Home » Netherlands Travel News » Keukenhof Tulip Festival, Next Year: A Blooming Spectacle in the Netherlands, Over Seven Million Flowers At Display
Tuesday, August 5, 2025
Spring in the Netherlands is synonymous with vibrant tulip fields, and the Keukenhof Tulip Festival stands as the crown jewel of this seasonal celebration. In 2026, the festival will run from March 19 to May 10, welcoming visitors to Lisse, a picturesque town just 40 kilometers southwest of Amsterdam. This year marks another opportunity to explore the world’s largest flower garden, an iconic event that continues to draw travelers from all over the world. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to experience the timeless beauty of the tulip fields, Keukenhof offers an unparalleled floral spectacle.
Opening Dates & Hours
Keukenhof Gardens will be open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM during the festival period. It’s highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak times, as the park operates with a fixed capacity per day and time slot to ensure a comfortable experience for all visitors.
What to Expect at Keukenhof
Keukenhof, also known as the Garden of Europe, is renowned for its meticulously curated floral displays. In 2026, visitors can anticipate over 7 million blooms, including tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and lilies, spread across 32 hectares of themed gardens. The park is a masterpiece of floral art, where every corner holds a new surprise and every walk unveils a colorful vista of nature’s finest creations.
Highlights of the FestivalFlower Parade (Bloemencorso Bollenstreek): On April 18, 2026, the streets of Lisse and surrounding towns will come alive with the annual Flower Parade. This vibrant procession features floats adorned with tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils, celebrating the rich horticultural heritage of the region.Indoor Flower Shows: Keukenhof hosts various indoor exhibitions showcasing different flower species, offering visitors a chance to appreciate the diversity of blooms in a controlled environment.Photography Workshops: For photography enthusiasts, the festival offers workshops to capture the stunning landscapes and intricate floral arrangements.Cultural Events: Enjoy performances by local musicians and artists, adding a cultural dimension to the visual feast.Travel TipsFrom Amsterdam: Shuttle buses operate regularly from Amsterdam to Keukenhof, making the journey convenient for international visitors.Accommodation: Lisse offers various lodging options, from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to luxurious hotels. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak bloom periods.Cycling Tours: Explore the surrounding tulip fields on two wheels. Several operators offer guided bike tours through the vibrant flower landscapes.Experience the Beauty of Keukenhof
Keukenhof is not just a place to see flowers—it’s a place to immerse yourself in one of the most breathtaking celebrations of nature’s colors. The festival’s main entrance, situated to the south of the gardens, features a decorative gatehouse and ticket office, providing easy access to the park. Visitors can also catch the Keukenhof Express Bus, tour buses, and taxis, along with ample parking spaces.
Address and Additional InformationAddress: Damrak 26, 1012 LG Amsterdam, NetherlandsYear Opened: 1950Visitors per Year: 1,500,000Founder: Jan David ZocherExpected Wait Times and FacilitiesStandard Wait Time: 30–60 minutes (Peak), 0–30 minutes (Off-Peak)Extra Entrance: Located to the north of the gardens, this entrance operates during peak times, providing smaller parking spaces for cars and bikes.Visitor Amenities
Keukenhof offers several amenities for a comfortable visit:
Lockers: Available for storing personal belongings.WiFi: Free WiFi access for all visitors.Toilets: Located throughout the gardens for convenience.Dining Outlets: Enjoy a range of restaurants and cafes, but note that outside food and drinks are not allowed.Pets
Dogs are allowed in Keukenhof, but they must be on a leash. Please note that dogs are not permitted inside the pavilions or restaurants, except for guide dogs.
Nearby Airports
The closest major airport to Keukenhof is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), located approximately 20 kilometers from Lisse, where Keukenhof is situated. Schiphol is one of Europe’s busiest airports, offering numerous international and domestic flights. From there, you can easily reach Keukenhof via public transportation or private transfers.
Recommended Hotels Near Keukenhof
Staying close to Keukenhof allows you to fully immerse yourself in the tulip season. Here are some highly-rated accommodations:
Hotel de Duif – Located in Lisse, just 800 meters from Keukenhof, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms and a cozy atmosphere.Boutique Suites Lisse – A 4-star hotel in central Lisse, providing modern amenities and city views, approximately 800 meters from Keukenhof.Hotel Villa Flora – Situated in Hillegom, about 3.8 km from Keukenhof, this hotel offers a peaceful setting with easy access to the gardens.NH Hotel Noordwijk Conference Centre Leeuwenhorst – Located in Noordwijkerhout, around 5.3 km from Keukenhof, this hotel provides conference facilities and leisure amenities.Van der Valk Hotel Sassenheim-Leiden – Approximately 6.6 km from Keukenhof, this hotel offers modern accommodations and is well-connected to public transport.How to Get to Keukenhof from Amsterdam1. Keukenhof Shuttle Bus
The Keukenhof Shuttle Bus offers a direct and convenient route from Amsterdam to Keukenhof. The bus departs from Amsterdam Central Station and takes approximately 30 minutes to reach the gardens. Tickets can be purchased online in advance.
2. Public Transportation
Alternatively, you can use public transportation:
Train: Take a train from Amsterdam Central Station to Schiphol Airport (approximately 15 minutes).Bus: From Schiphol, take bus Line 858 (Keukenhof Express) to the gardens, which takes about 30 minutes.3. Private Taxi
For a more personalized and direct route, consider booking a private taxi. This option offers flexibility and comfort, with travel times around 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Why Visit Keukenhof?
Attending the Keukenhof Tulip Festival is more than just viewing flowers; it’s an immersion into Dutch culture and tradition. The festival offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the artistry of floral design, experience the hospitality of the Netherlands, and create lasting memories amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Keukenhof’s stunning landscapes and vibrant floral displays make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Netherlands in the spring.
Plan Your Visit
To ensure a seamless experience, it’s advisable to plan your visit ahead of time. Check the official Keukenhof website for the latest information on ticket sales, event schedules, and travel tips.
Image Credit: Keukenhof Tulip Festival
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