Pretty lights, romantic bridges,  hidden alleys, and storybook houses – sounds dreamy?

Yep, that’s why I fell in love with Amsterdam, the most romantic city in Europe for couples in my opinion. (Yes, even more than Paris)

The first time I visited Amsterdam was in 2014. San and I had just started dating early that year. For us, our Amsterdam trip was crucial because it was the first time we were traveling together as a couple after being away for 4 months.

It was one of those trips, where we actually wanted to see if we were compatible and if there was any sense in investing time in each other. It worked (Of course, we are now married). Blame it on romantic Amsterdam!

Ever since then, we have made it a point to visit Amsterdam as frequently as we can, and this dreamy city always makes us hold hands.

Over the years, our travel style has evolved. A few years back we were into adventure but now that we’re parents, we like to relax while we are on a date and take things easy.

So, with that in mind, I have included romantic things to do in Amsterdam for every kind of couple – active adventurers, bookworms, party people, foodies, comedy lovers, music buffs, plant parents, coffee addicts, Instagrammers, and more.

Amsterdam is a highly forward-thinking city and it is LGBTQ-friendly. Moreover, I have made it a point to look for LGBTQ-friendly things and activities to include all kinds of couples.

Amsterdam is known for many things and some of them are sinful. There is a Red Light District, a lot of weird shows, and coffee shops that sell marijuana – but most of that is just limited to one area De Wallen. Get away from there and let Amsterdam charm you with its romantic vibe that I absolutely love.

Over and above everything, Amsterdam is utterly pretty and is the perfect city to spend time with your boyfriend (or girlfriend). Amsterdam for couples is perfect not just for the first trip together, but also for Valentine’s Day, or even a honeymoon.

Now, let’s cut to the chase – I present to you 20-ish ideas of romantic things to do in Amsterdam.

Romantic Things to do in Amsterdam [the Only Couples Guide to Amsterdam You’ll Need]

1) Dreamy Boat Ride

Imagine sitting on a slow-moving boat and cruising on Amsterdam’s narrow canals, with a view of narrow houses. More points if it is after sunset and the bridges are lit up with pretty lights. Perhaps even better with a glass of wine in your hand.

A boat ride on Amsterdam’s canals will feel like a modern fairy tale where you are the star. It can’t get more romantic than this. It is one of the best things to do on a couples holiday to Amsterdam.

There are many boat tours that one can do, but if you’re a little extra like me, you will enjoy a private tour that’s on a small open boat. You can also look for a tour with food and champagne included!

The basic tours are included for free on the I Amsterdam city card for free. If you’re looking for something special because maybe you are on your honeymoon in Amsterdam, or getting ready to propose, I have shortlisted some romantic boat tours for you for every budget:

• Guided Luxury Evening Canal Cruise: One-hour tour that costs EUR 19.95 on an open boat with a bar from where you can buy your drinks on payment.
• Evening Canal Cruise: One-hour tour that costs EUR 20.
• Wine and Cheese Evening Cruise: 1.5-hour tour costing EUR 32.50 that includes a variety of local cheeses and wine. This is also an evening cruise.
• Cheese and Wine Canal Cruise: 1.5-hour tour costing EUR 37.82. The cruise includes 2 drinks per person – wine or beer or other soft drinks as well as cheese.
• 3-Course Dinner Cruise: 2-hour dinner cruise. It costs EUR 79 per person for a 3-course dinner with fish/meat or veggies plus wine or beer. Personally, I’d pick this one to make the most of my romantic date in Amsterdam.
• Private Canal Tour: This actually costs EUR 120 to get a private tour. Normally you can split it among 6 people, but since it is your romantic evening, then you can splurge on this tour for just two and make it extra special. Or, you can split it with two more couples apart from you. This tour will take you to the smaller canals where the bigger boats can’t go.
• Private Romantic Canal Cruise at Night: EUR 215 for a couple. This is the ultimate romantic experience and makes sense to book on a special occasion such as Valentine’s Day or the day you’re promising, or to celebrate a birthday or anniversary. This boat tour includes Gluhwein in winter (warm mulled wine) or Prosecco in summer. It also includes Local cheese, grapes, crackers, and waffles. There are blankets on the boat to make you cozy.

