8 Ideas for an Intimate Date in Amsterdam
Known the world over as a hedonist’s haven, Amsterdam might seem like the obvious choice of destination for a couple looking to spice up their relationship. But, behind the curtain of its Red Light District reputation lies a city rich with romance, sensuality, warmth, and intimacy. Get ready to step off the beaten path, steal glances, and sneak touches as you connect with the Dutch capital’s true beating heart.
Feast your eyes on the Royal Theatre Tuschinski
The storied (and newly dubbed) Royal Theatre Tuschinski is heralded by film fans as the world’s most beautiful cinema. With its eclectic mix of Amsterdam School, Art Deco, and Jugendstil architecture, the building is as cinematic and eye-catching as anything that plays on its big screen. Take in a guided tour, matinee, or drop by for an evening flick post-perusing the Bloemenmarkt (the famed floating flower market is just a four-minute walk away).
Purchase tickets here.
Indulge in a five-star meal from a two-Michelin-starred chef
Beloved by locals and tourists alike, ARCA restaurant and bar (the brainchild of two Michelin-starred chef Henrique Sá Pessoa) serves up delectable, shareable dishes in an unpretentious and approachable take on fine dining. Its diverse menu of Portuguese-Asian fusion food is the perfect aphrodisiac for a date night—and this Valentine’s Day you can take your time on a full seven-course meal and cocktail selection.
Explore a secret house of worship
There’s a certain romanticism to risking it all for something you strongly believe in. Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder (known in English as “Our Lord in the Attic”) is a rare example 17th century Roman Catholicism tucked away in the attic of an unassuming canal house. The church—an act of rebellion in a time where the sect was outlawed—features heritage artifacts and Dutch masterworks you won’t find anywhere else.
Enrich your knowledge here.
Take a handheld walk through the Hortus Botanicus
For a moment of calm amidst a busy city, stroll through one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world. The Hortus Botanicus, originally intended for medicinal herbs, houses over 4,000 plant species between the garden and greenhouse with some seeds brought over by the Dutch East India Company. It’s a beautiful spot to pause, appreciate nature, and spend quality time with a loved one.
Plan your visit here.
Enjoy breakfast in bed at a gorgeous hotel
Sometimes it’s nice to take the pressure off and leave the planning to the experts. The art’otel Romance Package is a specially curated experience for couples who want to escape the ordinary and explore love through the eyes of an artist. Enjoy an overnight stay, a bottle of prosecco, breakfast in bed, and a host of arts and cultural programs designed to ignite your creative spark.
Share a pint at a historic Brown Café
While Amsterdam’s coffee shops typically take the spotlight for travellers, its “brown cafes” are a cosier option for a date. Classic favourite In ‘t Aepjen (“In the Monkeys”) was founded in 1519 and still stands in one of the city’s last remaining wooden houses. It’s a prime location for swapping stories and discovering a forgotten history. Take a seat, grab a drink, and raise your glass to this character-filled pub.
Cuddle up at Kinderboerderij de Dierencapel
This hidden-gem petting zoo is an adorable and unexpected retreat just a stone’s throw from Centraal Station. Though at first glance this small, family-friendly farm might not give the most romantic impression, it’s impossible not to fall in love with it. Visitors can interact directly with animals and also take home a soft drink, ice cream, and farm-fresh eggs.
Get the full scoop here.
Dance like nobody’s watching at club Radio Radio
Westergas, a former gasworks that presently serves as a major cultural venue, is so full of dining and shopping options you could spend an entire day there. And conveniently situated amidst it all is club Radio Radio. This pop-up fixture embodies Europe’s electronic spirit in a carefree atmosphere with diverse DJ sets and endless opportunities to get up close and personal on a date.
View the event schedule here or check out the entire Westergas roster here.