Whether you spend February with Valentine’s Day, enjoy the warm temperatures and late sunsets in August, or if you visit at any time of the year, there is no doubt that Amsterdam is a romantic city.
No matter what your taste is, there are plenty of options for couples who want to plan a romantic getaway, whether it’s indoors or outdoors, outrageously expensive, or absolutely free.
01
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See Amsterdam at night
The magical quality of Amsterdam at night will put you in the romantic mood all by itself. The lights of the bridge shine on the canals and couples walk hand in hand along the cobbled streets as they peek out the windows of the majestic canal houses. Nights spent in town, especially on the grachtengordel , or “canal belt,” offer lovers (or friends they hope to be) a brilliant scene to explore together.
To really enjoy the city’s nightscape, you can book an evening canal cruise, which is usually offered on the first few nights. From a basic evening to a tour to elegant candlelight dinners, there’s a cruise for every budget and it’s guaranteed to impress your sweetie.
02
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Take a private canal cruise in Amsterdam
While it will cost you more than a few euros, hiring a private boat and guide to navigate the canals of Amsterdam is much more romantic than sitting next to strangers in a huge group boat.
On board one of the picturesque ‘lounge boats’, you and your partner can enjoy a private dinner or simply sip champagne as you float through the waters of Amsterdam. Rent a Boat Amsterdam is a highly reputable local company representing several different refurbished saloon boats and is highly recommended by their guests.
03
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Cene and ‘Heaven’ and Amsterdam
Direction
Ferdinand Bolstraat 333, 1072 LH Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 678 7450
Web
Visit the website
The restaurant Ciel Bleu (French for “blue sky”) is located on the 23rd floor of the Hotel Okura in Amsterdam. Offering customers not only a world-class Michelin-starred dining experience, but also the best panoramic views of Amsterdam.
If dinner is too expensive for your budget, you can still impress a date with a drink or two at the adjacent cocktail and champagne bar, “Twenty-Third,” which offers the same stunning panoramic views.
04
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Stay in a five-star hotel
Direction
Apollolaan 138, 1077 BG Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 710 6000
Web
Visit the website
If you really want to show your special someone that you deserve the best, stay in one of the best five-star hotels in Amsterdam. Fine bedding, elegant décor, and impeccable service have something to take away from any stress.
For a fun challenge, you can even arrange your own “bed” in the same room where John Lennon and Yoko Ono made their peaceful protest in 1969 at the Hilton Amsterdam.
05
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Shower your loved one with flowers
Direction
Singel, 1012 DH Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
The bloemenmarkt (“flower market”) in Amsterdam is filled with colorful clusters of seasonal flowers throughout the year. There are so many different flowers to choose from, and the prices are very reasonable, so why not make your stay in Amsterdam a little more romantic by displaying beautiful flowers in your hotel room?
06
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Buy a fresh cut diamond
Direction
Paulus Potterstraat 2 , 1071 CZ Amsterdam , Paises BajosGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 305 5555
Web
Visit the website
That is not a typo for “fresh cut flowers.” Amsterdam is one of the diamond polishing capitals of the world. and is home to the famous Coster Diamonds, the firm responsible for disproving the controversial 5,000-year-old Kohinoor diamond, now housed in a British Royal Crown in the Tower of London.
While you may not be able to afford a 105-carat stone for royalty, Coster and other diamond factories like Gassan offer free guided tours of their polishing and cutting rooms and feature showrooms filled with the sparkling fruits. From his job. So if you are looking for diamond earrings or an engagement ring, look no further. However, due to the exchange rate, you may end up paying more than you could in the United States, so keep this in mind when shopping.
07
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See Amsterdam by horse and cart
Direction
Dam 8, 1012 NP Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 6 24607426
When you’ve had enough of traversing the city, sign up for a relaxing horse and carriage ride to rest your weary feet. This is a great activity rain or shine because you will snuggle up with your love under a sheltered canopy that protects both the sun and the rain.
While it’s not a cheap activity, it’s a great way to get another view of the canals, and also a great way to escape the crowds and spend some time alone.
08
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Tour the Red Light District
Direction
Damrak 18, 1012 LG Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 20 622 8376
Web
Visit the website
Although infamous, the Red Light District doesn’t usually come to mind for romance. However, when taking a tour of this small city of sin (either alone or with a guide), you will see some of the most beautiful canals in Amsterdam and the most popular places. With attractions like the Museum of Sex, the Red Light Secrets Museum of Prostitution, or one of the legendary coffee shops, a visit to this area is sure to add some zing to your lover’s vacation.
09
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See a movie at Pathé Tuskinski
Direction
Reguliersbreestraat 26-34, 1017 CN Amsterdam, The NetherlandsGet directions
Telephone
+31 88 515 2000
Web
Visit the website
Pathé Tuskinski is considered one of the most beautiful cinemas in the world. Combining Art Deco and Art Nouveau styles, this theater makes cinema a matter to remember.
Showcasing a wide range of Hollywood hits, as well as more independent art films, you can kick back and enjoy the show, and discuss it over dinner at a nearby restaurant, or bundle up and have a cocktail at the Xtracold Ice Bar just a few blocks away. away.