I have tried my best to share the most updated information, but I highly recommend you read all the points before you book the tour for yourself.

2) Romantic Walk in Jordaan [Under the Moonlight]

I say this in every single post because I’m a romantic at heart – miss whatever else you want to in Amsterdam, but don’t miss out on a walk in Jordaan.

Jordaan is my favorite neighborhood in Amsterdam and I spend most of my time here every single time I visit. It is because it is quiet, peaceful, and crazy pretty. Of course, there are canals and bridges, but hardly any loud tourists.

Amsterdam is touristy but Jordaan has always maintained its peaceful vibe. Now any time is perfect for a romantic walk in Jordaan but my most romantic memories of walking in Jordaan were the ones where it was at night under the moonlight.

I still remember there was a time when we were in Amsterdam with our 7-month-old girl, and she had to sleep in her pram. We got away from the loud areas and walked around in Jordaan. She finally slept and we held hands as we walked. It was super peaceful and romantic.

3) Sit on a bench overlooking the Canals

Remember The Fault in Our Stars? It is a romantic movie that was shot in Amsterdam, and in some scenes, the couple sat on a canal-side bench. You HAVE to do that in Amsterdam with your partner if you’re a romantic at heart.

Go to a supermarket, buy a drink or two, maybe get some munchies and find a bench in a peaceful area like Jordaan. Sit, gaze at the water or at each other, and enjoy each other’s company as you share a few tender moments. Smile, because you are in an utterly romantic city, and you will create some memories for a lifetime.

4) Cycling, or Tandem Cycling

Everyone knows by now that Amsterdam is the cycling capital of the world. There are more bicycles in Amsterdam than people, and cycling here is an experience to remember.

I’m aware that not many people are comfortable with the thought of cycling in a busy city like Amsterdam where there are loads of cyclists. I was too, but it all changed.

When I moved to Germany, I was cycling here after 20 years of not cycling and I was absolutely frightened. But cycling is one of the things that come back to you as soon as you do it again (just like swimming).

I was scared of cycling in the cyclist traffic but guess what – cycling in cities like Amsterdam that are built for cyclists is actually super easy because there is a dedicated cycling lane that’s not narrow. 

So, arrive here on a train with your bicycles in the train (that’s what San and I did), or just rent a bicycle here. You can also rent a tandem bike, which is a little corny but also super romantic in a funny way. I rented mine with MacBike, which was free with my I Amsterdam City card.

Don’t think so much, but just do it. Once you get on your bicycle, you would not want to explore Amsterdam in any other way. 

5) Beach Time in Pllek (+ Sunset)

What, Amsterdam has a beach? Yep, by the IJ (river) in Noord.

Amsterdam-Noord is the hipster neighborhood of the city and Pllek is the place to be in Noord. Catch the free ferry from Amsterdam Central to arrive in Noord. Pllek is right next to NDSM Werf, you can take a quick look there to admire the art installations.

Now, this is not just for the arty kinds, NDSM Werf is super interesting and it is absolutely free. You can walk inside and explore this contemporary art exhibit before you settle for your evening drinks by the beach.

After you’re done with NDSM Werf, get to Pllek and watch the sunset here as you sip your drink by the beach. When the sun sets, the pretty lights shine bright as the sky darkens. How romantic!

If you arrive early enough before the sunset, you may just be able to get two chairs right in front overlooking the water. Even if you don’t there are always plenty of cozy places to sit and also floor cushions. 

Pllek is one of those places that I visit every single time I’m in Amsterdam and it is the perfect place to visit as a couple.

6) Rent a Houseboat For a Night (or Two)

Did you know that you could rent a houseboat in Amsterdam? If you can’t get enough of the view of canals, bridges, and narrow houses, then the most romantic thing to do in Amsterdam would be to find a houseboat and get cozy.

