Amsterdam: Keukenhof Guided Tour and Flower Parade April 18

A visit to the Netherlands in spring isn’t complete without experiencing the bursting color of Keukenhof Gardens and the lively spectacle of the Flower Parade. This guided tour, priced at $93 per person, offers a well-rounded day of visual delights and authentic Dutch traditions, all conveniently departing from central Amsterdam. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore the sprawling gardens and witness the parade float procession, with optional canal views to top off the day.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to stroll through over seven million blooming flowers—a truly breathtaking sight—and to learn about the gardens’ history from a local guide, adding depth to the visual feast. The parade, with its floats decorated in tulips and daffodils, is both charming and lively, showcasing Dutch floral artistry at its best. Another highlight is the chance to add a Canal Cruise for a small extra fee, which gives you a scenic view of Amsterdam’s iconic waterways—perfect for rounding out your springtime adventure.

A potential consideration is that this tour involves a fair amount of walking, and it’s not ideal if you have mobility issues. Also, since the Keukenhof Gardens is cash-free, you’ll need to plan ahead for any additional purchases. This tour suits travelers who appreciate flowers, culture, and a lively parade, and who enjoy a comfortable, guided experience that hits all the highlights in one day.

Key Points

• Beautiful Gardens: Witness the scale and color of over seven million flowers at Keukenhof, one of the world’s most famous tulip parks.
• Expert Guidance: Local guides provide engaging stories about the gardens and Dutch floral traditions, enriching the visit.
• Cultural Highlight: The Flower Parade offers a lively, colorful procession of floats decorated with spring blooms—an iconic Dutch event.
• Optional Canal Cruise: Add scenic views of Amsterdam’s historic canals for just $18, perfect for a relaxing end to the day.
• Convenient Transport: Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned coach, with a meeting point just steps from Amsterdam Central Station.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour makes it easy to plan and adapt your travel schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail: What You Can Expect

Starting Out: Easy & Convenient Departure

From the moment we arrive at the meeting point, just a minute’s walk from Amsterdam Central Station, the day feels straightforward. The location at Stationsplein 4 makes it easy to find, and the check-in process closes 15 minutes before departure—so arriving on time is key. The bus itself is comfortable and air-conditioned, making the drive through the Dutch countryside pleasant, especially as the scenery begins to bloom.

Journey Through the Countryside

The drive toward South Holland offers a scenic preview of the landscape that produces some of the world’s most beautiful flowers. As you settle into your seat, you might find yourself gazing out at fields of tulips and daffodils—if the weather cooperates, of course. The relaxed atmosphere sets the tone for a day of visual wonder and discovery.

Exploring Keukenhof Gardens

Once at Keukenhof, your guide—likely a local with a passion for flowers—takes you on a guided walk through one of the most famous flower gardens on earth. The size of the gardens means you’ll want to focus on specific sections, but even a quick stroll reveals a spectacular array of colorful flower carpets and beautifully landscaped areas.

Many reviews mention the expert commentary from guides as a highlight. They’re full of interesting tidbits about the history of the gardens, the significance of different flower varieties, and the horticultural techniques used. This contextual information helps transform a pretty walk into a meaningful experience.

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Floral Spectacle & Photography

Photographers and flower enthusiasts alike will find plenty to love here. The gardens are arranged with precision, creating perfect backdrops for photos. Be sure to bring your camera—many visitors find that the vibrant tulips and hyacinths look even better in person than in photos. Since the flowers are natural products, their abundance can depend on weather conditions, which means that even in spring, unpredictable weather might affect the bloom count.

Witnessing the Flower Parade

Later in the day, you’ll gather to watch the Flower Parade (Bloemencorso). This is a lively procession of floats and vehicles, each lavishly decorated in bright blooms—tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, and more. The parade is accompanied by music, dancers, and marching bands, making it a lively celebration of Dutch floral culture.

Many reviewers find this parade to be the highlight, describing it as a joyful, colorful spectacle. One quoted a visitor who appreciated the “fantastically decorated floats” and the atmosphere of celebration. Since the parade passes right by the gardens, it’s easy to get a good viewing spot and enjoy the spectacle up close.

Optional Canal Cruise

For an extra $18, you can upgrade your experience with a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam. This adds a peaceful, scenic dimension to your day, letting you glide past the historic canal houses, the Westerkerk, and the Anne Frank House. It’s a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective and a favorite among travelers who want to unwind after the floral festivities.

Practical Details & Tips

• The tour involves a fair amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are essential.
• Be prepared with an umbrella or raincoat, as spring weather can be unpredictable.
• Since cash is not accepted at Keukenhof, plan to pay with card or mobile payment.
• The tour is operated in multiple languages, accommodating diverse groups up to 88 travelers.
• Children from 0-3 years can join for free, sitting on their guardians’ laps—perfect for families.
• Remember, flower displays depend on weather; the schedule or bloom count can vary.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour appeals most to travelers who love flowers, vibrant displays, and Dutch culture. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a full-day experience that combines natural beauty with local traditions. If you enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable guides who share stories and insights, this will suit you well. It’s especially suitable for those who want a hassle-free trip, with transportation and tickets included, freeing you from logistics worries.

However, if you’re less mobile or prefer independent exploring, the walking involved might be a challenge. Also, those seeking a private or more flexible schedule might find the group setup limiting.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

For anyone heading to Amsterdam in April and eager to see the iconic tulips and participate in Dutch floral festivities, this tour offers tremendous value. You get to visit Keukenhof, one of the world’s premier flower parks, and witness the colorful Flower Parade—a genuinely Dutch spring tradition. The addition of a canal cruise makes it an even more memorable day, especially if you want a scenic tour of Amsterdam’s historic waterways.

The guided aspect means you’ll learn about the flowers and the gardens’ history, making the experience richer than just sightseeing. It’s a well-organized, engaging option for travelers who want to enjoy Holland’s springtime beauty in comfort and style.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I arrive for the tour?
Check-in closes 15 minutes before the scheduled start, so plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth departure.

Where is the meeting point?
The meeting point is just a one-minute walk from Amsterdam Central Station, at Stationsplein 4.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll receive a multi-lingual guide, entry to Keukenhof Gardens, a guided tour, and all taxes and fees. If you choose the upgrade, you’ll also get a Canal Cruise voucher.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or enjoy the food options available at Keukenhof.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children from 0-3 years can join free of charge, sitting on a guardian’s lap. Larger children may enjoy the parade and gardens but should be prepared for some walking.

How much walking is involved?
The tour involves a decent amount of walking around the gardens and parade viewing areas, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

What if the weather is bad?
Spring weather can be unpredictable. Bring an umbrella or raincoat. The parade and gardens are outdoor attractions, so a rainy day might limit your experience.

How does the flower display depend on the weather?
Since flowers are natural products, bloom levels and display quality depend on weather conditions, which can vary from year to year.

Does the tour operate in multiple languages?
Yes, the guide provides commentary in several languages, making it accessible to a diverse group.

This guide should help you decide whether this Keukenhof and Flower Parade tour fits your travel style. It’s a wonderful way to experience the best of Dutch springtime—vivid flowers, lively traditions, and scenic sightseeing—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

You can check availability for your dates here: