Amsterdam: Flower Parade Grandstand + Keukenhof Gardens Tour

Experience the Spectacle of the Flower Parade and Keukenhof Gardens in One Day

This 8-hour tour from Amsterdam offers a unique chance to witness the famous Flower Parade from a VIP grandstand seat while enjoying a leisurely exploration of Keukenhof Gardens. Priced reasonably and rated 4.6 out of 5, this tour combines the excitement of the parade with the tranquility of one of the world’s most beautiful spring gardens. It is ideal for flower enthusiasts and those looking to experience Dutch springtime in a relaxed yet memorable way.

The tour departs from This is Holland in Amsterdam, where you exchange your voucher for your bus ticket and Keukenhof entrance ticket. The ferry ride from Central Station to the meeting point adds a scenic start, and the overall experience promises vivid colors, fragrant blooms, and a chance to see intricate parade floats adorned with tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.

While this tour offers a compelling mix of parade excitement and garden tranquility, it is worth noting that wheelchair users are not suited for this activity, due to certain physical requirements.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• VIP grandstand seat provides an exclusive view of the Flower Parade on April 18.
• You will see floats decorated with tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths up close.
• The tour includes a delicious lunch as part of the experience.
• After the parade, you are free to explore Keukenhof Gardens at your own pace.
• The last bus from Keukenhof to Amsterdam departs at 6:30 PM.
• The experience is led by an English-speaking host with a 4.6 rating from many satisfied travelers.

How the Tour Begins at This is Holland in Amsterdam

The tour starts at This is Holland, located at Overhoeksplein 51 in Amsterdam. To get there, travelers take a free ferry from platform F3 behind Central Station to the Buiksloterweg side, a quick 3-minute ride. Once you disembark, the round building with the Dutch flag is easy to spot, and from there, it’s just a short walk to the departure point.

Upon arrival, you exchange your voucher for your bus ticket and official Keukenhof entrance ticket at the welcome desk. This setup ensures a smooth start, allowing you to skip the lines and head straight into the day’s festivities. The tour provider, HopOn HopOff Holland, maintains a high 4.6-star rating, reflecting quality service and organization.

VIP Grandstand Seating for the Flower Parade

One of the tour’s highlights is the VIP grandstand seat that offers an unobstructed view of the Flower Parade as it winds through the streets. This special seating allows a close-up experience of the parade floats, which are decorated with vibrant tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.

Being seated in the grandstand means you avoid the crowds and enjoy a comfortable vantage point to appreciate the intricacy and creativity of the floats. The parade takes place on April 18, and your reserved seat is a key feature for those wanting a prime viewing spot without the hassle of standing in the crowd.

Exploring Keukenhof Gardens at Your Leisure

After the parade, it’s time to visit Keukenhof Gardens, which are adored worldwide for their breathtaking displays of spring blooms. The tour includes entrance tickets, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. You can wander through the gardens, admire the colorful flower beds, and enjoy the fragrances of the world’s most beautiful spring garden.

There’s no fixed schedule for Keukenhof, so you can spend as much time as you like until the last bus departure at 6:30 PM. The gardens are a floral paradise, with tulips and other flowers in full bloom, creating perfect photo opportunities and serene moments.

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Lunch and Refreshments During the Tour

A delicious lunch is included in the tour, providing a convenient and tasty break during your day. The exact menu details are not specified, but the inclusion of a meal ensures you stay energized and ready to enjoy both the parade and the gardens. The tour provider also offers good facilities at the departure point, including free toilets, an inspiring waiting room, and good coffee—a thoughtful touch for a comfortable day out.

Logistics: Meeting Point and Transportation

The meeting point is easy to reach via the free ferry from Central Station, with a quick 3-minute ride. Once at This is Holland, you’ll find the building with a 5D flight experience, which is a fun extra activity if you arrive early. Here, you can also learn about Holland’s history through entertaining shows and flight simulations.

The transport arrangement includes a bus that takes you to the parade route and Keukenhof Gardens. The separate entrance for skip-the-line access is a practical benefit, saving time during busy seasons.

The Parade’s Floats and Floral Decorations

The Flower Parade features floats decorated with tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths, showcasing the artistry of floral design. The floats are intricately adorned, creating a lively procession that captures the spirit of Dutch springtime. The VIP grandstand ensures viewers see these details up close, making the experience more vivid and engaging.

This parade is an official event, and being part of it from the VIP seating enhances the excitement, especially during the April 18 parade date. The parade route is lively, with many colorful floats passing by, providing perfect photo opportunities.

Keukenhof Gardens: A Blooming Wonderland

Keukenhof is renowned for its extensive flower displays, with acres of gardens featuring tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, and other spring flowers. Visitors can wander freely through the gardens, which are designed to showcase the variety and beauty of Dutch floral cultivation.

You have the flexibility to explore at your own pace, making this part of the tour highly customizable. The gardens are open until the last bus departs at 6:30 PM, ensuring ample time to enjoy the sights, smells, and colors of this world-famous floral destination.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Since the tour is 8 hours long, comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. The last bus from Keukenhof to Amsterdam leaves at 6:30 PM, so planning your day accordingly helps maximize your experience.

Note that wheelchair users are not suited for this tour, which might be a consideration for travelers with mobility challenges. The tour is led by English-speaking hosts, making communication straightforward for international visitors.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This combination of parade viewing and garden exploration is a strong choice for those seeking to enjoy the best of Dutch springtime in a single day. The VIP grandstand seat enhances the parade experience, and the self-paced visit to Keukenhof offers flexibility. The included lunch adds value, and the easy logistics make the day smooth.

Compared to other options, this tour’s focus on the official Flower Parade and its convenient departure location make it a reliable and enjoyable choice. The overall rating of 4.6 underscores its quality, with many travelers appreciating the organised, comfortable experience.

Final Thoughts on the Amsterdam: Flower Parade Grandstand + Keukenhof Gardens Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded, flower-filled day that balances spectacle and serenity. The VIP grandstand guarantees a prime view of the parade, while the Keukenhof Gardens provide a peaceful escape into a floral wonderland. It’s particularly suited for visitors eager to witness the Dutch flower season without the hassle of multiple bookings.

The 8-hour duration is manageable and includes lunch, transport, and entrance tickets, making it a value-packed option. While it doesn’t cater to wheelchair users, the overall organization and high traveller rating speak to its reliability and enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the Flower Parade take place?
The parade occurs on April 18, and the tour specifically offers VIP grandstand seats for this date.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from This is Holland at Overhoeksplein 51 in Amsterdam.

How do I get to the meeting point?
Take the free ferry from platform F3 behind Central Station to the Buiksloterweg side, a 3-minute ride.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a delicious lunch is part of the tour package.

How long can I stay at Keukenhof Gardens?
You can stay as long as you like until the last bus departs at 6:30 PM.

Can I purchase this tour last-minute?
Yes, the tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now and pay later.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility challenges?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What’s the overall rating of this tour?
It holds a 4.6 out of 5 rating, reflecting positive reviews and dependable service.

What makes this tour different from other Keukenhof visits?
The VIP grandstand seating for the parade and official accreditation make this experience particularly special.

Can I combine this tour with other attractions?
While this specific tour focuses on the parade and Keukenhof, there are similar experiences available, such as combined visits with Zaanse Schans or canal cruises, linked in the provider’s options.

What is the weather like during the tour?
The tour takes place in spring, so checking the weather forecast and dressing accordingly is advisable, but specific weather details are not provided in the data.

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