All of us, at one time or another, have experienced the beauty of tulips, whether by planting bulbs in a personal garden, admiring potted displays on a balcony, or enjoying vibrant blooms in a local park or decorative median. While a quick glance at tulips can be pleasing, there’s something truly captivating about those multi-colored tulip fields with stately windmills in the background, seen in countless travel brochures.
The allure becomes even greater when coupled with the more than 7 million tulip bulbs in 800 varieties planted each year at the Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse, Netherlands, which solidifies the decision to travel there, especially given the short, peak-blooming window from mid-April to mid-May.
But what else is there to explore once you’ve had your fill of those vibrant fields? Plenty! The iconic Anne Frank House, the world-renowned Van Gogh Museum and the captivating canals of Amsterdam are a good start.
Keukenhof Tulip Gardens: A Symphony of Spring
Prepare to be enchanted by a floral tapestry unlike any other as you visit the famed Keukenhof Gardens, nestled strikingly in the heart of Lisse, Netherlands. Often hailed as the “Garden of Europe,” this ephemeral paradise awakens for a fleeting eight-week ballet each spring, transforming 80 acres into a kaleidoscope of color. Millions of meticulously hand-planted bulbs burst forth in a resplendent display, showcasing the unparalleled beauty of hundreds of varieties, their petals unfurling alongside a vibrant chorus of fragrant daffodils and nodding hyacinths.
Beyond the breathtaking vistas of sculpted flowerbeds, discover hidden pavilions brimming with exotic botanical wonders, ascend a historic windmill for panoramic views of a surrounding sea of crimson and gold, or lose yourself in the whimsical embrace of a verdant hedge maze. Keukenhof is more than just a garden; it’s a sensory feast, a living masterpiece that celebrates the enduring magic of nature’s artistry and stands as a shimmering jewel in the crown of Dutch floriculture.
The Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is a biographical museum dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. It preserves the actual canal house and “Secret Annex” where Anne, her family, and four others hid from Nazi persecution during World War II for over two years. The museum allows visitors to experience the cramped, hidden living spaces and see original artifacts, including portions of Anne’s diary, offering a poignant and powerful insight into the daily lives of those in hiding and serving as a stark reminder of the Holocaust and the importance of freedom, equal rights, and fighting discrimination.
The Van Gogh Museum
Step into the Van Gogh Museum and prepare to be swept away by the vibrant, tumultuous, and utterly captivating world of Vincent van Gogh! This isn’t just a collection of paintings; it’s an exhilarating journey through the mind of a genius, from his early, somber works to the iconic, blazing masterpieces like “Sunflowers” and “The Potato Eaters.” You’ll witness his artistic evolution, feel the raw emotion in every brushstroke, and gain intimate insights into his life through his personal letters, making it an unforgettable, deeply moving experience that brings the legend of Van Gogh truly alive.
Other Sites and Sounds of Amsterdam
A vibrant and historically rich city, Amsterdam emerged from a 12th-century fishing village at the mouth of the Amstel River, a strategic location that allowed it to flourish into a major world port. Its iconic network of canals, a UNESCO World Heritage site, isn’t just picturesque; it was a revolutionary feat of engineering designed to manage water and facilitate trade during the Dutch Golden Age.
Beyond its waterways, the city boasts a remarkable collection of gabled canal houses, many dating back centuries, reflecting the architectural prowess and prosperity of its past. Today, Amsterdam remains a hub of art and culture, home to world-class institutions such as the Rijksmuseum, which showcases masterpieces of Dutch art and history, and the Stedelijk Museum, dedicated to modern and contemporary art.
Accommodations – Grand Hotel Huis ter Duin
Now, let’s look at a place to hang your hat while you’re exploring Holland. Amsterdam can be a bit hectic at times, so you probably want to stay somewhere more quiet and serene when you’re not dodging the thousands of manic bicyclists on the city streets of Amsterdam. And I found the perfect Nirvana; the 5-star, Grand Hotel Huis ter Duin in the cozy seaside town of Noordwijk.
This destination offers an unparalleled escape, seamlessly blending relaxation with upscale convenience. Imagine stepping directly from your hotel onto a private beach, where sun loungers and towels await, and the casual, beachfront dining at Breakers Beach House is just steps away. Beyond the beach, a world of wellness beckons. Dive into the indoor swimming pool, relax in the sauna, or indulge in a rejuvenating treatment at the full-service MC Wellness spa. Maintain your routine at the fitness center, complete with modern gym equipment.