For a truly romantic place to stay in Amsterdam, consider splurging on a houseboat. The houseboats are floating apartments, usually with all modern conveniences. Some of the houseboats are converted barges and are super cozy for couples.

Sit by the window, get a blanket, and watch the other boats go by. Added bonus if the houseboat is on one of the cuter canals of Jordaan.

• Romantic Houseboat: Vintage boat converted into an apartment that’s close to Damrak, so you are guaranteed good views.
• Boat no Breakfast: This houseboat with a bedroom and amenities is also right in the city center with amazing views.
• Waterloo square river vieuw houseboat: This is near my favorite flea market in Amsterdam – the Waterlooplein market.
• Houseboat Amsterdam Room with a View: this is a new boat with new interiors that’s in De Pijp, a very nice neighborhood for foodies.

Yes, the houseboats in Amsterdam are expensive but if you stay on one then you have the best views of Amsterdam right in your bedroom and you don’t need to do much more than this. 

7) Visit Hortus Botanicus’ Butterfly Garden

The time stood still as hundreds of orange butterflies gently fluttered their wings around me.

I decided to go to Hortus Botanicus for a different kind of experience than just canals, bridges, and narrow houses. I can’t believe I almost missed this place!

Hortus Botanicus is a botanical garden with several sections that are themed. It is a breath of fresh air in the middle of Amsterdam’s hustle and bustle. You can enter Hortus Botanicus for free with the I Amsterdam card, no need to pre-book a slot.

To be honest, I visited Hortus Botanicus without my husband while I was in Amsterdam for a weekend trip, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t romantic. It is. I even saw a newlywed couple here for their wedding photoshoot.

As I mentioned earlier, there are themed halls based on plants and flowers. I saw a tropical forest, a cactus garden, and massive water lilies – it was already an exceptional experience but the thing that took me was something else. 

Just before I was going to get out of Hortus Botanicus, I saw the map with a room marked as “Butterfly Garden” and I quickly went in. At a time just 5 people are allowed inside but what was inside took my breath away.

As I entered the butterfly room, there were hundreds of orange butterflies that fluttered around me. It was magical, and I felt like I was in a fairy tale.

Words can not describe how amazing this moment was, and no pictures can capture truly what I felt. I highly recommend you enjoy this experience with your partner, it is utterly romantic.

8) Picnic in one of Amsterdam’s Parks (Open Air Theatre in summer)

Did you know that Amsterdam has many public parks? Grab a blanket, a few cushions, a wine bottle (or beer), and perhaps a few waffles that Amsterdam is famous for. I personally prefer salty snacks.

Get to Oostpark or Vondelpark and set up your picnic. I prefer Oostpark because it is a little low-key than Vondelpark but they are both awesome. Vondelpark is right next to the Museumquarter.

If you’re in Amsterdam on the weekend in summer, then keep your eyes out for a free open-air theatre that’s held in Vondelpark on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. You can check more information on the Vondelpark website.

Depending on how empty or busy the parks are, or the time of your visit, this can end up being one of the most romantic places in Amsterdam for you.

9) Drink Glühwein in Amsterdam’s Christmas Markets

I hated wintertime until I moved to Europe and discovered the joy of Christmas Markets. The thought of the sun setting at 16:30 was depressing till the time I started getting excited for the evening to start to visit one of the Christmas Markets.

If you’re visiting Amsterdam in late November or the month of December, it is going to be super romantic because of the epic Christmas Markets. Sip glühwein – warm mulled sweet wine to heat up your body.

Are you not into alcohol? No worries, there’s alcohol-free glühwein and that’s super yum too. A lot of children and pregnant women drink this and it is a big hit.

The smell and joy of Christmas in the air make even a boring place romantic so imagine what it will be like in the case of Amsterdam. Go experience it.

10) Ice Skating in Winter

Amsterdam looks dreamy as it is, but every season adds a new spin. Wintertime is extra special because there are pretty Christmas Markets and if you’re lucky to visit when it is freezing cold, there’s a possibility of ice skating.

