Keukenhof Gardens
Keukenhof — the 'Garden of Europe' — is the world's largest flower garden, displaying over 7 million spring bulbs across 32 hectares in Lisse, ~40 km from Amsterdam. Open just eight weeks each spring (mid-March to mid-May), it draws over 1.4 million visitors annually for its iconic tulip fields, themed pavilions, and historic woodland paths.
Key facts
| Hours | Daily 08:00–19:00 |
|---|---|
| Price | $$ |
| Phone | — |
| Website | — |
| Nearest transit | Keukenhof Express Bus 852 from Amsterdam RAI/Europaplein (~35 min) or Bus 858 from Schiphol Airport (~30 min); buses run directly to the main entrance during the season only. |
| Time needed | 3–4 hours for a standard visit; 5–6 hours for photographers or flower enthusiasts; allow a full day if combining with tulip field cycling or a whisper-boat cruise. |
| Best time to go | Mid-April (historically 10–30 April) for peak tulip bloom. Arrive at 8 AM or after 4 PM on a weekday to avoid the largest tour-group crowds. |
| Last verified | July 12, 2026 |
Locals Score
- Value7.5
- Freshness5.8
- Crowd level5.0
- Authenticity7.0
- Accessibility6.0
Frequently asked questions
- Is Keukenhof accessible for wheelchair users?
- Largely yes — main paths are paved or hard gravel and most of the garden is reachable by wheelchair. Free wheelchair loan is available at the entrance. Note that the whisper-boat cruises are not wheelchair-accessible.
- How long does a visit to Keukenhof take?
- Most visitors spend 3–4 hours inside the 32-hectare garden. Photographers and flower enthusiasts often stay 5–6 hours. Add 1–2 hours each way for travel from Amsterdam by bus, making it a comfortable half-day or full-day trip.
- How do I get to Keukenhof from Amsterdam?
- The easiest option is the Keukenhof Express Bus 852 from Amsterdam RAI/Europaplein (metro line M52), which takes about 35 minutes and drops you at the main entrance. Bus 858 runs direct from Schiphol Airport in about 30 minutes. Combo bus-plus-entry tickets are available and recommended.
- When is Keukenhof open in 2026?
- Keukenhof is open from 19 March to 10 May 2026, daily from 08:00 to 19:00 (last admission 18:15). The garden is completely closed to the public outside this eight-week window. Always verify exact dates on keukenhof.nl before booking travel.
- Do I need to book Keukenhof tickets in advance?
- Yes — Keukenhof uses a timed-entry system with a limited daily capacity. Weekends, Easter, and the Flower Parade day sell out weeks in advance. Book on keukenhof.nl as soon as you know your travel dates to secure your preferred time slot.
- When is the best time to see the tulips at Keukenhof?
- Peak tulip bloom historically falls between 10–30 April, with the gardens at their most colorful in mid-April. Early in the season (late March) you'll see crocuses, daffodils, and hyacinths instead. Check Keukenhof's live flower report on their website before you go, as exact timing depends on weather.
- Is there parking at Keukenhof?
- Yes. Parking tokens can be pre-purchased online at a lower rate than on-site (on-site costs €17.50 per day). Camper/motorhome parking is available for €12.50 online, purchased only in combination with an entrance ticket. Bicycle parking at both entrances is free.
- How much do Keukenhof tickets cost?
- Online admission for 2026 is €21.50 for adults and €10 for children aged 4–17; children under 4 enter free. Buying at the gate costs more (up to €25 for adults) and risks your preferred time slot being sold out. A combo ticket including return bus from Amsterdam RAI costs €38.50 per adult.
Nearby in Ask Amsterdam
- Zandvoort aan ZeeBeach11.84 km · 148 min walk
- Schiphol to the City: Your Arrival Game PlanGetting around15.43 km · 193 min walk
- Amsterdamse BosPark20.09 km · 251 min walk
- Amsterdamse Bos StrandjeBeach20.1 km · 251 min walk
- Strandbad SloterplasBeach21.3 km · 266 min walk
Where to stay near Keukenhof Gardens
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