Goodbye Winter, Hello Sunshine!
One of my favorite times of the year—aside from the relentless allergies—is truly spring in the Netherlands. After months of gloomy skies, the first hints of spring bring a sense of renewal. By the tree stumps, along the roadsides, and even in the most unexpected places, spring quietly makes its entrance. And with it comes an entirely new way to experience the Netherlands. With the return of sunshine and longer days, it’s the perfect time to get outside and enjoy everything this season has to offer.
Experience the World’s Most Famous Spring Garden: Keukenhof
If there’s one place that epitomizes spring in the Netherlands, it’s Keukenhof. Every year, from March to May, this legendary garden in Lisse transforms into a floral wonderland, showcasing more than 7 million flower bulbs in every color, size, and shape imaginable. Think tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, and lilies—each more stunning than the last.
Keukenhof isn’t just about flowers; it’s about stepping into a living masterpiece. Initially, I thought it might be overhyped, but trust me, no words or pictures can truly capture its breathtaking beauty. You have to see it in person to understand why it’s a must-visit destination for travelers worldwide.
If you’re planning a visit, check out my in-depth blog post on Keukenhof here. And for a visual treat, watch my Keukenhof video World Famous Spring Garden, Keukenhof and experience the magic for yourself.
Wandering Through a Dutch City
Dutch cities truly come alive in spring, making it the perfect season to wander through historic streets, explore lively outdoor markets, and take in the beauty of blooming gardens and scenic canals.
One of my absolute favorite cities to visit in spring is Delft. Nestled in the heart of the Netherlands, Delft is known for its iconic Delftware pottery, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning architecture. It’s also the birthplace of the renowned painter Vermeer and the final resting place of Dutch royalty.
If you’re looking for the perfect spring getaway, Delft should be on your list. I wrote about my experience in this picturesque city here. And if you’d like to see it for yourself, watch my video Exploring Delft and discover why this city is such a hidden gem.
Visit the National Parks
Veluwe has something for everyone.
Want to see it for yourself? Watch my video Hoge Veluwe National Park: Escape to Nature in Gelderland, Netherlands and experience the beauty of this incredible nature reserve.
Another great park to explore is De Biesbosch National Park, a unique freshwater tidal wetland. Whether by boat, kayak, or foot, this park offers a peaceful escape into nature.
If you love nature, spring is an excellent time to visit one of the Netherlands’ many national parks. Hoge Veluwe National Park offers a stunning mix of forests, sand dunes, and heathlands, making it an ideal spot for a spring hike or a picnic. The park is also home to the Kröller-Müller Museum, which features an impressive collection of Van Gogh paintings. De Biesbosch National Park, a unique freshwater tidal wetland, is another great place to explore by boat or kayak, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
Enjoy King’s Day Festivities
Spring in the Netherlands isn’t just about flowers and nature—it’s also about celebration! Every year on April 27th, the country turns into one massive party for King’s Day (Koningsdag). The streets and canals of cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague are filled with people dressed in orange, outdoor markets, and lively music. If you want to experience Dutch culture at its most vibrant, King’s Day is an event you don’t want to miss.
I’ve written all about what to expect, how to celebrate, and my own experiences in my detailed King’s Day blog post—check it out before you go!
Spring in the Netherlands isn’t just about flowers and nature—it’s also about celebration! Every year on April 27th, the country turns into one massive party for King’s Day (Koningsdag). The streets and canals of cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague are filled with people dressed in orange, outdoor markets, and lively music. If you want to experience Dutch culture at its most vibrant, King’s Day is an event you don’t want to miss.
Why Spring in the Netherlands is so Special
Spring in the Netherlands isn’t just about flowers. It’s the shift in energy when the grey skies finally lift, and the country bursts back to life. The parks start filling with people, markets get busier, and there’s this sense that winter is finally behind us.
If you’re planning a trip, this is one of the best times to experience the Netherlands. There’s something about spring here that just makes everything feel a little more alive.
