Hillegom is one of those spots in South Holland where the sights and smells of blooming tulips make you feel like you’ve stepped into a painting. Unlike the crowded Keukenhof, Hillegom offers authentic, close-up experiences with the flower fields and local scenery. We especially love the Tulip Barn because it’s a chance to learn about a kaleidoscope of colors with over 175 tulip varieties, plus enjoy a cozy atmosphere with food, drinks, and plenty of photo props. If you’re after a broader taste of Holland’s iconic sights, the Holland Photo Tour combines windmills, tulips, and boat rides, making it a great all-in-one adventure. For an in-depth look, both options are worth considering, and you can read about them below.
In this list, we cover two top tours in Hillegom: one focused on the breathtaking tulip experience at the Tulip Barn and the other offering a small-group tour that combines windmills, tulips, and scenic boat rides, detailed at Holland Photo Tour — Windmills, Tulips & Views. These experiences showcase different sides of the region’s springtime charm, whether you want a relaxed flower garden visit or a longer, photo-focused outing.
1. Hillegom: Tulip Barn Entry Ticket
At number one, the Hillegom: Tulip Barn Entry Ticket offers a full day immersed in the beauty of tens of thousands of blooming tulips. The ticket grants you access to the Tulip Barn, a family-run operation with 100 years of flower-growing expertise. This experience is perfect if you’re eager to see more than 175 tulip varieties in one place, each with its own shade and form. The Tulip Barn is located just 10 minutes from Keukenhof, making it a less crowded alternative for tulip viewing, yet just as stunning.
What makes this tour stand out is the relaxed setting. You can stroll among the tulips, pose with over 20 photo props, or settle into a greenhouse or terrace to enjoy food and drinks in comfort. The family’s passion for flowers is evident in the detailed displays and the variety of blooms—you’re not just looking at flowers; you’re experiencing a piece of Dutch horticultural tradition. With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 81 reviews, visitors often comment on the vibrant colors and the friendly atmosphere. It’s a fantastic choice for nature lovers or anyone wanting a peaceful, colorful day in the countryside.
Bottom Line: If you want a straightforward, beautiful, and relaxing tulip experience that’s rich in variety and perfect for photo ops, the Tulip Barn is hard to beat. It’s a great choice for those seeking a more intimate, less touristy environment.
2. Holland Photo Tour — Windmills, Tulips & Views
The second tour, the Holland Photo Tour — Windmills, Tulips & Views, offers a six-hour journey that’s ideal for travelers who want to capture Holland’s most iconic sights. Starting from Amsterdam, this small-group tour combines scenic boat cruising on the Kagerplassen with visits to a working windmill, where you’ll learn about its history from a knowledgeable guide. Afterwards, you’ll drive through acres of blooming tulip fields, stopping at prime photo spots.
What makes this tour special is its mix of land and water— the boat cruise provides a refreshing way to see the countryside, while the visits to windmills and tulip fields give you plenty of opportunities for photo-perfect shots. The guide’s insights help deepen your understanding of Dutch culture, from the importance of windmills to the seasonal bloom cycle of the tulip fields. Visitors especially enjoy the chance to get up close to 2.5 million tulips and capture the stunning scenery at its peak. The tour is well-rated for its scenic diversity and the expert guiding that helps you frame the best shots.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in a comprehensive, photo-oriented experience that combines boat rides, windmills, and tulips, this tour offers excellent value and a well-rounded glimpse of Holland’s springtime landscapes.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding between the Tulip Barn Entry Ticket and the Holland Photo Tour, consider your interests and schedule. If you’re looking for a peaceful day focused on viewing and photographing beautiful tulips in a family-run setting, the Tulip Barn provides a cozy, authentic experience. On the other hand, if you want to see Holland’s countryside from different angles—including a scenic boat cruise, windmill visits, and extensive tulip fields—the Photo Tour offers a broader, more active day.
Budget and time are also factors. The Tulip Barn visit is a full-day experience, ideal if you want to spend plenty of time among the flowers without rushing. The Photo Tour lasts six hours and suits travelers with limited time or those eager to combine multiple sights into one trip. Both tours offer excellent opportunities for photography, but the Photo Tour’s guided stops at the most camera-ready locations make it particularly appealing for photography enthusiasts.
Booking early is advisable during the tulip season (April to early May), as these tours fill up quickly. Whether you prefer a relaxed flower garden visit or an action-packed photo adventure, Hillegom’s tours deliver authentic Dutch springtime magic.
In summary, Hillegom offers a delightful range of experiences, from peaceful tulip field visits to dynamic photo excursions. The Tulip Barn is perfect for those wanting a quiet, colorful escape, while the Holland Photo Tour provides a more varied and scenic day out. For a truly memorable spring trip, consider what kind of experience fits your style best, and don’t forget to book early to secure your spot in these popular tours.
