Romantic Things to do in Amsterdam

UPDATED JULY 2024
By Dom Bewley
romancing the netherlands

Romance. Is it dead? Not on our watch. Prove to your loved one just how romantic you are and find the perfect thing to do in Amsterdam. But romance is hard, just like researching romantic plans. But don't worry! We've done all the hard work for you! So sit back, lothario, and focus on the gift-buying, as we explore the best romantic things to do in Amsterdam.

Including:

  • Picnic in the park(s)
  • Sensational strolls
  • Couples bike ride
  • Romantic boat trips
  • Loved up meals
  • and more!
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Park perks

What's more romantic than picking up your partner, carrying them to a park, placing them on a blanket, and forcing them to enjoy a lovely picnic? Nothing. Nothing at all. So, do your relationship a favor and do the thing.

Amsterdam has some wonderful green spaces all over the city. No matter where you're staying, you're probably only a short walk or cycle from one. Any of them make for an ideal picnic location, but we have some favorites too.

Westerpark is the perfect mix of rolling grass and trees, bars, restaurants, and entertainment. You'll find plenty of space to spread out and set up a romantic picnic for two, and if you run out of any nibbles or drinks, you can always move proceedings to one of the nearby restaurants or watering holes.

For a similar vibe, check out Vondelpark. Alongside all the picnic-ready grass, there are a handful of restaurants and stalls selling drinks and bites, and even some live music on occasion.

Or, combine a picnic with some horticultural exploration at Hortus Botanicus, where you can combine a romantic picnic with an equally romantic stroll around the park's tropical greenhouses. It might sound like a euphemism from a Monty Python sketch, but Hortus Botanicus is so much more.

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Walk and talk

There's denying the beauty of Amsterdam. It's one of the most picturesque cities in Europe, with its abundance of clean air (thanks to all the cyclists), a wealth of waterways, and a blend of old and new architecture. And since the city is relatively small, it's the perfect excuse to take your partner's hand and drag them around the city on foot!

So get your walking boots on! Pick a destination and go wander. While some parts of the city are arguably prettier than others, we'd recommend you take a stroll around Jordaan. Positioned just outside of the tourist belt, you'll find tons of beauty, as well as cafes, bistros, and bars with seating by the water. That way, you can end your stroll with a successful sitdown!

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Ride into the sunset

As if you needed reminding, but Amsterdam is a cyclist's metropolis. Literally. You'll find cycle lanes everywhere, from cobbled residential streets to freeways. We've already talked about the difference they make to the city - cleaner air, less traffic, and fewer cars are just some of the many benefits.

Now, turn those benefits into brownie points with your beloved. Rent a couple of bikes, take them on a bike ride around the city and show them how great the city looks on two wheels! You'll be able to go anywhere both in the city and into the outskirts. Why not cycle to the Keukenhof Tulip Gardens and see the fields of the beautiful wonders? While they're located around 25 miles from the city, since the freeways have safe, dedicated cycle lanes, you can make a day of it! It's easily one of the most romantic things to do in Amsterdam, if you've got the stamina for it!

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Pedal to the romance

Or, swap two wheels for no wheels and hop on a pedal boat! They're a great way to see the city's sights. Follow the canals, pass under bridges, and stop off wherever you like. And really, is there anything more romantic than pedaling together, knowing that at any time, one of you could steer the boat to certain doom?

Of course, not everyone has the foresight to bring a pedal boat with them on vacation. But don't worry! Amsterdam's got you covered. Simply hire a pedal boat, get on the water, and make a day of it. A romantic day of it.

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Love bites

Of course, nothing could be more romantic than having an intimate meal for two. You stare into their eyes; they stare into yours. You're so engrossed in their gaze that your fork misses your mouth, a moist meatball tumbling down that brand new white number you've got on. You laugh, they laugh, and the waiting staff forces a laugh as they clean up the mess. You walk home with your red stain proudly displayed. You don't care; you're in love.

Make this dream a reality at one of Amsterdam's romantic restaurants! De Belhamel in Jordaan offers French and Italian-inspired dishes in an intimate art-deco interior, or take the party to the beautiful canal-side decking.

