Floral fantasia
Visit Keukenhof, in the town of Lisse, where some seven million bulbs are in bloom from March to May. The 79-acre site includes pristine flower beds planted in scintillating blocks of colour that flow through the gardens like silk ribbons. There are 15km kilometres of footpaths leading you through the grounds, past water features, fountains and sculptures, and under cherry trees dripping with pink puffballs of blossom. Keukenhof is an easy day trip from Amsterdam, and it’s also a prime spot to watch the annual Flower Parade, which takes place this year on 23 April. Go early to secure a good view.