So you’ve heard the news that everyone’s been talking about. The Keukenhof is finally reopening for 2022. One of the world’s most beautiful gardens has was closed the past 2 years due to the world crisis, but it’s returned! Be warned that this year may not be all sunshine and roses. I mean sunshine and tulips. One of The Netherland’s most popular tourist spots has been closed for 2 years! Can you imagine what chaos awaits? Not to worry! I’m here to provide you with some tips on how to make your trip to the Keukenhof’s 2022 reopening, a smooth one.
Book in advance
You can bet your bottom dollar that the Keukenhof will be busy. Like super busy. In 2019, the park had to close ticket booths early almost everyday because the park had reached its attendance limit. Can you imagine!? A garden with too many people! I’m not kidding when I heard stories about people turned away. So many tourists from far away countries who came only to see the flowers… And couldn’t see them! Do yourself a favor. Book in advance so you save yourself from the headache of standing in line, and some drama if you’re unable to get in. You can find all this information and more on the Keukenhof’s website. This also includes information on travel to and from the park so you don’t get lost.
Come prepared
Like every tourist trap in every country… The prices to eat and drink inside the Keukenhof will be sky high and lacking in quality. The lines will be long and there will be tons of people in attendance. It might be hard to get the perfect shot. The weather is warming up too so bring plenty of sunblock, sun protection and even some snacks. And if you have children bring something for them to play with! While the Keukenhof is a garden, it’s hardly a place for kids to run around and play. There are plenty of open grass fields but they can’t run through the flowers! Which leads me to my next tip.
Be patient
A trip to the Keukenhof can be a wonderful once in a lifetime experience. The endless rows of flowers, the rich Dutch history, the clean air and freshly cut grass… But you’re going to be there with a thousand other people who may or may not be as mindful as you. It’s going to be loud and a bit chaotic. Remember to be patient with others and wait your turn. I’m serious when I say that some exhibits have lines for them. It’s been a few years since I last went to the Keukenhof, but I have a few posts if you’re curious about what past exhibits were.
Mind your neighbors (and the flowers!)
The largest rows of tulips are both inside and outside of the Keukenhof. Do remember that everything outside of the garden is private property. People live and own those fields! I’ve always seen photos of tourists stopping their rentable cars on the side of the road to take photos. This can pose a huge problem if those are 1 way streets. Don’t cause a lot of traffic by forgetting to be respectful.
Don’t forget to have fun
Something that people often forget, is to have fun. Sure you’re here to see the blooms and snap those pictures for your social media feed… But take time to breathe. Don’t forget you’re here to enjoy nature. If you don’t want to brave the crowds, there’s always the Keukenhof Castle. A hidden gem of Lisse, this beautiful wandelen park is the perfect place to be if you want a quiet time and a slice of Dutch nature. There are plenty of flowers, an extensive path to walk, an animal petting zoo, and even an historical castle from the Dutch Golden Age.
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