HOW MANY HOURS DO YOU NEED AT KEUKENHOF?

If you’re planning a spring day trip and wondering how long you should set aside for Keukenhof, you’re not alone. It looks “walkable” on a map… until you realise how many gardens, pavilions, photo spots, and little detours you’ll want to do once you’re inside.

The short answer

Most visitors need about 3 hours at Keukenhof. That’s also what Keukenhof itself calls the average visit duration.

But depending on your style of visiting, here’s a more realistic guide.

A practical time guide (choose your “visitor type”)

2 hours: only if you’re rushing

Possible, but you’ll be speed-walking and skipping a lot (especially the indoor pavilions). This works if you:

• have limited time

• mainly want a few “classic” tulip photos

• don’t stop for food or souvenirs

3 hours: the sweet spot for most people

This is the best planning number for a first visit:

• main outdoor gardens

• at least 1–2 pavilions

• plenty of photo stops
  Keukenhof’s FAQ also uses ~3 hours as the average stay.

4–5 hours: ideal if you want a relaxed visit

Choose this if you:

• love photography (and want to wait for nicer “less crowded” moments)

• want to visit multiple pavilions properly

• like taking breaks for coffee/lunch without feeling rushed

A full day: only if you want “everything + slow”

Yes, you can stay all day—Keukenhof tickets are about your arrival time, not a time limit. Once you’re in, you can stay until closing time.

Can you stay longer than your time slot?

Yes. Your time slot is for entry/arrival. Keukenhof states you can remain in the park until it closes.

For 2026, Keukenhof is open 8:00–19:00 and the entrance closes at 18:15.

One tip that makes a huge difference

If you want the same gardens but with a calmer vibe, plan your visit on a weekday and aim for early morning or later afternoon. You’ll spend less time waiting and more time actually enjoying the place.