The Dutch have been enamored with tulips since they were first imported into the Netherlands from Central Asia in the 17th century. Today, people from all over the globe flock to the country to admire these vibrant flowers and capture stunning photographs for social media. One of the best places to experience this floral spectacle is at Keukenhof Park, which features specially designed giant flower baskets, flower arches, and pink velvet sofas that serve as perfect backdrops for photos.
Located just a short drive from Amsterdam, the tulip fields are hard to miss. Visitors can’t help but snap pictures as they pass by the breathtaking landscapes. Daniel Magnus, a tourist from Austria, expressed his admiration for the captivating photos often shared by influencers. "Every time you see pictures from some influencer, they’re impressive, right? You get new impressions from new places, traditions, people, and it is very pleasant and inspiring," he shared. Daniel traveled to the Netherlands with friends, recalling his previous visit two years ago, which left a lasting impression. "I was here two years ago, and I was very impressed. I really liked it. The garden is very beautiful, and it is known worldwide. We thought that it's not too far from Austria, so we decided to come."
Keukenhof gardens are maintained by a dedicated team of gardeners who ensure that the park remains a stunning display of color and beauty. They report that more than a million guests visit each year, treated to the sight of approximately seven million blooming tulips. However, the garden is only open for a limited time—just eight weeks each spring—creating a narrow window for visitors to capture the perfect photo.
Patrick van Dijk, a gardener at Keukenhof, noted the versatility of tulips, stating, "Tulips combine with everything: other flowers, flowering trees, perennials, magnolias. There is always something blooming. I think that’s why everyone comes; there’s always something to see." Despite the beauty, not everyone welcomes the influx of tourists. Some local flower growers have taken measures to protect their fields, installing signs and fences to prevent visitors from trampling their flowers.
Keukenhof, known as the world's largest tulip garden, spans an impressive 32 hectares and is set against the backdrop of a 17th-century estate in the town of Lisse, roughly a half-hour drive from The Hague, Haarlem, Leiden, and Amsterdam. The garden opened its doors just a few days ago and will remain open until May 11, 2025, welcoming visitors daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. During this period, guests can enjoy various exhibitions that change weekly.
Among the special themed gardens within Keukenhof is Hilltop Heaven, where a path leads visitors to a gently sloping hilltop adorned with a stunning array of flowers. This area also features a thoughtfully designed "selfie spot" that offers the perfect opportunity for high-quality photographs. While tulips take center stage, visitors can also admire a diverse range of other flowers, including irises, lilies, daffodils, orchids, hyacinths, and many more.
For those looking to explore the park in a different way, biking is an option, with organized excursions that include treasure hunts, picnics, romantic boat rides, and guided tours. Keukenhof, which translates to "kitchen garden" in Dutch, is a royal flower park primarily dedicated to bulbous plants and lilies, nestled between Leiden and Haarlem and located about 5 km from the North Sea.
The enchanting atmosphere of Keukenhof makes it a must-visit destination for flower enthusiasts and photographers alike. As spring unfolds, the park transforms into a vibrant tapestry of colors and fragrances, drawing in crowds eager to witness the beauty of tulips and other blooms. The combination of historical significance, breathtaking scenery, and the joy of capturing the moment makes Keukenhof not just a garden, but a celebration of nature and creativity.
As visitors stroll through the park, they are reminded of the rich history of tulips in the Netherlands and their cultural significance. The tulip craze, which began in the 17th century, led to economic booms and busts, forever changing the landscape of Dutch horticulture. Today, the legacy of this passion for tulips continues to thrive, with Keukenhof standing as a testament to the enduring love affair between the Dutch and their beloved blooms.
In conclusion, the allure of tulips in the Netherlands remains as strong as ever, with Keukenhof serving as a vibrant hub for both locals and tourists. Whether it’s the picturesque settings, the variety of flowers, or the chance to create lasting memories, there’s no denying that a visit to this magnificent garden is an experience that many cherish.