A seaside room at the Grand Hotel Huis ter Duin is an elegant coastal sanctuary, ranging from 270 – 380 square feet, with decor that reflects the tranquil colors of the dunes and sea through a refined palette of soft neutrals and blues, complemented by luxurious fabrics and materials. The defining feature is the breathtaking, panoramic North Sea view of the Noordwijk coastline, often enjoyed from a private balcony ideal for breathing in the salty air.
This five-star retreat is designed for ultimate comfort, featuring a plush king-size bed with premium bedding, a charming seating area for relaxation with coffee or tea, a convenient workspace, and a modern private bathroom fully stocked with luxury bathrobes, slippers, and designer toiletries.
Savor exquisite culinary experiences with a variety of on-site restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Restaurant Latour for an unforgettable fine dining experience and the vibrant La Terrasse. However, the sunsets at the Breakers Beach House are the best I’ve seen in years, a perfect pairing to their delectable seafood. And to cap off a wonderful evening, you can enjoy a nightcap at one of the many inviting bars and lounges.
Traveling with little ones? The hotel is family-friendly, offering children’s activities during the summer, kid-friendly buffet options and convenient babysitting services (for a surcharge).
Stay connected with free, high-speed WiFi throughout the entire hotel. For your comfort, all rooms feature air conditioning, plush bedding, separate sitting areas and blackout curtains for a restful night’s sleep. Enjoy in-room conveniences such as a mini-bar, an espresso maker, and bathrobes and slippers. Entertainment is at your fingertips with flat-screen TV’s and cable channels. Private bathrooms are well-appointed with designer toiletries and hair dryers.
The hotel ensures a hassle-free stay with a 24-hour front desk and security, dedicated concierge services and a business center for your professional needs. Take advantage of premium services such as dry cleaning, laundry, ironing, and shoe shining. For those arriving by car, self-parking is available (for a fee), along with an electric vehicle charging station. The property is wheelchair accessible and dogs are welcome in designated areas, making it a truly inclusive experience.
Brussels
Brussels is a city steeped in history and renowned for its significant role in international politics. The city’s rich past is evident in its stunning architecture, from the ornate guildhouses surrounding the Grand Place to the futuristic Atomium, a symbol of the 1958 World’s Fair. But the Magritte Museum is a must for art aficionados as it houses the world’s largest collection of works by the renowned Belgian Surrealist, René Magritte, featuring over 200 paintings, drawings, sculptures, and archives, offering visitors a chronological journey through his enigmatic and thought-provoking art, showcasing his iconic imagery, like the bowler hat and questioning the nature of reality.
Brussels is also celebrated for its culinary delights, including world-famous chocolates, crispy waffles, and the ubiquitous French fries, making it a truly global crossroads blending diverse cultures and a strong sense of identity.
Accommodations – NH Collection Grand Sablon Hotel
The NH Collection Grand Sablon hotel, an elegant four-star establishment, commands a prime position on Brussels’ sophisticated Grand Sablon Square, an area celebrated for its charming antique shops, art galleries, and world-renowned chocolatiers. Behind its classic facade, guests are welcomed into thoughtfully designed spaces, from the stylish lobby that transforms into a bright breakfast area each morning, to the 196 contemporary rooms and suites. Each room offers a comfortable and serene retreat, featuring plush “Sleep Better” mattresses, Nespresso machines and large flat-screen TVs.
Many rooms also offer delightful views of the square or the historic Notre-Dame du Sablon church. Beyond the private sanctuaries, the hotel boasts an array of amenities, including an award-winning Spanish brasserie, Hispania by Marcos Morán, serving delectable regional dishes and tapas; a chic bar perfect for unwinding with a Belgian beer; and a fully equipped 24/7 gym. The dedicated Guest Relations team is on hand to ensure a seamless stay, offering personalized recommendations and assistance, all within easy strolling distance of Brussels’ most iconic landmarks like the Grand Place and the Royal Museums of Fine Arts.
Paris
Paris, the iconic “City of Lights,” offers an enchanting blend of history, culture, and undeniable romance. A major highlight for visitors is the magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral, which, having recently reopened in December 2024 after extensive restoration following the 2019 fire, stands once again as a testament to Gothic architecture and Parisian resilience. Just across the Seine, the Musée d’Orsay, housed in a stunning former Beaux-Arts railway station, captivates art lovers with its world-renowned collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, including works by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh.
And, of course, no visit to Paris is complete without witnessing the majestic Eiffel Tower, Gustave Eiffel’s wrought-iron marvel that continues to dominate the skyline, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a truly unforgettable symbol of the city.
Accommodations – Nuage
NUAGE, an enchanting boutique hotel on Rue Jean Mermoz in Paris’s sophisticated 8th arrondissement, is a true haven of “slow living” nestled just steps from the iconic Champs-Élysées. Reimagined in late 2021 from a historic, family-owned establishment, this intimate 27-room hotel, under the creative vision of architect Jordane Arrivetz and featuring original art curated by owner Olivier Breuil, truly embodies its name.
