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

If you’re eyeing a lively, colorful day in the Netherlands that combines iconic floral displays with local tradition, this guided day trip from Amsterdam might be just what you’re looking for. It promises a blend of spectacle and serenity — from the intricate floats of the Flower Parade to the lush, blooming fields of Keukenhof Gardens. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, a thorough look at the details, reviews, and what’s included helps paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect.

What really catches our eye are two key features: VIP grandstand seating—which offers a front-row view of the parade—and the flexibility at Keukenhof, allowing you to linger among the blooms at your own pace. On the flip side, a potential consideration might be the price — $164 per person — which, while not excessive for such a comprehensive experience, is something to weigh alongside other options. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate the spectacle of parades, adore flowers, and prefer a day that combines guided logistics with personal exploration.

Key Points

• Vivid Parade Experience: Witness the colorful floats and floral artistry of the 79th Flower Parade with reserved VIP grandstand seats.
• Flexibility in Keukenhof: Enjoy unrestricted time in the gardens to wander through the stunning displays at your leisure.
• Convenient Round-trip Transport: All transfers from and back to Amsterdam are included, simplifying logistics.
• Complete Access to Keukenhof: Entry to the gardens is covered, letting you explore without additional costs.
• Limited Meals: The tour does not include meals, so plan accordingly.
• Suitable for Flower Enthusiasts: Ideal for those who want both parade excitement and garden serenity in one day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour’s Highlights in Depth

The Flower Parade: A Dutch Classic

The highlight of this trip is undoubtedly the Flower Parade, a tradition that dates back decades and showcases floats decorated with thousands of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. The parade’s 79th edition promises a vibrant display of Dutch craftsmanship and floral artistry. The reserved grandstand seating ensures you’ll have a perfect view of these moving masterpieces, making it a highlight for photography and awe.

According to reviews, many travelers appreciated the VIP seating, noting it allowed them to relax and enjoy the parade without fighting crowds. One traveler remarked, “The VIP seats made a huge difference — no jostling and a clear view as the floats passed by.” The parade’s timing, with flexible departure options, means you can choose to watch from the grandstand and then head to Keukenhof at your own pace.

Keukenhof Gardens: A Floral Wonderland

After the parade, the focus shifts to Keukenhof, often called the world’s most beautiful spring garden. Located in South Holland, this UNESCO-listed garden is a riot of color, with vast flowerbeds, themed sections, and fragrant pathways. Your ticket includes entry, and the flexible departure times allow you to stay as long as you wish — many reviews suggest spending at least a couple of hours here to fully appreciate the displays.

We loved the way Keukenhof balances grand displays with intimate garden corners. You might find yourself snapping photos of tulip fields, or resting on benches amid the scent of hyacinths. The last bus departs at 6:30 PM, giving ample time to stroll comfortably and avoid feeling rushed.

Transportation and Logistics

Included in the price are round-trip transfers from Amsterdam. This simplifies travel, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local transport. The group size tends to be manageable, and the entire experience is guided in English, ensuring clear communication.

One review highlighted the convenience: “The transfers were smooth, and it was nice not to worry about navigating public transportation or parking.” This kind of convenience adds substantial value, especially after a busy city stay.

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What’s Not Included?

Meals are not included in the tour price, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to purchase lunch during the day. Keukenhof itself has various cafes and food stalls, but packing some provisions might save time and money.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

Reviews reveal a generally positive impression, especially praising the knowledgeable guides and stunning views. One reviewer summed it up nicely: “The guide was very friendly and informative, making the day even more enjoyable.” Many appreciated the well-organized schedule, which balanced parade viewing with garden exploration.

A few reviews brought up minor drawbacks, mostly regarding the price — $164 — which some felt was fair given the VIP seating and transport, but others might compare it with self-guided options or other tours. Still, the convenience and included entry make this a good value for those prioritizing ease and quality.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

The day begins at the designated meeting point in Amsterdam, where you’ll board a comfortable coach. The tour duration is approximately 7.5 hours, with exact start times varying based on availability. Early in the day, you’ll find yourself seated in the VIP grandstand, which is located along the parade route, providing an unobstructed, close-up view of the floats.

