Visiting timetableClosed (Tulip Festival Closing Season)
Sunday, January 25, 2026
Amsterdam & Bollenstreek, North Holland, Netherlands
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Tulip Fields Guide – Routes, Etiquette, Best Times

Respect tulip farms while getting the best photos: mapped routes through Lisse/Hillegom, dawn/dusk timing, transport from Amsterdam, and key etiquette.

4/5/2025
19 min read
Rows of colorful tulips stretching across Dutch fields

The fields are working farms, not theme parks — and that’s part of their magic. With a little care, you’ll have stunning photos without harming the flowers.

Aerial of tulip fields

Where to go

  • Lisse loop: windmills + waterways + classic color bands.
  • Hillegom spur: quieter roads with sweeping views.
  • Noordwijkerhout edges: sea breezes and long horizons.

When to go

  • Dawn: soft light and minimal traffic.
  • Weekdays: farm operations continue, but fewer visitors than weekends.
  • After rain: paths can be muddy; choose firmer tracks.

Etiquette and safety

  • Stay on paths — stepping between rows damages bulbs.
  • Respect private property and signs.
  • Park only in designated areas; don’t block farm access.
  • Keep drones grounded unless you have explicit permission.

Remember: one footprint can spoil a whole row. Angle your shot instead.

Transport options

  • Keukenhof buses to the region + rentals nearby.
  • Trains to Haarlem/Leiden + local buses to Lisse/Hillegom.
  • Guided tours with clear, safe viewpoints.

Bottom line

Go early, stick to paths, and angle compositions from the edges. The fields reward patience and respect.

About the Author

Amsterdam Tulip Insider

Amsterdam Tulip Insider

I put this guide together to make your tulip‑season day simple, insightful, and full of local tips — from gardens to canals to countryside.

Tags

Tulip Fields
Lisse
Hillegom
Etiquette
Photography

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