Our Netherlands trip included a visit to the wonderful Keukenhof flower gardens. Open for just two months each year, this is the place to see tulips (of course) and many other varieties of 'blumen.'
This was actually our third visit; our first (2008) was during the peak (which occurs in mid-April each year, plus or minus time based on weather); our second (2010) was after the peak; this time was just before the peak. Though not everything was in bloom, we still enjoyed the dazzling colors, meticulous landscaping, and peaceful atmosphere . . . in the morning.
The crowds picked up significantly as the day wore on, making maneuverability and picture mores more difficult.
The next day, we drove around the area, seeing the flower fields from afar. I understand Netherlands grows 70% of the world's corporate flowers . . . wow. Rent a bike to see them up close (I wish we had).
If you get a chance to visit, arrive early (they open at 8am), be prepared to walk (we did over 4 miles as we combed the park), bring food (they allow backpacks), and bring a nice camera. And be prepared to sit in the car for a long time when leaving . . . the area is small and not built to handle such crowds (a tourist season is measured in weeks doesn't justify infrastructure expansion).
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