Tips for Valentine's Day in Amsterdam

Take your relationship up a level

Thrill-seeking lovers can get an adrenaline rush at Europe’s highest swing on the top (or rather, over the edge) of the A’DAM Tower. Offering stunning panoramic views, there’s no denying it’s the best seat (for two) in the house. When you come back down to earth, go for a glitzy dinner at MOON on the 19th floor - undoubtedly one of the most romantic restaurants in the city. 

Climb aboard the love boat

Amsterdam is simply gushing with old city charm, and what better way to see the city than from the water with a delicious meal and a glass of bubbly thrown in? Take the romantic Valentine's Day Supper Cruise through illuminated waterways while enjoying dinner and drinks (€75 per person). Expect culinary fireworks and great music from the live DJs. No heavy petting or Titanic reenactments at the back of the boat, please!

Experience movie romance

Impress your date with an outing that puts the ‘class’ in classical. This annual event is part of a series of hugely popular concerts that bring film score favourites to life via the Olten Philharmonic Orchestra in a venue generally touted as having some of the best acoustics in the world. In this Valentine Classics at the Movies at The Royal Concertgebouw, listen up for snippets from scores you know and love from films like Romeo + Juliet, Star Wars and Forrest Gump.

Squish into a loveseat

Watching a movie together (romantic or otherwise) is a no-brainer for the first date or long-time partners alike. But we’re not just talking about any cinema date here. Amsterdam has a whole range of quirky independent cinemas. Try out Filmhuis Cavia for some retro art-house movie charm. Immerse yourself in art-deco romance at Filmhallen’s ‘Parisien Room’ or the stunning Tuschinski cinema with its double ‘love seats’.

Be married for the day

Tie the knot for one day only and be divorced again after midnight? You don't have to go to Las Vegas for that; it can also be done in Amsterdam. Getting Married for 1 Day offers the complete package on Valentine's Day: from fairytale dresses and vintage suits to plastic rings and fake flowers. Before you even have a chance to throw the bridal bouquet, the divorce papers will already have been signed!

Get the conversation flowing

If you'd rather keep things casual with drinks, Amsterdam is home to more wine bars, cocktail joints and cosy neighbourhood pubs than you can shake a stick at. Dazzle your date with your discerning taste for natural wine at Bottleshop, join a whisky tasting hosted by JD Williams Whisky Bar, or soak up the spectacular city views over a cocktail at LuminAir.

Live the fairy tale

Indulge your inner knight or damsel this Valentine’s Day with a romantic tour of Castle Muiderslot. Lying just to the East of Amsterdam in Muiden, this enchanting stronghold dates back to 1280 and comes complete with a drawbridge, turrets, a moat and landscaped gardens – the ideal backdrop for any courtly love to blossom. On Valentine's Day, enjoy a special candlelit tour where you'll learn more about the bedroom secrets of our ancestors. Upon arrival, you will receive a special drink while the troubadour plays exciting love songs. You can also get married for one day in the castle chapel!

Don't sit in the front row!

Laughter is perhaps the most essential thing in a relationship. Whether you have been chuckling together for years or are still discovering each other's humour, Boom Chicago is the place for you. Enjoy a special Valentine's Day evening with an interactive quiz, an improvisation show and a complete à la carte dinner, all under one roof (from €27.50). Be sure to avoid the front row if you're feeling shy!

Hire a bicycle made for two

Cycling is one of the best ways to experience Amsterdam and the surrounding area. And what could be sweeter than roaming the city’s historic canals and lanes by tandem this Valentine’s Day? You can hire a bike for two at many of Amsterdam’s bike rental companies. Need some ideas for where to venture? Check out our round-up of cycleseeing routes in and around Amsterdam.

Steal a smooch

As the evening drops and the city begins to sparkle, head along to Amsterdam's famous Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) to steal a kiss with your loved one! Legend has it that couples who share a kiss on or under this beautiful little bridge over the River Amstel will be blessed with everlasting love. It's also undoubtedly one of the city's most romantic locations to propose at.