Forget Tulips: Pick Dahlias in the Netherlands

When you think of flowers in the Netherlands, you likely think of tulips. But if you visit later in the year, you’ll find another vibrant bloom taking over the fields: dahlias. With unique shapes, variety of types and colors, dahlias are a favorite of mine. The best part is that the crowds to experience them are a fraction of those who visit for tulips.

Here’s a secret that many visitors don’t know: at a pluktuin (pick-your-own garden), you can wander through rows of dahlias and create your own bouquet to take home.

Scroll to the end for a Google Map with locations.

Brown paper bucket filled with a bunch of pink dahlias sitting on a grey metal table with plant clippers in front

When is Dahlia Season in the Netherlands?

Dahlias typically bloom from late-July through October, with the peak season in late August and September. That’s usually when the gardens will be open. This makes them the perfect reason to plan a trip to the Netherlands outside the busy spring tulip season.

Please double check all dates and hours because weather and vacations can alter these. Also be sure to check their social media for up-to-date information.

pink dahlias on the stems in front of the sign for De Tulperij

Dahlia Pluktuinen to Visit in the Netherlands

Here are some of the most beautiful dahlia fields and pluktuinen you can visit:

De Tulperij – Voorhout

De Tulperij is known for its tulip garden in spring, but from mid-August through October it transforms into a vibrant dahlia garden. You can enjoy their cafe with cozy outdoor seating, wander through the colorful fields, and even pick their own flowers.

Season: 7 August – 12 October 2025

Opening Times: Daily, 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (no appointment needed)

Price: Free entrance, €0.80 per flower

Pluktuin Bloemrijk – Wageningen

Located near Arnhem, Pluktuin Bloemrijk is a spot most visitors will not seek out. This makes it the perfect hidden gem. They host various workshops throughout the year and you can pick your own stems to take home.

Season: 11 June – September 2025

Opening Times: Wednesdays & Saturdays, 12:00 – 4:00 PM (no appointment needed)

Price: €16 for a self-picked bouquet or €3 entry (without picking)

Pluktuin Friesland – Ryptsjerk

If you’re heading north towards Leeuwarden, Pluktuin Friesland is a must. Situated in Ryptsjerk, this picking garden offers 100 varieties of dahlias and activities for children.

Season: Until mid-October 2025

Opening Times: Saturdays, 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Price: Bouquet of 15 stems €10

Dahlia Pluktuin Wilgenhart – Molenschot

Wilgenhart offers a recreation farm, a campsite and various activities in addition to a dahlia pluktuin, between Breda and Tilburg. Here you’ll find countless dahlia varieties, and plenty of things to do for the whole family, including meeting alpacas.

Season: 18 July – 1 October 2025

Opening Times: Wednesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (book online)

Price: 15 stems €7.95 or 25 stems €13.25

I Love Dahlia – Noordwijkerhout

As the name suggests, this farm is all about dahlias. With more than 500 varieties on their organic flower farm, I Love Dahlia is one of the best places in the Netherlands to see the diversity of these flowers up close.

Season: 26 July – 27 September 2025

Opening Times: Wednesdays, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM & Saturdays, from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (book online)

Price: €20 to fill a bucket or €5 entry (without picking)

Tips for Visiting Dahlia Fields

Best time: August–September for peak blooms.

Check schedules: Opening times vary and may depend on weather.

Bring cash or card: Payment options differ by location.

Dress smart: Fields can be muddy; wear comfortable shoes.

Respect the fields: Only pick where it’s allowed and follow farm rules.

Why Visit Dahlia Fields in the Netherlands?

Visiting during dahlia season is a unique way to experience Dutch flowers in a more relaxed, colorful setting compared to the busy tulip season. Whether you’re in the Bollenstreek or up in Friesland, the variety of dahlias is sure to brighten your trip.

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