Nestled within the scenic tulip fields near Amsterdam, Keukenhof garden has officially opened its doors for the spring season, drawing visitors eager to capture the beauty of one of the Netherlands’ most iconic symbols — the tulip. Under the bright sun, the garden’s walkways, benches, and cafes become crowded spaces as tourists from around the globe flock to snap selfies and capture the stunning floral displays for their social media feeds.
Austrian lawyer Daniel Magnus was among those drawn to the garden’s vibrant allure. Influenced by captivating images on social media, he found himself compelled to experience the myriad colors and picturesque scenes firsthand. “Social media really influences where you decide to travel,” Magnus stated, reflecting on the impact of influencer photography.
Magnus played the role of photographer on a small boat positioned in one of Keukenhof’s canals, taking advantage of the strategic spots the garden offers for the perfect Instagram moment. With 7 million flower bulbs planted and nurtured by the garden staff, the display is a breathtaking sight for the eyes, designed to bloom in majestic splendor during the garden’s eight-week window.
Keukenhof has embraced the age of social media, transforming its landscape to include designated selfie spots with flower archways, plush seating, and beloved Dutch icons like oversized wooden clogs. Its own social media channels offer guidance for visitors wanting to make their photos stand out, suggesting techniques such as off-center framing to create dynamic visuals.
Patrick van Dijk, one of the gardeners, highlighted the garden’s constant allure, noting, “There’s an endless array of blooms ensuring there’s always something new for visitors to admire.” However, this popularity has led some local farmers to implement protective measures against the influx of avid photographers, setting up barriers to preserve their delicate flower fields from intrusions.
Expanding beyond the Netherlands, tulip fields have also sprouted across Europe, captivating visitors. Notably, Edwin Koeman, a Dutch tulip bulb trader, has brought this colorful spectacle to Italy. In a town north of Milan called Arese, Koeman cultivates tulips on land favorably impacted by shorter winters and ample sunshine. Last year, his field attracted a record number of 50,000 visitors, eager to wander through the vibrant flowers and gather their own tulip treasures.
Regular visitor Viola Guidi attested to the charm of Koeman’s fields, exclaiming, “Each visit with friends is a joyful experience. The rush to pick the finest blooms adds to the excitement.” According to Nada Forbici, national coordinator of the Coldiretti floriculture council, Italy exports around one-third of its 43 million tulips, primarily to northern Europe, reflecting an increasing demand for these vibrant blooms.