Keukenhof travel guide

Keukenhof, also known as the Garden of Europe, is renowned worldwide for its stunning tulip displays. The park's history dates back to the 15th century when Countess Jacoba van Beieren gathered fruit and vegetables from the Keukenhof (kitchen garden) for her kitchen at Teylingen Castle.

The current park was established in 1949 by a group of 20 flower bulb growers and exporters to exhibit Dutch floral industry's blossoms. The park opened its doors to the public in 1950 and was an instant success, with over 200,000 visitors in the first year itself.

Throughout the years, Keukenhof has evolved and expanded, but its purpose remains the same: to showcase the Netherlands' spring-flowering bulbs while providing a scenic retreat for both locals and tourists. Each year, the park is redesigned with a different theme, ensuring a unique experience with every visit.

Keukenhof, also known as the 'Garden of Europe', boasts a stunning display of seven million bulbs planted annually, making it a must-visit sight for flower lovers. This floral spectacle is unique due to its extensive collection of tulips, with over 800 varieties. Different types of tulips bloom at different times between late March and mid-May, offering visitors a constantly changing landscape of colors and scents.

The park's layout is also distinctive as it adopts a different theme each year, creating a unique experience for repeat visitors. In addition to tulips, Keukenhof features other spring bulbs like hyacinths, daffodils, and lilies. The park is also home to several pavilions dedicated to specific types of flowers, including the Oranje Nassau Pavilion for orchids and the Willem-Alexander Pavilion for lilies.

Lastly, Keukenhof is unique due to its beautiful landscaping which includes tranquil ponds, idyllic brooks, and charming greenhouses. It also hosts numerous flower shows, inspirational gardens, artworks, and events that add to the visitor's experience.

Located in the dynamic Lisse, the popular Keukenhof is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful town of Lisse or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through the Netherlands.

Lisse is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Lisse offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Lisse and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Kasteel Keukenhof, LAM museum, and Keukenhof Forest.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Lisse has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Lisse, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in the Netherlands!

Keukenhof is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Lisse, the Netherlands. If you're flying in, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is approximately 9.6 miles (15.4 km) away from Lisse. From there, you can easily reach Keukenhof by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Lisse, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Keukenhof, which is located 1.1 miles (1.7 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Keukenhof, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Stationsweg 166A, 2161 AM Lisse, Netherlands.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Keukenhof!

The best time to explore Keukenhof, also known as the Garden of Europe, is during spring, specifically between late March and mid-May. This is when the park is in full bloom, boasting a vibrant display of over seven million flowers. The middle of April is often considered the peak time for blooms, with the weather generally mild and pleasant. This period also coincides with the Keukenhof Flower Parade, a grand spectacle of flower-decked floats, which is usually held in late April. However, this is also the busiest time at Keukenhof, so for those who prefer a quieter atmosphere, it may be more enjoyable to visit either in the early opening days in March or towards the close in May. Regardless of when you choose to visit, early morning or late afternoon hours are recommended to avoid peak crowd levels. Keep in mind that Keukenhof is only open for eight weeks each year, so planning your trip in advance is essential to make the most of your visit.

Conveniently explore Keukenhof and plenty more captivating attractions in Lisse by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the town. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Keukenhof and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Lisse has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Keukenhof below.

Aside from Keukenhof, Lisse is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the town offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Lisse, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Kasteel Keukenhof, LAM museum, and Keukenhof Forest.

Kasteel Keukenhof is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Lisse, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the town. The exact address of Kasteel Keukenhof is Keukenhof 1, 2161 A Lisse, Netherlands.

Another appreciated attraction in Lisse is LAM museum. Like Kasteel Keukenhof, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the town. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 1,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Keukenhof 14, 2161 A Lisse, Netherlands.

Keukenhof Forest is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Lisse. This park and top attraction in Lisse has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 290 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Spekkelaan 18, 2161 GH Lisse, Netherlands.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the town of Lisse below.