Picture this: you’re cycling along a canal with a coffee in hand and suddenly everything around you is full of color. Red. Yellow. Pink. Purple. Welcome to tulip time in Amsterdam, when spring officially takes over the city.
Every year, the Tulip Festival Amsterdam transforms Amsterdam and its surroundings into a floral playground. In 2026, it’s set to be just as photogenic, relaxed, and easy to explore as ever. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer spring trip, this festival deserves a spot on your travel list.
Ready for spring vibes?
Keep reading for our Tulip Festival highlights
🌸 🌸 🌸
What’s the Tulip Festival in Amsterdam?
The Amsterdam Tulip Festival is a spring celebration that marks the start of tulip season across the city and nearby regions. Thousands of tulips appear in public spaces like squares, parks, streets, and unexpected corners of Amsterdam. At the same time, nearby flower areas welcome visitors to famous Amsterdam tulip gardens and colorful fields that feel straight out of a postcard.
In short, it’s not one single event or location, it’s a citywide and countryside celebration of the flower that made the Netherlands famous!
When’s tulip season in Amsterdam?
🌷 Tulip season in Amsterdam usually runs from mid March to early May, depending on the weather.
Here’s how it typically looks:
- Mid March: early tulips start blooming around the city
- Late March to April: peak tulip time and the best moment to visit
- Early May: late varieties close the season
If you want the full Amsterdam flower festival experience with both city displays and endless flower fields, aim for early to mid April.
MEININGER tip: April is popular and busy. Booking accommodation and tickets early makes your trip much easier. 😉
How long do tulip festival usually last?
Most tulip festivals last around six to eight weeks, covering the entire blooming period. That means you don’t need to plan around one specific day. Whether you visit for a long weekend or a full week, you’ll still catch plenty of color during tulip time in Amsterdam, especially in April.
Which Dutch town is famous for tulips?
Amsterdam celebrates tulips beautifully, but Lisse is the town most famous for them. 🌷
Lisse is in the heart of the Dutch bulb region and is home to the country’s most well-known flower gardens. This is where you’ll find perfectly lined fields and impressive displays that fill your camera roll in minutes.
Other tulip hotspots include:
- The Bollenstreek bulb region
- Haarlem and its surrounding countryside
- Flevoland, a great option if you prefer fewer crowds
All of these places are easy day trips from Amsterdam.
What happens during the Tulip Festival?
A lot! And that’s what makes it special. During the Tulip Festival Amsterdam, you can enjoy:
🌷 City tulip displays
Tulips decorate public spaces all over Amsterdam, turning everyday streets into colorful highlights.
🚲 Walking and cycling routes
Special routes guide you through tulip hotspots in the city and surrounding countryside.
🌸 Amsterdam tulip gardens
Large flower gardens open to visitors and show millions of tulips in every color you can imagine.
🎟️ Tulip Festival Amsterdam tickets
Many city displays are free to see. Larger gardens and exhibitions require tickets, especially during peak season. Booking ahead is always a smart move!
📸 Photo moments everywhere
Spring in Amsterdam is incredibly photogenic. Bring your camera and wear comfortable shoes.
Planning tips for tulip season in Amsterdam
Before you pack your spring outfits, keep these tips in mind:
- Check bloom updates a few days before your trip
- Visit popular gardens early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Combine city sightseeing with a countryside day trip
- Dress in layers since spring weather can change quickly
In a nutshell… 🌸
The Tulip Festival Amsterdam 2026 is one of the best reasons to visit the city in spring. From colorful streets and famous Amsterdam tulip gardens to easy countryside escapes, it’s a joyful and very Dutch experience.
If you’re dreaming of fresh air, spring colors, and a city in full bloom, this is your moment. 🌷
Top related articles:
Dutch Carnival 2026
Amsterdam Festival of Lights
Amsterdam Dance Festival (ADE)
Best bars in Amsterdam
Amsterdam on a budget
Where to stay during the Tulip Festival 🌷🛏️
Spring is one of Amsterdam’s busiest travel seasons, so staying well located makes a big difference. A central base lets you enjoy tulips during the day and cozy canal dinners in the evening.
Both MEININGER hotels in Amsterdam are a great choice during tulip season:
📍 Central locations with easy transport connections
🛏️ Private and shared rooms for every travel style
🍳 Guest kitchens, common areas, and relaxed vibes
Enjoy the city on a budget with more room for bike rentals, museums, and flower-filled day trips.
MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam City West: Orlyplein 1 – 67, 1043 DR Amsterdam, Netherlands
MEININGER Hotel Amsterdam Amstel: Julianaplein 6, 1097 DN Amsterdam, Netherlands
CHECK AVAILABILITY
Tulip Festival Amsterdam 2026: FAQs
When is the Tulip Festival in Amsterdam in 2026?
The Tulip Festival in Amsterdam usually runs from mid March to early May, depending on the weather. In 2026, peak bloom is expected from late March through April, when city displays and nearby flower fields are at their most colorful.
Is the Tulip Festival a single event or location?
No, it is not one single event. The Tulip Festival Amsterdam is a citywide and regional celebration. Tulips appear across streets, parks, and squares in Amsterdam, while nearby flower regions open gardens and fields to visitors.
What is the best time to visit Amsterdam for tulips?
Early to mid April is the ideal time. That is when tulips bloom both in the city and in the surrounding countryside. Expect the most color and also the highest number of visitors.
Are there free tulip displays in Amsterdam?
Yes! Many tulip displays in Amsterdam are completely free and located in public spaces. Larger tulip gardens and flower parks usually require tickets, especially during peak season.
Which town near Amsterdam is most famous for tulips?
Lisse is the most famous tulip town near Amsterdam. It sits in the heart of the Dutch bulb region and is known for its perfectly lined flower fields and large tulip gardens. It is an easy day trip from the city.
How long do tulip festivals usually last?
Tulip season typically lasts six to eight weeks, covering the full bloom period. You do not need to plan around one specific weekend. Visiting anytime in April still means plenty of color.
Do I need tickets for the Tulip Festival Amsterdam?
City displays do not require tickets. Large tulip gardens and exhibitions do require tickets and often sell out. Booking in advance is a smart move, especially in April.
Can I visit tulip fields as a day trip from Amsterdam?
Absolutely. Popular tulip regions such as Lisse, the Bollenstreek, Haarlem’s countryside, and Flevoland are easy to reach by train, bus, or bike. Many visitors combine city sightseeing with a countryside tulip trip.
What should I wear during tulip season in Amsterdam?
Spring weather can change quickly, so dressing in layers is best. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking or cycling, and a light jacket is useful in the mornings and evenings.
Where should I stay in Amsterdam during the Tulip Festival?
Staying central makes tulip season much easier. MEININGER hotels in Amsterdam are a great base with easy transport connections, private and shared rooms, and relaxed common areas. You can save on accommodation and spend more on bikes, museums, and flower-filled day trips.
