Tulip Route Unveiled
The Tulip Route in the Netherlands is a marked scenic drive through blooming tulip fields. It is only available during spring, typically from mid-April to early May. The most famous routes are in Flevoland (Noordoostpolder), Bollenstreek (between Haarlem and Leiden), and Kop van Noord-Holland. The Flevoland Tulpenroute covers about 100 km by car or bike. Bollenstreek’s route is shorter, around 40 km, but passes iconic fields and windmills. Entry to the routes is free; parking at some fields costs €2-€5. Organized tours start from €30 per person. The fields are privately owned; walking into them is not allowed unless marked. Locals and tourists visit for photography, cycling, and flower markets. Peak bloom depends on weather but usually lasts two to three weeks. Signage is in Dutch: look for “Tulpenroute” or “Bollenstreek.” The routes are accessible by car, bike, or public transport. Expect heavy traffic on weekends. Early morning visits offer fewer crowds and better light for photos.
Mapping the Best Routes
Noordoostpolder Tulpenroute
- Located in Flevoland province. Officially mapped routes available each spring.
- Main route: 100 km loop, marked by pink signs. Free to drive.
- Highlights: Expansive fields, modern windmills, Emmeloord village.
- Best photo spots: Creil, Espel, Marknesse.
- Expect quiet rural roads and large commercial tulip farms.
Bollenstreek (Bulb Region) Route
- Runs between Haarlem and Leiden. Route length: 40 km.
- Marked with "Bollenstreek" signs.
- Highlights: Traditional Dutch villages, Keukenhof Gardens (entrance €19.50), historic bulb sheds.
- Best photo spots: Lisse, Hillegom, Noordwijkerhout.
- Expect narrow country lanes, canal views, and classic windmills.
Flevoland Tulip Route
- Covers Dronten, Lelystad, Zeewolde. Three official car and cycling routes (15-100 km).
- Marked with "Tulpenroute Flevoland" signs.
- Highlights: Modern polder landscapes, eco-farms, pop-up field cafes.
- Best photo spots: Swifterbant, Lelystad outskirts.
- Expect wide open fields and less crowded roads.
Tips:
- Noordoostpolder suits long drives and large fields.
- Bollenstreek is best for short trips and classic Dutch scenery.
- Flevoland offers cycling options and modern landscapes.
- Peak bloom: mid-April to early May. Routes change yearly.
Timing Your Visit Right
Tulip Route in the Netherlands peaks from mid-April to early May. Bloom timing varies by weather and region. Noordoostpolder fields usually reach full color in the last two weeks of April. A cold spring delays blooms by up to ten days. A warm March can cause early flowering. Check local updates on the official Tulpenroute Flevoland website before planning.
- Main routes open only during the bloom period. No access outside this window.
- Weekdays see fewer visitors than weekends. Early mornings (before 10:00) are quietest.
- Local events, like the Tulpenfestival in Noordoostpolder, attract crowds. The festival runs mid-April to early May. Expect more traffic and limited parking during festival weekends.
- Entry to the route is free. Some farms charge €2-€5 for field access or picking.
- Self-drive takes 2-4 hours depending on stops. Cycling routes are also available.
- Avoid visiting after the first week of May. Most fields are topped for bulb harvest.
Monitor Dutch weather forecasts and festival dates for the best timing.
Getting Around the Fields
Car
- Driving the Tulip Route (Noordoostpolder Tulpenroute) offers flexibility. The main route is 100 km, marked by pink signs.
- Parking is available at designated lots near fields. Fees range from €2 to €5 per day.
- Some field edges have strict no-parking zones. Fines apply for parking on grass or blocking farm access.
- Traffic can be heavy on weekends, especially near Emmeloord and Creil.
Bicycle
- Cycling is popular. Dedicated bike paths run parallel to the route, especially near Marknesse and Espel.
- Bike rental is available in Emmeloord, Creil, and Bant. Daily rental costs €10–€15 for standard bikes.
- E-bikes are available for €25–€30 per day. Reserve in advance during peak bloom.
- Cycling allows close-up views but respect field boundaries. Do not enter or trample flower rows.
Public Transport
- NS trains connect Amsterdam to Lelystad (45 minutes). Bus 140 runs from Lelystad to Emmeloord hourly.
- Local buses stop at villages along the route. Service is limited on Sundays and after 18:00.
Guided Tours
- Guided bus tours depart from Amsterdam and Lelystad. Prices start at €45 per person for half-day tours.
- Tours include commentary, stops for photos, and sometimes farm visits. Booking ahead is recommended.
Field Etiquette & Photo Tips
Stay on marked paths. Most tulip fields along the Tulpenroute in Noordoostpolder are private property. Entering fields without permission is prohibited.
Do not step between tulip rows. Walking on bulbs damages crops and reduces yield for Dutch farmers.
Photography tips:
- Use zoom lenses from the edge of fields.
- Best light: early morning or late afternoon.
- Top photo spots: near Creil, Espel, and Bant. These areas have wide, colorful fields.
Ask before entering. Some farms offer paid access for photos. Entry fees range from €2 to €5 per person.
Respect local farmers. Always greet them and follow posted signs. Never pick tulips unless at official pluktuin (picking gardens).
Drones: Allowed only with permission. Check Dutch regulations.
Peak times: Weekdays are quieter. Weekends see more visitors. Avoid blocking farm access roads when parking.
Essential Tulip Route Checklist
Packing essentials:
- Bring a windproof jacket; April temperatures range from 7°C to 15°C.
- Waterproof shoes are recommended. Fields can be muddy after rain.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen are useful for sunny days.
- Carry a reusable water bottle; few shops along the Noordoostpolder Tulpenroute.
Weather and clothing:
- Dress in layers. Dutch spring weather changes quickly.
- Light gloves and a scarf are helpful for chilly mornings.
Booking advice:
- Reserve accommodations in Flevoland or Emmeloord at least 2-3 months ahead.
- Book rental cars early; demand is high during tulip season.
- Check local websites for official Tulpenroute maps and event updates.
Final reminders:
- Bring cash for parking (typically €2-€5 per lot).
- Respect field boundaries; do not pick tulips.
- Plan for 3-5 hours to complete the main 100 km route.
