Amsterdam with H & B
Your guide to visiting the Netherlands during the annual Tulip Festival
In 2024, we “accidentally” stumbled upon the Amsterdam Tulip Festival during our month-long trek across the Atlantic. This was one of those experiences where we made the plans and then later found out we would be in the right place at the right time, and what a blessing this was. The Amsterdam Tulip Festival is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced and it was one of the best ways to end our “Euro Spring” trip.
If you’re looking to experience Amsterdam in her prime, I highly recommend you follow this guide for a spring time trip where tulips are in full bloom and the crowds are a little lighter.
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A Springtime Dream in Full Bloom
Every spring, the Netherlands transforms into a sea of color as millions of tulips blanket the countryside. The Netherlands Tulip Festival is a must-visit experience for flower enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers seeking a unique seasonal adventure. This guide covers everything you need to know to make your tulip-inspired journey unforgettable.
Timing Your Trip
The best time to visit the Netherlands for the tulip season is from mid-April to early May, with the peak bloom typically occurring around late April. To catch the most breathtaking displays, consider planning your visit during the last two weeks of April, but monitor bloom forecasts as they depend on weather conditions.
We went during early April and were still able to get amazing views of the bloom with much cheaper flights!
What to Do in Amsterdam
Keukenhof Gardens
Located just outside Amsterdam in Lisse, Keukenhof is the world’s most famous spring garden. With over 7 million bulbs planted, visitors can stroll through themed gardens, flower shows, and artistic displays.
Tip: Purchase tickets in advance to skip long lines, and consider an early morning visit for fewer crowds and perfect photos.
Canal Cruise
Take a canal cruise with a springtime theme. Several boat companies offer tours highlighting tulip history and floral architecture, giving you a fresh perspective of Amsterdam’s waterways.
Bloemenmarkt
Visit the floating flower market to see tulips and other blooms in full display. It’s a perfect spot to buy bulbs and local souvenirs.
Rijksmuseum & Van Gogh Museum
Combine your floral adventure with cultural immersion. Visit the Rijksmuseum’s iconic Dutch Golden Age art and the Van Gogh Museum’s colorful masterpieces.
Anne Frank House
A profoundly moving and historical experience, the Anne Frank House offers a glimpse into the life of Anne Frank during World War II. It’s one of Amsterdam’s most important landmarks, with exhibits that tell her story and the impact of the Holocaust.
Tip: Book your tickets online at least a month in advance, as slots fill quickly.
Getting Around with Ease
Airport to Amsterdam
The most convenient airport is Schiphol (AMS), just 15-20 minutes by train to Amsterdam Centraal.
Day Trips from Amsterdam
By Train: The Netherlands’ railway network is highly efficient. Trains run frequently from Amsterdam to nearby cities like Haarlem, Lisse (for Keukenhof), and Utrecht.
By Bike: For an authentic Dutch experience, rent a bike and explore tulip fields at your own pace. Several scenic routes connect Amsterdam to nearby flower-filled areas.
By Car: For more flexibility, renting a car allows you to hop between small towns and visit off-the-beaten-path fields.
Boutique Hotels at the top of our list
The Dylan Amsterdam
A luxury boutique hotel offering stylish rooms and proximity to canal cruises and major sights.
Price Range: $$$$ (Luxury)
Pro: Boutique luxury with personalized service, Michelin-star dining, and canal-side charm.
Con: High price tag, but worth it for those seeking indulgence.
Why Stay Here: Perfect for couples or travelers wanting an upscale and intimate experience.
Hotel Estherea
Set along a canal, this family-run hotel features charming decor and floral accents, making it the perfect nod to the tulip season.
Price Range: $$$ (Mid to High Range)
Pro: Family-owned charm with beautiful floral-themed decor and canal views.
Con: Can feel busy due to popularity.
Why Stay Here: Ideal for travelers who enjoy a cozy, historic feel with warm hospitality.
Pulitzer Amsterdam
A design-forward hotel spanning 25 restored canal houses, offering stylish rooms, a garden courtyard, and a private canal boat for tours.
Price Range: $$$$ (Luxury)
Pro: Historic charm with modern luxury—25 interlinked canal houses with art-inspired interiors.
Con: Some rooms may feel small given the historic structure.
Why Stay Here: A great option for design enthusiasts and those wanting a unique yet luxurious stay.
Canal House Amsterdam
Located in the Jordaan district, this boutique hotel blends contemporary decor with traditional architecture, offering intimate rooms with views of the canals.
Price Range: $$$ (Mid to High Range)
Pro: Stylish, boutique rooms with a mix of contemporary and classic decor, located in the trendy Jordaan district.
Con: Limited amenities compared to larger hotels.
Why Stay Here: Perfect for travelers who prioritize location and chic, intimate stays.
Van der Valk Hotel Haarlem
A contemporary hotel offering easy access to both Amsterdam and the surrounding tulip fields.
Price Range: $$ - $$$ (Moderate to High Range)
Pro: Spacious rooms, excellent breakfast, and easy access to both Amsterdam and Haarlem.
Con: More of a contemporary, business-oriented vibe.
Why Stay Here: Great for families or travelers seeking convenience and comfort with easy regional access.
Other Towns and Cities to Visit
Haarlem
Just 15 minutes from Amsterdam by train, Haarlem’s cobbled streets, historic buildings, and tulip-lined squares make it a perfect day trip.
Don’t miss: Frans Hals Museum and a stroll along the Grote Markt.
Lisse
The epicenter of the tulip festival, home to Keukenhof Gardens and vast flower fields.
Explore by bike for a picturesque experience.
Leiden
Known for its university and canals, Leiden offers charming streets and botanical gardens.
Visit the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world.
The Hague
A blend of royal palaces, art museums, and beachfront scenery.
Don’t miss the Peace Palace and Madurodam, a miniature replica of the Netherlands.
Pro Tips for Visiting the Tulip Festival:
Book Accommodations Early: Spring is peak season, and boutique hotels fill up fast.
Layer Your Clothing: The weather can be unpredictable with sunny days and occasional rain.
Capture the Magic: Wake up early to visit the fields during golden hour for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
Respect the Fields: Always stick to designated walking paths to preserve the flowers.
Let’s book
Between biking through lanes of color, cruising canals, and staying in boutique gems, there’s a special magic to be found here. It’s the kind of adventure that leaves you grateful for spontaneous decisions and dreamy spring mornings.
Let HB Tour & Travel help you turn those moments into memories that last a lifetime.
With Love,
H & B @ HBTT
Thanks for visiting! Please contact us at info@hbtourandtravel.com for any inquiries.