Its serene aesthetic is defined by a calming palette of whites, beiges, and soft earth tones, beautifully complemented by natural materials like light wood and travertine, and subtle, tactile textures throughout. Each individually decorated room and suite offers a peaceful, highly comfortable escape, complete with high-end amenities. Thoughtful, wellness-focused touches like yoga mats in every room further enhance the guest experience, and many rooms also boast charming balconies that open to picturesque views of Parisian streets or rooftops.
Beyond the private havens, NUAGE extends its tranquil ambiance to its carefully curated public spaces. Guests can unwind in a private cinema room, perfect for intimate screenings, or relax in a cozy, art-filled lounge and bar, brimming with inspiring art and travel books. The hotel also features a unique all-day breakfast concept, emphasizing healthy, gourmet, local, and organic options, alongside an inviting “water bar” offering various refreshing infused flavors.
The dedicated and multilingual staff contribute significantly to the hotel’s exceptional service, always on hand to offer personalized assistance and insightful recommendations for exploring the city. NUAGE stands out as a genuine urban retreat, seamlessly blending timeless Parisian elegance with a contemporary, mindful approach to hospitality, inviting guests to decompress, dream, and truly savor the essence of Paris at their own leisurely pace.
A Grand Spring Finale
This exciting springtime itinerary, beginning amidst the sublime tulip fields and cultural canals of Amsterdam (with a tranquil retreat at the five-star Grand Hotel Huis ter Duin in Noordwijk), sweeping down to the political and artistic hub of Brussels (at the elegant NH Collection Grand Sablon), and culminating with the romantic resilience and artistic heart of Paris (at the mindful boutique hotel, NUAGE)—is more than just a tour; it’s a perfectly choreographed, luxurious European getaway.
From the vivid artistry of Van Gogh and Magritte to the architectural splendor of Notre Dame and the Grand Place, and all the way back to a breathtaking, idyllic Noordwijk sunset, this journey offers a sophisticated blend of natural wonder, historic depth, and refined comfort that will leave you refreshed, inspired, and already planning your next grand tour.
If You Go:
Keukenhof Gardens – keukenhof.nl, Stationsweg 166A, 261 AM Lisse, Netherlands
Open March 19th – May 10th, 2026, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., +31-252465555, [email protected].
Grand Hotel Huis ter Duin – huisterduin.com, Koningin Astrid Boulevard 5, Noordwijk aan Zee, NL, Reservations: +31 71 365 1300, [email protected].
Anne Frank House – annefrank.org, Westermarkt 20, 1012 WP, Amsterdam, Netherlands+31(0)20 5567100, [email protected].
For tickets to the Anne Frank House, you must purchase them exclusively through the official Anne Frank House website. Tickets for specific time slots become available online every Tuesday at 10:00 AM CET (Central European Time) for visits about six weeks in the future. You should plan to purchase tickets for the desired date and time slot as soon as they are released, as they sell out very quickly.
The Van Gogh Museum – vangognmuseum.nl, Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam, +31 20 570 5200, [email protected]. All visitors are required to book a timed entry ticket online in advance.
NH Collection Brussels Grand Sablon – nh-hotels.com/en/hotel/nh-collection-brussels-grand-sablon, Bodenbroekstraat, 2, 1000 Brussels, Belgium, Reservations: +32 2 518 1100, [email protected].
The Magritte Museum – musee-magritte-museum.be, Place Royale 1, 1000 Brussels, Belgium, +32 2 508 33 33, [email protected].
Notre Dame Cathedral – To get free tickets or make a reservation, visit the official Notre-Dame de Paris website or use their mobile app to select a time slot for entry. While entry to the cathedral is free for all visitors, reserving a time slot online is highly recommended to skip long lines, though walk-up entry is also possible depending on current capacity. Reservations are for up to six people and are available up to 3 days in advance, with new slots often released at midnight Paris time. notredamedeparis.fr/en
Musées d’Orsay – musee-orsay.fr/en, Esplanade Valéry Giscard d’Estaing,
75007 Paris, +33 (0)1 40 49 47 28, [email protected].
Nuage Hotel – www.nuage.paris, 30 Rue Jean Mermoz, 75008 Paris, +33 1 42 25 75 30 [email protected].
Richard Atkins is an award-winning travel photo-journalist, pianist, composer, playwright, screenwriter and actor and can be reached at: [email protected] or [email protected].
Richard Atkins is a travel photo-journalist, playwright, screenwriter, actor and pianist. He can be reached at: [email protected].