Known as the ‘Garden of Europe’, Keukenhof is a must-visit, but planning your trip requires a bit of foresight since the gardens are only open for a few weeks each year. Whether you are looking for the fastest way to reach Keukenhof from Amsterdam or the most scenic cycling route through the bulb fields, this guide covers every detail.
Address: Stationsweg 166A, 2161 AM Lisse, Netherlands | Find on Maps
Located in the heart of the world-famous ‘Dune and Bulb Region’ (Duin- en Bollenstreek), Keukenhof sits just outside the charming town of Lisse. While it feels worlds away from the urban bustle, it is strategically positioned in South Holland, making it an easy day trip from major Dutch hubs.
Nearest town: Lisse
Distance from Amsterdam: 35 km
Booking a tour is the gold standard for travellers who want to skip the logistics and jump straight into the blooms.
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When considering how to get to Keukenhof, public transport is often the most sustainable choice.
The most efficient way to navigate the flower season is via the dedicated Keukenhof Express network. These specialised bus lines offer direct connections from major transport hubs, bypassing the need for complex transfers. The Keukenhof Express is a seasonal shuttle service. You can use Keukenhof Express bus 858 from Schiphol Airport, Keukenhof Express 852 from Amsterdam Europaplein (RAI), or Keukenhof Express 854 from Leiden Centraal.
To secure your spot, it is highly recommended to purchase Keukenhof Express tickets in advance, which may include garden entry.
The Keukenhof Express schedule is frequent, with buses departing every 10–15 minutes during peak hours.
While there is no train station directly at the Keukenhof location, you can take a train to Schiphol Airport or Leiden Centraal and transfer to the Keukenhof Express 858 or 854. Alternatively, take a local train to Sassenheim and hop on bus line 50.
If you prefer the flexibility of your own schedule, driving offers the most autonomy. However, be mindful of heavy traffic during peak blooming weekends in April.
From Amsterdam, take the A4 (exit Nieuw-Vennep) or A44 (exit 3 Lisse). Simply input the Keukenhof address (Stationsweg 166A, Lisse) into your GPS. Follow the prominent yellow ‘Keukenhof’ signs as you approach Lisse to find the most efficient directions to Keukenhof.
This is arguably the best way to experience the ‘Tulip Route’. If you are staying in Lisse or Haarlem, cycling is highly recommended. The path takes you directly through the commercial bulb fields, allowing you to stop for photos (behind the fences, please!) before reaching the Keukenhof location. The route is flat, well-paved, and incredibly scenic.
The Keukenhof Express bus is the most economical. A bus + entrance ticket saves significantly compared to individual bookings.
Driving your own vehicle or taking a taxi/Uber is the fastest way to get to the gates, provided you leave before 9am to beat the morning rush.
A guided tour from Amsterdam Centraal is perfect. Direct transfers take the guesswork out of the journey, and expert guides provide historical context while you enjoy the views.
Renting a bike in Lisse and cycling the ‘Flower Bulb’ route before entering the park offers the most immersive experience.
The Keukenhof location is at Stationsweg 166A in Lisse. It is situated in the South Holland province, right in the heart of the Netherlands' famous bulb-growing region, roughly halfway between Amsterdam and The Hague.
Keukenhof is technically located in the town of Lisse. While often associated with Amsterdam due to its proximity, it is actually about 35 kilometres southwest of the capital city.
You can reach the gardens via the Keukenhof Express bus (lines 852, 858, or 854), by driving via the A4/A44 motorways, or by joining a guided coach tour from Amsterdam.
Driving or taking a private taxi is usually the fastest, taking about 35-40 minutes from Amsterdam. However, during peak weekends, the Keukenhof Express can be faster as it uses dedicated lanes in certain areas.
Yes, public transport is excellent. The Keukenhof Express bus 858 from Schiphol and the Keukenhof Express 852 from Amsterdam RAI are the most popular and frequent options for visitors.
You can certainly drive, and the directions to Keukenhof are well-marked. Just ensure you pre-book a parking pass online, as the lots fill up quickly during the peak tulip blooming period.
To beat the largest crowds, aim to leave Amsterdam by 7:30am. The gardens open at 8am, and arriving early allows you to enjoy the flowers before the tour buses arrive at mid-morning.
Absolutely. The area surrounding the Keukenhof location is filled with private flower farms. You can rent a bike at the Keukenhof entrance to explore the wider Bollenstreek region and its vibrant fields.
Yes, there is a large parking lot located at the entrance of Keukenhof. Parking your car here will cost you €9 a day online and €14 if you book on-site.
Yes, most of the Keukenhof tickets include timed and flexible timed transfers from Amsterdam.
