What is the best time to see tulips in Amsterdam?
Timing is important when it comes to seeing tulips in Amsterdam, because the season is short.
This is the ONE thing I hear too often going wrong.
Here’s what you need to know…
The main tulip season runs from late March to mid-May, but that’s specifically for the famous Keukenhof gardens, where much is indoors.
The biggest mistake people make – and I see this happening every year – is coming too early or too late, just looking at the Keukenhof dates.
“Gerrit, I checked before I booked. Tulip season is from March to May.”
Yes, at the flower garden. But not in nature.
If you want to see tulips in nature, outside the Keukenhof park, the time window is much shorter; 2-3 weeks only.
From mid-April to early May.
This is your sweet spot for seeing fields of tulips in full bloom, both outside and inside the Keukenhof park.
But here’s the thing…
Weather plays a important role here, blooming dates are never set in stone.
A warm winter can trigger early blooming and an earlier closing of the season, while cold weather delays it.
That’s why I always recommend building some flexibility into your travel dates if possible.
A safe week is the final week of April. But expected prices to be highest.
Spring weather in the Netherlands can be unpredictable.
Expect temperatures between 8-15°C (45-60°F), with a mix of sunny spells and rain showers.
Don’t let this discourage you – the fields are beautiful in all weather, and the changing light can create really good photo opportunities.
Keukenhof
The iconic Keukenhof Garden is open from March 20 to May 11, 2025 (here is my guide for visiting the park).
Expect the largest crowds between April 10-May 4 (Peak Blooming).
With most extreme peaks during weekends. Especially the weekend of April 18-21 (Easter), and April 25-27 (Kings Day).
These periods will be exceptionally busy.
Although the park is always busy, consider booking a private Keukenhof transfer with me, and treat yourself to transportation in comfort. I offer door-to-door service to the park in a luxury EV.
Here’s something many visitors don’t realize:
Different flowers bloom in sequence.
Crocuses emerge in early March, followed by daffodils, then hyacinths, and finally tulips.
This does create a beautiful progression of colors throughout the season.
But early visitors who expect tulips, might be surprised or even disappointed to find crocuses and daffodils instead.
Temperature matters.
And here’s why:
Cool nights and mild days extend the blooming period, while warm weather shortens it dramatically.
That’s why the Netherlands, with its temperate climate and well-drained polder soil, is perfect for tulip cultivation.
Best Time to See Tulips in Amsterdam
Want to avoid disappointment? Book your trip between mid to late April.
This gives you the highest chance of seeing tulips at their peak.
If you’re still unsure about timing, consider booking a 1-on-1 video call with me.
I monitor the flower development closely each season and can help you plan the perfect dates for your visit.
Avoiding Disappointment
Another thing I often hear:
People enjoy the Keukenhof, but felt it wasn’t quite the tulip experience they were hoping for.
I understand that feeling completely – it would be my own too.
Simply said: seeing tulips in The Netherlands isn’t just about Keukenhof.
While the gardens are impressive with over 7 million flower bulbs and 800 tulip varieties, the real magic happens in the countryside.
The Keukenhof are not the endless fields you see in advertising tulips in the Netherlands.
It’s also good to know that the fields around Keukenhof are mainly there for tourists, with tour buses taking up every inch, and these are already smaller fields, making photography challenging, to say it kindly.
Getting a good photo here can be nearly impossible without disturbing the flowers – something we want to avoid for both the farmers and the flowers themselves (⤷ Here is my guide with the Do and Don’ts).
For those truly seeking endless tulip fields, head north to the Noordoostpolder region.
That is where I would go.
An area I lived nearby, and know so well. I know exactly where to find the most beautiful fields.
⤷ If you’re interested traveling with me on a private tour, here is more information about it.
These fields are more remote and spread far apart, but the reward is spectacular.
No crowds, and endless fields in every color imaginable.
If you want to go on your own, you’ll find directions in my article ‘How to get to the Tulip Fields’.
Dutch Flower Parade: Bloemencorso
And if possible, don’t miss the spectacular Bloemencorso Bollenstreek (Flower Parade) on April 12 – it’s a highlight of the season that deserves its own article, which you’ll find here with all the details and my personal experience.
⤷ I also offer a flower fields and flower parade private tour this day.
Or you can book a group tour which include seating, lunch and a visit to the Keukenhof, which is otherwise near impossible on the flower parade day.
Other Flower Experiences
Here are a few more of my insider tips:
Flora Holland
Consider visiting FloraHolland in Aalsmeer, the world’s largest flower auction.
As the largest flower exporter globally, the Netherlands trades millions of flowers daily here.
The scale is truly unimaginable – seeing the automatic transport systems and quick-paced auction in action is an experience you won’t forget.
Flower Mosaics of Limmen
A lesser-known tulip attraction you won’t find often in guidebooks: the stunning flower mosaics of Limmen.
Every spring, this small village in North Holland creates massive mosaics using hyacinth flowers – a spectacular tradition since 1952.
Local artists carefully craft these intricate designs using thousands of blooms, each telling a unique story.
The 2025 exhibition runs from April 26-30. Each mosaic is placed along regular streets and houses.
Here is my full article about the Flower Mosaics in Limmen.
Dutch Flowers in Art
And especially for art lovers: your tulip journey doesn’t need to end when you get back to the city.
The Netherlands celebrates its flower heritage year-round through magnificent artworks.
At the Van Gogh Museum, you’ll find his famous vibrant sunflowers, while the Rijksmuseum houses incredible Dutch Golden Age still lifes featuring tulips.
Back when a single bulb could cost as much as a canal house! (⤷ Read my Tulip Mania post here)
⤷ If you’re interested in Dutch Flower Paintings and Art you will love my article about where to find it.
Want to make the most of your tulip season visit?
Whether you’re planning months ahead or making last-minute arrangements, I’m here to help.
⤷ Why not book a 1-on-1 video call with me to create your perfect tulip itinerary, or join one of my curated private tours for an authentic Dutch flower experience – no matter the weather!
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Time to See Tulips in Amsterdam
What happens if I visit too early or late in the season?
Early visitors (March) will see crocuses and daffodils, while late visitors (May) might catch the end of the tulip season. The gardens are still beautiful, but the iconic tulip fields are most likely not in (full) bloom.
Should I book Keukenhof tickets in advance?
Yes, absolutely. During peak season (mid-April), Keukenhof can sell out, especially on weekends and holidays. Book online at least a week ahead.
How long do tulips typically stay in bloom?
Individual tulip fields usually stay in full bloom for about 7-10 days, depending on weather conditions. This is why timing your visit is crucial.
What’s the best time of day to visit the tulip fields?
Early morning (before 10 AM) or late afternoon (after 4 PM) offer the best light for photos and fewer crowds. Plus, the fields are often less windy at these times.
How does weather affect tulip blooming?
Temperature significantly impacts blooming time. Warm weather speeds up the process while cold weather delays it. Rain and wind can damage flowers in full bloom. Therefor it’s not easy to determine the best weeks to visit. But usually the last two weeks of April are a safe bet.
