24 hours in the Flower Strip: lakes and recreation

Walk around Aalsmeer

From 10:30 to 12:00

Aalsmeer's flowery reputation dates back to the early 20th century. If you are an early bird, do not miss the Royal FloraHolland Flower Auction, which is best enjoyed in the early morning hours, while the trading is at its peak. But even if you prefer a more leisurely morning, there's much to enjoy about Aalsmeer, from its corn mill de Leeuw to small artist studios that are open for visitors, such as the visual art studio of Cathy van der Meulen.

Duration: 1.5 hours

Tuck into a tasty lunch on a secluded lakeside terrace

From 12:00 to 13:00

Papa’s Beach House, situated in the middle of the Haarlemmermeerse forest, is the perfect hidden spot to escape the crowds. Tuck into their delicious lunch menu, have a special Papa's beer on the terrace, dip in the water, or tell stories by the campfire. With loads of seafood on the menu, this restaurant feels like a seaside holiday. Alternatively, read this guide to restaurants and bars in the area for more tips on where to eat nearby.

Duration: 1 hour

Enjoy a boat tour of the Westeinderplassen

From 13:30 to 14:30

From May to October, you can float past countless islands teeming with flora and fauna on an organised boat tour of the Westeinderplassen. This fascinating cruise will take you through a maze of islands as the knowledgeable skippers fill you in on the region’s horticultural history. If you're planning in advance, don't miss the special Lilac Experience from January until the early spring months of March and April, during which you will learn about the production of lilacs. Who knew that ninety-five percent of the world's production of lilac flowers comes from Aalsmeer?

Duration: 1 hour

Discover hidden architectural gems

From 15:00 to 16:00

Your education on water management continues at the Aalsmeer Watertoren. This elaborately decorated water tower, built in the Art Deco style is situated on the edge of the Westeinderplassen. Climb to the top for stunning views of the area. When planning in advance, keep in mind that the water tower is open on various Sundays depending on the month.

Duration: 1 hour

Get inspired by nature at the Flower Art Museum

From 16:00 to 17:00

Across the road from the water tower, you will find the Flower Art Museum, located in the former water cellar. This novel museum organises exhibitions with renowned artists in which flowers and plants play the leading role. The art on display is hopeful, reverent and representative of the cycle of life: a perfect addition to your Flower Strip visit. When planning your visit, keep in mind that the museum is open from Thursday to Sunday.

Duration: 1 hour

Spend the night in a teepee

Spend the night in a peaceful wooden cabin or teepee tent at RecreatiePark Aalsmeer. This exceptional glamping site offers various accommodation options for groups of between two and four guests. Some of the sites are directly on the water if you fancy some late-evening watersports. Fancy a bit more comfort? Rent a room at one of the many other hotels and B&Bs in the region.

Cycle through the flower fields

From 11:00 to 14:00

Renting a bike is the perfect way to explore the flower region at your own pace and just outside the main entrance of Keukenhof, you’ll find Rent-a-Bike van Dam. You have four marked routes to choose from - ranging from between 5km to 25km - all of which are well signposted, fairly flat and very safe. For the real green-fingered fanatics, there is also a longer ‘Bulb Route’, a bum-numbing 35km. Check out this Flowers cycle route, too, which passes several of the main attractions in the area

Duration: 3 hours

Refuel at Orchard De Olmenhorst

From 14:00 to 15:00

De Olmenhorst's cafe De Fruitloods is the perfect pit stop for a glass of homegrown apple juice or a typical Dutch lunch of a fried croquette. If you wish to dillydally around a while longer, consider booking a high-tea experience. And if you're in the area towards the autumn, you can go apple picking in their orchard!

Duration: 1 hour

Enjoy the spring blooms at the Historical Garden Aalsmeer

From 15:30 to 17:00

From April to October, you can learn about Aalsmeer's horticultural history at the Museum Historical Garden. The museum grounds do not only feature various flowers but also bring to light all the equipment and structures that were necessary to make Aalsmeer the flower region. In 2024, the museum is highlighting the hydrangea with over 180 hydrangea varieties on show, as well as a special bus tour past the plant nurseries.

Duration: 1.5 hours

Watch the sun go down over the lakes

From 17:30 onwards

After a full day of sightseeing, there’s no better place to watch the sun go down, cocktail in hand, than at On the Rock. Perched on the edge of the Westeinderplassen, this beachy pavilion with a large waterside terrace offers spectacular sunset views every season. The dinner menu here offers creative twists on European classics.

Pressed for time? Check out these 6 and 12-hour guides to exploring the region.