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Kukenhof Gardens April 23rd

Looking to attend the Gardens but wondering if this is too early? Also, for those that have been to the Netherlands in mid April are we looking at rainy weather?. We have previously been to Amsterdam but in early May.

Posted by
977 posts

Not at all. It's only open for about 6 weeks, and is planted for blooming throughout. We were just in Belgium and the Netherlands in mid April to early May, and at Keukenhof on April 30. It was amazing, and we lucked out and had a perfectly gorgeous day. But we also encountered colder days (and some rainy days) in the Netherlands. It's a moderate oceanic climate. There's no dry season. There's just as much chance of rain on April 23 as there is in early May.

Go first thing in the morning right when it opens; as the crowds get larger as the day goes on. You'll have a wonderful time!

Posted by
6 posts

I'll echo what the other posters said. I visited the gardens on April 9 this past spring and was a bit nervous that would be too early in the season. However, the way they plant the gardens ensures that there are always flowers blooming! The weather during that time can be hit or miss. I had some days on my trip that were sunny and 70 degrees (Fahrenheit) and others that were rainy and 50 degrees. I'd plan to pack raincoats and umbrellas, but there's no guarantee you'll need them!

Posted by
673 posts

Thank you for your input. I know we can’t predict the weather, so best be prepared.
Just another observation. I went to the Keukenhof sight and I cannot access any information for next year
I would assume it is too early?

Posted by
1613 posts

“I went to the Keukenhof sight and I cannot access any information for next year
I would assume it is too early?”

What information do you want to know?

Posted by
673 posts

I just wanted to know approximately price of entrance tickets and bike rental's.

Posted by
5647 posts

https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/trip-reports/the-netherlands-belgium-april-2024-brought-the-rain-pants-needed-the-rain-pants

Perhaps my Trip Report can help. Yes, it rains, and it is also very windy, being so close to the North Sea. But it is fantastic.
Prices are very reasonable to Keikenhof. Cost also depends on whether you're booking transportation with your admittance ticket.
I think the bikes were about 11 euros for about three hours, I'll check.
Enjoy this beautiful area, Tulip time is incredible! Safe travels!

Posted by
10627 posts

We went on April 27, 2022. The weather was nice and sunny. We went the afternoon of Kings Day and the crowds were manageable.

Posted by
291 posts

I went to Keukenhof last year on April 17 and it was gorgeous. Went first thing on a Monday morning and beat the crowds. Overall temperatures were cool, I wore my puffer more than I expected to and although it did rain on occasion, it certainly wasn’t all the time. A light pair of gloves came in handy too.

Posted by
33985 posts

I have been several times, and the date you mention is pretty much peak of the peak, most years. These days I make no predictions because of climate change.

Expect crowds at all times there, at the time you are going expect max crowds.

Expect wind, rain, sun in any proportions.

Posted by
673 posts

Thank you all for your input. Just getting started on this trip.
Pat read your wonderful report. have taken to researching Harlem. I will have our 16 year old granddaughter with us so I have to find some interesting things for her as well. Looking at Zaanse Schans.

Posted by
5647 posts

I'm sure your granddaughter will enjoy the canal boat tours. We went on them in each town. They are are unique and fun.