Date ideas: these are the 32 cutest
Whether you just met each other or have been together for years, dates remain a must for a good relationship. At first, especially to get to know each other, and later to keep things a bit exciting and lively. Plopping down next to each other on the couch every evening can get boring after a while. But what is that perfect date activity? If it's new, you want to impress; later it should remain original. We got you. Here are the 32 best date ideas for your next outing.
Go to a drive-in or open-air cinema
We all know the Netflix or cinema date by now. Watching a movie can hardly ever go wrong, unless the movie is mega bad, of course. But sometimes it can be a bit more original. Why not go to a drive-in or open-air cinema? Especially in spring and summer, films are shown outside in various places, which you can watch from your car or on a blanket. But even when it gets a bit colder, you can plan this date. It's the perfect excuse to snuggle up a little closer. Don't forget your popcorn.
Plan a pétanque date
Okay, hear me out: pétanque might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a romantic date, but believe me, it can be really fun. In special pétanque bars, you can combine the game with some drinks. Mooie Boules has locations in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Eindhoven, for example. This way, you're not sitting stiffly across from each other, but you're engaged and can chat a bit easier. It's also a good test to see if your (potential) partner can handle losing.
Organize a game night
Now that we're talking about handling losing, a game night shows that perfectly. Make it cozy at home with some candles and tasty snacks, and challenge each other to a game. It's also very fun for a double date. Just make sure it doesn't end with the classic ‘you played unfair’ discussion.
Visit each other's birthplace
Nothing says more about someone than the place where they grew up. Want to really get to know your partner? Plan a date to your birth towns. This way, you can show each other where your roots lie and walk together past places with beautiful meanings. It immediately adds some depth to your relationship. And let's be honest: seeing your partner bloom through stories from the past? That's just too cute.
Rediscover your own city
Maybe you met in the city of your studies, or you have settled somewhere together by now. There's a good chance you have a list of favorite spots with the best bars or restaurants. Super cozy, but there's probably still much more to discover. Plan an evening in ‘your’ city, but go exploring places you don't know yet. Who knows, you might be able to add a few new favorites after that date.
Plan a road trip
Windows a bit down, your favorite playlist on max, and hit the road together. That's really enjoying. You don't have to head straight to the south for this.Spain. A road trip in the Netherlands, even in your own area, is just as fun. Along the way, you can enjoy the surroundings, chat together, or just sing along loudly. Set a route in advance so you can plan some fun stops. That way, you also have some mini-dates during your road trip.
Stay overnight in a B&B
A night away always feels like a mini-vacation, and in a B&B, it's just a bit cozier than in a hotel. Choose a nice city to discover together and make it a romantic outing. The next morning, a fresh breakfast is already waiting for you; and we know by now: in a B&B, love can really bloom.
Take a cocktail workshop together
Going out for drinks is fun; but making the drinks yourselves adds that little extra. Take a workshop together and learn how to make your favorite drinks. Or come up with a new creation that's entirely yours. How romantic is that? Don't forget to pay attention, so you can use those skills again for your next date night at home.
Rent a little boat
If there's anything romantic, it's renting a boat together. Bring a bottle of bubbles and some snacks and take some real time for each other. Whether you're sailing through the canals of Utrecht or more in nature like in the Biesbosch; it's delightful either way. Tip: choose a day with good weather. In pouring rain, you'll quickly get tired of that date on the water. And don't forget your speaker to play your favorite songs. And of course that bottle opener; you know, the thing you always leave at home.
Go to a concert together
If there's anything that makes me happy, it's tickets for a concert. It's the perfect date: going wild together and singing along to every lyric. From your toes, of course. Maybe you already have the same favorite artists or discover something new. Either way, it's going to be an unforgettable evening. Small tip: don't sing too loudly while filming, it sounds very different the next morning.
A date to Artis
Can your date last a bit longer than an evening? Then take your lover to Artis. Here you can wander around all day and spot the cutest animals. Read: cute monkeys, sleepy lions, and with a bit of luck, maybe even a newborn elephant. In the winter months, the Amsterdam zoo turns into a winter wonderland, with lights everywhere and special walking routes. In the summer, you can enjoy live music and cozy food stalls during the Zoomer evenings. Awkward silences? Not a chance, the animals provide plenty of conversation starters.
An evening at a football match
Whether you're a fan who sits on the couch every weekend or only watch when the Dutch national team plays; a football match in a stadium is just very different. That's why this is the perfect date. Together you feel that tension and hopefully cheer often. It's of course easier if you support the same team; but a bit of rivalry should be fine too. Once those 90 minutes are over, you can make it cozy again with a drink, that always works.
A day trip to Paris
Where is a date more romantic than in the city of love? And believe me, you really don't need to plan a whole vacation for a trip to Paris. One day is actually perfect to explore the city. With the Eurostar, you're there from Amsterdam in just over three hours, ideal right? After some cute photos at the Eiffel Tower, you can settle down by the Seine for a glass of champagne and a plate of chestnuts. Your date is then instantly tres parfait.
