A Sea of Color: Tulip Season in the Netherlands 2026

Every spring, the Netherlands turns into one of the most colorful places on earth. Fields stretch endlessly in shades of red, yellow, pink, and purple, cities decorate their streets with flowers, and entire regions revolve around bloom schedules. The tulip season is short, carefully timed, and incredibly rewarding when done right. In 2026, the Netherlands tulip season once again offers a limited but unforgettable window where nature and tradition meet at their peak.

Netherlands tulip season 2026

The official tulip season in the Netherlands runs from March 19 to May 10, 2026, perfectly aligned with the opening and closing dates of the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens. These eight weeks define the country’s spring rhythm, with flowers blooming in phases depending on weather and soil conditions.

While tulips get most of the attention, the season actually begins with other spring flowers and slowly builds toward the iconic striped tulip fields people travel across the world to see.

Understanding bloom timing during tulip season

Late March

Late March marks the beginning of visible spring across the Netherlands.

• Crocuses appear first, often in parks and along roadsides.
• Daffodils and hyacinths start blooming in fields and gardens.
• Keukenhof opens with early spring displays rather than full tulip dominance.

This period is quieter, less crowded, and perfect for travelers who enjoy early spring colors and calmer sightseeing.

Mid April to early May

This is the heart of tulip season and the most popular time to visit.

• Tulip fields reach peak bloom.
• The second week of April through the end of April is considered the sweet spot.
• Signature striped and multicolored fields are at their most dramatic.

Photography, cycling routes, and countryside visits are at their absolute best during this phase.

Late April and early May

By late April, commercial tulip fields begin a process called heading.

• Flowers are cut to strengthen the bulbs for future seasons.
• Many large fields start disappearing by early May.
• Keukenhof remains colorful due to curated planting.

To see wide open commercial fields, visiting before the final days of April is strongly recommended.

Major tulip events and festivals in 2026

Tulip season in the Netherlands is not just about fields in bloom. Each year, the country hosts a series of carefully timed events and festivals that celebrate spring, flowers, and Dutch tradition. In 2026, these moments shape the rhythm of the season and bring tulips into cities, parades, and iconic gardens.

Keukenhof Gardens

Keukenhof runs from March 19 to May 10, 2026, open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

• Located near Lisse.
• Features millions of flowers planted in rotating designs.
• Best visited with pre booked timed entry tickets.

The Easter weekend from April 3 to April 6 is especially busy, making advance booking essential.

Tulp Festival Amsterdam

Running from April 1 to April 30, 2026, this festival brings tulips directly into the city.

• Over 880,000 tulips displayed.
• Spread across more than 60 locations.
• Includes museum gardens, public squares, and canals.

It is a great option for visitors staying in Amsterdam who want tulip views without leaving the city.

Bloemencorso Bollenstreek

Taking place on April 18, 2026, this iconic flower parade travels 42 kilometers.

• Route runs from Noordwijk to Haarlem.
• Massive floats covered entirely in flowers.
• Free viewing along the route or paid grandstand seating in towns like Lisse.

This is one of the most photographed events of the season.

Best places to see tulip fields in the Netherlands

Tulip fields are spread across several regions in the Netherlands, each offering a slightly different experience. Some areas are famous for dense, postcard-perfect views, while others provide quieter landscapes and longer routes through the countryside. Choosing where to go often depends on timing, crowds, and how you want to experience the season.

Bollenstreek bulb region

The Bollenstreek area near Lisse and Hillegom is the most famous tulip region.

• Dense concentration of tulip fields.
• Close to Keukenhof.
• Easy access from Amsterdam.

This region delivers the classic postcard views people associate with tulip season.

Flevoland and the Noordoostpolder

Flevoland offers a different scale and experience.

• Hosts its own Tulpenfestival from April 18 to May 4, 2026
• Features long driving and cycling routes.
• Fields feel more expansive and less crowded.

This area is ideal for travelers who want space and variety.

Kop van Noord Holland

This northern region offers a quieter tulip experience.

• World’s largest continuous flower bulb area.
• Fewer tour buses and crowds.
• Strong local atmosphere.

It is perfect for slow travel and countryside exploration.

Getting around during tulip season

Tulip season often means moving between cities, villages, gardens, and fields in a short time. Trains, buses, rental bikes, and cars are all commonly used. Many travelers rely on constant navigation updates, route changes, and ticket confirmations as they move through regions. Digital connectivity becomes especially useful when plans change based on weather or bloom timing.

Midway through the season, many visitors choose an eSIM for the Netherlands to stay connected while traveling between fields, festivals, and cities without depending on public Wi-Fi.

Photography tips and timing

• Early mornings offer softer light and fewer people.
• Overcast days create even colors across fields.
• Respect farm boundaries and stick to marked paths.

Many fields are working farms, so responsible viewing is essential.

Voye Global because tulip chasing should not come with signal stress

Tulip season days often begin early and stretch well into the evening, with plans shifting based on weather, bloom timing, and location. Staying connected helps keep everything smooth, from navigating cycling routes through flower fields to checking festival schedules and transport updates.

At Voye Global, we provide eSIM solutions designed for travelers moving across regions without interruptions. Whether hopping between Keukenhof, the Bollenstreek, and Amsterdam or exploring quieter tulip areas further north, connectivity stays simple and reliable throughout the journey.

We provide digital access that works the moment you arrive, making it easier to upload photos, adjust routes, and stay on schedule without depending on public Wi-Fi. When every day revolves around catching blooms at the right time, seamless connectivity quietly supports the experience without getting in the way.

One last thing before the flowers fade

Tulip season in the Netherlands is brief, carefully timed, and deeply rewarding when planned around the right dates and locations. From the first blooms in March to the final colors in early May, 2026 offers eight vibrant weeks that define Dutch spring. The fields will change, the festivals will pass, and the flowers will fade, but catching the Netherlands at its most colorful moment is an experience that stays long after the season ends.