There’s something super romantic about ice skating. The time you spend with each other on an ice-skating rink is the ultimate romantic date.

You don’t have to know how to skate, just hold your hands and try not to fall. Most likely one of you will stumble around, and the other will be there to catch you from falling. (Bonus: tips for the perfect ice skating date)

When the weather goes way below zero degrees, the area in Museumquarter right in front of the Rijksmuseum turns into a skating rink. Also, the canal rink turns into an “Ijsbaan” or “Eisbahn” which you can use to move around.

11) Sip Coffee or Cocktails with a view

I have a few romantic cafes and bars with a view for you that are in the center. They overlook the canals and have tables outside. One of them is even in a church!

If you walk around Amsterdam, you will find many amazing places with outdoor seating but not every single one of them is good, so I have a few recommendations for you.

I enjoyed my Limoncello Spritz at Café Het Bruine Paard in Jordaan where the table was in a very nice spot next to the bridge.

You can also try Amstelhaven bar and restaurant which is along Amstel River. They have decent cocktails and bar food. They also have open mic nights.

Coffee and matcha lovers need to head to De Oude Kerk (the old church), which is one of the oldest buildings in Amsterdam but now a part of it has been converted into a lovely cafe with a view. 

The Old Church or De Oude Kerk is a notable landmark in Amsterdam’s center and you would have crossed it at some point because it is in a busy area. But this cafe exuberates a calm vibe because of its spacious sitting area that’s outside.

There are plants outside so it feels like one is sitting in a garden. It is unbelievable that in a super busy center with spaces, there is a cafe with a garden area that’s as spacious as this. BONUS, the view! (You know I’m a sucker for a good view).

One can also sit inside near the window and look at the view of narrow buildings on the other side of the canal. The view if one of the best ones because this is the oldest part of Amsterdam. Plus, you have it all – a view of the canal, a bridge, and narrow buildings.

If you’re lucky to get a decent place outside or near the window, then you can click some super stunning photos. While you do that, make sure you order their legendary coffee or match while you eat cake.

Cafe De Regent van Amsterdam was earlier known as Cafe Bar Aen’t Water. It is on 4 Oudezijds Voorburgwal and has a lovely view in front.

Sit in Cafe De Regent and spend some fun moments as you look at the water and enjoy a drink with your partner. If this place is full, I have another one for you below.

12) Professional Photoshoot in the Canals

If you go all the way to Amsterdam for a romantic trip, then wouldn’t it be nice to have a few amazing pictures of yourself as a memory?

If you have a tripod with a self-timer, then you can possibly click a few yourself. But sometimes catching the flicker of warm lights, and creating a Bokeh background while still capturing the tenderness of the moment can only be done by professionals.

Based on my research, below are the professional photographers in Amsterdam for couples I have shortlisted for you:

• • Professional Photoshoot in the Canals: Option 1: EUR 45 for 10 – 15 photos for a couple, Option 2: EUR 60 for 30-40 photos (premium option), and Option 3: VIP photoshoot for EUR 105 (50-70 photos). I really like this particular option because the location is super stunning for photos. It is on the skinny bridge.

• • Amsterdam: Professional Private City Photoshoot: Option 1: EUR 45 for 15-20 photos, Option 2: EUR 65 for 30-40 photos (premium option), and Option 3: VIP photoshoot for EUR 105 (60-80 photos).

I highly recommend that you check everything about the above options before you book.

13) Cuddle up in Mezrab

Mezrab is a cultural center in Amsterdam’s Oostelijke Eilanden (Eastern Docklands) neighborhood. It is a one-of-a-kind stage with improvisational theatre with performances by professional storytellers, comedy, and more interesting stuff. That isn’t all, on some days there are musical performances too.
Mezrab has floor cushions so that you can snuggle up with your boyfriend (or girlfriend) for a cozy time. It is a water-facing place with tables outside and inside both. Because of the cozy setting, it is one of the nicest things to do for couples in Amsterdam.
Mezrab is famous for its lentil soup but you can also order drinks. This place isn’t overpriced, unlike some other places in Amsterdam.

14) Ride the Extreme Swing Together

This one is for brave-hearted couples, hold your hands and ride the extreme swing on top of the A’dam Lookout. I personally know that some couples love doing adventures like these together when they are on their honeymoon.

A’Dam tower is in Amsterdam-Noord and you can reach it very easily when you get on the free ferry from Amsterdam Centraal to Noord. This tower is right next to the ferry pier in Noord.
On top of the A’Dam tower, there is an observatory so that you can see the lovely views all over Amsterdam. Right on top is also an extreme swing that you can ride with your other half.
There’s something super romantic about doing something scary together. I wouldn’t ever do a partner bungee jump (I’d do it alone) but this is one of the things that I highly recommend.
It is scary enough to give you thrills but not crazy scary like skydiving or bungee jumping. Trust me, I know because I have done both skydiving and bungee jumping.
This is something that I did with San ages back. I even made a video that suddenly received a lot of views on YouTube.

15) Admire Art at Amsterdam’s World Famous Museums

There’s something super romantic about art, and if you add the historical element then even more so. You can admire that with your partner in Amsterdam if you’re here for a romantic trip.

Amsterdam has some of the world’s most famous museums. There’s the legendary Rijksmuseum with a focus on art and history and features on many top 10 museum lists. There’s also the Van Gogh Museum which focuses on Vincent Van Gogh’s paintings and letters.
Both of the above-mentioned museums are in Amsterdam’s museum quarter – Museumplein. There are many other museums like the Moco Museum, FOAM, Stedelijk, and a few more in Museumplein.
If you get the I Amsterdam city card, you can visit almost all the museums in Amsterdam with that card without paying anything more. [Btw, you can read my review of the I Amsterdam City card here, I used it twice]

16) Walk Through a Hofje (Hidden Courtyard)

Did you know that Amsterdam has a lot of courtyards? They are called “hofje” in Dutch, and they have existed since the Middle Ages. Begijnhof is Amsterdam’s oldest hofje. Historically, a hofje had housing around it for women and was privately funded.

Honestly, I don’t want to mention some of the smaller hofjes because all hofjes are in residential areas and visitors need to be quiet and discreet. I’d just like to mention the oldest one here because people already visit it because of the church that’s inside.

Begijnhof was built in the Middle Ages within the Singel canal. Singel’s my favorite canal in Amsterdam has the prettiest small bridges. It is the innermost canal within the canal ring.

Step inside this hofje and you will see typical Amsterdam-style town-houses that are tall and narrow. Inside the Begijnhof, you will see a historical wooden house – Het Houten Huys, 34 Begijnhof. This is the oldest wooden house in Amsterdam and dates back to 1528 – whoa!

There is Engelse kerk (English reformed Church) that’s a part of this Hofje. It is free to enter Begijnhof but please remember that it is a privately owned residential area, so maintain silence.

17) Visit Bloemenmarkt: Amsterdam’s Flower Market

Flowers are romantic and imagine walking into a market that’s dedicated just to them. Of course, that’s a romantic thing to do in Amsterdam for couples.

Bloemenmarkt is Amsterdam’s flower market that started back in 1862. This is a “floating” market because the flowers are displayed on barges that are floating on water.

Many of these flowers and bulbs are sold with an international stamp so that you can take them back on the plane with you. Not just flowers but you will see interesting Bonsai and cacti.

The Dutch are famous for their gardening skills, so that’s why you should visit places like the Flower Market and Hortus Botanicus on a romantic date while you’re in the Netherlands. I try to do it every single time I’m in Amsterdam.

By the way, I’d like to mention that there are signs that say not to click photos in most of the flower shops here.

18) Lunch in Kapitein Zeppos (Romantic Restaurant in Amsterdam)

Kapitein Zeppos is in Amsterdam’s narrow alleys and this restaurant kind of has a hidden vibe. I visited this place the first time in 2014, and that’s when the above picture was clicked.

