As soon as spring rolls in, tulips start popping up everywhere. Bright, bold, and blooming in every color you can imagine, they stretch out across the landscape as far as the eye can see. For a few magical weeks, the entire country turns into a breathtaking celebration of flowers – and it’s something you won’t want to miss. While famous spots like Keukenhof and the Bollenstreek might be the first to come to mind, there are plenty of other beautiful places where you can stroll, cycle, or drive through vibrant tulip fields. From the peaceful countryside of Zeeland to the wide-open spaces of Flevoland, and even as far north as Groningen – tulips bloom in every corner of the Netherlands.
In this blog, we’re taking you on a tour of the most stunning tulip fields across our country. We’ll show you exactly where to find them, when to go for the best views, and what fun experiences you can enjoy along the way. Whether you’re looking to pick your own tulips, snap the perfect photo, or simply soak in the explosion of color – this is where your tulip adventure begins.
Download the best tulip routes here
When are the Tulip Fields in Bloom?
Tulips and spring are a perfect match. As the days grow longer and the sun begins to peek through more often, the Dutch landscape bursts into a dazzling sea of color. But this breathtaking display doesn’t last long. Tulip fields bloom for just a few short weeks each year, which makes seeing them in full bloom feel even more magical.
All across the Netherlands – from the famous Bollenstreek to the wide-open spaces of Flevoland, and from the quiet corners of Zeeland to the far north in Groningen – tulips are the ultimate symbol of spring. Exactly when they bloom can vary, depending on the region and the weather. In the western parts of the country, where the climate is a little milder, the first tulips often appear by the end of March. In the eastern and northern regions, like Drenthe and Groningen, the blooming season usually starts a bit later. On average, the fields are at their most vibrant between mid-April and mid-May.
What many people don’t know is that the preparation for this colorful show begins months before the first blooms appear. Tulip bulbs are planted in October and need a cold winter to grow properly. Without those crisp nights and cool soil temperatures, the tulips wouldn’t be able to push through the ground once spring arrives.
In March, you’ll often start to see the first signs of life as green shoots push up through the soil. The tulip leaves begin to unfold, but the flowers themselves take a little more time. Meanwhile, other spring bulbs are already putting on a show, turning the Bollenstreek in South Holland into a blooming paradise even before tulip season officially kicks off. It’s usually not until the end of March—depending on how sunny and warm it’s been—that the first tulips begin to bloom. The real spectacle typically peaks in the second half of April.
Tulip season comes to a close when the flowers are “topped.” This means the blooms are carefully cut from the stems so that all the plant’s energy can go into the bulb underground. As stunning as the flowers may be, for growers, it’s the bulbs that matter most. These bulbs are later harvested and sold, making it possible to grow new tulips again—both across the Netherlands and far beyond its borders.
Where Exactly Can You Find the Tulip Fields?
You’ll spot them in postcards, travel guides, and all over social media: endless rows of tulips stretching alongside straight polder roads, often with a windmill or rustic farmhouse in the distance. But tracking down those exact fields in real life? That’s not always so simple—and there’s a good reason for that. Flower bulb growers frequently rotate their crops to keep the soil healthy and productive. If tulips were grown in the same field year after year, the soil would become exhausted, and the risk of plant diseases would increase. By moving to different plots—a method called crop rotation—the land gets time to recover, and the bulbs grow stronger and healthier.
This means tulip fields sometimes bloom in well-known spots, and other times they appear in completely different places. Even within the same region, the fields can shift from one year to the next. So, you can’t count on fixed locations, like a certain pasture near Hillegom or a scenic field beside a windmill in the Noordoostpolder. You might get lucky, but there are no guarantees.
That said, your chances are still pretty good if you head to areas with a high concentration of tulip farms. In spring, places like the Bollenstreek, the northern tip of North Holland, or Goeree-Overflakkee are almost overflowing with tulip fields. There’s so much flower-growing land here that you’re almost guaranteed to stumble upon blooming fields—even without a detailed map.