Or, dine beneath the stars at Cafe Restaurant De Plantage. But wait, those aren't stars; they're fairy light-bedazzled sycamore trees! Surely one of the most romantic things to do in Amsterdam? Besides the mesmerizing decor, you'll love their nouveau cuisine offerings, with a number of meat, fish, and veggie meals inspired by worldwide cuisine.

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Get cultural

Sometimes, knowledge can be the sexiest thing of all. We didn't just make that up, so why not put it to the test? Amsterdam has some great museums to wander through with your partner. Just make sure they're into it before dragging them along.

There's the Rijksmuseum, the Dutch home of classical art. See the likes of Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other national luminaries strut their stuff. Not literally, of course; they are all long dead.

Or, for a cooler, more hip experience, check out the Moco Museum and their street art extravaganza featuring works from Banksy and other celebrated modern artists.

Alternatively, head to the home of the late, great Van Gogh, who's lucky enough to have an entire museum dedicated to his work. It was rumored he cut his ear off due to unrequited love, though this was later proven false. Perhaps you should ask your love if they would cut their ear off for you? If they refuse, dump them on the spot; they don't deserve you.

And those are our picks for the most romantic things to do in Amsterdam!

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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Amsterdam canals by night
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Things to do in Amsterdam at Night

Sure, Amsterdam comes with a slightly, shall we say, seedy reputation, but there’s so much more to this city’s vibrant nightlife than just red lights and cannabis cafés. Join us on our journey through all the best things to do in Amsterdam at night.
Stuart Bak
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cube housing
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Best Day Trips From Amsterdam