As the parade unfolds, you’ll witness floats adorned with tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils moving past you. The parade is a showcase of Dutch floral ingenuity; expect to see floats that are as intricate as they are colorful, often reflecting cultural themes. The VIP seating not only improves the visual experience but also offers a comfortable vantage point that allows you to relax, take photos, and soak in the colours without the chaos of standing on the street.

Once the parade concludes, you’ll head directly to Keukenhof Gardens. The transfer from the parade area to Keukenhof usually takes around a short drive. On arrival, you’ll have the freedom to explore the gardens at your own pace. Keukenhof’s sprawling grounds feature themed sections like the Japanese Garden, the historical Windmill Garden, and areas dedicated to different flower varieties.

You might want to focus on the tulip displays, which are at their peak in April, or explore the pavilions showcasing orchids, roses, and other blooms. The last bus back to Amsterdam is at 6:30 PM, but with the flexible departure times, you can stay longer if you wish.

The Experience of Being There

We loved the combination of spectacle and serenity. The parade offers a lively, colorful spectacle that encapsulates Dutch spring celebrations. Meanwhile, Keukenhof provides a peaceful, sensory-rich environment filled with floral sights, scents, and textures. The tour strikes a good balance, giving you a taste of Dutch floral culture in one day.

Practical Tips

• Bring comfortable walking shoes; the gardens are large, and you’ll want to explore without discomfort.
• Pack a sunhat or umbrella depending on weather forecasts — April can be unpredictable.
• Since meals are not included, consider bringing some snacks or planning to eat at Keukenhof, where there are multiple food options.
• Check your departure times carefully, especially if you plan to stay longer in the gardens.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This day trip appeals most to those who want a guided, hassle-free experience that combines iconic Dutch traditions with the beauty of Keukenhof. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer to sit back and enjoy a curated day rather than navigating public transport or car rentals.

Families, floral enthusiasts, and those short on time will appreciate the organized schedule and inclusive nature, while those with mobility issues might find the standing and walking involved at Keukenhof a bit challenging — the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

In all, it’s a great option for visitors wanting a snapshot of Holland’s springtime floral celebrations, especially if they value a VIP view of the parade and the chance to wander freely among stunning blooms afterward.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transfers from and back to Amsterdam are part of the package, making logistics simple and worry-free.

Can I stay longer at Keukenhof? Absolutely. The tour offers flexible departure times in the afternoon, so you can linger as long as you like before the last bus at 6:30 PM.

Are meals included? No, meals are not part of the tour, so plan to bring snacks or buy food at Keukenhof’s cafes.

What is the tour duration? The whole experience lasts about 7.5 hours, which includes parade viewing and time at Keukenhof Gardens.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors? While most will enjoy the sights, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and children should be supervised at all times, especially during the parade and walk in the gardens.

What language is the guide in? The tour is guided in English, with an English host or greeter ensuring smooth communication.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, and a camera are highly recommended.

How much does it cost? The price is $164 per person, which includes VIP parade seats, transportation, and entry to Keukenhof. No hidden fees, but meals are extra.

Final Thoughts

This day trip to the Flower Parade and Keukenhof Gardens offers a well-rounded taste of Dutch springtime delights. The VIP seating for the parade elevates the experience, providing a comfortable and unobstructed view of the floats that are as much a part of Dutch identity as windmills. Keukenhof, with its vibrant displays and fragrant pathways, complements the parade with calm and beauty.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a guided, organized day that covers two of the Netherlands’ most iconic floral attractions without the hassle of planning or navigating logistics themselves. The flexible timing at Keukenhof allows for a personalized experience, whether you want to see every bloom or just relax in the floral landscape.

While the price might give some pause, the inclusion of transportation, VIP seating, and entry makes it a reasonable choice for those looking for convenience and quality. If you love flowers, enjoy lively parades, and want a memorable day in Holland, this tour is worth considering.

To sum it up, this is a worthwhile experience for floral enthusiasts and cultural travelers alike. It captures the essence of spring in the Netherlands, combining spectacle, serenity, and scenic beauty — all with the comforts of guided logistics. For anyone wanting a smooth, enjoyable way to see the iconic Dutch floral displays, it’s a solid choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: