Amsterdam Tulip Museum

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Tulips are a symbolic feature of The Netherlands, having been introduced into the country in the 16th century. This beautiful flower has a short season, blooming from late March to mid-May, in which time, The Netherlands utilise this period for commercial horticulture. If you are visiting Amsterdam outside of the tulip season, and are unable to appreciate the colourful tulip cultivations, you can take a trip to Amsterdam’s Tulip Museum, to learn about the history of the flower, and the affect it had on Holland’s commercial industry.

‘Tulip Mania’ emerged in the 16th century, when the first shipment of bulbs was believed to have arrived from Istanbul, and the first cultivations were developed. Tulips were initially a firm favourite of affluent individuals, and soon there was immense competition between growers for the most impressive, beautifully coloured tulip. During the 17th century the boom for tulip bulbs increased, with communities selling their livelihood to invest in the market, with some rare bulbs selling at extortionate prices. The tulip market deflated in 1637 and damaged The Netherlands’ economic structure.

Tulips were an inspiration for many artists. The museum showcases many great works, including pieces from Judith Leijster – a 17th century artist, who captured the delicate beauty of a tulip in her paintings. The museum documents the history of the tulip, from its introduction into Dutch horticulture to its modern-day cultivation, through a variety of multimedia presentations and art exhibits. Visitors can even purchase their own tulip bulbs to take back to their Amsterdam holiday apartment from the museum shop, in addition to a variety of traditional crafts, gardening books and souvenirs.

The Amsterdam Tulip Museum is open daily from 10am – 6pm. Admission for adults is €4 and €2 for students. Children up to 12 years can visit the museum for free. The Tulip Museum is located in the Jordaan district, conveniently located to many Amsterdam holiday apartments, and can be reached by taking trams 13 or 17 to Wester Kerk. Alternatively, the museum is a 15 walk from the Central Station.