Greed. Gordon Gecko said it was good. We'd argue he was right, but not for the same reasons. See, sometimes it's good to be greedy for more. But not money. No, we're talking about the greed and need for experiences. Prepare for the segue, because we're talking about journeying outside of Amsterdam and discovering the wonders that lie beyond. Did that make sense? Not really. Will our guide to the best day trips from Amsterdam open your mind and blow your socks off? Quite possibly. Read on, and discover the hidden - and not so hidden - gems that lie a short trip from Amsterdam's shores! Including: Zaanse Shans Edam Keukenhof Gardens Brussels Rotterdam and more! Windmills, glorious windmills Let's kick things off with a blast from the past. Zaanse Shans is a village stuck in time, transporting visitors back to the pre-industrial days. Simpler times, for sure, but certainly more arduous. While it may appear that Zaanse Shans is a giant, open-air museum, it is, in fact, a community. So don't go prodding any life-like statues; those are people. Just a fifteen-minute train from Centraal Station, this charming village is full of explorable windmills, museums, and shops where you can pick up authentic cheeses, grains, and condiments milled on-site. On top of that, Zaanse Shans is simply a beautiful travel destination brimming with photo opportunities. Do yourself a favor and pick up a Zaanse Schans Card, which gives you access to all the good stuff for one low price. Plus, you can see everything in about half a day, giving you more time to make the most of your Amsterdam vacation! Alternatively, take a bus tour of Zaanse Schans and the surrounding towns to sate your rustic fix in a single day! So, if you're looking to take your foot of the gas and relax, it's one of the best day trips from Amsterdam! A bit cheesy Next on our tour of fun beyond Amsterdam's walls is a town famous for its biggest export - Edam. Yes, Edam isn't just a cheese; it's a cheese named after the town that birthed it! Just a 30-minute drive, or a 40-minute train trip north of the city, you'll find this delightfully rustic town, cloaked in medieval brick and mortar. You'll only need a short stay to see everything, as it isn't exactly a tourist hotspot. However, the cobbled streets, centuries-old bridges, and aforementioned medieval decor do make it a breath of fresh air after staying in the Netherlands' biggest city. On every Wednesday over the summer, Edam holds a cheese market that attracts connoisseurs from far and wide, so plan your trip appropriately and go sample the town's crumbly delights! If you want a more curated experience, why not take a bus tour from the city that will let you hit up all the rustic glory of Amsterdam's satellite towns in a single day? Tulip Town If you want some of the most romantic sights in the country, head to Keukenhof. Famous for its rolling fields of colorful tulips, it welcomes nearly one million people every year. A 30-minute drive, or bus tour from the city, Keukenhof boasts the biggest flower garden on the planet. Comprising over a million bulbs, you'll see all sorts of beautiful flowers alongside tulips, such as hyacinths, daffodils, and other spring flowers. If you take the bus tour, you'll have the chance to explore the fields on foot as you wander along 15km of footpaths. Many gardens make up Keukenhof, with each representing different landscapes across the globe. English, Japanese, and Dutch are just some of the many on display. Keukenhof is well worth a visit if you want to squeeze a bit more beauty out of your vacation! Brussels Now, you may be wondering why Brussels is on this list. Isn't it in Belgium, after all? Well, yes, it is. But the beauty of Amsterdam is that you're a stone's throw from the border! Brussels is a beautiful city, with its mix of medieval and modern, the abundance of cafes, bars, and museums, and plenty of other things to do too. It is a 2-hour train ride from Centraal Station, so you'll want to make the most of it. However, if you want to cram your vacation full of as many sights and sounds as possible, why not make the trip? While English isn't as ubiquitous in Brussels as it is in Amsterdam, you'll still be able to fumble your way through food and drink orders if necessary. Just point at the menu and give a thumbs up. Or don't do that, and maybe learn the basics you need to get about and try your best. It's entirely up to you. As it's a long trip, plan ahead and make sure you know what to do when you get there. The last thing you want is to waste your precious time coming up with an itinerary on the fly! Rotterdam is anywhere? Amsterdam's growing sibling, Rotterdam is well worth a trip if you want to see something new. A mix of old and new like much of the Netherlands, it's a picturesque place with plenty to do and see. Rotterdam is home to the largest harbor in Europe, so why not take a tour by sea and see it from a different perspective? You'll also find a bunch of places to eat, drink, and shop, and a heap of museums if you want to learn more about the city's history. For the architecturally-minded, you'll be fascinated by the Cube Houses (or Kubuswoningen). These lob-sided square houses need to be seen to be believed. And, if you're looking for tasty food in an awe-inspiring setting, head to Market Hall (or Makthal) and pick up something delicious. Hague. No, not William And finally, we end our list of the best day trips from Amsterdam with a journey to the center of the Dutch government. But don't worry, it's not all politics. The Hague has plenty for budding adventurers to explore. Take a 45-minute train from Amsterdam, or hop on a bus to tour the surroundings. See the famous Girl With the Pearl Earring up close at The Mauritshuis, stroll past the Peace Palace - where international law is presided over, and enter the topsy-turvy world of M.C Escher. Oh, and did we also mention there's a beach there? The Hague is also a stunning seaside town, so if the weather's good, go get your tan on! And that wraps up our list of the best day trips from Amsterdam!
Dom Bewley
amsterdam souvenirs
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Best Amsterdam Souvenirs

