What is Keukenhof?
Keukenhof is the world’s largest flower park. Every spring since 1949, top horticulturists in the Netherlands have planted around 7 million bulbs here in displays that change annually.
The variety of flowers and colors are overwhelming. Tulips are the most famous of Dutch bulbs and careful planting of early, regular, and late flowering bulbs ensure that tulips are usually seen for most of the two-month season. Crocuses, narcissus (daffodils), and hyacinths are more prevalent early in the season when Japanese cherry blossoms can also be seen.
The gardens are laid out in a wide variety of styles – from the modern to more classical and historical styles. It is a joy to stroll around and discover new interpretations and ideas after each twist and turn of the smooth paved paths of this 32-ha (80-acre) park.
- Keukenhof literally means kitchen court garden as it used to supply a nearby palace with fresh produce.
The main attraction of Keukenhof is obviously the flowers but children playgrounds, a full-scale windmill, public art and performances, as well as special displays add further entertainment. Restaurants are mostly self-service and picnicking is permitted. Dogs on leashes are allowed but no boom boxes – despite the huge number of visitors a visit to Keukenhof is supposed to be a relaxing experience.
- Several Bloemencorsos (flower parade festivals) are held in the Netherlands. One of the largest is the Bollenstreek parade at the end of April from Noordwijk through the bulb region and past Keukenhof to Harlem.
Keukenhof Opening Hours
Keukenhof’s flower gardens are only open for two months in spring – end March (around the 20th) to end May. During this period, Keukenhof is open daily from 8 am to 7:30 pm.
In 2011, Keukenhof will be open from March 24 to May 20. Germany will be the guest country with the theme "Germany: Land of Poets and Philosophers". Advance purchase tickets are available from January 2011.
The best time to visit Keukenhof depends on the weather but mid-April is usually the most reliable for tulips. Weekends are best avoided.
Transportation: How to Get to Keukenhof
- By Car to Keukenhof
The easiest way to Keukenhof is by car – it is near Lisse between Harlem and Leiden. From highway A4 use exit 4 and from highway A44 use exit 3. The route is well signposted once close to Lisse. Ample, reasonably priced parking is available.
- Public Transportation to Keukenhof
Several public transportation options are available with the new OV-Chipkaart making traveling easier than ever before:
- From Schiphol Airport: Bus 58 goes directly to Keukenhof during the season
- From Leiden: Bus 54 (Keukenhof Express) goes directly to Keukenhof
- From Harlem: Bus 50 and 51 pass Keukenhof
- From Lisse: Bus 57 runs to Keukenhof
- From Amsterdam: use a train to any of the above towns or inquire about direct day tours by bus.
Combination bus and admission tickets are generally available – the savings are minimal but do cut out queuing time. Bearers of the Holland Pass may also go straight to the entry gates.
- By Bicycle to Keukenhof
The Netherlands are famous for its cycling lanes and Keukenhof can easily be reached on bicycle. Free bicycle parking is available, as bicycles are not allowed inside the flower gardens.
- Keukenhof’s flower gardens are in the Netherlands’ largest tulip-growing region. The surrounding flower and bulb fields can easily be explored on bicycle. Bicycle rentals (and suggested routes) are available from Keukenhof’s main entrance (Hoofdingang).
Keukenhof is an easy half-day trip away from the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam or a full daytrip if combined with a visit to Leiden, birthplace of old Dutch master Rembrandt van Rijn. Another pleasant half-day trip from Amsterdam is to Zaanse Schans to see working historical windmills.
Henk Bekker - Henk Bekker is a freelance travel writer currently living on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland.
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