How to Visit the Tulip Fields
The best way to experience the stunning tulip fields? By car. This allows you to cover a vast area in a short amount of time, stopping whenever a breathtaking view catches your eye. In places like the Bollenstreek, Flevoland, and the northern tip of North Holland, you can easily drive from one vibrant field to another, taking in all the beauty. There are even specially marked driving routes that take you past the most picturesque stretches. It’s an ideal way to make the most of your day and see as much as possible. If you’re in the mood for more outdoor adventure, a bike ride or a walk can also be a great choice—but just keep in mind, you’ll probably see fewer fields that way.
Download the best Dutch tulip routes here
However, a word of caution: tulip fields are private property. They’re intended for growing bulbs, not for posing for selfies or picking flowers. So, even if the field looks like the perfect photo op, don’t wander in uninvited. Many growers put up signs to clearly state what is and isn’t allowed. In some cases, you may be permitted to enter a field for a photo—if that’s the case, it will be clearly marked. Just make sure to follow the guidelines and respect the rules.
If you’re itching to pick your own tulips, head to a “pick-your-own” garden. Here, you’re welcome to gather as many as you’d like for a small price. These gardens are common in nearly every tulip-growing region, and they often have coffee, cake, and even a play area—making them the perfect spot for a family outing.
The Most Beautiful Tulip Fields in the Netherlands
#1 Keukenhof
Keukenhof in Lisse is world-renowned, and with good reason. As you wander through its sprawling gardens, you’re enveloped in a rainbow of colors, with flowerbeds that appear almost too perfect and pavilions showcasing each flower variety in neat, orderly displays. Each spring, more than seven million bulbs are planted all at once. It sounds impressive—and it certainly lives up to the hype. However, if your dream is to explore endless fields of tulips, this may not be your destination of choice.
Keukenhof is primarily a park. Every inch is carefully curated, designed, and planned with precision. While the beauty is undeniable, there’s an unmistakable commercial vibe. The place tends to get especially crowded in April, which can detract from the experience. Instead of roaming vast, open tulip fields, you’ll find yourself strolling through well-maintained flowerbeds.
The history of Keukenhof adds another layer of intrigue. In the 15th century, it was used to grow vegetables and herbs for the kitchen of Slot Teylingen, which is where the name “Keukenhof” (“Court Kitchen”) comes from. Later, it became an estate, and in 1950, Keukenhof opened as a show garden for the flower bulb industry. Since then, it has blossomed into one of the world’s most visited tourist attractions. It’s easily accessible by car or bus from Schiphol, Haarlem, or Leiden. For anyone passionate about floral design, it’s undeniably stunning. But if you’re craving the authentic Dutch countryside experience—where you can stand surrounded by vast fields of blooming tulips—then you’ll need to venture just a few kilometers farther.
#2 The Bollenstreek (South Holland)
If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing tulips exactly the way they’re meant to be—endless fields of color stretching to the horizon, the gentle breeze in your hair, and the fragrance of fresh flowers all around—then the Bollenstreek is where you need to go. This charming region, nestled between Leiden and Haarlem, is home to picturesque villages like Lisse, Hillegom, and Noordwijkerhout, and it’s the very heart of the Dutch tulip industry. Every spring, the area bursts into a vibrant tapestry of blooms. It’s not a neatly curated garden, but rather a natural masterpiece spread across vast farmlands.
The Bollenstreek has a rich history with flower bulbs that stretches back to the 16th century. It was then that growers realized the combination of sandy soil and sea air here was ideal for tulips. Today, flowers continue to be the region’s lifeblood—nurseries, export companies, and flower stalls lining the roads are all focused on these beautiful blooms. The best part? You can easily bike or drive through it all. There are several designated tulip routes in the Bollenstreek winding through the fields, whether you’re cycling or driving, allowing you to immerse yourself in the heart of the flower landscape.
