Keukenhof Gardens is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Netherlands, drawing over a million visitors each year. Located in Lisse, a small town just a short drive from Amsterdam, Keukenhof Gardens is home to more than 7 million tulips and other flowers, making it one of the largest flower gardens in the world.
If you’re planning a visit to Keukenhof Gardens, this guide is for you. In this post, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit, including tips on when to go, how to get there, what to bring, and how to avoid the crowds. Whether you’re a flower enthusiast, a photographer, or simply looking for a beautiful and relaxing day out, Keukenhof Gardens has something to offer for everyone. My visit to Keukenhof.
Planning Your Visit to Keukenhof Gardens
A. Best time to visit
The best time to visit Keukenhof Gardens is in the spring, when the tulips and other flowers are in full bloom. The gardens are typically open from late March to mid-May, with the exact dates varying slightly each year depending on when the flowers are expected to bloom. To get the most out of your visit, it’s a good idea to check the Keukenhof Gardens website for the latest information on the blooming season.
B. How to get there
Keukenhof Gardens is located in Lisse, about a 30-minute drive from Amsterdam. If you’re not driving, you can also take a bus or train from Amsterdam to Lisse. From Lisse, you can take a shuttle bus or taxi to the gardens. My preferred way to visit is by bike. Stay close and bicycle past tulip fields before entering the park, my trip to Keukenhof Gardens.
C. Admission fees and tickets
Admission to Keukenhof Gardens typically costs around 19 euros for adults and 9 euros for children. You can purchase tickets online in advance to skip the ticket lines at the gardens. Learn which Keukenhof Gardens tickets to buy.
D. Hours of operation
Keukenhof Gardens is open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM during the blooming season. However, the ticket office closes at 6:00 PM, so be sure to arrive before then if you need to purchase tickets on site.
Exploring Keukenhof Gardens
A. Highlights of the gardens
Keukenhof Gardens is home to a wide variety of flowers, including tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, and more. Some of the highlights of the gardens include the flower shows, which showcase unique and rare varieties of flowers, as well as the themed gardens, such as the Japanese garden and the English landscape garden.
B. Recommended walking routes
Keukenhof Gardens is quite large, covering over 32 hectares of land, so it’s a good idea to plan your route in advance. The gardens offer several walking routes of varying lengths and difficulty levels, so you can choose one that suits your preferences. Find top instagrammable spots in and around Keukenhof Gardens.
C. Map of the gardens
To help you navigate the gardens, a map is available at the entrance, or you can download one from the Keukenhof Gardens website. The map shows the various gardens and attractions, as well as the locations of restrooms, food stands, and other facilities.
D. Photography tips
Keukenhof Gardens is a paradise for photographers, with endless opportunities to capture the beauty of the flowers. To get the best photos, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is softer and the crowds are thinner. Additionally, be sure to bring a tripod, as some of the more intricate flower displays may require longer exposures.
IV. Making the Most of Your Visit
A. What to bring
To make the most of your visit to Keukenhof Gardens, consider bringing comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat or umbrella to protect yourself from the sun. You may also want to bring a picnic lunch, as there are several areas in the gardens where you can sit and enjoy a meal.
B. Dress code
There is no strict dress code at Keukenhof Gardens, but it’s recommended to dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Be aware that some of the walking paths may be muddy or uneven, so closed-toe shoes are recommended.
C. Food and drinks
Keukenhof Gardens has several food stands and restaurants where you can purchase snacks, sandwiches, and drinks. If you prefer to bring your own food, there are several picnic areas throughout the gardens.
D. Souvenir shopping
Keukenhof Gardens has several souvenir shops where you can purchase bulbs, seeds, and other flower-related gifts. Be aware that there are restrictions on bringing bulbs and seeds back to some countries, so be sure to check with your country’s customs regulations before purchasing anything.
V. Avoiding the Crowds
A. Early or late admission
One of the best ways to avoid the crowds at Keukenhof Gardens is to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the gardens are less crowded. This will also give you better lighting conditions for photography.
B. Weekday vs. weekend visits
Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends at Keukenhof Gardens, so if possible, plan your visit for a weekday. If you must visit on a weekend, try to arrive early in the morning.
C. Off-peak season visits
If you’re looking to avoid the crowds altogether, consider visiting Keukenhof Gardens during the off-peak season, which is typically the last two weeks of March and the first two weeks of May. During these times, the gardens are still in bloom, but there are fewer visitors.
D. Skip-the-line tickets
To save time and avoid the ticket lines at Keukenhof Gardens, consider purchasing skip-the-line tickets in advance. This will allow you to enter the gardens more quickly and spend more time enjoying the flowers.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your visit to Keukenhof Gardens and avoid the crowds, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of the flowers and the tranquility of the gardens.
VI. Conclusion
Visiting Keukenhof Gardens is a truly magical experience, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and enjoy the stunning displays of flowers. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this guide, you can make the most of your visit and avoid common pitfalls such as crowds and long lines.
Remember to plan your route in advance, bring comfortable clothing and shoes, and consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. With its vibrant colors, unique flower displays, and tranquil atmosphere, Keukenhof Gardens is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves flowers, nature, and beautiful scenery.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Keukenhof Gardens is sure to leave a lasting impression, and you’ll find yourself wanting to return year after year to witness the stunning displays of flowers and experience the tranquility of this beautiful place.
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