Things To Do
in Lisse

Lisse is a charming town located in the western Netherlands, known for its beautiful flower fields and iconic Keukenhof Gardens, which attract tourists from around the world. The town has a rich horticultural history and hosts the annual Flower Parade, a colorful event featuring floats decorated with stunning floral designs. Lisse is also home to historic landmarks such as the Keukenhof Castle and the Sint-Agathakerk church, adding to its cultural appeal.

With its picturesque landscapes and vibrant floral displays, Lisse is a delightful destination for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts.

  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank je wel" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
  • "Tot ziens" - See you later

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
  • Coffee: $3 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $80
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Lisses Gardens
morning
:

Visit the famous Keukenhof Gardens to admire the stunning tulips and vibrant floral displays. Enjoy a relaxing stroll among the various themed gardens.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a nearby café before heading to the Lisse Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region. Don't miss the local art exhibitions on display.

evening
:

Wander through the quaint streets of Lisse and find a cozy restaurant for dinner. Sample traditional Dutch cuisine while reflecting on the day’s beauty.

day 2
Cycle Through the Countryside
morning
:

Rent a bicycle and take a scenic ride through the picturesque Dutch countryside. Enjoy the serene landscapes, fields of flowers, and charming windmills.

afternoon
:

Stop for a picnic lunch in a scenic spot and recharge before continuing your adventure. Explore smaller villages nearby to experience local life.

evening
:

Return to Lisse and visit a local pub for an authentic Dutch beer. Share stories of your cycling adventure with friendly locals.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful flower fields, especially during spring with the famous Keukenhof nearby.
  • Charming small-town atmosphere with a sense of community.
  • Proximity to larger cities like Haarlem and Amsterdam for additional amenities and activities.
  • Good transportation links, making it easy to travel within the Netherlands.
  • Rich cultural history and access to various historical sites.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
  • Potentially higher cost of living due to tourist popularity, especially during peak season.
  • Fewer job opportunities within the town itself, leading residents to commute to nearby cities.
  • Can become crowded with tourists during peak flower season.
  • Limited shopping and dining options compared to more urban areas.

Best Activities in Lisse

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Keukenhof Gardens

Visit the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens, known for its stunning displays of tulips and other flowers, and explore the beautiful parkland

Cycling in the Bollenstreek

Enjoy cycling through the vibrant flower fields of the Bollenstreek region, taking in the colorful landscapes and scenic countryside

Hiking in the Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen

Embark on a hiking adventure in the Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen, a nature reserve offering diverse flora and fauna amidst sand dunes and forests

Boat Tour of the Kaag Lakes

Take a boat tour of the picturesque Kaag Lakes, an ideal way to experience the tranquil waters and charming villages of the area

Tours

Uncover the best of Lisse with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Lisse

Visit one of these nice places.

Keukenhof Gardens

A world-famous flower garden with stunning displays of tulips and other flowers, offering numerous photo opportunities.

Windmill De Zemelen

A picturesque windmill offering panoramic views of the surrounding flower fields.

Lisse city center

A charming area with historic buildings and canals, providing photo opportunities of traditional Dutch architecture.

Food in Lisse

Lisse, Netherlands, offers a delightful mix of traditional Dutch cuisine and international flavors. The region's culinary scene is heavily influenced by its rich agricultural heritage, featuring farm-fresh produce, dairy products, and a wide variety of locally sourced ingredients.

Lisse Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stroopwafel

A quintessential Dutch treat, consisting of two thin waffle layers with a caramel-like syrup filling. Best enjoyed freshly made at the weekly markets or local bakeries.

Must-Try!

Haring

Raw herring served with onions and pickles - a popular street food offering, especially during the herring season (May-July). Look for herring stands at the outdoor markets or near the waterfront.

Poffertjes

Miniature, fluffy pancakes served with powdered sugar and butter - a delightful snack often found at local fairs, food stalls, and cafes.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Lisse better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Lisse Saturday Market

A vibrant market offering a wide range of local produce, cheeses, baked goods, and street food. Look out for stroopwafels, freshly caught herring, and other local delights.

Keukenhof Gardens Food Stalls

During the spring season, the famous Keukenhof Gardens host a variety of food stalls serving regional specialties and international cuisine amidst the stunning tulip fields.

