Keukenhof feels like an “Amsterdam attraction,” but it’s actually in Lisse, about 30–40 km away. The good news: it’s an easy day trip—and in most cases, surprisingly quick.
The short answer
For most visitors, the journey from Amsterdam to Keukenhof takes about 40–60 minutes door-to-door.
That’s because the direct KeukenhofBuzz bus from Amsterdam RAI takes about 30 minutes, and you’ll usually add a short metro ride (plus a little waiting time).
Fastest public transport option: Amsterdam Centraal → RAI → Keukenhof
This is the most popular and straightforward route during the Keukenhof season (2026).
Step 1: Metro from Amsterdam Centraal to Europaplein (RAI)
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Around 7 minutes by metro.
Step 2: KeukenhofBuzz (bus 852) from Amsterdam RAI to Keukenhof
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Around 30 minutes on the KeukenhofBuzz.
Realistic total time (including waiting)
Even though the bus ride itself is about 30 minutes, you’ll want to allow for:
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walking inside the station
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possible short queues
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waiting for your bus departure
Plan on ~45 to 60 minutes total from Amsterdam Centraal.
Traveling to Keukenhof from abroad?
Keukenhof can sell out. We have an affiliate with one of the best tour operators offering tours from Amsterdam. You can buy your tickets today:
The links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, thank you for supporting Dutch Theme Park Network.
Alternative route: Amsterdam → Schiphol → Keukenhof
If you’re already near the airport (or coming straight after landing), this can be very smooth:
Train: Amsterdam Centraal → Schiphol
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About 16–17 minutes by train.
KeukenhofBuzz (from Schiphol to Keukenhof)
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About 30 minutes.
Plan on ~55–75 minutes total from Amsterdam Centraal via Schiphol (because you’ll also transfer between train and bus).
By car or taxi: how long does it take?
If traffic is light, driving from Amsterdam to the Keukenhof area can be around 30–35 minutes.
But in tulip season—especially on sunny weekends in April—traffic can easily stretch that.
Practical tip: if you’re driving, give yourself 45–75 minutes to be safe.
Quick planning tips (so you don’t feel rushed)
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Add a buffer of 15–20 minutes if you have a timed ticket or you’re visiting on a weekend.
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If you want a calmer trip, aim to arrive earlier in the morning.
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Remember: the KeukenhofBuzz buses only run during the Keukenhof season, so always check you’re traveling on an operating day.
Traveling to Keukenhof from abroad?
Keukenhof can sell out. We have an affiliate with one of the best tour operators offering tours from Amsterdam. You can buy your tickets today:
The links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, thank you for supporting Dutch Theme Park Network.
KEUKENHOF TIPS AND TRAVEL RESOURCES
Travel is more than just getting up and going. It’s about being knowledgeable so you can travel better, cheaper, and longer. So besides the destination guides above, below you will find links to articles I’ve written that deal with planning your trip and other general advice, so your total vacation is as amazing as it can be. These articles are relevant for any trip, no matter how long!
- What is the best theme park in The Netherlands?
- What month is the best month to see tulips in The Netherlands?
- What is Dutch theme park Network?
- What do I wear at Keukenhof?
- How to stay connected during your travels
- When is Keukenhof open in 2026?
- How to Book the cheapest Flights?
- What do you need to know if you want to visit the flower festival?
- How many hours do I need at Keukenhof?
- How much does Keukenhof cost in 2026?
GET TWO E-BOOKS JUST FOR SIGNING UP
When you sign up for our email list, you receive two e-books for free created y me (Jolanda) to help you enjoy theme parks with less stress and more confidence.
You will receive
- The Ultimate Theme Park Packing List Europe Edition
and the
- Theme Park Basics The No Stupid Questions Guide
Both e-books are based on real experience and written to support you before and during your visit, whether it is your first time or your fiftieth.
Your complete plan for tickets, transport, best bloom weeks, food, families, and the Dutch tulip region
Keukenhof is one of the most famous spring destinations in the world but a great visit doesn’t happen by accident. The Ultimate Keukenhof Guide 2026 is your step-by-step companion for planning a smooth, stress-free day in the gardens and the surrounding Bulb Region.
Inside this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know for Keukenhof 2026: how timed entry works, how to pick the best day and time to visit (from early bloom to peak tulips), and how to travel there easily from Amsterdam, Schiphol, Leiden, Haarlem, and beyond. We also cover the big crowd moments you should know about, including the Flower Parade day, plus practical tips for families with children, accessibility, what to pack for Dutch spring weather, and how long you actually need inside the park.
You’ll also get honest, helpful chapters on food & drinks, souvenirs, budget expectations, and what to do if plans change (rain, crowds, or tired feet). Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another tulip season, this guide helps you feel prepared and gives you the freedom to enjoy Keukenhof at your own pace.
Written by Jolanda from Dutch Theme Park Network (DTN) — fully independent, experience-based, and updated for the 2026 season.
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