10 Best Romantic Things to Do in Amsterdam

Wine lovers will not want to miss Vyne, one of Amsterdam’s only bars dedicated entirely to wine. Owner Bert van der Leden originally founded the establishment to fill a gap in the market. Amsterdam is internationally known for its great beer, but van der Leden wanted to provide a place where people could also enjoy wine. At Vyne, you will experience wine at its finest. You can order a flight, which includes three half glasses. This enables you to sample a variety. If you’re with a group, you can even organize a tasting. They offer different packages, including a basic one, a bundle that focuses on wine with bubbles and a new versus old world package. Vyne even provides snack food to complement your selection, such as steak tartar, crunchy prawns, Italian hams and cheese. Sit back, enjoy your surroundings and sip on a great glass of wine.

Crowning the River Amstel, the grand dame of theatrical venues was originally built as a circus theatre in 1894 by the French/German circus family of the same name; stables for the animals still remain below the building. But although the circus comes to town every Christmas – and sometimes during the summer months – it now stages anything from opera, ballet, theater and musicals (mostly in Dutch). Stars such as Lou Reed, Mercedes Sosa and Bette Midler have also performed here. Renovations over the decades have seen this impressive – and plush – landmark restored to its former glory, and it’s well worth keeping an eye on its programme.

If you want a classy night out, visit Vesper Bar. This intimate place serves some of the best cocktails in Amsterdam. Ladies, get that little black dress out of the closet and find your cutest pair of high heels. Men, put on a collared shirt and nice dress shoes. “The Vesper Martini” is a classic. The “Isle of Dreams” is smooth and made with Banks 5 rum, lime juice, Falernum, ginger liqueur and pineapple juice. Maybe you just need some medicine after a long day of work. The “Penicillin” is made with Monkey Shoulder whisky, honey ginger syrup, lemon juice and Islay whisky. If you think there are too many options and just want to be surprised, ask the bartender for the “Leap of Faith.” Whatever you get, every cocktail concoction is absolutely refreshing and delicious. If someone does not like cocktails, Vesper also serves wine and beer.

Enjoy the freshest ingredients at Restaurant de Kas, located in Frankendael Park. Every morning at sunrise, chefs and wait staff help owner and founder Gert Jan Hageman harvest herbs, vegetables and edible flowers. Ingredients are harvested in the restaurant’s very own greenhouse and garden, situated in their backyard, as well as from a field about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from Amsterdam. If an ingredient cannot be grown in their field, De Kas purchases additional foods, such as dairy products, meats, fish and various fruits and vegetables, from local farmers and vendors. Dine in the restaurant, relax on the patio or sit at the chef’s table and watch the magic happen in the kitchen. Either way, you’re sure to love the flavorful creations.

Situated in the heart of the Amsterdamse Bos, the Amsterdam Forest, you’ll find the Geitenboerderij De Ridammerhoeve, a goat farm. Discover the various facets of organic farming, including care of the animals. Visit the goats, chickens, pigs, cows and horses in a rural setting. Participate in a workshop: learn how to milk a goat and make your own cheese. Then, wrap up with a tasting; check the Website for available dates. Stop by the Farmer’s Market on a Saturday or if the weather’s nice, relax on the terrace and enjoy a cup of coffee. Want to hold a memorable birthday party or arrange an educational excursion with your class? At De Ridammerhoeve, it is possible; you can provide children with a hands-on and fun learning experience. Whatever you decide to do, make sure to try at least one of the products before you leave.

This expansive city park, begun in 1934, offers a wide variety of wildlife and is an ideal place to get away from the city proper and enjoy its leisure facilities. A rowing course was the park’s first attraction and still serves as a popular pastime. You’ll also find a pond on which to cruise in small, rented vessels and a museum whose exhibits detail area flora and fauna. Biking, walking and jogging paths are also available, as are an open-air theater, children’s playgrounds and a marvelous organic goat farm. Hop on the Museum Tram which runs along the park in the summer months and orientate yourself at the Visitor’s Center by the main entrance.

Experience picturesque Amsterdam from the waterways. Especially when the sun is shining, there is no better way to see the sights than by boat. Wind your way through Amsterdam’s canals and appreciate the attractions from the water. With a multitude of options, you can pick the one that suits you best. Purchase a hop-on, hop-off ticket, so you can visit some of the museums or attractions along the way. Combine the tour with food and drinks. Depending on your choice, prices vary. For instance, a day ticket costs 22 EUR with Canal Company. Also check into other operators, such as hotels and venues, as they offer tours, too.

Whimsical and extravagant, this circa-1921 theater is a mad foray into creativity, an Art Deco study of color and shape. Named for the Jewish tailor who envisioned and financed the structure, the movie theater is a spectacle of stained glass, exotic woods, handmade carpets, and painted murals. Completely restored in April 2002, the theater is not only a bit of history reclaimed but a tribute to Abraham Tuschinski, who created the building and was put to death in a concentration camp. Movies are still shown today, but even if you don’t experience one, make sure to step into the Tuschinski for the pure visual appeal.

A regal entrance detailed with gilded eagles and ornate gates welcomes visitors to this intriguing zoo, which was instituted in 1838 and still boasts a 19th century ambience. With more than 6000 animals representing 700-some species, the zoo offers a glimpse of wildlife from around the world that’s sure to prove enlightening to kids and adults alike. On the grounds, you’ll also find (at no extra charge) an aquarium, planetarium, botanical gardens, and two museums devoted to zoology and geology. The last few years Artis is beging remodeled and it looks stunning again. Most animals have a total new home now.

Amsterdam provides many places to escape busy city life. Whether you need a quiet afternoon to yourself or want to play with your children, Amsterdam offers many green spaces to get away. Vondelpark is one of the city’s many parks to help you do just that. It’s perfect for a long walk or bike ride. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, lie on the grass or read a book. Stop by the Blauwe Theehuis, tucked away in the center of the park, and have a drink on one of the largest outdoor terraces in Amsterdam. In the summer months, attend one of the open-air concerts. When you’re about to leave the park, use a side exit and admire the gorgeous houses; it’s one of the richest areas of Amsterdam. Take a break from all the sightseeing and busy street corners and enjoy a moment to yourself in the Vondelpark.