Every tulip season brings excitement, but this year also brought a bit of uncertainty. Due to ongoing construction works around Schiphol Airport, information about Keukenhof transport options arrived later than usual. For almost two months, we were waiting for confirmation about the Combi tickets.

Now that everything is clear, this guide explains what the Combi ticket is, why it is still the most convenient option for most visitors, what has changed this year, and what alternatives exist if you prefer to move at your own pace.

What Is the Keukenhof Combi Ticket?

The Keukenhof Combi ticket includes two things:

• Entrance to Keukenhof Gardens
• Round-trip transport by bus from a selected departure point

It is the most convenient way to visit Keukenhof because the bus drops you directly at the entrance of the gardens and picks you up from the same place. There is no walking, no transfers, and no need to navigate unfamiliar roads.

This is especially helpful if:

• You are visiting for the first time
• You are traveling with children
• You prefer a simple and direct experience
• You want to avoid coordinating multiple transport steps

What Changed This Year: Schiphol vs Hoofddorp

In previous seasons, many buses departed directly from Schiphol Airport. This year, due to construction and logistics, Hoofddorp is being used as a main departure point instead.

At first, this may sound confusing, especially if you are visiting from abroad. In reality, it is very simple.

Hoofddorp is one train stop after Schiphol Airport. The same train that goes from Amsterdam Centraal to Schiphol continues on to Hoofddorp. That means: If you can reach Schiphol by train, you can reach Hoofddorp just as easily.

• There is no complicated transfer
• It is one extra stop on the same line

A Practical Tip for Travelers with Luggage

If you are arriving in Amsterdam with luggage, you can:

• Go to Schiphol Airport first
• Store your luggage there
• Take the next train that continues to Hoofddorp
• From Hoofddorp, take the Keukenhof bus

Trains between Amsterdam Centraal, Schiphol Airport, and Hoofddorp run frequently throughout the day, so waiting times are usually short.

There is also luggage storage at Keukenhof Gardens, but buses tend to be busy, so it's best not to take luggage with you.

Why Hoofddorp Can Be Better Than RAI

Many visitors choose the RAI departure point because it is familiar and located in Amsterdam. However, reaching RAI often means crossing the city, which can take more time, especially during busy hours.

Hoofddorp and Haarlem are quieter departure points. This often results in:

• Shorter bus lines
• Less crowding
• A calmer start to your visit

For this season, buses departing from RAI are expected to be very busy, especially during peak days. If you are flexible, Hoofddorp or Haarlem can be a better option, from my point of view.

Going Without the Combi Ticket

If you prefer full flexibility and want to explore the tulip region at your own pace, public transport and cycling are excellent alternatives.

Visiting the Tulip Region via Hillegom

Hillegom is one of the most practical train stations for visiting tulip gardens outside Keukenhof.

From Hillegom station: You can rent bikes directly using an app, or scanning the QR Code once there. The process is fully automated, and several tulip gardens are just a few minutes away by bike. I met the couple in the next picture at Hillegom station. I helped them book their bikes, and we cycled together towards The Tulip Barn, where we had their photo session.

The first garden, The Tulip Barn, is about 8 minutes cycling from the station. From there, you can continue toward other gardens or cycle to Keukenhof. At the end of the day, you simply return the bike at Hillegom station and take the train back.

This option is ideal if you:

• Enjoy cycling
• Want to avoid fixed schedules
• Plan to visit multiple gardens

For this photo, we also met at Hillegom station, and we walked together towards The Tulip Barn.

What About Taxis?

Taxis are available in the region, but there is an important detail that many visitors don’t expect. The GPS signal around Keukenhof Gardens is very weak. Because of this, ordering a taxi on the spot can be difficult, as drivers often need to leave the area to get a signal. As a consequence, waiting times can be long.

If you plan to use a taxi:

• Book your return taxi in advance
• Call a local company (Taxi Bollenstreek or Sneelentaxi) that manages to connect you with the taxi drivers on site.
• Or combine a taxi one way with public transport on the way back
• You definitely don't need a car that waits for you, and return buses are usually not busy. As an anecdote, I must tell you, once I was the only one waiting for a return bus, and a person from the Qbuzz team decided to give me a ride back to Schiphol.

Public buses from Keukenhof operate like regular public transport. You can simply tap in and tap out with your debit or credit card, without needing a special ticket.

The Simplest Advice

1. If convenience is your priority, the Combi ticket is still the easiest option.
2. If flexibility and exploration matter more to you, public transport and cycling through the tulip region offer a beautiful and relaxed experience.

Both options work well. The best choice depends on how you like to travel.

If you are unsure which option fits your plans, feel free to ask. Choosing the right transport can make a big difference in how enjoyable your tulip day feels.

And if you are coming this Spring, it would be lovely to meet you,

Joanna

Your Photographer in Amsterdam