A Flower Lover’s Guide to Visiting Holland 🌷🇳🇱

Holland is a dream destination for flower enthusiasts, known for its iconic tulip fields, charming gardens, and world-famous flower markets. This florist guide will help you plan the ultimate floral getaway.

1. Visit the Iconic Tulip Fields 🌷

Best Time to Visit: Mid-April to early May

• Where to Go:

  • Keukenhof Gardens: Known as the "Garden of Europe," Keukenhof boasts over 7 million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths in bloom.

  • Lisse and the Bollenstreek Region: The heart of Holland’s flower-growing region, this area features miles of vibrant tulip fields. Rent a bike for a scenic ride!

• Highlights:

  • Photo opportunities in endless colorful fields.

  • Tulip variety displays, showcasing both classic and rare species.

Tips:

• Book Keukenhof tickets online to skip long lines.

• Sunrise and sunset are perfect times for fewer crowds and soft lighting.

2. Experience Bloemenmarkt (Floating Flower Market) 🌺

• Location: Amsterdam

• What to Expect:

  • The only floating flower market in the world, located along the Singel canal.

  • Stalls selling fresh-cut flowers, tulip bulbs, and souvenirs.

• When to Visit: Open year-round, but spring offers the best variety of blooms.

Tips:

• Check the export guidelines if you plan to bring tulip bulbs home.

• Combine your visit with a walk through Amsterdam’s historic canals.

3. Attend the Bloemencorso (Flower Parade) 🌼

• When: Annually in mid-April

• Where: The parade travels from Noordwijk to Haarlem, covering 42 km.

• What to See:

  • Elaborate floats made entirely of flowers, including tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.

  • Music and entertainment accompanying the parade.

Tips:

• Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.

• Consider following the parade route to experience different towns and settings.

4. Explore the Aalsmeer Flower Auction 💐

• Location: Aalsmeer (20 minutes from Amsterdam)

• What to Expect:

  • The world’s largest flower auction, where millions of flowers are traded daily.

  • A visitor walkway overlooking the bustling auction floor.

• When to Visit: Early morning (the action begins at 7:00 AM).

Tips:

• Guided tours are available for an insider’s look at the flower industry.

• Pair your visit with a trip to the nearby Amsterdamse Bos park.

5. Visit Hortus Botanicus 🌸

• Location: Amsterdam

• What to See:

  • One of the world’s oldest botanical gardens, established in 1638.

  • Rare plant collections, tropical greenhouses, and seasonal flower displays.

• Why It’s Special: A peaceful escape in the city with historic charm.

Tips:

• Check the calendar for special events like evening tours or plant markets.

• Enjoy a cup of coffee at the garden café surrounded by greenery.

6. Explore the Countryside by Bike 🚴‍♀️

• Where to Ride:

  • Bulb Region Cycling Routes: Explore fields of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.

  • Zaanse Schans: Combine flower fields with historic windmills.

• Why It’s Special: Holland’s flat terrain and well-maintained bike paths make cycling easy and enjoyable.

Tips:

• Rent a bike locally; many routes are well-marked.

• Bring a camera to capture the picturesque countryside.

7. Learn at the Tulip Museum 🌷

• Location: Amsterdam

• What You’ll Discover:

  • The history of tulip cultivation and the “Tulip Mania” of the 17th century.

  • Exhibits on tulip varieties and their cultural significance.

• Why It’s Special: A quirky, educational stop for flower lovers.

Tips:

• The museum is small; combine it with a visit to nearby Anne Frank House or Jordaan district.

• Buy authentic tulip bulbs at the museum shop.

8. Enjoy Flower Festivals and Events 🎉

• Spring Events:

  • Tulip Festival (April): Tulips are planted in public spaces across Amsterdam, creating a city-wide bloom.

  • National Tulip Day (January): Marks the start of the tulip season with a free picking garden in Amsterdam’s Dam Square.

Tips:

• Check local event calendars for updates on flower-themed activities.

9. Take a Flower-Themed Canal Cruise 🚤

• Where: Amsterdam or Haarlem

• What to Expect:

  • Unique views of tulip fields and blooming gardens from the water.

  • Themed cruises often include floral decor and commentary about Dutch flowers.

Tips:

• Book tickets in advance during peak spring season.

• Bring a jacket, as it can get chilly on the water.

10. Stay in Blooming Accommodations 🏡

• Options:

  • Countryside B&Bs: Many offer views of tulip fields right from your window.

  • Hotels in Lisse: Proximity to Keukenhof makes them a great choice.

Tips:

• Book accommodations early during spring as they fill up fast.

• Look for special flower-themed packages or tours offered by hotels.

Packing Tips for Flower Enthusiasts:

• Camera Gear: Bring a DSLR or smartphone with macro capabilities for close-ups.

• Comfortable Shoes: You’ll do a lot of walking, especially in gardens and fields.

• Weather Gear: Holland’s weather can be unpredictable—carry a light raincoat.

• Reusable Bag: Perfect for carrying bulbs or flower-related souvenirs.

Closing Blooms 🌼

Holland’s flower culture is truly enchanting, offering everything from sprawling tulip fields to historic botanical gardens. Whether you’re cycling through the countryside or strolling Keukenhof’s manicured paths, you’ll find endless inspiration in this floral paradise.