Ultimate Guide to Romantic Activities in Amsterdam

Whether you’re spending February with your Valentine, enjoying the warm temperatures and late sunsets in August, or visiting any time of the year, there’s no dispute that Amsterdam is a romantic city.

No matter what your taste is, there are plenty of options for couples looking to plan a romantic getaway, whether indoors or in the open-air, over-the-top expensive or absolutely free.

1. See Amsterdam by Night

The magical quality of Amsterdam by night will put you in the romantic mood all by itself. Bridge lights glow in the canals, and couples stroll hand-in-hand along cobbled streets as they peek through the windows of stately canal houses. Evenings spent in the city, especially in the grachtengordel, or “canal belt,” provide lovers (or friends who hope to be) a shimmery scene to explore together.

To truly enjoy the city nightscape, consider a nighttime canal cruise, which is generally offered in the early evenings. From basic nighttime tours to elegant candlelit dinners, there is a cruise for every budget, guaranteed to impress your sweetie.

2. Take a Private Amsterdam Canal Cruise

While it may require spending more than a few euros, hiring a private boat and guide to cruise Amsterdam’s canals is considerably more romantic than sitting beside strangers on a massive group boat.

Aboard one of the charming “salon boats,” you and your significant other can enjoy a private dinner or sip champagne as you float along Amsterdam’s picturesque waters. Rent a Boat Amsterdam is a highly reputable local company that features various restored salon boats and comes highly recommended by their guests.

3. Dine in ‘Heaven’ in Amsterdam

Address: Ferdinand Bolstraat 333, 1072 LH Amsterdam, Netherlands

Phone: +31 20 678 7450

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Ciel Bleu, which means “blue heaven” in French, is located on the 23rd floor of Amsterdam’s Hotel Okura. It offers not only a world-class Michelin-star dining experience but also the best bird’s-eye views of Amsterdam.

If dinner is too pricey for your budget, impress a date with a drink or two at the adjacent champagne and cocktail bar, “Twenty-Third,” which features the same stunning panoramic views.

4. Shower Your Loved One With Flowers

The bloemenmarkt (“flower market”) in Amsterdam is filled with colorful seasonal flowers year-round. With so many choices and fair prices, you can easily elevate your romantic experience by displaying beautiful blooms in your hotel room.

5. Buy a Fresh Cut Diamond

Address: Paulus Potterstraat 2, 1071 CZ Amsterdam, Netherlands

Phone: +31 20 305 5555

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This is not a typo for “fresh-cut flowers,” as Amsterdam is one of the world’s diamond-polishing capitals and is home to the renowned Coster Diamonds, responsible for recutting the controversial, 5,000-year-old Kohinoor diamond, now in a British Royal Crown.

While you may not afford a 105-carat stone fit for royalty, Coster and other diamond factories like Gassan offer free guided tours of their polishing and cutting rooms, featuring showrooms filled with sparkling creations. If you’re seeking diamond earrings or perhaps an engagement ring, you’re in the right place. However, be mindful of the exchange rate, as you may end up paying more than in the United States.

6. See Amsterdam by Horse and Carriage

After exploring the town, indulge in a relaxing horse and carriage ride to rest your tired feet. This is a wonderful activity, rain or shine, because you will snuggle with your partner under a canopy that shields you from sun or rain showers.

While not inexpensive, it provides another lovely view of the canals and an excellent opportunity to escape the crowds for some alone time.

7. Tour the Red Light District

Address: Damrak 18, 1012 LH Amsterdam, Netherlands

Phone: +31 20 622 8376

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While not typically associated with romance, the Red Light District holds intrigue. By taking a tour through this part of the city—whether alone or with a guide—you will discover some of Amsterdam’s most glorious canals and exciting hotspots. Attractions such as the Sex Museum or the Red Light Secrets Museum of Prostitution, among others, will undoubtedly add a spark to your vacation.

8. See a Film at Pathé Tuskinski

Address: Reguliersbreestraat 26-34, 1017 CN Amsterdam, Netherlands

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Pathé Tuskinski is celebrated as one of the most beautiful cinemas globally. Fusing both Art Deco and Art Nouveau styles, this theater creates a memorable moviegoing experience.

Offering a selection of Hollywood hits alongside indie arthouse films, you can enjoy the show and later discuss it over dinner at a nearby restaurant or grab a cocktail at the Xtracold ice bar just a few blocks away.