Not many European cities, if any, can beat Amsterdam when it comes to romance. Everything about it – winding canals and countless boats, narrow houses and cobbled streets – has a unique poetry and charm you just can’t resist. While a simple walk around town would already be romantic, we would like to give you a few more ideas for Valentine’s Day to make it special.
Even though it may seem like the obvious solution, cinema is a great place to go on Valentine’s Day, especially since Amsterdam has lots of them! For such an occasion, we’d recommend choosing small and cozy arthouse cinemas like De FilmHallen, Het Ketelhuis at Westergasfabriek or The Movies, which is the oldest movie theater in town. With smaller rooms, fewer people and a wider range of movies shown, they provide a real authentic and intimate experience.
The Royal Concertgebouw has just the right option for Valentine’s Day! On February 14th, in its Main Hall famous for great acoustics, you can enjoy some of the most romantic love songs from the well-known movies. Surprise your Valentine with the classics from Titanic, Sleeping Beauty and When Harry Met Sally.
Even if you’re not a fan of museums and don’t feel like spending your Valentine’s Day at one, don’t miss a great offer in Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! This place has nothing in common with dark, dusty and boring museums where you’re not allowed to take pictures or touch things. In fact, Ripley’s Odditorium is everything but that! Embark on a romantic adventure at the weirdest place in town and have a glass of punch afterwards. The offer stands from Feb 11th till Feb 19th.
Few things can beat the romance of ice-skating, hand-in-hand, followed by a warm meal and a cup of perfect hot chocolate or mulled wine. The ice rink on Museumplein is already closed, but Jaap Eden IJsbaan is still there. Those looking for something even more special should visit the Dutch Ice Sculpture Festival.
The last piece of advice is to take an ordinary activity and spice it up a bit. A dinner will be much more special in a restaurant with a fireplace or a nice view. A simple walk around town becomes more interesting if combined with a free tour, a quick bite of street food or a delicious cookie from Van Stapele Koekmakerij. Finally, if you’re already tired of Amsterdam (what’s wrong with you?), take a day trip to one of the cities nearby. Our first choice would be Haarlem as it’s genuinely beautiful, cozy and is just 10 minutes away from the Central Station.
So, that was our list of ideas for Valentine’s Day. Feel free to use it or create your own! The Dutch capital is very romantic and always has something to amaze you with: from a simple boat ride to a one-day marriage – whatever works best! Amsterdam is not Vegas, but there are still quite a few entertainments here.
Happy Valentine’s Day!