These are the absolute best places to go with your date

Did you still know the story of Kiek who went on a road trip? That trip took place and I can tell you: it was awesome. Even if it was just for the higher purpose: figuring out what the best hotspots are to go to with your date this summer or to meet cool people. Armed with the Dating Map from Lexa, I got into the car with my partner in crime Roos. Where did we spot the most handsome men (and yes, also women!)? Here it comes.

Scheveningen – Barbarossa

The real beach insiders know: this is the place to be. Handsome waiters and a huge terrace where you can decadently sip a glass of bubbles while keeping a good eye on everything from behind your sunglasses. And it's also quite practical that you can check out that body right at the beach. Well, the eye wants something too. Oh, and by the way: order the burrata, I've never eaten anything so delicious.

Rotterdam – The Harbour Club

I come to Rotterdam way too little, but this is really a super fun city for a date. Grab a terrace, go touristy with the water taxi, and end the day at The Harbour Club. For A: the insane oysters, B: the sushi, C: the cocktails, and D: the men. I've seen so many tight torsos in white shirts, just saying. If you have a first date, I suggest you grab an extra round of oysters. I mean: you know why...

Reims – The Champagne Region

Why stay in the Netherlands when you can go across the border? Exactly. With the car, you're in the Champagne region in a few hours. How fun for a first date? Together with the bubbles, the atmosphere is immediately nice. Check which château is cool to visit (hint hint: the bartenders at Pommery are handsome), do a tasting, and then go picnicking in the park while tipsy. Already the best date ever. (P.S.: And of course, you throw a stash of bubbles for home in your car.)

Paris – Rosa Bonheur

Oui oui Paris, the city of love. Of course, we couldn't skip that. Is there even a better place to go with your love and forget the world around you? Don’t think so. Tip: the terrace of Rosa Bonheur. A glass of wine, good company; nothing more to add. Oh, and the terrace is by the Seine and next to it

there's a boat that transforms into a club during the night hours. You look out over the illuminated bridges of Paris. One of the most beautiful and romantic spots if you ask me.

Ghent – De Dulle Griet

Okay, it might sound a bit ‘dull’, but it's honestly a fantastic place. The café is a real institution in Ghent, where they sell more than 500 different Belgian beers. And look, the handsome men do come here. Don't be surprised if you see people sitting with one shoe, because that's been a tradition for years when you order the ‘Max’ beer. You get it back at the end of the night. Hilarious. Oh, and Ghent is definitely a super romantic place for a first date. Everything feels a bit medieval (think: horses, carriages, castles), so after those drinks, just stroll through the city together in the night hours.

P.S.: We visited all these hotspots in five days. It can also be done if you're in the mood for a tour of love. Want to check out more places in Europe that are great for a first date? Check here the complete Dating Map from Lexa.