Keukenhof Gardens, Lisse: Flower gardens
Keukenhof Gardens, also known as the Garden of Europe, is one of the world’s largest flower gardens, located in Lisse, Netherlands. It is famous for its stunning displays of tulips and other spring flowers, attracting visitors from all over the world. The park spans 32 hectares and features over 7 million flower bulbs planted annually, including tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and orchids. Keukenhof is open only for a limited period each year, typically from mid-March to mid-May, when the flowers are in full bloom.
Visitor Fee
- Adults: Approximately €19.50 per person
- Children (4-17 years old): €9.00
- Children (under 4 years old): Free
- Parking Fee: Around €8.00 per vehicle
- Guided Tours & Group Packages: Available at additional costs
Transportation
Keukenhof Gardens is located in Lisse, about 40 km from Amsterdam. It is well connected through various transport options:
- By Bus: Special Keukenhof Express buses operate from Amsterdam, Schiphol Airport, Haarlem, and Leiden during the flower season.
- By Train: The nearest train stations are Schiphol, Haarlem, and Leiden, from where you can take a bus or taxi to Keukenhof.
- By Car: Easily accessible via the A4 and A44 highways. Parking is available at the garden.
- By Bicycle: Cycling is a popular way to reach Keukenhof, especially from nearby towns. Bike rentals are available at several locations.
Things to Do in Keukenhof Gardens
- Walk Through the Flower Fields – Stroll through endless rows of vibrant tulips and other flowers.
- Visit the Themed Gardens – Includes the Japanese Garden, Historic Garden, and Inspirational Gardens.
- See the Flower Shows – Indoor pavilions display special flower exhibitions, such as orchids, roses, and lilies.
- Enjoy a Boat Tour – Take a ‘Whisper Boat’ ride through the flower fields surrounding Keukenhof.
- Visit the Windmill – A traditional Dutch windmill offers panoramic views of the tulip fields.
- Photography Opportunities – One of the most photographed places in the Netherlands due to its breathtaking scenery.
- Enjoy Local Food & Drinks – Several restaurants and food stalls serve Dutch treats, including stroopwafels and herring.
Why People Enjoy Visiting Keukenhof
- Spectacular Flower Displays – Millions of tulips and other flowers in full bloom create an unforgettable experience.
- Perfect for Photography – The colorful landscapes and scenic backgrounds make it a dream destination for photographers.
- Seasonal Beauty – Since the park is open for only eight weeks a year, each visit feels like a unique experience.
- Relaxing Atmosphere – The peaceful gardens and open spaces provide a serene escape from busy city life.
- Family-Friendly Destination – The park has playgrounds, a petting zoo, and scavenger hunts for children.
How Old is This Place?
Keukenhof Gardens has a rich history dating back to the 15th century when it was part of the estate of Countess Jacqueline of Bavaria, who used the land for hunting and herb cultivation. The garden, as we know it today, was officially opened to the public in 1950 as a showcase for Dutch tulip growers. Since then, it has become one of the most visited spring attractions in the world, celebrating over 70 years of floral beauty.
List of Activities
- Guided Tours – Learn about the history and floral varieties from expert guides.
- Bicycle Rentals – Explore the surrounding tulip fields by bike.
- Boat Tours – Cruise through the tulip fields on an electric boat.
- Photography Workshops – Professional sessions to capture the beauty of Keukenhof.
- Children’s Playgrounds & Maze – Fun activities for kids.
- Flower Bulb Market – Buy tulip bulbs to plant at home.
- Live Demonstrations – Learn about flower arrangement and gardening techniques.
Additional Nearby Attractions
- Tulip Fields of Lisse – The surrounding countryside is covered with colorful tulip farms.
- Castle Keukenhof – A historic 17th-century castle with beautiful gardens.
- The Hague – A nearby city with attractions like Madurodam (miniature city), Mauritshuis Museum, and the Peace Palace.
- Amsterdam – Just a short trip away, offering museums, canals, and vibrant nightlife.
- Zaanse Schans – A famous Dutch village with windmills, cheese farms, and wooden shoe workshops.
- Noordwijk Beach – A scenic North Sea beach, perfect for a relaxing visit after exploring the gardens.
- Leiden – A historic city known for its university, botanical gardens, and canals.
Keukenhof Gardens is a must-visit for anyone who loves flowers, nature, and Dutch culture. Its short opening season makes it a unique experience that attracts visitors from around the world every spring.