While tulips may be the stars of spring, the Dutch countryside doesn’t lose its charm in summer. From early August through mid–October, the region around Amsterdam bursts into color once again—this time with dahlias, gladiolus, sunflowers and more. It’s the perfect time to enjoy a more relaxed floral experience, with fewer crowds and plenty of photo opportunities.
The Dahlia Festival – A Celebration of Summer Blooms
The heart of the summer flower season is the Dahlia Festival, a colorful celebration hosted by local flower farms and gardens. During this event, you can:
- Visit flower farms in full bloom, including Tulip Farm De Tulperij
- Admire flower mosaics and join local competitions
- Go behind the scenes during Bollenstreek in Bedrijf
- Explore the show gardens at Keukenhof Castle during the Dahlia Days
- Ride the Bollenstreek Flower Route, a scenic cycling path through blooming summer fields
- Join a guided bike tour along dahlia fields, farms, and hidden countryside spots
From family fun to artistic displays, the Dahlia Festival is a must-see event for flower lovers visiting the Netherlands in late summer or early autumn. The region is perfect for exploring by bike, with quiet paths, vibrant colors, and plenty of stops to take in the view—or snap the perfect summer photo.
Guided Day Tour from Amsterdam – Flowers & Windmills
One of the best ways to experience the summer flower season is via a day tour from Amsterdam. This unique tour includes:
- A visit to flower farm De Tulperij during peak dahlia bloom
- A relaxing boat tour on the Amsterdam Lakes, with views of traditional Dutch windmills and picturesque villages
- Time to enjoy local products and stories from passionate flower growers
👉 This tour is highly recommended and often sells out—make sure to reserve early.
Explore the Summer Flowers by Bike
The best way to experience the blooming fields of the Dutch countryside is by bike—and summer is the perfect season for it!
Bollenstreek Flower Route
Cycle through the heart of the Dahlia Festival along the Bollenstreek Flower Route. This free self-guided route leads you past flower farms, colorful dahlia fields, and charming rural landscapes. It’s well-marked and perfect for visitors who want to explore at their own pace.
- Bike rentals available in Noordwijkerhout, Noordwijk and Voorhout
Guided Bike Tour
Want to learn more about the flowers and meet the growers? Join a guided bike tour during the Dahlia Festival.
- Visit local flower farms and summer show gardens
- Get behind-the-scenes stories from real bulb growers
- Includes stops for great photos
- This summer bike tour starts at Flower Farm De Tulperij
Populair articles on Dutch Countryside
- See the windmills in Zaanse Schans
- Admire the tulips at Keukenhof Tulip Park
- Plan your visit with the Dutch Countryside map
- Travel inexpensively on public transport with the Dutch Countryside Card