Tulip Wonderland: 15 Essential Things To Do at Keukenhof (2025)

Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse, Netherlands is the world’s largest flower garden, showcasing over 7 million tulips and flowers over 32 hectares (79 acres).

Open annually from mid-March to mid-May, Keukenhof offers visitors a stunning display of Dutch floral heritage with meticulously designed gardens and vibrant flower shows. Book Keukenhof entrance + shuttle from Amsterdam here

Our guide below highlights the essential sights and activities at Keukenhof to help you plan your visit.

1. Enjoy the Flowers

No visit to Keukenhof is complete without admiring the wonderful flowers around the park which capture the essence of springtime in Holland.

When the flowers are fully in-bloom (at their best mid to late season) you will have unparalleled photographic opportunities – from sweeping colourful panoramas to up-close macro shots.

2. Learn about Keukenhof’s History

In 2025 the Juliana Pavilion is hosting the Keukenhof: 75 Years exhibition which offers a visual overview of the park’s history. This includes poster presentations and various Keukenhof memorabilia.

For more on the park history and stats see our article: Keukenhof by Numbers 2025 & Historic Statistics

3. Climb the Keukenhof Windmill

On the right-hand (northern edge) of the park is found Keukenhof’s picturesque windmill (Keukenhofmolen).

The former pumping mill dates from 1892 and was built in the Dutch city of Groningen. In 1957 it was purchased by Holland America Line and donated to Keukenhof.

It is possible to enter the mill and climb up to the rear part of the viewing platform. The front part is not accessible due to the sails.

4. Get lost in the Keukenhof Maze

Also on the right-hand of the park (near the Oranje-Naasau pavilion) is a small maze where you can try to reach the small viewing platform. You get some views of the adjacent flower fields.

5. Jive at Irene to Dutch Organ Music

At the Irene Pavilion there is a traditional Dutch street organ placed playing a variety of numbers. With the music, a water fountain and an outdoor cafe it is a fun and lively spot to visit.

6. Visit the Willem-Alexander Pavilion

The Willem-Alexander is the largest pavilion at Keukenhof located in the heart of the park.

Named after the current Dutch king, it is essentially a large greenhouse with brickwork walls. Inside you can find lots of tulip varieties on show – which have been kept warm during the cold Dutch winter.

It also has a water feature, an art shop, restaurants and LOVE mural selfie spot. We gave the robot coffee barista a miss.

7. Take a ride on the Whisper Boat

Near the windmill you can take the whisper boat ride. This is a 45 minute trip around the adjacent bulb fields and there is an audio guide available in 4 languages (Dutch, English, German and French).

The Whisper boat ride is only available to those who have an entrance ticket to the park. It costs an extra €10.00 for adults, €5.00 for children 4-11.

8. See floral displays at the Oranje-Nassau Pavilion

The large Oranje-Naasau Pavilion and gardens were opened in 1999 for the 50th jubilee year. Named after the Dutch royal house, the pavilion has an large array of stylish floral displays including roses, chrysanthemums and daffodils.

These are changed on a weekly basis and there are a number of flower-themed selfie-spots.

Also have a walk around the landscaped gardens.

9. View the flower fields at the Vantage Point

Not far from the Oranje-Naasau Pavilion is an elevated vantage point which gives nice views over the adjacent flower fields through the surrounding pine trees. You can also get some closer views of the fields from the edge of the park (near the windmill area).

10. Attempt to Walk on Water

At the Keukenhof lake near the island you will find some stepping stones where you can literally walk on water. The stones are a large and stable – we’ve yet to see anyone fall in and get drenched!

11. Visit the Beatrix Pavilion

The Beatrix Pavilion (named after former Queen Beatrix) is located at the furthest corner of the park. It is renowned for its displays of orchids and anthuriums. It also has an upper viewing gallery and some selfie installations.

12. Check-out the old Keukenhof entrance

Near the Wilhelmina Pavilion (which is not used for displays but has cafe/toilet facilities) you will find the historic old Keukenhof entrance. With the large yellow clogs outside it is a popular selfie spot.

13. Pop into the historic walled garden

The historic walled garden is located quite near the main entrance. It includes a bust of botanist Carolus Clusius who brought the first tulips to the Netherlands in 1594. The garden shows tulip varieties from the 17th century.

You will also find ‘inspirational gardens’ at Keukenhof which showcase the latest gardening trends. They can offer inspiration and ideas for your own home and garden.

14. Art and Sculptures

Keukenhof is home to over 100 artworks and sculptures which are dotted around the park. Keukenhof has a permanent art collection supplemented by temporary pieces.

15. Children’s activities

Finally if you have children in tow there are a number of activities to keep them occupied.

Near the Oranje-Nassau pavilion there is a small petting farm, a decent Miffy-themed playground and the Keukenhof maze. For older kids you can ask at the info desk for a treasure hunt activity sheet.

Beyond its stunning tulips, Keukenhof offers a diverse range of sights and experiences.

This Dutch garden is a destination that continues to delight visitors of all ages. If you are in the Netherlands during the springtime, it is certainly a must-visit.

Keukenhof Gardens – Essential Info

First published 25 March 2025.

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