When Amsterdam Tulips: The Best Time to See Tulips in Amsterdam

Wondering when Amsterdam tulips are at their most beautiful? You’re not alone! Every year, millions of visitors flock to Amsterdam and its surroundings to catch the breathtaking tulip displays that the Netherlands is world-famous for. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, timing your trip around tulip season can turn your Amsterdam getaway into something truly unforgettable.

When Is Tulip Season in Amsterdam?

The peak tulip season in Amsterdam typically runs from mid-March to early May , with the absolute best time to see tulips being in mid-April . This is when the flowers are in full bloom, creating stunning fields of color in and around Amsterdam, especially in the nearby Bollenstreek region (also known as the Flower Strip).

However, keep in mind that tulip blooming depends on weather conditions. A cold spring can delay blooming, while an early warm-up might make the season start earlier.

Where to See Tulips in and Around Amsterdam

You don’t even need to leave Amsterdam to see tulips. While the iconic flower fields are outside the city, Amsterdam offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy tulips within its limits:

• Bloemenmarkt: The floating flower market on the Singel Canal sells fresh tulips and bulbs year-round.
• Keukenhof Gardens: Located about 40 minutes from the city, Keukenhof is the most famous tulip garden in the world, open from mid-March to mid-May.
• Museumplein: During National Tulip Day in January, thousands of tulips are displayed here for the public to pick — it’s a great early taste of tulip season.

Visit Keukenhof: A Must-See Tulip Wonderland

Keukenhof Gardens is the crown jewel of Dutch tulip season. Situated in Lisse, just a short ride from Amsterdam, this massive flower park features over 7 million bulbs planted annually — most of them tulips.

The park opens only during the tulip season, from mid-March to mid-May . For 2025, the official opening dates are expected to be from March 20 to May 11 . Visiting in early or mid-April gives you the highest chance of seeing the tulips in their full glory.

Pro tip: buy your tickets in advance online and consider booking a combo ticket that includes transport from Amsterdam.

Tulip Fields Near Amsterdam

If you're dreaming of those Instagram-worthy rows of colorful tulips stretching into the horizon, head to the tulip fields near the towns of Lisse, Hillegom, and Noordwijkerhout . These are located in the Bollenstreek (Flower Strip), and they start blooming from late March to April, depending on the weather.

The best way to see them:

• Rent a bike and cycle through the countryside trails.
• Take a tulip tour from Amsterdam with a local guide.
• Drive yourself if you prefer flexibility.

Make sure to respect private property — many fields are on working farms and not open to walk through, but photos from the edge are always welcome.

Local Events and Tulip Festivals

There’s more to tulip season than just pretty flowers — here are a few flower-focused events to look out for:

• National Tulip Day (January): Held in Amsterdam’s Museumplein, this free event marks the symbolic start of tulip season, where you can pick your own tulip for free.
• Tulip Festival Amsterdam (April): Flowers bloom all over the city at iconic locations like the Eye Filmmuseum, Vondelpark, and the Rijksmuseum gardens.
• Bloemencorso Bollenstreek (Flower Parade): A vibrant flower float parade from Noordwijk to Haarlem usually takes place in April. It's a moving flower spectacle!

Tips for Visiting During Tulip Season

To make the most of your tulip-filled adventure, keep these tips in mind:

• Book early: Hotels and tours fill up quickly during April, so plan ahead.
• Dress in layers: Spring weather in the Netherlands is unpredictable — pack a jacket and umbrella.
• Travel mid-week: To avoid crowds, visit Keukenhof or the fields during weekdays.
• Be respectful: Don’t walk through tulip fields unless it’s a designated visitor field. Farmers work hard to grow them!

Summary: When Amsterdam Tulips Are Best

So, when Amsterdam tulips? The sweet spot is mid-April, but anytime between late March and early May offers something special. Plan your trip around this period, and you’ll experience one of the Netherlands’ most magical seasons. Whether you're snapping shots at Keukenhof, biking through flower fields, or simply enjoying a colorful canal-side display, Amsterdam tulip season is one to remember.

FAQ: When Amsterdam Tulips Bloom

• When is the best time to see tulips in Amsterdam? Mid-April is usually the peak bloom period.
• Is Keukenhof in Amsterdam? No, it’s in Lisse, about 40 minutes from Amsterdam.
• Can I see tulips in Amsterdam itself? Yes! Visit the Bloemenmarkt, parks, and enjoy the city’s Tulip Festival in April.
• Are the tulip fields open to the public? Most are private, but many allow photo-taking from the edges. Guided tours often include field access.