• City Guide

Embracing Spring in Amsterdam

February 15, 2024

As winter loosens its grip and the first signs of spring arise, Amsterdam prepares for one of its most enchanting seasons: tulip season. Known for its vibrant colours and breathtaking displays, the Dutch tulip transform the city into a mixture of colours, captivating locals and guests. In this blog, we will explore the beauty and significance of tulip season in Amsterdam, offering insights into its history, where to experience it, and why it’s a must-see for any traveller.

A Brief History of the Tulip
The Netherlands has a rich history with tulips, dating back to the 17th century when tulip bulbs were introduced to the country from the Ottoman Empire. What began as a novelty soon evolved into a national obsession, resulting in the infamous Tulip Mania, a speculative frenzy that gripped the country in the 1630s. During this time, tulip bulbs became so valuable that they were traded as currency, with prices skyrocketing to exorbitant levels.
While the Tulip Mania may have passed, the Dutch love affair with tulips has endured, strengthening the flower’s status as a symbol of beauty, wealth, and national pride.

Experiencing Tulip Season in Amsterdam
Tulip season typically begins in late March and lasts through mid-May, with peak bloom occurring in April. During this time, Amsterdam comes alive with a riot of colours as tulip fields burst into full bloom, transforming the surrounding landscape into a breath-taking tapestry of reds, yellows, pinks, and purples.
One of the best places to experience tulip season in Amsterdam is the Keukenhof Gardens, often referred to as the “Garden of Europe.” Located just less than an hour drive from the hotel, Keukenhof boasts over 7 million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths, making it one of the largest flower gardens in the world. Visitors can wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, and stroll along winding pathways flanked by vibrant tulip beds—a truly unforgettable experience for nature lovers and photographers.

Beyond Keukenhof
While the Keukenhof is undoubtedly the crown jewel of tulip season in Amsterdam, there are plenty of other ways to immerse yourself in the beauty of tulips throughout the city. Take a leisurely bike ride along the Flower Route which winds through the picturesque Dutch countryside, passing by fields ablaze with tulips in every colour imaginable. Or, visit the Bloemenmarkt, Amsterdam’s famous floating flower market, where you can purchase tulip bulbs and other floral souvenirs to bring a piece of Amsterdam’s tulip season home with you.

A Weekend Escape
Escape for a luxurious weekend to Amsterdam and be welcomed with a bottle of Champagne upon arrival with our Weekend Escape offer. Indulge in the city’s most contemporary rooms and suites at the Conservatorium hotel, located in the cultural heart of the city. Visit the blooming tulip fields and add a colourful touch to your luxurious getaway.

Tulip season in Amsterdam is a magical time when nature awakens from its winter slumber, and the city bursts into bloom of colour and fragrance. Whether you’re walking through the Keukenhof Gardens, cycling along the Flower Route, or simply admiring the tulips in the city’s parks and gardens, experiencing tulip season in Amsterdam is an experience you will not soon forget. So, why not plan a visit and witness the beauty of tulip season for yourself?

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