Written by our co-founder, Ronna

This guide is your ticket to experiencing the Netherlands’ tulip fields on your own, without the crowds or tour buses. I’ll show you how to reach the fields via public transport, rent a bike, and ride through blooming landscapes at your own pace. The route ends at a favorite local restaurant—the perfect reward after a colorful ride. It’s a simple, unforgettable way to soak up spring in full bloom. 

To experience the tulip fields like a local—and skip the tour buses—start by catching a train from Amsterdam’s Central Station to the tiny town of Noordwijkerhout. The journey takes just over an hour and includes a simple, well-marked transfer in Haarlem. As the city gives way to wide-open skies and green fields, you'll start to get a taste of what’s ahead. Be sure to check schedules in advance, as trains run frequently but timing can vary slightly depending on the day.

Once you arrive in Noordwijkerhout, you can either take a relaxed 30-minute walk into the town center or opt for a quick five-minute Uber. In the heart of town, just behind the iconic white-steepled De Witte Kerk, you’ll find Rent-a-Bike Van Dam, a friendly and reliable local rental shop. Here, you can choose between an electric or traditional bike, depending on your pace and energy level (I opted for electric, as I’m not a strong biker!) Once you’re set, head north on Boekhorsterweg, and the adventure begins. The route is easy to follow and runs nearly in a circle through the tulip fields.

Biking in the tulip fields

Your route winds through quiet roads and blooming fields. From Boekhorsterweg, turn onto Dorpsstraat, then make a right on Herenweg, where you'll begin to see vast swaths of tulips in vibrant rows: red, yellow, pink, and deep purple stretching to the horizon. Be sure to take your time and stop for photos, but do so respectfully. These are working farms, and the tulips are a key part of the farmers’ livelihoods. Never pick the flowers or walk into the fields; stay on the paths, admire from the edges, and remember that beauty and respect go hand-in-hand.

Continue riding down Stationsweg, soaking in the peaceful rhythm of the Dutch countryside. Eventually, you’ll turn right onto Westelijke Randweg, the final leg of your route. Tucked at the end of this road, surrounded by greenery and overlooking a serene lake, is Como & Co, a charming, organic restaurant with locally sourced food and a laid-back garden setting. It’s the perfect reward after a colorful ride: enjoy a fresh, seasonal lunch, sip something crisp, and toast to one of the most unforgettable spring days you’ll ever have.

Need to know

Time your visit carefully

Tulip season in the Netherlands typically runs from mid-March to early May, but mid-April is usually the sweet spot for peak bloom. Keep in mind that timing can vary slightly each year based on weather, so check local bloom updates before you go (especially from the Keukenhof gardens or regional tourism boards).

Go early in the day (or midweek)

For fewer crowds and the best light for photos, plan to arrive at the fields early in the morning or on a weekday. Weekends can be quite busy, especially near popular areas.

Dress for biking & weather

Spring in the Netherlands can be breezy and unpredictable—dress in layers, bring a light waterproof jacket, and wear comfortable shoes for biking and walking. Don’t forget sunglasses, and maybe a scarf to keep the chill off your neck during the ride.

Bring a small backpack or basket essentials

Pack water, sunscreen, a phone power bank, and a small snack if you’re planning a longer ride. A lightweight tote or bike basket is handy for carrying your things without a backpack on your shoulders.

Skip the car & stick to trains & bikes

Parking near the fields is limited, and traffic can be heavy during tulip season. The charm of this experience really comes from exploring at a slower pace. Taking public transportation and biking is not only sustainable—they’re the most scenic and stress-free options.

Don’t miss the small towns

Noordwijkerhout and nearby towns like Lisse and Hillegom are charming in their own right—grab a coffee at a local café, wander through a Saturday market, or pop into a small museum or shop. The fields are the main draw, but the region’s villages offer a lot of unexpected charm.

Respect the fields & farmers

It’s tempting to walk into the rows for the perfect photo, but stick to the paths—stepping between the flowers damages the bulbs and harms next year’s crop. Farmers often post polite signs, and sometimes allow designated photo spots. Look for those, or simply enjoy the beauty from the edge.