Where Are Amsterdam Tulips?
When spring arrives, the Netherlands bursts into color — and nowhere is this more iconic than in Amsterdam. Famous for its tulips, Amsterdam and its surroundings offer a wide variety of places where visitors can admire these vibrant flowers. But if you're wondering, "Where are Amsterdam tulips?" , you're not alone. Many travelers search for the best spots to see tulips in full bloom — whether in gardens, fields, or city displays. In this guide, we'll take you through the top tulip locations in and around Amsterdam, offering local tips and practical advice for making the most of tulip season.
1. Tulip Season in Amsterdam: When to Visit
Before diving into locations, it’s essential to understand tulip season. Tulips bloom between mid-March and mid-May , with peak viewing typically in mid-to-late April . Visiting outside this period means you’ll likely miss the full tulip glory. Plan your trip around this season to enjoy fields in bloom and bustling flower festivals.
2. Keukenhof: The Ultimate Tulip Garden
If you only go to one place, make it Keukenhof , often referred to as the world’s most beautiful spring garden. Located about 40 minutes from Amsterdam in the town of Lisse , Keukenhof showcases over 7 million bulbs in bloom each year, including a dazzling range of tulips.
Tips for Visiting Keukenhof:
- Open only from mid-March to mid-May — check exact dates before planning.
- Buy tickets online in advance to skip long lines.
- Combine your trip with a bike ride through the adjacent tulip fields for the full experience.
3. Tulip Fields Near Amsterdam
Many people assume Amsterdam itself has fields of tulips — but the vast rainbow-striped fields are mostly found just outside the city . The top regions to see tulip fields are:
- Bollenstreek (Bulb Region): Between Haarlem and Leiden, easily reachable by car, train, or bike.
- Noordoostpolder: Located in Flevoland, home to the largest tulip fields in the country.
- Goeree-Overflakkee: A lesser-known but stunning area in South Holland.
Renting a bike or car is the best way to explore these sprawling fields.
4. Tulips in Amsterdam City Center
You don’t have to leave the city to find tulips. While you won’t see endless fields in Amsterdam proper, you will find beautiful displays in parks, flower markets, and public gardens. Try these spots:
- Bloemenmarkt: The famous floating flower market on Singel canal offers tulip bulbs and colorful displays year-round.
- Museumplein: During National Tulip Day (in January), a temporary tulip garden is set up for the public to pick tulips for free.
- Vondelpark & Westerpark: City parks often feature tulip beds during springtime.
Tip: Check out the garden behind the Rijksmuseum for a peaceful tulip-filled moment near the heart of the city.
5. Tulip-Themed Events and Museums
Besides viewing the blooms, immerse yourself in tulip history and culture:
- National Tulip Day: Held every January in Dam Square, this event kicks off tulip season with a free picking garden.
- Amsterdam Tulip Museum: Located in the Jordaan district, this museum explains the origin of tulips, their influence on Dutch history, and even the tulip mania economic crash.
- Flower Parade (Bloemencorso): Each April, a dazzling procession of flower floats travels through the tulip-growing regions, including near Amsterdam.
6. Can You Buy Tulips in Amsterdam?
Absolutely! You can buy tulips in bouquet form almost anywhere — from florists to supermarkets. If you want to take home bulbs, Bloemenmarkt is your best bet. Just be sure they’re certified for international travel if you're flying home outside the EU.
Pro Tip: For unique souvenirs, look for hand-painted tulip-themed ceramics or wooden tulips that won’t wilt!
Summary: Where Are Amsterdam Tulips?
So, where are Amsterdam tulips? They’re all around — in floating markets, behind museums, in curated city gardens, and most magnificently in the countryside. To see them in their full blooming glory, aim for a springtime visit and explore both the city and its floral surroundings.
Whether it’s your first or fifth time in Amsterdam, tulip season offers a fresh reason to fall in love with the city — one flower at a time.
FAQ
- When is the best time to see tulips in Amsterdam? Mid-April is typically peak bloom, though the season runs from mid-March to mid-May.
- Are tulip fields in the city? No, the large fields are outside Amsterdam, mainly in Lisse and the Bollenstreek region.
- Can I see tulips in January? Yes — during National Tulip Day in Dam Square.
- Where can I buy tulips in Amsterdam? Bloemenmarkt, local florists, and supermarkets.
- Is Keukenhof in Amsterdam? No, it’s in Lisse, about 40 minutes from Amsterdam by bus or car.