Weather

The climate in this region is classified as a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average temperatures in summer typically hover around 20°C (68°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 2°C (36°F). Precipitation is relatively consistent throughout the year, with no distinct dry season. Rainfall averages approximately 800 to 900 mm annually, and the area can experience overcast skies and drizzle, particularly in fall and winter. The proximity to the North Sea moderates temperature extremes, contributing to the overall mildness. Winds from the sea can also bring moisture, influencing weather patterns. Overall, this region enjoys a pleasant climate suitable for agriculture, including its famous tulip cultivation.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting etiquette

In Lisse, it is customary to greet others with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Punctuality is also highly valued, so it's important to arrive on time for appointments and meetings.

Respect for personal space

Dutch people value their personal space, so it's important to maintain a respectful distance when interacting with others. Avoid standing too close or invading someone's personal space.

Dining etiquette

When dining in Lisse, it's polite to wait for the host or hostess to start eating before you do. Additionally, saying 'Bon appétit' or 'Eet smakelijk' before the meal is considered a respectful gesture.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Lisse with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in Lisse, a town known for its beautiful flower fields and proximity to popular tourist destinations in the Netherlands, tends to be quite good. Like many places in the Netherlands, it benefits from a low crime rate, making it a generally safe environment for both residents and visitors. The community is well-integrated, and public spaces are regularly monitored, contributing to a feeling of safety throughout the town. Emergency services are responsive and efficient, ensuring that assistance is readily available when needed. As in any town, it is still advisable for visitors to stay aware of their surroundings and take standard precautions to safeguard their belongings, especially in crowded areas. However, compared to larger cities, the likelihood of encountering serious crime is significantly lower. For travelers, enjoying the bike routes, parks, and festivals in Lisse can be done with peace of mind, knowing that the area is generally regarded as friendly and safe. Local authorities and community initiatives also focus on maintaining safety and enhancing the quality of life for all.

Tipping in Lisse

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In the Netherlands, tipping is generally not expected, as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, it is always appreciated to round up the bill or leave a small tip as a gesture of satisfaction with the service.

Payment

Payment in Lisse, Netherlands is widely done through electronic means such as debit or credit cards, and contactless payments are widely accepted. Cash is also a common mode of payment, although many places prefer electronic payments for hygiene and convenience.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Lisse.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (April - May)

Best time to visit Lisse, Netherlands, as it is the peak blooming season of the famous Keukenhof Gardens, known for its colorful tulip fields.

Summer (June - August)

Expect pleasant weather and outdoor events, including the Lisse Culinair food festival and various flower parades.

Autumn (September - November)

While the tulips may not be in bloom, autumn offers beautiful foliage and the opportunity to experience local harvest festivals and markets.

Winter (December - February)

The winter season in Lisse is characterized by colder temperatures and the festive atmosphere of Christmas markets.

Lisse at Night

In the heart of the Dutch countryside, the nightlife scene offers a cozy and intimate experience. Local bars and pubs are the main attractions, where the ambiance is warm and welcoming, reflecting the close-knit community spirit of the town. You can enjoy a fine selection of local beers and traditional Dutch snacks while engaging in friendly conversations with both locals and visitors. Cafés often extend their hours into the evening, providing a relaxed atmosphere for socializing. These spots occasionally feature live music or DJ sets, adding a lively touch to the experience. For those who prefer a quieter evening, many of these establishments also offer charming outdoor seating areas that are perfect for unwinding after a day spent exploring the famous nearby tulip fields or the Keukenhof gardens. While it may not boast the extensive nightlife options of larger cities, the town's evening options provide a delightful taste of local culture and hospitality, making it a pleasant stop for those who enjoy a more laid-back and intimate night out.

Hiking in Lisse

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Haarlemmerbos

A beautiful forest area located near Haarlemmermeer, great for walking and hiking with scenic views and a variety of trails.

Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen

A nature reserve and hiking area near the coast with dunes, forests, and wildlife, ideal for longer hikes and exploration.

Landschap Noord-Holland

A landscape park that offers various trails through nature reserves, fields, and along waterways, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Kagerplassen

A series of lakes surrounding Lisse, providing several walking paths and opportunities for hiking while enjoying the water views.

De Keukenhof

Famous for its tulip gardens, this area also has walking paths that allow visitors to enjoy the beautiful flowers and countryside during the blooming season.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Lisse through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Lisse by plane.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)

The largest and busiest international airport in the Netherlands, located approximately 30 km from Lisse.

Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM)

An international airport that serves the cities of Rotterdam and The Hague, located about 45 km from Lisse.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

The main international airport in Belgium, situated around 130 km from Lisse.

