Amsterdam Honeymoons

Even if you backpacked around Europe, surviving off street eats and staying at cheap hostels, it’s always a smart idea to venture back across the Atlantic, to experience cities you’ve seen through a different lens. For your honeymoon, traveling through various highly recommended cities is a romantic way to get lost in culture, wine and intrigue. One spot to consider is the capital of the Netherlands for an Amsterdam honeymoon. When you arrive, you’ll feel like you’re part of the 17th century Golden Age, with impressive canal systems, small, narrow, brightly-colored homes, acclaimed museums and a cycling paths. A dynamic traveling duo will find themselves getting lost in the character of this remarkable city, all while celebrating their new nuptials.

Here, the undeniable list of spots you must see while on your Amsterdam honeymoon.

When to Go

Depending on what type of weather you prefer (or can tolerate), temperatures vary greatly, considering Amsterdam’s geographic position. One of the most beautiful—and busiest!—seasons to visit is when the tulips are blooming, from mid-March to early May. The sweet spot is usually April, where you’ll have warm-ish weather and fewer tourists. As you inch closer to winter, pack plenty of layers so you can tour around town comfortably.

Top Sights and Activities

Make sure to carve out at least a week to explore this pretty city during your Amsterdam honeymoon. Considering you have everything from the infamous Red Light District to some of the best coffee shops in the world, it’ll be easy to fill up your calendar—and then some. Get started with these must-sees:

• Jordaan: Though this picturesque neighborhood used to be a working class area, it is now known for charming streets, lined with antiques, art, restaurants and bars. It’s ideal for an afternoon spent getting lost in the culture of the city.
• Oud-Zuid: For couples who appreciate art and its history, block off a day to visit this 19th century district that’s home to the Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art and Rijksmuseum. Bonus? If you go during winter, there’s an outdoor skating rink!
• The UNESCO-Protected Canal Belt: You can’t have an Amsterdam honeymoon without having a jaunt through the impressive and beautiful canal system that defines the city. You can choose from countless options—including private and shared—and even have a champagne toast, for an extra cost.
• De Negen Straatjes—’The Nine Streets: If you want to get in a bit of shopping while on vacation, head to this area of cobbled streets, where you’ll find more than 200 retailers. From vintage and speciality stores to independent boutiques, you’ll find a ‘thank you’ gift for everyone… including yourselves!
• Anne Frank Museum: Though a more somber experience, it is important to experience this one-of-a-kind piece of history while you’re in town. Here, you’ll be in the actual home of the iconic young Holocaust victim and writer Anne Frank. Make sure to arrive early, since lines are long.
• Oostelijke Eilanden: There are many windmills in Amsterdam, but this one in the Eastern Island neighborhood is one of the easiest to trek through. When you’re finished touring, wet your whistles by stopping at the artisan microbrewery with a large outdoor terrace.
• Westergasfabriek: For a more local experience, make sure to save time to visit this cultural hub during your Amsterdam honeymoon. Here is where natives like to play and work, offering countless bars, coffee shops, restaurants and more. Keep your eyes peeled for their frequent food markets, festivals and more.
• De Hallen: For artisan crafts and local foods and goods, make the journey to this younger neighborhood. You’ll find yourself lost in Food Hallen, with countless food and drink samplings available.
• Red Light District: Many drugs are legal in Amsterdam, as well as prostitution. Though you and your partner might not engage, the notorious Red Light District is a remarkable experience to see in person. You’ll see adult theaters, sex shops, strip clubs and more, as you walk through.

Article by Lindsay Tigar