Vacations are all about fun. You save up to travel, head to a new place, and surround yourself with the local culture. Of course, vacations aren't cheap, especially when they involve hours-long flights and accommodation. That means you need to pick your vacation partners well and, ultimately, it means that some will be left behind. To ensure they don't curse you or seek vengeance for the slight, pick them up a souvenir! But, if you're heading to Amsterdam, which are the best? Read on, and discover our picks for the best souvenirs in Amsterdam! Including: Stroopwafels Cheese Fritessaus Drops Tony's Chocoloney and more!   Stroopthroat Let's begin with an undeniable Dutch delicacy. To those not in the know, stroopwafels are two wafer-thin waffle cookies joined in sweet matrimony by a layer of delicious caramel. They're as good as they sound, and you can find them everywhere. Somehow, it's not a trend that's taken off worldwide, making them the perfect gift to bring back from your vacation. You'll find them in most supermarkets, but do yourself a favor and go get the good stuff. You'll find plenty of bakeries that make them fresh on-site. Check out Van Wonderen Stroopwafels for the best of the bunch. Stroopwafel makes it to the top of our list of the best Amsterdam souvenirs.   We Gouda problem? One of the things the Dutch pride themselves on is their cheese. Unlike other countries that have dozens of national cheeses, the Netherlands goes for quality over quantity. And their most famous cheese is arguably Gouda. This one has made it to the far corners of the world, with many shops selling Gouda. But the Dutch give Gouda its proper props, with many different types of the delicious cheese found in specialist cheese shops across Amsterdam. While you'll find packets upon packets of Gouda in the supermarket, head to a specialist like Old Amsterdam or De Kaaskamer to get the good stuff.   Saucy sides French fries. One of America's favorite foods get a lot of love over in Europe too. Which makes sense, given they likely originated there. However, where the continents differ is in the choice of dipping sauce. Much of Europe goes with mayonnaise, while the US tends to lean towards ketchup or other sauces. But the Dutch have their own dipping sauce created specifically with the French fry in mind; Fritessaus. It's a lighter, sweeter mayonnaise equivalent, containing chives, lime juice, and often capers. It might not sound amazing, but trust us, it brings a whole new taste sensation to your fry fascination. Go pick a bottle of it up from a supermarket, and induct your friends and family into a new world of dipping delight.   A drop in the ocean Lots of Dutch delicacies tend to fall on the sweeter side. It's no wonder, then, why bikes are so popular in the country. Not only is it a cheap way to get about, but it's also the perfect excuse to burn off some of those sugary calories! That might be why drops are one of the country's go-to snacks. These sweets are the country's take on licorice, which is, in fairness, already an acquired taste. Traditionally used to ease sore throats, it has since morphed into a sweet treat, coming in all shapes, sizes, and flavors. It might not be for everyone, but it makes for an incredibly authentic and unique souvenir. For the daring gift-giver, pick up some salmiak. It's a salty alternative that your loved ones will either love...or hate!   A clockwork chocolate Yet another sweet makes our list, but this one is far less divisive. In a world full of Nestles, Cadburys' and Hersheys, this one is a new kid on the block. But boy, is it coming out swinging. We're talking, of course, about Tony's Chocoloney, one of The Netherlands' biggest exports. Having only existed since 2005, it's going toe-to-toe with centuries-old brands and taking the points. This delicious brand of chocolate is 100% fair trade, something other brands only wish they could boast about. So morally, they already have the high ground. But what about taste? Well, we're pleased to say they're one of the best, with dozens of exciting and creative flavor fusions you won't find anywhere else. And, while you can find Tony's Chocoloney in most supermarkets, why not go to the source at the Tony's Chocoloney Superstore? Sample the latest flavors, create your own chocolate bar from a long list of delicious ingredients, and then pick up a Rainbow pack for that special someone. Tony's is, without a doubt, one of the best souvenirs you can pick up in Amsterdam.   Clog on A list of the best Amsterdam souvenirs would be sorely lacking if it didn't mention clogs. The traditional Dutch wooden shoe has become an iconic object associated with the Netherlands, and with good reason. They're strange, yet obviously quite cute, and not at all practical. But, for the last one hundred years or so, they have earned their place as one of the de facto souvenirs. You'll find entire shops dedicated to them, where you'll find unique designs and fun takes on the shoe. And sure, you could go to any old souvenir shop in the city to pick some up, but why not go the extra mile? Hop on a bus to Zaanse Schans, the 'windmill' village, and go buy some from one of the area's authentic shoemakers?   Tulip's kiss And finally, let's end our souvenir excursion on another Dutch staple - the tulip. The famed flower originates in the Netherlands, so it'll make the perfect gift for the loved ones you left behind. However, we all know that transporting a bouquet of flowers is difficult on a flight. So, why not instead give your loved ones the chance to grow their own? Keukenhof Gardens is about 20 miles outside the city, so if you're feeling active, why not rent a bike, ride down there, and pick up a seed packet or two? They'll transport a lot easier than the flowers themselves, are easier to wrap, and mean you avoid the responsibility of taking care of them! Perfect! And that's our list of the best Amsterdam souvenirs!
Dom Bewley

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