De Keukenhof – Holland’s Flower Garden

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For a short time per year, De Keukenhof Tulip Gardens are open to the public. From mid-March to mid-May the gardens are in bloom, so Keukenhof can only be enjoyed if you are in The Netherlands during Spring. If you happen to be in Amsterdam or The Netherlands during this period – I highly recommend getting to Keukenhof and be wowed by colour!

As my boyfriend is Dutch, his enthusiasm for Keukenhof was fairly low as he thinks Keukenhof is only for tourists. However, after I told him I would catch public transport there (which is super easy!) he sucked it up and decided to take me on a date to see the beautiful gardens – and I have to admit, even the skeptic enjoy himself!

Things to see at De Keukenhof

De Keukenhof is not just a garden with some flowers. The whole park has hundreds and thousands of flowers in bloom and many varieties of tulips you’ve just never seen before!

Within the sprawling park there are flower shows/exhibits, art made from flowers, and perfectly manicured gardens any Instagrammer would salivate over!

There is also a petting zoo, a maze and a playground for the kids, as well as a large windmill which can be climbed and explored – though my favourite thing to do at Keukenhof is the lake where you can literally walk on water… see below.

And it’s not just about enjoying the beauty of the tulips at Keukenhof, but you can learn about the history – when tulips were once as important in trade as gold, to how to cultivate your own tulips in the garden.

Keukenhof also offers a canal boat trip around the park! (8 Euros, on top of admission)

Each year there is a new and different Theme for the art installations at Keukenhof. When we visited 2 years ago the theme was Dutch painter Van Gogh. With interactive Van Gogh art around Keukenhof, the best art piece was definitely the Tulip field of the famous Van Gogh ‘selfie’. Now, if that doesn’t spark your interest, I don’t know what could!

 This year (2017) the theme is “Dutch Design” so think Mondrian made from tulips! Who’s getting garden design ideas right now!?

Keukenhof is an awesome day out! If you are in The Netherlands during spring, add an extra day to your travel plans to make sure you can check out the stunning flower gardens near Amsterdam!

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About Lesley

Australian expat, married to a Dutch guy, living in Amsterdam. Previously lived in London for 3 years, too! Lover of travel, coffee, brunch, beaches, fresh flowers, and family. Now a new mum, navigating life with a baby!