It was a rainy day in Amsterdam and Kapitein Zeppos restaurant caught our attention because of the romantic setting with loads of green plants. The restaurant wasn’t yet open when we arrived but we decided to go back and then again in 2017.

To make your visit to this one of the most romantic restaurants in Amsterdam, arrive early before this area gets crowded. And of course, get a table outside.

Now I’m not saying that I’m a trendsetter but I never saw a mention of this restaurant anywhere ever since I included it in my Amsterdam itinerary for 2 days, it has popped up in many other travel guides too. 😉

Update June 2023 – I visited Kapitein Zeppos yet again and I loved it even more. This time I ordered cocktails and drank outside and enjoyed the evening.

19) Discover Oudemanhuispoort – A Secret Passage with Books

There’s something super romantic about books. They transport you to another land of fantasy while time appears to stand still in the real world. Bookworms will truly understand what I’m talking about.
Oudemanhuispoort means “Old Man’s House Gate”, and it is a covered corridor that not many tourists know about. It is full of second-hand book stands on most days from 11:30 am to 6 pm, except Sundays.

Oudemanhuispoort is right next to the University of Amsterdam’s Faculty of Law. This narrow corridor is between Oudezijds Achterburgwal and Kloveniersburgwal near Rokin.

Not only book lovers, but those who seek hidden gems within touristy destinations like Amsterdam would love to walk through Oudemanhuispoort. Apart from books, you can find vintage posters, old maps, music sheets, cards, and more fun stuff.

Halfway through this passage, you will find a door that leads to a hofje (courtyard) that’s a part of the University of Amsterdam.

20) See the View from NEMO’s Terrace

NEMO is a science museum but it has a terrace that overlooks the city. It is the highest city square in Amsterdam with lovely views of the city.

You can enter the NEMO’s terrace for free, it is open from 10 am to 1730. It is built with a slope and with seats so that people can get uninterrupted views.

In the middle of the terrace, you will see an installation – Energetica, which is about renewable energy. There’s also a cafe up on the roof from where you can order snacks.
If you want to visit the NEMO Science Museum, the entry tickets are EUR 17.50 per person, but as mentioned before the entrance to the terrace is free.

21) Go Dancing in Amsterdam

When you think of a romantic date, then going dancing is one of the first things that comes to mind.

The good thing is that Amsterdam has a lot of options for a night out dancing. I actually have a post about Amsterdam’s nightlife, with information about places to dance.
A few places where one can go dancing in Amsterdam that I’d like to recommend are:

• • Bitterzoet

• • Paradiso

• • THT / Paradiso Noord

• • WesterUnie

• • Thuishaven

It is always a good idea to check what’s on before you head out for the night to any of the above-mentioned dance bars. I talk more in detail about the dress code and genre in my Amsterdam nightlife post.

22) Castle Muiderslot

Live the fairytale and visit the romantic Muiderslot Castle that’s a little outside Amsterdam. It is the most famous castle in the Netherlands, and it looks like it jumped out of a Disney movie.
Muiderslot castle is in Muiden, where you can go on a train from Amsterdam Centraal train station. The train ride usually takes one hour, and you usually have to change in the middle in Amstelstation or Weesp.

If you decide to get the I Amsterdam card, then the entry ticket to Muiderslot Castle is free. Otherwise, the entry per adult is EUR 17.50.

23) Chill at Café de Ceuvel

I did suggest at the beginning of this post to rent a houseboat in Amsterdam, but it can end up being a tad too expensive for some of us. In that case, I have another option – eat a meal on an upcycled boat table!

I did suggest this restaurant already in my post about Amsterdam-Noord and I’d like to mention it again because it is super romantic. Now not all the tables here are on boats but just a very few, so arrive here early.

I’d also like to mention that De Ceuvel is run on sustainable principles, and has won multiple awards. It was a former shipyard (like the nearby NDSM Werf) by the IJ river that has been turned into a modern oasis by artists and architects.

