Amsterdam: Keukenhof Tulip Garden and Giethoorn Experience

The Amsterdam: Keukenhof Tulip Garden and Giethoorn Experience offers a captivating full-day tour for those eager to explore two of Holland’s most iconic sights. Priced at $169 per person and lasting about 10 hours, this trip combines the vibrant beauty of Keukenhof’s tulip displays with the tranquil waterways of Giethoorn, often called the “Venice of the North.” The tour departs from De Ruijterkade 99, conveniently close to Amsterdam’s city center, with transportation included throughout the day.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is its all-in-one nature—you visit the famous gardens and enjoy a boat cruise in Giethoorn, all in a well-organized schedule. The tour is designed to provide enough time at each location for sightseeing, photography, and some leisure, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive day trip. While the $169 price covers all the main activities, meals and personal expenses are not included, so plan accordingly.

This tour is especially suited for those who enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and a structured schedule. However, it involves a fair amount of walking and is not designed for visitors with mobility challenges. The overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 130 reviews indicates high satisfaction, especially praising the guides, the scenery, and the value for money.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Full-day trip from Amsterdam combining Keukenhof Gardens and Giethoorn
• Price of $169 per person, with all admission and boat cruise costs included
• Departs at 8:30 AM, returning around 6 PM from De Ruijterkade 99
• Guided by local guides, available in English and Dutch
• Includes transportation by bus/coach and timed activities for a well-paced experience
• Not suitable for anyone with mobility impairments due to walking requirements

Departure Point and Transportation Logistics

The tour begins at De Ruijterkade 99, just a short walk from Amsterdam Central Station. Travelers are asked to arrive 15 minutes early and show their voucher at the ticket counter. The prompt departure at 8:30 AM is essential for fitting both destinations into the day.

Transportation throughout the trip is provided via car, minivan, or bus, ensuring a comfortable ride between the different sites. The schedule includes 2 bus/coach stops, one for the journey to Keukenhof and another to Giethoorn, with travel times about 45 minutes and 105 minutes, respectively. The return trip from Giethoorn to Amsterdam takes about 1.5 hours.

Exploring Keukenhof: The Flower Capital of Holland

Once at Keukenhof Gardens, visitors find themselves amid an expansive display of millions of tulips, daffodils, and other flowers. The 3.5-hour visit provides a mix of free time and guided sightseeing, allowing plenty of opportunity for photography and flower viewing.

Keukenhof is known for its stunning flower presentations, surprise gardens, and engaging activities suitable for all ages. The gardens are famous for their over 20 different flower displays, which are especially spectacular during the spring season.

From the windmill, visitors can enjoy beautiful views of surrounding bulb fields, perfect spots for memorable photos. For families, there are playgrounds, petting zoos, and scavenger hunts, making Keukenhof a lively and colorful destination suitable for visitors of all ages.

However, with only 3.5 hours allocated, some visitors find this duration a little short, especially considering travel time. The tour emphasizes the spectacular visual experiences, but those wanting a more in-depth exploration might consider spending extra time on their own.

Discovering Giethoorn: The Village of Canals

Following Keukenhof, the tour takes travelers to Giethoorn, a small village renowned for its canal network and absence of cars. The guided boat cruise lasts about 1 hour, giving an immersive introduction to the village’s fairy-tale atmosphere. Visitors will see houseboats, quaint farmhouses, and hundreds of bridges connecting the small islands.

On foot, travelers can stroll through preserved pathways and observe how each farmhouse is built on a tiny man-made island. The village’s tranquil ambiance and charming scenery make it a perfect spot for relaxing walks and photography. The 2.5 hours allocated for Giethoorn allow for sightseeing, shopping, and leisure time, but some reviews suggest more time would enhance the experience.

The boat cruise, in particular, is highly praised, with visitors enjoying the calm waterways and beautiful surroundings. The village’s peaceful setting contrasts sharply with the bustling city, offering a refreshing change of pace.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Pacing and Overall Schedule

The entire itinerary is designed for a well-structured day, balancing sightseeing with travel time. The 45-minute bus transfer to Keukenhof is followed by 3.5 hours on-site, then 105-minute journey to Giethoorn. After the boat cruise and exploration, the return trip lasts about 1.5 hours before arriving back at the starting point around 6 PM.

While most reviews confirm this schedule allows sufficient time to enjoy each location, some note that more time at Keukenhof would be preferable, especially to explore the gardens in greater depth. The tour’s timed activities mean visitors should be mindful of the schedule to avoid feeling rushed.

The Tour Guide Experience and Group Size

Many reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, with names like Raf, Igor, Novak, and others mentioned positively. Guides are appreciated for their knowledge, helpfulness, and ability to create a pleasant atmosphere regardless of weather conditions.

The tour generally maintains a good group size, and some travelers mention experiencing a more private feel if others cancel or if the group is small. The English and Dutch guides ensure clarity and local insights, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

Additional Inclusions and Practical Tips

The admission tickets for Keukenhof and the boat cruise in Giethoorn are included in the $169 price, simplifying planning. All transportation costs are covered, so there are no hidden fees during the day.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring their camera for capturing the vibrant flowers and scenic canals. Since the tour runs rain or shine, packing an umbrella or raincoat is recommended. Food and drinks are not included, so travelers should plan for meals during free time.

Limitations and Considerations

This tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the walking involved at both destinations. Some reviews note that 3 hours at Keukenhof may feel insufficient for those wanting to explore at a more leisurely pace.

Timing can be affected by traffic conditions, which might slightly alter the schedule. The tour requires a minimum of 4 travelers to operate, and cancellations are possible if this number is not met, although full refunds are available if canceled in advance.

Final Thoughts on the Keukenhof and Giethoorn Tour

This full-day experience offers a balanced and efficient way to see Holland’s most iconic sights. The combination of flower gardens and canal village presents a diverse look at Dutch culture and scenery.

Highly praised guides, comfortable transport, and the inclusion of tickets make this a convenient and value-packed choice. While some may wish for more time at Keukenhof, the overall 4.7-star rating reflects a high level of satisfaction among previous participants.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to maximize their day with guided insights and beautiful visuals, especially those with limited time in Amsterdam. It offers a taste of Holland’s natural beauty and charming villages in just one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, transportation by car, minivan, or bus is included throughout the day.

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour departs from De Ruijterkade 99, near Amsterdam Central Station.

How long do we spend at Keukenhof Gardens?
You have about 3.5 hours at Keukenhof to explore, take photos, and enjoy the displays.

What activities are included in Giethoorn?
You will enjoy a 1-hour guided boat cruise and walking around the village for about 1 hour.

Is the tour suitable for children or mobility-challenged travelers?
The tour involves a fair amount of walking and is not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

Can I buy food and drinks during the trip?
No, food and drinks are not included; travelers should plan to purchase meals during free time.

What guides lead the tour?
Guides are local experts available in English and Dutch, known for their professionalism and friendliness.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, and packing an umbrella is wise if rain is forecasted.

How does this tour compare to other similar experiences?
It provides a comprehensive, guided experience with all main activities included, and has favorable reviews for guides and organization, making it a reliable choice for a full day out of Amsterdam.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby