips or guided tours from Amsterdam to Zeeland, particularly during the tourist season. These tours often include transportation, guided commentary, and visits to popular attractions in Zeeland.

MEDEMBLIJK

Medemblik is a a beautiful tonw in the province of North Holland, the Netherlands and it is a fantastic setting to experience the beauty of the tulips during the spring season in a quiet area, far away from the tourist crowds. From mid-April to early May, the visitors to Medemblik can witness the blooming of these colorful national symbolic flowers.

Tulip fields can be found in the outskirts of Medemblik and in neighboring villages, and travelers can explore the fields by car, bike or taking drives along the the countryside roads. Medemblik is also a city with a rich historical heritage and you can have a cultural experience while admiring the tulip fields.

HOW TO GET TO MEDEMBLIK FROM AMSTERDAM

1. By Car:
   • Renting a car in Amsterdam and driving to Medemblik is one of the most convenient options. The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the route you choose.
   • Simply input your destination in Medemblik into a navigation app or GPS device, and follow the driving directions. Signs along the way will guide you to your destination.
2. By Train:
   • While there is no direct train service from Amsterdam to Medemblik, you can take a train from Amsterdam Centraal Station to Hoorn.
   • From Hoorn, you can transfer to the historic steam tram operated by the Museumstoomtram Hoorn-Medemblik (Steam Train Museum Hoorn-Medemblik). This scenic train ride takes you through the picturesque Dutch countryside to Medemblik.
   • The entire journey by train and steam tram typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours.
3. By Bus:
   • There are no direct buses from Amsterdam to Medemblik. However, you can consider taking a combination of buses and trains.
   • For example, you could take a train from Amsterdam Centraal Station to Hoorn and then transfer to a local bus heading to Medemblik.
   • Be sure to check bus schedules and routes in advance, as they may vary depending on your specific travel plans.
4. By Organized Tour:
   • Some tour operators offer guided day trips or excursions from Amsterdam to Medemblik, particularly during the tourist season. These tours often include transportation, guided commentary, and visits to attractions in Medemblik.

Consider your preferences for travel time, convenience, and flexibility when choosing the best option to get to Medemblik from Amsterdam.

DE BEEMSTER

The Beemster is an exceptional example of claimed land in the Netherlands and it is was declared a world UNESCO heritage site in 1999. This is the the places closer to Amsterdam where you can see tulips and it will delight your senses with its pattern of canals, dikes and pastures.

There are some times festivals and events during the tulip season that people can enjoy.

HOW TO GET TO THE BEEMSTER FROM AMSTERDAM

To travel from Amsterdam to the Beemster, you have several transportation options:

1. By Car:
   • Renting a car in Amsterdam and driving to the Beemster is the most convenient option. The journey typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination within the Beemster.
   • Simply input your destination in the Beemster into a navigation app or GPS device, and follow the driving directions. Signs along the way will guide you to your destination.
2. By Public Transport (Train + Bus):
   • While there are no direct train or bus routes to the Beemster from Amsterdam, you can take a combination of train and bus.
   • Start by taking a train from Amsterdam Centraal Station to nearby towns such as Purmerend or Hoorn.
   • From Purmerend or Hoorn, you can then transfer to a local bus heading to the Beemster. Be sure to check bus schedules and routes in advance, as they may vary.
3. By Bike:
   • Cycling to the Beemster from Amsterdam is also an option for those who enjoy biking. The distance is manageable for experienced cyclists, and the route offers scenic views of the Dutch countryside.
   • You can rent a bike in Amsterdam and follow cycling routes or bike paths that lead to the Beemster. Be sure to plan your route in advance and allow enough time for the journey.
4. Organized Tours:
   • Some tour operators offer guided tours or excursions from Amsterdam to the Beemster, providing transportation and guided commentary along the way. These tours often include visits to significant landmarks and attractions in the Beemster.

BEST PLACES TO SEE TULIPS IN THE NETHERLANDS MAP

TULIPS IN THE NETHERLANDS FAQs

WHICH DUTCH TOWN IS FAMOUS FOR TULIPS?

One of the most famous Dutch towns to see tulips in the Netherlands is just 40 Km from Amsterdam. This area is called the “Bollenstreek” and it is located among the North Sea Dunes.

WHERE CAN I SEE FREE TULIPS IN THE NETHERLANDS?

You can see tulips for free in the fields around the Keukenhof gardens and in the many other fields around the country.

WHAT WAS THE DUTCH TULIP DISASTER

Tulipmania, in 17th-century Holland, saw tulip bulb prices soar to extraordinary heights due to speculation, culminating in a market crash. The bubble’s collapse in 1637 led to substantial financial losses, serving as a cautionary tale about speculative bubbles in financial markets.

WHY WERE TULIPS SO IMPORTANT TO THE DUTCH PEOPLE?

Frequently showcased in the still-life artworks of the Dutch Golden Age, tulips gained iconic status in Holland. Renowned for their vibrant hues, they became Europe’s favored flower. With increasing demand, Dutch bulbs were swiftly traded for substantial prices.

WHAT DO TULIPS SYMBOLIZE IN THE NETHERLANDS?

n the Netherlands, tulips symbolize various aspects, including beauty, cultural heritage, and national pride. They represent the country’s rich history of horticulture and are often associated with Dutch identity and tradition. Additionally, tulips are seen as a symbol of spring and renewal, heralding the end of winter and the arrival of warmer weather. Moreover, tulips have been linked to themes of love and affection, making them popular gifts for special occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries. Overall, tulips hold a special place in Dutch culture, embodying a range of meanings and sentiments.

WHAT IS THE CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE OF TULIPS?

Tulips became symbolic of love, life, and indulgence.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Colors, nature, and good vibes are a very important part of traveling and a way to highlight your mood.  The tulip fields in the Netherlands offer you all these experiences, while you be getting to know some of the most historical and beautiful villages in the country.

If you would like to have mood enhancing experience while getting to know some of the most beautiful experiences in the stunning Dutch countryside you should visit this country during the spring time and definitely visit its tulip fields.