The food in De Ceuvel is fusion, and I had the most interesting vegan food here. They make their own soda and their beer comes from smaller breweries. Their coffee is CO2 free! Seriously, in today’s date with climate change, we should encourage and support organizations like these.

24) Try Something NEW Together in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the very few cities where a lot of things are legal. Live sex shows are legal to watch, prostitution is legal and sex toys are openly sold.

Weed is sold legally and so are space cakes (like hash brownies). Magic mushrooms aren’t legal but truffles are, they are exactly the same in terms of effect.

Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m not telling you to take drugs but letting you know that Amsterdam has legal options for you to try something new in a safe environment.

The idea is to try something new together with your partner for the first time to make a lifelong memory, so it can be as small as just cycling together or sharing CBD oil, or buying a new sex toy and trying it out in your room.

Be careful if you are taking edibles for the first time because they may take a while to hit but they are super strong. I have a post about Amsterdam’s coffeeshops on my website that discusses Amsterdam’s weed culture.

25) Kiss on the Skinny Bridge to make it last forever

Did you know that there’s a legend in Amsterdam that if you kiss on top of the Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug) that’s over the River Amstel, your love will last forever?

C’mon, this is super romantic, and even if you’re not superstitious, this is one of those things that you absolutely HAVE to do when you’re in Amsterdam with your girlfriend (or boyfriends).

I have cycled on top of the Skinny Bridge a few times and I have always thought that the sunset colors look very beautiful there. I never knew of this legend but I can’t wait to drag my husband there to steal a kiss on top of Magere Brug.

After kissing on the skinny bridge, go for a drink or a meal at the riverside Café de Magere Brug, that’s just right by the bridge.

Bonus: Romantic Restaurants in Amsterdam with a view

I’m all about the views! This is basically a persisting theme in all of my city guides and itineraries. I make it a point to find restaurants with a view, cafes with a view, rooms with a view, and so on. This is why my list of Amsterdam’s romantic restaurants is a tad different from other websites.

I mentioned a few restaurants already on my list but here are some of the most romantic restaurants in Amsterdam for couples. Go ahead and plan your date here.

Café de Magere Brug

This restaurant/cafe is right next to the skinny bridge, where you will go to steal a kiss. Right after that, visit Café de Magere Brug and enjoy the outdoor seating with a splendid view.

Hannekes Boom

Hannekes Boom is right before the IJ Tunnel starts. It is a nice waterfront restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere. It is famous for tapas, beer, and seafood.

Cafe De Regent van Amsterdam

This cafe has an amazing view of the canals and narrow houses and makes sense to visit it with your partner on a day when it isn’t raining so that you can sit outside.

Amstel Restaurant

This is a little upscale place as compared to the other mentioned places. There’s a view of the Amstel river, and narrow buildings with a fine dining experience.

Café de Ceuvel

I mentioned this restaurant already on the list above but dropping a quick line here. Visit Cafe de Ceuvel and enjoy a vegan meal on an upcycled boat table.

Kapitein Zeppos

Outdoor seating in a narrow alley with an amazing vibe. The view isn’t of canals but of the alley and it is for me the most romantic setting.

De Koffieschenkerij

A cafe in one of Amsterdam’s oldest buildings – De Oude Kerk. There are splendid views of the canal river, narrow houses, and bridges.

Amsterdam for Couples – Final Thoughts and Tips

Not every romantic experience in Amsterdam costs money, many of the best things can be done for free. Honestly, I have visited Amsterdam with hardly any money and sometimes I have visited with enough to splurge.

The romantic things to do in Amsterdam that are expensive aren’t necessarily always better than the free ones.

Yes, some expensive experiences in Amsterdam for couples have no match but some of the free ones are very good too. I’d personally not try to do them all but pick a handful to make the trip memorable.

Over the years, I have learned that if you want to create good memories of a romantic travel experience with your partner, it is better that you do fewer things and make them count, instead of doing too much that ends up being stressful.

Are you a parent? In that case, be sure to read my guide for visiting Amsterdam with children too.

Is Amsterdam a romantic city?

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