Best Springtime Cruise Guide: Tulips, Hidden Gems & Culture in the Netherlands & Belgium

Springtime in the Netherlands & Belgium: A Cruise Director’s Guide to Hidden Gems and Tulip Magic

As a cruise director and someone who calls this region home, I can tell you firsthand—springtime in the Netherlands and Belgium is pure magic. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned traveler, there’s something about this season that makes everything feel alive. But there’s so much more to see beyond the well-trodden paths of Amsterdam and Antwerp. Let’s dive into why this time of year is so special, what makes this region a must-visit in spring, and a few hidden gems you won’t want to miss.

If you’ve ever seen breathtaking images of endless tulip fields stretching to the horizon, chances are they were taken in the Netherlands. Tulip season is the country’s shining moment, and the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens is at the heart of it all. But here’s something you may not know—Keukenhof is only open for a limited time each year, typically from mid-March to mid-May.

Keukenhof guarantees beauty whenever you visit, but the experience changes throughout the season. In early spring, you’ll see crocuses, daffodils, and hyacinths. Later, in mid to late April, you’ll catch the tulips in full bloom. While the exact timing varies each year, the Keukenhof gardeners are masters at ensuring that no matter when you arrive, there will always be a breathtaking display of flowers.

Beyond Keukenhof, the flower fields themselves are a sight to behold. Rows upon rows of vibrant colors, stretching across the countryside. But did you know? These flowers aren’t grown just for their beauty—many are cut early to allow the bulbs to grow stronger, ensuring that the Netherlands continues to be the tulip capital of the world.

One of the biggest questions I get as a cruise director is, “When is the best time to see the tulips?” And the honest answer? There’s no perfect answer! Mother Nature is in charge here, and every season is different. Mid to late April is your best bet, but even then, conditions vary.

That leads us to another topic—Dutch spring weather. One day, you’ll get a perfect spring afternoon with sunshine and mild temperatures. The next? It might feel like autumn, with chilly winds and rain. And sometimes, you get all four seasons in a single day (yes, really).

There’s an old Dutch saying: “If you don’t like the weather, just wait 15 minutes.” So, my best advice? Layers, layers, layers! Bring a waterproof jacket, comfortable shoes, and something warm, just in case.

Sure, Amsterdam and Antwerp are incredible, and we’ll definitely explore them—but trust me when I say the real magic is in the lesser-known stops along the way. Often, these are the places travelers end up loving the most! They arrive with no expectations and leave completely enchanted.

One thing you’ll notice when browsing itineraries is that you’ll see stops in places you’ve never heard of—small towns tucked away in Zeeland. Before I became a program director, even I hadn’t heard of some of them! But time and time again, these lesser-known destinations end up being passenger favorites. With charming harbors, historic streets, and a slower pace of life, they provide a glimpse into the authentic Dutch experience that the big cities simply can’t offer.

Many itineraries include stops in Enkhuizen or Hoorn, two towns deeply tied to the history of the Dutch East India Company (VOC). Walking through their harbors, you can still feel the legacy of the merchants and explorers who once sailed from these very shores to far-off lands.

But there's more—this region was once part of the Zuiderzee, a vast inland sea that shaped Dutch maritime history. The closing of the Afsluitdijk in 1932 turned it into the calm IJsselmeer, protecting the land from floods but also reshaping an entire ecosystem. A stop in Enkhuizen often includes the Zuiderzee Museum, which brings this history to life.

Ghent is one of Belgium’s best-kept secrets. Often overshadowed by Bruges or Brussels, this city has a perfect blend of medieval charm and vibrant modern energy. The stunning Gravensteen Castle, the serene canals, and the towering St. Bavo’s Cathedral (home to the famous Adoration of the Mystic Lamb painting) make it a must-visit. And let’s not forget the food—Ghent is one of the best places to enjoy Belgian cuisine, from waffles to local craft beers.

The Netherlands and Belgium are known as the Low Countries for a reason—much of the land is below sea level. This has shaped everything from the way we build our cities to how we’ve defended them. Water isn’t just a feature of the landscape; it’s a part of our history, our daily life, and our survival.

One defining moment in that history was the Eighty Years’ War (1568–1648), when the Dutch fought for independence from Spain. Our use of water as a defensive weapon, our trading power, and our drive for autonomy helped forge the independent spirit that still defines the region today.

Even now, you’ll notice it in everyday life—whether it’s the directness of the Dutch, the entrepreneurial nature of the Belgians, or our shared love for questioning authority and doing things our own way.

Would I recommend this cruise? Absolutely! But here’s the thing—you have to embrace uncertainty. If you’re looking for guaranteed sunshine every day, you might be better off heading to Southern California. Every country comes with its own climate, and the Netherlands and Belgium are no exception.

But here’s what makes it special: there is no bad weather, only bad preparation. Be like the Dutch—whatever the weather brings, we make the best of it. When the sun shines, we soak it up and enjoy it to the fullest. And when the weather isn’t as great? We take it as it is and keep going. That’s part of the adventure, and that’s what makes this journey unique.

If you come prepared and embrace the experience, I can promise you one thing—you’ll leave with incredible memories and stories to tell.