Tulip season in The Netherlands has fast become one of the most sought-after experiences in Europe. While it’s always been popular, its recent surge is no doubt thanks to the colorful spring flooding of Instagram feeds.
If you’re lucky enough to be in the country for tulip season, it’ll be hard to avoid some of the festivals and exhibits, but for those honing in on a flower-focused trip, a visit to the country’s tulip pilgrimage sites is a must.
To go tulip crazy, check in to one of these amazing hotels, perfectly located to experience the best tulip fields in the country.
The best budget tulip season hotels
De Groene Bollenschuur
Location: Hillegom, The Netherlands
Price: $143+
Vibe: Beautiful bulb barn
The rundown: We’re starting with arguably the best place for Tulip season in The Netherlands as well as the best value. De Groene Bollenschuur will only set you back $143 on average, but for flower fanatics, you couldn’t ask for more.
The little guesthouse is set inside a century-old bulb house (tulip bulbs, not lights in case you were confused), placing guests in the middle of the region’s history of tulip fascination. During tulip season itself, the property’s gardens explode with color as its tulip field comes into bloom. All yours to enjoy without the crowds.
House of Tulips B&B
Location: Hillegom, The Netherlands
Price: $99+
Vibe: Toned down but tulip wild
The rundown: While tulip season isn’t contained to one area of The Netherlands, the epicenter is without a doubt the Bollenstreek, or Bulb Strip. The Keukuenhoff is the highlight, and likely the huge gardens you’ve seen the most on social media. It’s found in the small town of Lisse, which has a surprisingly small volume of hotels.
When chaos descends upon the town, opt for House of Tulips in nearby Hillegom. It’s only 2 km from the gardens and just $99 a night, helping you beat the crowds and keep your wallet intact. It’s bare bones, but pleasant, and the interior goes all out on the tulip theme just to keep you excited.
The best mid-range tulip season hotels
Bed and Breakfast Pergamo
Location: Voorhout, The Netherlands
Price: $169+
Vibe: Dutch Immersion
The rundown: Another excellent choice to put yourself within striking distance of the Keukenhoff for tulip season is Bed and Breakfast Pergamo. It’s the second bulb shed on our list, but ramps up the luxury a few notches.
It’s owned by a passionate couple hellbent on making guests’ stays as memorable as possible, whether that means kitting you out with bicycles, treating you to a three-course meal, or even something from the Japanese menu. And yes, there are tulip fields directly behind the property, too… just in case you don’t want to deal with the crowds.
Villa de Duin
Location: Noordwijk, The Netherlands
Price: $200+
Vibe: Historic horticulture
The rundown: Moving away from B&Bs and back to more traditional hotels, we have Villa de Duin. Situated on the blustery coast not far from the hubbub of the Bollenstreek, it’s a luxurious respite offering a jumping-off point for exploring the coastal Netherlands.
The on-site restaurant is a local star, with guests raving about its service and selection while the heated pool is the perfect place to wind down a little after a day exploring. It’s not the closest hotel to the tulips, but it’s a step up on a lot of the competition.
The best high-end tulip season hotels
The Craftsman
Location: Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Price: $300+
Vibe: Canalside and classy
The rundown: While the first few hotels have focused on the traditional centerpoint for tulip season, the rest of our hotels take us back to the capital. While a city may not feel like the best place for flower fawning, you’ll be pleased to find the city in full bloom as the tulip festival takes shape.
The big perk of turning your attention to Amsterdam is the world-class hotel scene, where properties like The Craftsman are ready to take your breath away. About as quintessentially Dutch as a wheel of gouda, the traditional canal house is amazing. It’s centrally located, bursting with history-spanning design quirks, and unforgettable in its service.
The Dylan
Location: Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Price: $700+
Vibe: Quirk meets elegance
The rundown: Stepping things up a little is The Dylan, a tremendous independent hotel hidden in the middle of Amsterdam. Famed painter Rembrandt used to work in the building, giving a little historic weight to the place but frankly, the property speaks for itself.
Each room is styled in one of four broad themes but uniquely decorated based on the varying layouts, while the rest of the hotel is just as cozy, quirky, and immaculate. Feeling like exploring the city? Hop on the private canal boat. Peckish? Its restaurant is world-class. The Dylan has earned its reputation as one of Amsterdam’s finest hotels.