Along your journey, you’ll come across all kinds of delightful surprises. Stop at a roadside flower stall, where you can pick a fresh bunch of tulips from a bucket. Visit a “pick-your-own” garden like The Tulip Barn in Hillegom, where you can harvest your own flowers and capture some stunning photos. Or explore a museum like De Zwarte Tulp in Lisse, where you can learn all about the fascinating history of the flower bulb industry. It’s a perfect mix of beauty, history, and hands-on fun—ideal for anyone wanting to experience the Dutch tulip culture up close.
#3 North Holland & West Friesland
If you’re in search of the ultimate tulip experience, make your way to the Kop van Noord-Holland and West-Friesland. This region boasts the largest uninterrupted flower bulb area in the Netherlands. From mid-April to early May, the landscape between Alkmaar and Den Helder comes alive with a stunning array of colors. Along charming villages like Breezand, Anna Paulowna, Callantsoog, and Julianadorp, the tulips seem to stretch endlessly to the horizon. There are no fences, no crowds—just vast, open fields where you can bike or drive along breathtaking tulip routes at your leisure.
What sets this region apart is how authentic and untouched it feels. Flower bulb cultivation has been passed down through generations of local families, and it’s embedded in the very land. As you travel through, you’ll pass nurseries where quality, craftsmanship, and tradition are at the heart of everything. The mix of agricultural landscapes, fresh sea air, and an endless tapestry of vibrant colors makes this area a must-see for anyone who loves nature. And that’s not even mentioning the many activities and attractions waiting for you.
One of the highlights is Tulpenpluktuin De Floratuin in Anna Paulowna, where you can pick your own tulips and enjoy an educational tour about the various types of flowers. For those traveling with kids, or anyone looking for a more interactive experience, Avonturenpark Land van Fluwel is a fantastic option. Here, you can stroll through a bulb forest, learn all about the history of the tulip, and take a ride on the Bloemenboemel, a whimsical ride that winds its way through the vibrant fields.
For a truly unique experience, make sure to stop at Hortus Bulborum in Limmen. This historic garden showcases over four thousand varieties of heirloom tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths—some of which date all the way back to the 16th century. It’s the only place in the world where you can admire such a rare and carefully preserved collection. And if you’re traveling by camper van, you’re in luck—Camperplaats De Tulpentuin offers an unforgettable overnight stay right among the blooming flower fields.
The Kop van Noord-Holland might not be as well-known or visited as the Bollenstreek, but that’s exactly what gives it its charm. It’s not about big crowds or flashy displays—it’s about the tulip itself. And here, you get to see it in its most honest and natural form, just as it’s meant to be.
#4 Flevoland
Flevoland may be the youngest province in the Netherlands, but when it comes to tulips, it punches well above its weight. In fact, it’s one of the largest bulb-growing regions in the country—and it shows. From the Noordoostpolder to Dronten, and from Zeewolde to Biddinghuizen, bright tulip fields appear across the landscape each spring. With its wide-open spaces and endless horizons, the tulip rows seem to go on forever—an ideal setting for anyone who enjoys peace, quiet, and room to breathe.
Unlike in other regions, tulips don’t have centuries of history in Flevoland—this land was still beneath the sea until the mid-20th century. But that’s exactly what makes it special. The fresh, fertile sea clay turned out to be perfect for growing bulbs, and over the years, Flevoland has grown into a major player in the world of floriculture. You’ll notice this most during the annual Tulip Festival in the Noordoostpolder, where you can do more than just drive or cycle past the blooming fields. You can stop at picking gardens, discover creative artworks set among the flowers, and even take a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s-eye view of the colors below.
What really sets Flevoland apart is how well-organized and visitor-friendly the tulip season is. Every year, the Tulip Route Flevoland is mapped out with care—a series of scenic driving, cycling, and walking routes that guide you past the most beautiful flower fields. The routes change location and length each year, so there’s always something new to explore. Everything is clearly marked, and with an app or website, it’s easy to follow along. The best time to catch it all in full bloom is usually from mid-April to early May.
One of the most delightful places to create your own bouquet is Hanneke’s Pluktuin in Biddinghuizen, where hundreds of tulip varieties are yours to pick straight from the field. It’s a hands-on, joyful experience surrounded by color and fragrance. If you’re after something a little more unique, make your way to Tulpeiland near Zeewolde. This man-made island, cleverly shaped like a tulip, transforms into a sea of blossoms every spring. You can wander along its walking paths, take in the vibrant displays, and climb the viewing tower for a breathtaking look at the island’s tulip-shaped design from above—it’s a sight you won’t forget.
Flevoland has a distinctly different vibe compared to the more famous tulip regions. There are no crowds, no busloads of tourists—just wide open spaces and the freedom to explore at your own pace. And that peaceful, unhurried atmosphere is exactly what makes it such a special find.
#5 Goeree-Overflakkee
Goeree-Overflakkee might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of tulips, but it definitely deserves a spot on your list. This island in South Holland, just below Rotterdam, produces a remarkable ten percent of all tulip bulbs grown in the Netherlands. And you’ll see the results with your own eyes come springtime. From mid-April to early May, the entire island bursts into bloom, turning into a vibrant patchwork of color. Around charming villages like Middelharnis, Oude-Tonge, Nieuwe-Tonge, and Dirksland, tulip fields stretch out in every direction. And the best part? You can simply drive right by them—no entrance fees, no fences—just endless flowers wherever you look.
What makes this area so special is how undiscovered it still feels. There are no crowds, no tour buses—just peace, space, and a relaxed, local vibe. You’re free to follow your own scenic driving route past the most stunning fields, stopping whenever the view catches your eye. It feels like your own little treasure hunt, with every turn offering a fresh burst of color.
Traditionally, this has always been farming land, with deep roots in agriculture. Tulip growing didn’t start here until the 20th century, when farmers discovered that the sandy soil and salty sea air made the perfect conditions for bulb cultivation. Today, Goeree-Overflakkee plays a key role in the tulip industry, but it has stayed small-scale and down-to-earth—just the way we like it. It’s a place where you can enjoy the beauty of spring in peace, at your own pace, and feel right at home while doing it.
One of the best parts is simply driving through the heart of the area, surrounded by breathtaking views that are perfect for snapping a few photos. Just remember—these tulip fields are privately owned, so it’s important to stick to the roads and admire the flowers without picking them, unless signs clearly say otherwise. You’ll find plenty of signs along the way letting you know what’s allowed, so be sure to follow them and respect the hard work of the local farmers.
Goeree-Overflakkee is a perfect spot for a day trip (from Rotterdam or Amsterdam): easy to reach, refreshingly quiet, and overflowing with colorful blooms. You’ll find yourself right in the middle of tulip country, with the peaceful charm of the countryside all around you and the sea always just a short drive away.
#6 Drenthe
Drenthe and tulips? It’s not a pairing you often hear, which is exactly what makes it such a delightful surprise. In spring, the heart of Drenthe—nestled between villages like Smilde, Hooghalen, and Zwiggelte—comes alive with vibrant tulip fields. And we’re not talking about a few isolated patches, but vast expanses of color stretching across the landscape. What makes it even more special? It’s wonderfully peaceful here. No bustling crowds, just you, your bike or car, and the flowers.
Drenthe’s tulip routes are thoughtfully designed and easy to follow. There’s a scenic 45-kilometer driving route that guides you through the region’s most picturesque spots. Prefer to explore on foot or by bike? You’ll find shorter routes ranging from 5 to 14 kilometers, all clearly marked and ideal for a relaxed outing. These routes wind through the fields, meander down country lanes, and pass through charming little villages where the pace naturally slows. It’s the perfect way to spend a leisurely spring day, surrounded by beauty at every turn.
But what truly makes Drenthe stand out is “Tulpenpracht bij Nacht”. This magical evening route lights up certain tulip fields once the sun has set. As you stroll along rows of tulips glowing softly in the dark, you’ll witness a breathtaking sight that feels almost otherworldly. You can take this enchanting walk at your own pace, following the signs and a handy map. Just bundle up in a warm jacket and immerse yourself in the beauty of the night.
Would you like to pick your own tulips? If so, make sure to visit the delightful tulip picking gardens in Drenthe. For a small fee, you can create your own beautiful bouquet while leisurely strolling through the fields. It’s a perfect activity for families, or simply if you’re looking to take home a piece of nature’s beauty.
Here’s a fun fact: tulips in Drenthe bloom a little later than in the western parts of the country, making it an ideal destination if you’ve just missed the peak bloom elsewhere.
Drenthe may not be a typical tulip region, and that’s exactly what makes it so unique. It’s laid-back, authentic, and you’ll experience the tulip season in a more intimate and personal way. Picture cycling along fields with no fences in sight, or walking through flower-filled paths bathed in the golden light of the setting sun—this is tulip season, but with a charming, refreshing twist.
#7 Zeeuws-Vlaanderen
When most people picture tulip fields, Zeeuws-Vlaanderen probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind. But that’s exactly what makes it such a hidden gem. Nestled in the southern part of Zeeland, this area quietly escapes the spotlight, yet in the spring, it bursts into color just as vividly as the more famous tulip-growing regions. Around charming villages like Clinge, Graauw, Koewacht, and Lamswaarde, you’ll find sprawling fields of tulips in full bloom during April, scattered across the serene Zeeland countryside.
Tulip cultivation here didn’t really take off until the 20th century, but today, the tulip fields have become an iconic part of the landscape. The unique combination of clay soil and the salty sea air provides the perfect conditions for these flowers to thrive. The best part? You can simply take a leisurely drive, stop wherever you like, and soak in the beauty without the crowds of tourists or noisy tour buses.
One of the best ways to explore this area is by car, following a scenic route through the tulip fields. Start in Hulst, then wind your way through Clinge and Graauw, heading toward the Belgian border. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking color combinations, often just off the roadside. For those on two wheels, the Hulsterloo route offers a delightful 40-kilometer cycle through fields of flowers, historic fortified towns, and quiet country lanes.
The beauty of these tulip fields is that they’re always a little different each year. The exact locations shift, so you can never predict precisely where the most vibrant displays will be. That’s part of the magic—just set off with a map in hand, and let the adventure unfold. If you’re lucky, you might round a corner and suddenly find yourself face-to-face with a brilliant patch of deep red tulips in full bloom. While Zeeuws-Vlaanderen may not be a well-known bulb-growing region, the fields here are nothing short of exceptional. And the peaceful, quiet atmosphere makes it all the more special.
#8 Groningen
Groningen and tulips – it’s not a pairing that immediately comes to mind, yet every spring, this unexpected combination brings a delightful surprise. In the northern part of the province, especially in Het Hogeland and Eemsdelta, tulip fields burst into vibrant bloom. Stretching between villages like Uithuizermeeden, Spijk, Kloosterburen, and Zijldijk, these fields transform the Groningen landscape into a breathtaking canvas. And the best part? You’ll often have the entire scene all to yourself.
Tulip farming in this area is a relatively recent phenomenon, but it’s growing rapidly year by year. The rich, fertile clay soil and the region’s calm climate offer the ideal environment for these flowers to flourish. Plus, the tulip fields in Groningen bloom a little later than those in the rest of the country—making it the perfect destination if you’ve missed the peak bloom elsewhere.
For those looking for a bit more adventure, the annual “Naar de Bollen” walking tour is an absolute must. On this one special Saturday, hundreds of walkers set off from Uithuizermeeden, taking routes ranging from ten to thirty kilometers and passing by the most stunning tulip fields in the region. Cyclists can explore scenic routes between Roodeschool and Godlinze, where they’ll encounter numerous fields, often with the church steeples of quaint villages serving as a picturesque backdrop.
For those in search of a tulip experience away from the crowds, the north offers a refreshingly off-the-beaten-path adventure. While Groningen may not be a traditional tulip hotspot, its raw authenticity makes it all the more captivating.
