Amsterdam: A Couple’s Retreat

September 16, 2014

Modern life often means that it can be difficult to find time for couples of all ages to take a break away together. If you’re looking to get away together, Amsterdam could be the answer.

With a variety of options available, whether you’re looking for a romantic short break or a vibrant and energetic retreat, there’s certainly a lot on offer.

Start off with a spot of shopping, browsing the quirky shops and lovely architecture found in the Jordaan area. With a great variety of cafes and restaurants filled with locals, this neighbourhood is ideal for grabbing a bite to eat or enjoying a coffee. It’s a charming area with narrow lanes, leafy canal views and 17th century shops.

How about treating your loved one to a selection of fresh flowers from Amsterdam’s Flower Market? As the world’s only floating flower market, florists, located on barges along the canal, display spectacular arrays of flowers, with picturesque cafes adjacent, you could spend a long time soaking up the vibrant colours and smells on offer. Why not stop off and grab a quick snack, admiring the Dutch culture that surrounds you? Don’t forget, all the bulbs on offer are ready for export, so you can take the memory of Amsterdam home to your own garden to relive for years to come.

Already love the quaint cafes and traditional restaurants Amsterdam offers? Make sure you check out a ‘brown cafe’ (bruin cafe) – local watering-holes, filled with locals and their bright personalities! Did you know that brown cafes take their name from the dark wooden & stained walls and ceilings? Most cafes offer local and regional beers, but you can also try jenever – a Dutch spirit similar to Gin. Give the typical Dutch pub snack a taste – bitterballen, breaded & deep-fried balls with a ragout filling, served with mustard. Check out IAmsterdam’s guide for where you can sample a brown cafe for yourself.

If you’re spending the afternoon walking along the side of the canals, make sure you make time to visit Anne Frank’s house – well worth a visit. Located in the Prinsengracht area, this is always a popular attraction. Discover all about Anne Frank’s life and her emigration to the Netherlands, as well as take a look at her hiding place turning into a world known museum.

Looking to take a memorable photo of you both to remember your time together in Amsterdam? The Rijksmuseum can make a stunning historical and cultural backdrop, especially with the iconic IAmsterdam sign. Having recently undergone extensive renovation work spanning nearly 10 years, visitors now don’t step foot into a renovated Rijksmuseum, but into a completely new museum – so if you’ve visited before, there lots of new areas to explore.

Another popular photo opportunity area is Dam Square, where you can admire a view of the Royal Palace (Koninklijk Palace). Just a five minute walk from Central Station, this square is always busy and full of action – from food stalls to shops, you can spend an afternoon soaking up the ambience. There certainly plenty to see – hotel Krasnapolsky, the National Memorial statue, Madame Tussauds, the old stock exchange and the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk).

It certain that Amsterdam has a lot to offer any couple looking to get away. If you’re interested in events throughout the year, take a look at IAmsterdam’s What-to-Do guide.

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