Amsterdam: Day Trip to Flower Parade & Keukenhof on April 18

Discover the Beauty of the Netherlands: A Detailed Review of the Amsterdam Flower Parade & Keukenhof Tour

Travelers often seek experiences that combine iconic sights, cultural traditions, and stunning natural beauty. This particular day trip from Amsterdam offers just that — a chance to witness the famous Flower Parade and wander through the world-renowned Keukenhof Gardens. While it’s not a private or exclusive tour, it provides a solid overview of two major springtime highlights with enough flexibility to enjoy at your own pace.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the VIP grandstand seating guarantees a front-row view of the parade’s spectacular floats. Second, the access to Keukenhof means you can wander freely through fields of tulips and other spring blooms. Third, the round-trip transportation and entry tickets included make it a convenient, one-price option. However, a potential downside for some might be that the 7.5-hour duration feels a bit tight considering how much there is to see — especially if you want to linger in Keukenhof for hours.

This experience suits travelers who love vibrant floral displays, classic Dutch traditions, and want a well-organized, hassle-free day out. If you’re after a balance of comfort, iconic sights, and manageable timing, this tour can be a good choice. But for those looking for a more in-depth, exclusive experience or a more leisurely pace, it might be worth considering alternatives.

Good To Know

• VIP grandstand seating ensures a prime view of the Flower Parade.
• Flexible Keukenhof timings allow you to stay longer or leave earlier.
• The tour includes transportation, parade viewing, and garden entry, offering good value.
• The duration of 7.5 hours is tight but manageable with proper planning.
• Reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and stunning parade floats.
• Consider your pace and interests — some travelers found the timing a bit rushed.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Flower Parade: A Dutch Tradition

The 79th edition of the Flower Parade is a true spectacle. From our research, travelers are captivated by the floats’ intricate designs, often decorated with tens of thousands of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. The parade is a celebration of spring, showcasing Dutch creativity and horticultural artistry.

What you can expect:
Arriving early, you’ll be guided to your reserved grandstand seats, which are positioned to give an unobstructed, VIP view as the parade floats pass by. The experience is described as lively and colorful, with some reviewers noting that the floats are “absolutely stunning,” featuring detailed craftsmanship. One traveler mentioned, “The floats are even more impressive in person — they’re like giant moving art pieces.”

Timing and comfort:
Since the seats are reserved, you won’t need to worry about fighting for a good spot. You can relax, take photos, and enjoy the show without stress. Most reviews praise the guide’s knowledge about the parade’s history and the floats’ stories, adding context to the visual spectacle.

A tip:
Many reviewers suggest arriving early to get some good photos and soak in the atmosphere before the parade starts. Also, some mention that the parade route can get crowded, so timing your arrival early is helpful.

Keukenhof Gardens: A Floral Wonderland

After the parade, the tour includes entry to Keukenhof Gardens, a springtime paradise. Known as the “Garden of Europe,” it boasts over 7 million flowers in bloom, including tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils.

What you’ll love:
Most visitors appreciate having flexible hours to explore at their own pace. Some reviews highlight that they enjoyed wandering slowly through the colorful flower beds, themed gardens, and scenic pathways. One reviewer shared, “I could have stayed all day, the scent of tulips and hyacinths was intoxicating.” The gardens feature several pavilions and displays, making it easy to find photo spots and peaceful corners for resting.

Practical insights:
The last bus departs from Keukenhof at 6:30 PM, so you have ample time to enjoy. But some travelers found that the 7.5-hour total duration felt a bit rushed if they wanted to linger longer in the gardens. The tour’s flexible departure time in the afternoon is a good feature, but planning your visit early in the day can maximize your time.

Additional details:
One recurring comment was that the guides are knowledgeable, sharing interesting facts about the flowers and the history of Keukenhof. This adds depth to the visit beyond just viewing the blooms.

Transportation & Logistics

The round-trip transfer from Amsterdam is handled seamlessly, with comfortable buses and a friendly guide providing commentary along the way. Since the tour is operated by Holland Ticket Services, a reputable provider, most reviews mention punctual pick-ups and smooth logistics.

Timing matters:
You’ll start at “This is Holland,” a popular attraction, and then head out for the parade. The entire trip lasts about 7.5 hours, which requires some planning. Reviewers suggest bringing snacks and water, as meals are not included. The tour’s price of $164 per person strikes a reasonable balance considering the VIP seats, garden entry, and transportation.

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Authentic Insights from Reviewers

• “The parade floats are even more impressive than I expected, and the VIP seats made all the difference in seeing every detail,” one guest remarked.
• “I loved the freedom to explore Keukenhof at my own pace,” said another, emphasizing the value of the flexible schedule.
• Several reviews praised guides for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience enjoyable and informative.

What to Keep in Mind

While many travelers enjoy the tour, a few pointed out that the schedule can be tight, especially if you want to explore Keukenhof thoroughly. If you’re a flower enthusiast or photography lover, you might prefer to spend more time in the gardens, possibly exploring alternative options with longer access.

Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users — an important consideration for travelers with mobility needs.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This day trip from Amsterdam offers a convenient way to experience two iconic Dutch attractions without the hassle of organizing transportation or tickets. The VIP grandstand provides a front-row view, making it a memorable highlight, especially for first-time visitors eager to see the parade in all its glory.

The flexibility in Keukenhof hours is a significant plus, allowing you to tailor your visit based on your preferences. The guided commentary and organized logistics make it a stress-free experience, particularly for those new to the Netherlands or short on time.

However, it is worth noting that the 7.5-hour duration can feel rushed if you’re a flower fanatic or love lingering in gardens. For more immersive experiences, consider other tours that offer longer Keukenhof visits or smaller, more intimate parade viewing options.

In terms of value, at $164, the package includes most essentials — transportation, parade seats, and garden entry. It’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a balanced blend of spectacle and natural beauty without breaking the bank.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors to the Netherlands who want to see the signature springtime events without planning every detail. It suits those with a moderate schedule and an appreciation for organized, guided trips. If you enjoy spectacular floats, vibrant flowers, and authentic Dutch traditions, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you prefer more leisure time, customized visits, or have specific mobility needs, you might want to explore alternative options or start your day earlier to allow more time at each site.

FAQs

Is transportation from Amsterdam included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from “This is Holland” to the Flower Parade and Keukenhof are part of the package, making it very convenient.

Can I stay longer at Keukenhof?
Absolutely. The ticket and schedule give you the flexibility to explore Keukenhof Gardens for as long as you like before the last bus departs at 6:30 PM.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. Guests typically bring snacks or plan to buy food at Keukenhof or along the way.

Is this tour suitable for children or groups?
While it’s family-friendly, the tour length and walking may not suit very young children or those with mobility issues, as it’s not wheelchair accessible.

What makes the VIP grandstand seats special?
They guarantee a prime, unobstructed view of the parade floats, making the experience more comfortable and visually impressive.

How much time will I have at Keukenhof?
It depends on your pace, but generally, you can stay for as long as you want within the operating hours, with the last bus leaving at 6:30 PM.

In summary, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to take in the best of Dutch springtime festivities, combining iconic traditions with beautiful floral displays. It’s a good fit for those valuing convenience, guided commentary, and a balance of sights, making it a recommended choice for a memorable day out in the Netherlands.

You can check if your dates are available here: