When Do Tulips Bloom?

Tulip season in the Netherlands usually runs from mid-March to early May, but bloom timing depends entirely on weather conditions. A mild winter can bring earlier blooms, while colder weeks may delay peak colour.

In general:

• Late March → narcissus, crocus, hyacinths, early tulips

• Early April → increasing tulip layers

• Mid–late April → strongest tulip bloom

• Early May → later varieties, softer colour palette

Because each year is slightly different, choosing your dates carefully makes a big difference.

What Does Early Season Look Like?

In March, tulips are still emerging. You’ll see mostly narcissus and hyacinths, with occasional early tulip varieties.

The gardens feel fresh and quiet. For visitors who prefer fewer crowds and softer spring colours, this can be a beautiful time to explore.

This is also a popular period for river cruise visitors, as many cruises dock in Amsterdam during early spring.

When Is Peak Bloom?

For the highest chance of seeing tulips in full bloom, I usually recommend early to mid-April.

Mid-April often offers the most dramatic colour combinations in both gardens and surrounding fields.

However, agricultural tulip fields can be cut without notice, as they are commercial crops. This is why understanding the difference between fields and curated gardens is important when planning your visit.

Tulip Fields vs. Keukenhof Gardens

Keukenhof is not an agricultural field. It is a carefully designed garden where planting schedules ensure colour throughout the season.

Tulip fields, on the other hand, depend on farming cycles and may change week to week.

If your goal is photography, this distinction matters. Choosing the right setting, and the right timing, creates a very different visual result.

How Much Time Do You Need?

Keukenhof deserves at least three hours if exploring independently.

For visitors who prefer a more structured experience, my sessions typically last between 90 minutes and three hours, depending on how much of the gardens you wish to see.

This allows time not only for photography, but also for understanding the history of the region and how the tulip industry shapes this landscape.

Tulip season is short, dynamic, and slightly unpredictable, which is part of its charm.

If you are traveling specifically for the tulips and would like help selecting the best dates, gardens, and timing for your visit, you are always welcome to reach out.

Spring is brief. Planning thoughtfully makes all the difference.

If you would like to see what a curated Tulip Experience looks like, you can explore the options here: Tulip Experience Photography.

See you soon in Amsterdam, or surrounded by tulips,

Joanna

Your Photographer in Amsterdam