A Guide to the Best Places to Buy Tulips Around the World

Tulips, with their vibrant colors and elegant shapes, are a favorite among flower enthusiasts and gardeners. Whether you’re looking to buy tulip bulbs for your garden or fresh-cut tulips for a bouquet, this flower shop guide highlights the best places around the world to purchase these iconic blooms.

1. The Netherlands: The Tulip Capital of the World

The Netherlands is synonymous with tulips, offering a wide range of options for buying tulip bulbs and fresh flowers.

- Keukenhof Gardens (Lisse): Known as the "Garden of Europe," Keukenhof is not only a stunning display of tulips but also a great place to purchase bulbs. The garden’s official shop offers high-quality tulip bulbs for planting in your own garden.

- Bloemenmarkt (Amsterdam): This floating flower market is a must-visit for tulip lovers. While prices can be high, it’s a unique experience to browse the colorful stalls. For better deals, check out nearby supermarkets like Albert Heijn.

- DutchGrown and Tulip Festival Amsterdam: These online retailers offer a wide variety of tulip bulbs, including rare and unique varieties, with delivery across Europe and beyond.

2. Turkey: The Ancestral Home of Tulips

Turkey, where tulips originated, offers a rich cultural experience alongside tulip shopping.

- Istanbul Tulip Festival: Held every April, this festival features millions of tulips in parks like Emirgan Park and Gülhane Park. You can also purchase tulip bulbs from local vendors during the festival.

- Topkapı Palace Gardens: Explore the historic gardens and nearby markets for tulip bulbs and floral arrangements.

3. Canada: Tulip Festivals and Gardens

Canada celebrates tulips with vibrant festivals and beautiful gardens.

- Canadian Tulip Festival (Ottawa): This annual event commemorates the Netherlands’ gift of tulips after World War II. You can buy tulip bulbs and enjoy over a million blooms in Commissioners Park.

- Butchart Gardens (British Columbia): A springtime showcase of tulips, where you can also purchase bulbs to take home.

4. United States: Tulip Hotspots

The U.S. has several tulip hotspots, especially in areas with Dutch heritage.

- Skagit Valley Tulip Festival (Washington State): Spanning the entire month of April, this festival offers vibrant tulip fields and events. Local vendors sell bulbs and fresh-cut tulips.

- Holland, Michigan: The Tulip Time Festival celebrates Dutch heritage with over 5 million tulips. Windmill Island Gardens and downtown Holland are great places to buy tulip bulbs.

5. Japan: Unique Tulip Festivals

Japan’s meticulous gardening traditions make it a unique destination for tulip lovers.

- Tonami Tulip Fair (Toyama): One of Japan’s largest tulip events, featuring over 3 million tulips in 700 varieties. You can purchase bulbs and enjoy creative floral displays.

- Nagano Tulip Fields: A lesser-known but equally stunning location for tulip viewing and bulb shopping.

6. France: Romantic Tulip Settings

France offers elegant tulip displays, often paired with historic sites.

- Parc de Bagatelle (Paris): A serene park featuring tulip gardens amidst classic French landscaping. Nearby florists and markets offer tulip bulbs and arrangements.

- Provence Tulip Fields: Known for lavender, Provence also has charming tulip farms in spring where you can buy bulbs.

7. New Zealand: Tulips Down Under

New Zealand’s Southern Hemisphere seasons provide an alternative tulip-viewing timeline.

- Hamilton Gardens: A spectacular display of tulips set in themed garden spaces. You can purchase bulbs from local nurseries.

- Tulip Festivals in South Island: Various towns, like Timaru, host tulip festivals during spring, offering bulbs and fresh-cut flowers.

8. South Korea: Vibrant Tulip Festivals

South Korea’s dedication to flower festivals includes impressive tulip events.

- Taean Tulip Festival: Ranked among the world’s top tulip festivals, this event features creative designs and millions of blooms. Local vendors sell tulip bulbs and arrangements.

- Everland Theme Park: Known for its tulip festival, blending floral beauty with amusement park fun. You can buy tulip bulbs at the park’s gift shops.

9. Iran: The Tulip Fields of Persia

Iran’s rich floral heritage includes stunning tulip displays.

- Isfahan and Kashan: Known for their tulip-filled gardens and parks during spring. Local markets offer tulip bulbs and floral arrangements.

- Chaharbagh Street: A historic avenue in Isfahan, often lined with tulips during the blooming season. You can purchase bulbs from local vendors.

10. Italy: Tulip Wonders in the Mediterranean

Italy’s climate and landscapes provide a unique backdrop for tulips.

- Castello di Pralormo (Messer Tulipano): A castle in Piedmont hosting an annual tulip event with thousands of blooms. You can buy tulip bulbs at the event.

- Giardini Botanici Villa Taranto (Lake Maggiore): Famous for its "Tulip Week," showcasing rare varieties. The garden’s shop offers tulip bulbs for sale.

Tips for Buying Tulips

- Plan Ahead: Peak bloom varies by location and climate. Check local bloom calendars before visiting.

- Photography: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.

- Respect the Fields: Stay on marked paths to avoid damaging flowers.

Best florist recommendations

From the Netherlands’ high-tech auctions to Japan’s meticulous gardens, the world offers countless opportunities to buy tulips. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a casual flower enthusiast, these destinations provide unforgettable experiences and stunning blooms.