Between mid-March and mid-May, something magical happens in the Bollenstreek bulb region: sprawling fields of Dutch tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, orchids, roses, lilies, carnations, and irises bloom in unison, and the area transforms into a kaleidoscope of springtime colors. With your local host to lead the way, you’ll explore the quintessentially Dutch charm of Keukenhof Gardens, one of the world’s most extensive flower gardens. Weave through fields of blooming bulbs on foot or by rented bicycle (this is the Netherlands, after all), or relax on a boat slowly cruising through the idyllic landscape. When lunch rolls around, settle down for a peaceful picnic in the park or grab a portion of small, fluffy poffertjies before returning to Amsterdam via the Keukenhof Express Bus.

Thirty miles west of Amsterdam, a short distance inland from the North Sea, the Bollenstreek bulb region is one of the biggest, brightest and most beautiful attractions in the Netherlands. Sheltered by sand dunes, flowers flourish here like nowhere on earth – and at the center of this bulb belt is Keukenhof Gardens, one of the biggest tourist attractions in the Netherlands. With your local host to take the hassle out of organizing transport, you’ll hop on the train to seven-million spring-flowering bulbs. Discover the different gardens within Keukenhof, from the Tropical Beach Garden to the Red Romance Garden, view art peppered among the flowers, and visit the charming, quintessentially Dutch Keukenhof windmill for a vivid view of endless flower fields.