Eindhoven Airport (EIN)

A regional airport in the Netherlands that handles both international and domestic flights, located about 110 km from Lisse.

Düsseldorf Airport (DUS)

One of the major airports in Germany, located approximately 150 km from Lisse.

Walkability

Nestled in the heart of the Dutch countryside, this charming town is characterized by its picturesque landscape, flower fields, and well-planned infrastructure that encourages walking. The environment is lush with greenery, and the streets are lined with beautiful, well-maintained homes. Walkability in this area is enhanced by its flat terrain, making it easy for residents and visitors to navigate on foot. Pedestrian pathways are abundant, and the town features a network of sidewalks that connect residential areas with shops, parks, and recreational facilities. The presence of clearly marked crosswalks and traffic calming measures helps ensure safety for pedestrians, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere for walking. Many amenities such as supermarkets, bakeries, and cafes are within a short walking distance, promoting a lifestyle centered around convenience and accessibility. Additionally, the town hosts several parks that provide inviting spaces for leisurely strolls or family outings. The seasonal bloom of tulips and other flowers turns the area into a vibrant visual delight, further encouraging outdoor activities. In summary, the community prioritizes a walkable environment, fostering a sense of connectivity and encouraging sustainable, active modes of transport among its residents.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Dutch

The majority demographic group in Lisse, making up a significant portion of the population.

Turkish

A notable minority group that contributes to the cultural diversity of Lisse.

Moroccan

Another significant minority group within the community.

Indo-European

Includes descendants of Dutch-Indonesians and other European backgrounds.

Other European

This group consists of residents from various European countries.

Asian

Including individuals from different Asian nations, though they represent a smaller proportion of the population.

African

Representing a diverse range of national origins, this group is part of the multicultural fabric of Lisse.

The Soul of Lisse

Discover the essence of Lisse through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is one of the most popular sports in Lisse, with several local clubs and teams participating in various leagues and tournaments.

Field Hockey

Field hockey has a strong following in Lisse, with local clubs providing opportunities for both youth and adult players.

Running

Running is widely enjoyed in Lisse, with residents often participating in local races and events, taking advantage of the scenic routes in the area.

Cycling

Cycling is a popular activity in Lisse, thanks to the flat terrain and well-maintained cycling paths, making it a favorite for both recreational and competitive cyclists.

Tennis

Tennis is a favorite summer sport, with various clubs offering facilities and coaching for players of all ages and skill levels.

Traffic

In this small town, traffic conditions can vary depending on the time of year and local events. Lisse is particularly known for its flower fields and the famous Keukenhof gardens, which attract numerous tourists during the spring months. During peak season, increased visitor traffic can lead to congestion, especially around major attractions. Local roads are generally narrow and can become crowded with both local residents and tourists. Bicycle traffic is also prominent, as many residents prefer cycling for convenience. The presence of pedestrians is significant as the town is walkable, with many visitors exploring on foot. Public transportation, including buses, connects Lisse to nearby cities, providing alternatives to driving. Overall, while day-to-day traffic may be manageable, seasonal peaks and special events can create notable congestion.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lisse.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many restaurants and cafes in Lisse offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, including inventive salads, soups, and plant-based entrees. Look for the 'V' or 'VG' symbols on menus.

Gluten-Free Dining

Visitors with gluten intolerances can find gluten-free options at various dining establishments, such as dedicated gluten-free menus, alternative grain-based dishes, and gluten-conscious chefs who can accommodate special requests.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Lisse with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Healthcare in this region is characterized by a well-structured system that ensures residents have access to various medical services and facilities. The Netherlands boasts a high standard of healthcare, with a blend of general practitioners (huisartsen), specialists, hospitals, and specialized clinics catering to the needs of the population. General practitioners serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing primary care and referrals to specialists when necessary. The healthcare system operates on the principle of universal access, with residents required to have health insurance, which covers a wide range of medical services. In addition to general practice, there are several hospitals and specialized medical facilities nearby, offering advanced care and treatment options. The region benefits from a collaborative network of healthcare providers, ensuring a seamless transition from primary to secondary care. Preventive care is emphasized, with programs focused on health education, vaccinations, and regular health screenings. Mental health services are also an important aspect of the healthcare system, providing support for a variety of psychological conditions. Overall, the healthcare framework is comprehensive, with a focus on accessibility, quality of care, and patient-centered services, ensuring that the needs of the community are adequately met.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2024 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide