Netherland’s Tulipfest!

Getting to the Netherland’sTulipfest

After a good nights sleep, we were excited to spend the day at Netherland’s Tulipfest at Keukenhof Gardens. We got up early and had the breakfast buffet at the hotel so we could make our bus on time. The bus stop was really close to the hotel, which was close to the airport, making it quick and easy to get to the Keukenhof bus on time.

At the airport there were very large signs at the main entrance making it easy to find the Keukenhof bus. It was a bit of a walk, but we made it to the stop to catch the next available bus. The Tulipfest was sold out, so there were large buses were leaving every 10 minutes and they were packed with visitors. We may have caught the bus just as we got to the stop, but we had to stand on the bus the entire 25 minutes ride.

Keukenhof Gardens for Netherland’s Tulipfest

Once at the park, we got off the bus in bus parking which was pretty close to the main entrance. There were tons of people and tour groups to navigate through, but we got into the gardens fairly quickly. Following the navigational system and information guide on the Keukenhof app., we found our way through the many tulip gardens by the main entrance.

The Windmill

Not far from the entrance, we found paths next to a creek that overlooked an adjacent tulip farm. From the path or the platform nearby, we were able to view rows and rows of tulips in the distance. Following the creek, then walking through themed tulip gardens, we spotted a large windmill. It made a perfect backdrop for pictures. The windmill was open for touring, but we decided to avoid the line and crowds to get in.

Beatrix Pavilion for Orchids

Further into the park we came across a restaurant, but rather than waiting in long lines we ordered water and coffee at the cafe counter. Since were right next to the Beatrix Pavilion we went in to admire the Anthurium and Orchids. Inside the pavilion we enjoyed wandering through all the pots of absolutely gorgeous orchids. Climbing up the stairs to the center platform, we were able to get the marvelous panoramic view of the orchids from above.

Just outside the Beatrix Pavilion we found beautiful paved paths with rows of trees and tulps on either side. To our right, just beyond the trees were hedges, while on the left side, beyond the trees were the meandering paths toward the center of the park. Benches lined the path every so many yards making a nice place to sit and enjoy the sun.

Moving along the beautiful paved path, we came upon a small little snack station. We purchased fresh strawberries, in a cup, topped with whipped cream. What a refreshing snack!

Concluding our time at Netherland’s Tulipfest

Continuing on, we made our way through the center of the park to see the main pond and fountain. Stopping at a little souvenir shop nearby, we made some purchases. We meandered on through the winding paths and gardens eventually making our way back to the main entrance.

Throughout the day we admired the many different types and colors of the tulips along with the beautiful landscaping along with it. There were areas with fountains, ponds, creeks, shaped evergreens interspersed with tulip beds, a small petting zoo for the kids, and even an evergreen maze. It was bright and sunny, and warm enough to just wear a light jacket.

What a delightful day to be at Netherland’s Tulipfest!

Downtown Amsterdam

We were easily able to find the Keukenhof bus that would take to downtown Amsterdam, rather than the hotel. Buses were constantly coming through and picking up, so after a short wait, we were able to catch the bus we needed. This time we got seats in the back of the bus for the 30 minute ride to the Amsterdam bus terminal.

After being dropped off at the bus termial, we followed Google maps through neighbors and across canals until we made it to the busy city center. We wandered our way around downtown Amsterdam taking pictures of the canals and landmarks, and stopped in some of the shops for souvenirs.

In search of dinner, we found the exquisite little Bubbles & Wine restaurant. My husband and I enjoyed wine, while our daughter had a mocktail. For dinner we savored on oysters, cheese, charcuterie, and a little Dutch treat – Bitterballen. Bitterballen is a Dutch meat-based snack rolled in breading and then fried. Typically served with mustard, Wine & Bubbles served the Bitterballen with Truffle Mayonaise. Yummy!

Following dinner we made our way to the Amsterdam Lego store to admire the signature Amsterdam Lego windmill in the window. For fun my husband surprised me by buying something to commemorate the trip. Lego tulp flowers!

An Evening Reminising

We eventually decided to head back to our hotel for the evening. Following Google Maps and using our three day Transporation Pass, we made it to a nearby train station and were able to navigate all our connecting trains and busses to get back to the hotel.

While we dropped our daughter back at the room, my husband and I enjoyed a nightcap at the hotel bar. As we sat there, we reminised about the enchanting day we had at Netherand’s Tulipfest and evening in downtown Amsterdam.

Be sure to read about my first day of this trip, Short Get Away to Amsterdam and check in tomorrow for my next post about this trip.