Discover the best tulip fields near Amsterdam

Amsterdam Tulip Fields

The Netherlands is synonymous with tulips, and millions of people flock here every year, drawn to the beauty of places like the Lisse tulip fields and the world-renowned Keukenhof. Introduced to the Netherlands in the 16th century, tulips quickly became a symbol of wealth and prosperity. During the Dutch Golden Age, tulip mania took hold, with bulbs used as currency! Today, tulips remain an important part of Dutch culture and a major tourist attraction. And since the tulip season is a short-term affair from mid-March to mid-May, it pays to know which Amsterdam tulip fields are must-visits before you plan your visit.

Why visit Amsterdam tulip fields

Proximity to Amsterdam: Just 40 km from the heart of Amsterdam, the tulip fields are practically begging to be explored. Getting there is a breeze, with tons of public transport options and comfy round-trip coach transfers whisking you away
Keukenhof is a highlight: Lisse is the undisputed tulip kingdom, home to Keukenhof and a kaleidoscope of tulip fields. It's the place to be for tulip lovers, drawing visitors from far and wide.
Tulip field tours: Fancy a guided adventure? Lisse is where all the action is, so most Amsterdam tulip field tours focus on this region. If you're feeling adventurous, you can explore these on your own too! Unlike other regions where fields are private, most tulip fields in Lisse welcome tourists.
See other flowers: It's not just tulips! Prepare to be wowed by fields of hyacinths and daffodils, making it a more promising visit.

The most famous Amsterdam tulip farms to explore

Tulip Farm De Tulperij

Step into a world of color and blooms at De Tulperij, a delightful tulip farm experience in the heart of the Dutch bulb region. More than just a field of flowers, De Tulperij offers a glimpse into the life cycle of the tulip, from bulb to bloom. Here, you can wander through rows of tulips, learn about the meticulous process of tulip cultivation, and even create your personalized bouquet.

Tulip Experience

Journey through the history of tulips, from its humble beginnings to its status today. Prepare to be wowed by the outdoor show garden, a spectacle of over a million tulips painting the landscape in color. But the real magic happens indoors – hand-pick your perfect bouquet in a tulip-picking garden! Don't miss the art market, a treasure trove of tulip-inspired artwork.

Tulip Experience tickets

Tulip Barn

Please your inner photographer at the Tulip Barn! With a staggering 750,000 tulips, this is a floral paradise designed for the perfect picture. Their specially crafted "selfie garden" is a dream come true for Instagrammers and photographers. Every corner has been carefully planned to offer countless picture-perfect backdrops, so you're guaranteed to capture stunning shots.

Best ways to explore the Amsterdam tulip farms

Drive around in a car

Ditch the tour bus and hop in your car to explore the Amsterdam tulip fields yourself! Skip the crowded main roads and venture deeper into the town of Lisse – discover fields bursting with color. And you can also see daffodils and hyacinths. If you time it just right, you might witness this floral trifecta. Just a heads-up: these narrow roads can get busy, especially during peak season.

Electric car tours

Zip through fields in your own 2-person electric car, pop in the audio guide, and prepare to be captivated by facts about this iconic flower and the region that cultivates them. These carefully curated routes, designed to steer you clear of the crowds, will whisk you away on a 2-hour adventure past local Amsterdam tulip fields, the Keukenhof forest, and even a real-life flower bulb nursery.

Land Rover and TukTuk tours

Cruise through Bollenstreek with a local guide, sharing insider knowledge and revealing the region's hidden gems. With a small group of just 6 people, you'll experience the Amsterdam tulip fields up close, learning about the blooms from an expert. The TukTuk option lets you choose between the classic Bollenstreek route, or indulge in a tulip experience complete with drinks and snacks.

Bike tours

Bring your bike, rent one at the Keukenhof entrance, or join an informative bike tour. Most guided tours clock in at 2 hours, with plenty of departure times throughout the day during tulip season – perfect for fitting into your itinerary. Consider tackling the Flower Route, a 35 km journey that winds through Amsterdam tulip fields and treats you to coastal views of the beach and dunes.

Helicopter tours

Buckle up for a helicopter tour and soar above carpets of color, getting a bird's-eye view of not just the famous Lisse fields, but also the Noordwijk and Hillegom regions. These 10-15 minute flights, departing from Keukenhof, even give you a glimpse of the Dutch coastline and sea. These tours are only available on select days, so snag your spot in advance.

Windmills boat trip

If you want to experience the beauty of Keukenhof and the Amsterdam tulip fields without the crowds, climb aboard a relaxing boat cruise in Warmond! Glide past tulip fields, catching glimpses of windmills, and soaking in the Dutch countryside – all while cruising the canals around Lisse. These 1.5-hour trips depart right from Keukenhof, offering a comprehensive experience.

Tulip season in Amsterdam

The iconic Dutch tulip fields don't stick around all year. Timing is everything! You've got to plan your trip to the Netherlands in the spring, ideally between late March and early May, to catch them at their peak. And even then, their blooms are heavily weather-dependent. Sure, you can find tulips for sale in markets year-round, but those are greenhouse-grown, and, let's be honest, they're just not the same.

Amsterdam tulip season

Visitor tips

Where to stay: If the main focus of your visit is to see the tulip fields, it’s best to book accommodation near Lisse or Amsterdam as soon as your travel dates are fixed. Around the Tulip Festival, hotels can be sold out months in advance, so it’s best to start looking as soon as you can. Some recommendations include Boutique Suites Lisse - Keukenhof, B&B De Vier Seizoenen, Hotel Lowietje Lisse, and Hotel Restaurant de Engel.
What to wear: The weather must be chilly, and you can expect rain. Wear a light jacket and comfortable shoes, and carry an umbrella.
Which fields to visit: When exploring the fields, remember not to step on any flowers. After all, it is private property and tulip farmers rely on producing good-quality tulip bulbs. If you have young children with you, it may be better to visit Amsterdam tulip fields that are specifically designed for tourists like the Tulip Experience or Tulip Barn.
Best time to visit: The tulip season lasts from mid-March to early May. Visit Keukenhof and the nearby Amsterdam tulip fields in the second half of April for the best experience. Around this time, the tulips are in full bloom. Plan to arrive early in the morning on a weekday to avoid crowds. Try to avoid weekends and public holidays as these can be very crowded. But if you have no other options, visit early.
Don’t miss the Flower Parade: No matter how crowded it is, you do not want to miss the Flower Parade on April 12, 2025. Book VIP Grand Stand seats for the best views of the floats decorated with tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and other flowers.

Frequently Asked Questions about Amsterdam tulip fields

Where can I see Amsterdam tulip fields in the Netherlands besides Keukenhof?

While Keukenhof is the most famous, the best open tulip fields can be found in the Bollenstreek (Bulb Region) between Haarlem and Leiden. Other great locations include Flevoland, Noordoostpolder, and the countryside around Lisse and Alkmaar.

Are the Amsterdam tulip fields free to visit?

Most tulip fields are on private farms, but you can admire them from the roadside or visit farms that allow entry for a small fee. Look for attractions like Tulip Experience or Tulip Barn where you can walk through the fields and take photos.

Can I walk through the tulip fields?

Most fields are private, and stepping into them is not allowed unless the farm permits it. However, some farms offer paid experiences where you can walk among the tulips without damaging them.

What is the most scenic tulip drive in the Netherlands?

The Flevoland Tulip Route and the Noordoostpolder Tulip Route are among the most scenic. These routes offer endless flower fields and fewer crowds compared to Lisse.

When is the best time to visit the Amsterdam tulip fields?

The tulip season typically runs from mid-March to mid-May, with the peak bloom usually occurring in April. If you want to see the flowers at their most spectacular, aim for mid to late April.

Is there a specific time of day that’s best for visiting?

For fewer crowds and the best lighting for photos, visit early in the morning (8am-10am) or later in the afternoon (after 3pm).

What’s the best way to photograph the Amsterdam tulip fields?

Visit in the morning for soft lighting, use a wide-angle lens, and look for unique angles rather than just straight-on shots. Avoid stepping into the fields unless the farm allows it!

When is the Amsterdam Tulip Festival?

The Amsterdam Tulip Festival is between March 20 and May 11, 2025. During the festival, do not miss Keukenhof and the Flower Parade on April 12, 2025.