Skip to main content
Image from Francoise Bolechowski

Tips for Valentine's Day in Amsterdam

With its beautiful canals and intimate atmosphere, Amsterdam is undeniably one of the most romantic cities in the world. Spending Valentine's Day in Amsterdam is a no-brainer, but with so many great ways to celebrate, the real question is: how will you spend it? Whether it's dinner with a view, a canal cruise, or relaxing in an historic sauna, this is the city that keeps on giving. The same counts for those flying solo this Valentine's Day - Amsterdam is the perfect place to enjoy dinner for one, or a romantic movie date on your ones.

Celebrate with a two-for-one museum date

Couple checking out the Panorama Amsterdam exhibition at Amsterdam Museum in 2022
Image from Francoise Bolechowski

Between 10 and 16 February 2025, Amsterdam Museum invites visitors to bring their date for free with a (1+1 promotion). Take a tour together through the permanent exhibition Panorama Amsterdam, which reveals the city's many facets and characteristics in surprising ways. As you explore, share answers from the special Valentine's questionnaire that will help you better understand your date and the city of Amsterdam. While ordering the tickets, select a regular ticket for yourself and the free 'Valentine's ticket' for your date. You can pick up the ten questions for free at the reception desk upon presentation of a valid entrance ticket.

Take your relationship to the next level

A'DAM Toren at sunset
Image from Koen Smilde

Thrill-seeking lovers can get an adrenaline rush at Europe’s highest swing on the top of the iconic A’DAM Tower. With its sweeping panoramic views, there’s no denying it’s the best seat in the house. When you come back down to earth, try MOON, rotating restaurant of the skies, perched on the 19th floor just underneath the swing, with a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city. Read our complete guides to rooftop bars and romantic restaurants for more sky-high experiences.

Relax and unwind together

Fort Resort Beemster spa and wellness
Image from Fort Resort Beemster

Treat your special someone to a sumptuous experience at one of Amsterdam's many wellness facilities or the fantastic spas just outside the city. Visit Sauna Deco in the city centre for a luxurious wellness day in its unique art deco interior. For a wide range of saunas, hot tubs, and pools, try Hotel Zuiver, which is perfect for a more comprehensive wellness experience. For those seeking an experience a little further afield, Fort Resort Beemster is a historic and sustainable spa inside a fortress, providing the ultimate romantic getaway just a half-hour's drive from Amsterdam.

Experience true movie romance

Grote Zaal Koninklijk concertgebouw
Image from Eduardus Lee

Music and film lovers alike will be enchanted by Valentine Classics at the Movies, a well-loved annual custom at the Royal Concertgebouw. The concert will be performed by the Olten Philharmonic Orchestra in a building known for its unparalleled acoustics and grandeur. Take a symphonic trip through some of the best known movie scores of all time - from the romantic strains Romeo + Juliet to the grandoise themes of the Star Wars films, let yourself be immersed in this magical convergence of music and film.

Slide into a loveseat

Pathé Tuschinski cinema interior
Image from Pathé

A movie date is a timeless choice, both for first-timers and long-term partners. Explore the city’s beautiful independent cinemas, each offering its unique charm. You can't go wrong with a loveseat at Tuchinski, which is voted the world's most beautiful cinema - and for good reason. With its opulent Art Deco interior and extensive program featuring arthouse flicks and blockbusters, Tuchinski is always a great option. Recently renovated The Movies, along the popular Haarlemmerdijk, is another iconic venue in Amsterdam's film scene, with an ambient cosy interior and a bar where you can enjoy a wine long after the credits roll. For something a little different, try Filmhuis Cavia, whose program focuses on the quirky and the avant-garde in cinema. On the Prinsengracht, you'll find film house De Uitkijk, which features retro flicks and iconoclastic films that will keep you coming back for more.

Sip, savour and fall in love

People sitting at the bar at Compartir wine bar and restaurant on Spaarndammerstraat
Image from Manouk Quint

If you want to keep things relaxed and intimate this Valentine’s Day, you'll find plenty of cosy wine bars to choose from. In Oost, Bottleshop offers a thoughtfully curated and ever-changing wine list with melt-in-your-mouth sharing plates of refined but unpretentious fare. Head to De Pijp for a visit to Ramsey & Rayleigh on Van Woustraat, a stylish spot that allows you to taste over 100 open bottles of wine until you find one that's just right. Sip your way through excellent vintages at Paskamer, a beloved local haunt that cemented its reputation when it was hailed Wine Bar of the Year in 2023. Over in the West, lively wine bar Compartir is a local favourite along the bustling Spaarndammerstraat.

Get handsy with your food

Smelt people enjoying cheese fondue
Image from Smelt

Amsterdam has numerous restaurants and bars with a more unusual dining concept or an interactive element. From cracking crab claws to dipping meat skewers at a hotpot or fondue restaurant, these fun first-date restaurants will help you break the ice on a romantic date. And for more interactive adventures, why not get competitive at a jeu de boules court, arcade bar or pool hall. Have a read of this unexpected date ideas round-up for more unusual tips.

Experience a real fairytale

Couple in front of Muiderslot
Image from Muiderslot

Travel back in time to Muiderslot, a superbly preserved medieval fortress in Muiden, just east of Amsterdam. This magical castle dates back to the 13th century, with impressive turrets, well-kept gardens, and a charming moat. The castle offers a unique illuminated tour on Valentine's Day that explores the romantic—and occasionally scandalous—secrets of its illustrious past. Enjoy a welcoming drink while a troubadour performs live, bringing an enchanted touch to the evening. Don't miss our complete guide to romantic day-trip ideas in the Amsterdam Area for more.

Share some laughs with the one you love

Image from JD-Photography

They say laughter is the cornerstone of any great relationship, so what better place to celebrate love than at one of the city's best stages for comedy and spoken word? Boom Chicago is Amsterdam's beloved English-language comedy club. It is known for the sharp wit of its riotous comedy performances and pulls out all the stops for Valentine’s Day. The evening features a crackling improv show brimming with humour, an interactive comedy quiz, and the option of a full à la carte dinner. Get ready for a night of mirth and full-belly laughter.

Double the fun with a tandem bike

Couple cycling in the park holding hands
Image from creativebros

Few activities embody the spirit of the Netherlands quite like cycling. As you bike along the cobbled streets and elegant lanes of Amsterdam, you'll see it truly is one of the best ways to see the city. Level up on the romance by renting a tandem bicycle and cycling through the city. Enjoy a memorable ride for two, and for inspiration, consult these curated cycleseeing routes that showcase both the city's hidden gems and its scenic outskirts.

Kiss under the Magere Brug

Scenic view of Amsterdam city and the river Amstel bridge at night (it's the Magere brug)
Image from Koen Smilde

The Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) beckons for a romantic moment as darkness falls and Amsterdam comes alive with its city lights. Legend has it that couples who kiss on or under this graceful white drawbridge will experience eternal love. Its beautiful views over the Amstel River make it a popular location for proposals. Check out other magical spots to propose in Amsterdam, and don't miss this round-up of the most romantic hotel rooms and suites if you're looking for a memorable overnight stay.