Tulip time: Witness spring splendor in the Netherlands
Each spring, the Netherlands is a spectacle of color as countless tulips bloom. Around Lisse, tulip festivals offer a glimpse of nature's splendor and a taste of Dutch traditions. Visitors witness the countryside come alive with vibrant hues and partake in cultural events, celebrating the season's beauty and the nation's floral heritage in a memorable display.
Keukenhof: A floral wonderland
Keukenhof Gardens, the centerpiece of tulip season in the Netherlands, spans an impressive 32 hectares. With over seven million bulbs planted, the gardens burst into a vibrant display from March to May. Visitors can wander through various themed gardens, admire striking art installations, and learn about flower arranging at live demonstrations, making for an enriching and picturesque experience.
Tulip farm tours: Beyond Keukenhof
Keukenhof may be the main attraction, but visiting local tulip farms can be just as engaging. These farms offer tours that provide insights into the tulip growing process. Guests have the chance to pick their own tulips and take a bouquet home. The tours are unique as they allow access to parts of the fields usually closed off to the public.
Flower Parade: Blooming floats on display
Each year, the Flower Parade is an event not to be missed, taking place in late April. This parade features stunning floats lavishly decorated with flowers, traveling from Noordwijk to Haarlem and passing through Lisse. These floats are true works of art, and spectators have the opportunity to see them up close at various display points before and after the parade makes its journey.
Cycling amongst tulips: Pedal through petals
Explore the Dutch countryside on a bicycle for an eco-friendly adventure among the tulips. With a variety of marked routes, pedal through fields near Keukenhof and further afield. Convenient bike rentals are available around Lisse, offering different paths suitable for any fitness level. This way, you can enjoy the scenic beauty at your own pace, surrounded by a spectrum of blooms.
Cultural insights: Museums & windmills
A journey through the tulip season is incomplete without exploring Dutch cultural heritage. Local museums provide a deep dive into the tulip's storied history within Holland. Equally important are the iconic windmills, which punctuate the landscape. These historic structures offer a timeless look at traditional Dutch engineering and aesthetics, perfectly complementing the colorful tulip fields that draw visitors from around the world.