A karaoke date
Believe me, I'm definitely not Beyonce either. But a karaoke night is always good, especially for a date. Letting yourself go is the sign of a strong relationship. And after a few drinks, no one really pays attention to whether you hit that note or not. Maybe your lover gives you a slightly off-key serenade, and then you know for sure: he really goes for you, no matter what others think. What more do you want?
The Tuschinski loveseats cinema
Want to make the cinema date a bit more romantic? Then choose the loveseats in Tuschinski. Those rooms are already too beautiful, and with such a couch for two, your movie date becomes even more special. Snuggle up together and swoon away at a romcom, or hide behind your lover if the movie gets a bit too thrilling. Perfect date vibes, right?
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Dining in a greenhouse
Who says a dinner date isn't original anymore? With the perfect location, it becomes your most unique outing. At Bohiem , you can dine in a greenhouse, and that's pure romance. You'll be treated to local and wild ingredients and can relax with a cocktail by the campfire after dinner. Want to make the date absolutely perfect? Then stay overnight in a luxury tent and enjoy a delicious breakfast the next morning. Trust us, it doesn't get better than this.
A day at the spa
In the hectic daily life, planning a date can sometimes be quite a challenge. How nice is it to use that moment together to relax? Book a day spa and completely unwind in the sauna or with a nice massage. You're together for a while and can let go of all the stress; a win-win if you ask me. Ending with dinner also gives you the chance to catch up a bit. The perfect reset for yourself and for your relationship.
Romantic dinner on Vuurtoreneiland: A unique date in Amsterdam
A dinner that feels like a mini-vacation, and that right in Amsterdam? Yes, it’s possible! Vuurtoreneiland, a hidden piece of nature on the Markermeer, offers the perfect setting. Your journey begins at The Hoxton, Lloyd Amsterdam where you take the boat to the island. Once you arrive, a dinner of regional products, prepared over an open fire, awaits you. In summer, you dine cozily in the greenhouse; as soon as it gets colder, you sit in the winter restaurant, complete with a cozy fireplace. Besides dinner, you also get the chance to explore the island and the fort before you sail back to ‘normal life’.
Take a dessert tour
Looking for a date with a sweet touch? Why not create your own dessert tour. Hop from one spot to another for a slice of cake, crème brûlée, or other desserts. To help you get started, here are some tips: start at Winkel 43 at the Noordermarkt for the best apple pie. Poffertjes should definitely not be missed, so stop by The Pancake Bakery as well. End the tour with a chocolate chip cookie at Van Stapele; perfect for the way back home.
A wine tasting
A successful date naturally includes a good glass of wine. But why settle for one when you can try several? A wine tasting is ideal for a date with a bit of extra flair. And to be honest: talking about a Sauvignon Blanc as if you are an expert has a light-hearted charm. Combine it with some tasty snacks and your evening is complete. Prefer something less fancy? No problem, just organize a wine tasting in your own living room. Just as cozy.
Take a romantic walk in the woods
As soon as the leaves start to fall, it's time for a walk in the woods. The changing nature makes autumn so cozy and pleasant, and where better to experience that than surrounded by trees? With a glass of gluhwein in hand, you stay warm and can enjoy each other in peace. The forest is also beautiful in spring; then just swap the gluhwein for a homemade cocktail to go.
Spend the night in a forest cabin
We're still in the woods. You can not only walk there but also romantically spend the night in a forest cabin. While it's windy or raining outside, you can snuggle up inside by the fireplace. Is it dry? Then you can relax in the hot tub, of course with a glass of wine and a well-stocked snack board. Especially in the cold months, this creates the ultimate romantic vibe. Just make sure that warm bathrobe is within reach.
Take a workshop on making Bossche bollen
Want to give your day in Den Bosch that little extra? Then book a workshop on making Bossche bollen together. You can't visit the city without eating one, and making them yourself is even more fun. You’ll be creatively engaged together and afterwards have the tastiest result to enjoy at home. If they haven't already been eaten, of course.
Visit a culinary market
Are you real foodies? Then a visit to a culinary market is the perfect date for you. Stroll together past the stalls, taste delicious treats everywhere, and discover new favorites. If you find something really good, you can just walk by again. And it gets even better: many of these markets have cozy bars for a drink or live music to complete the atmosphere. Completely satisfied, you can head home, with plenty of inspiration for your next at-home dinner date.
Take a hot air balloon ride
Okay, first check if your lover has a fear of heights, but if that's not a problem, then a hot air balloon ride is a must-do for your date list. At great heights, you can enjoy a beautiful view. And in such a basket, you can't help but snuggle up close to each other. What a punishment. Be sure to bring a disposable camera to capture this special experience. Just be careful not to drop it; that would be a shame for those photos.
Go out in a classic car
How cute are those old classic cars? A ride in such a classic makes your date instantly more romantic. Tour around together and discover the most beautiful spots. You’ll need to bring your own music, unfortunately, carplay is not included here. A well-stocked picnic basket is also a great idea. This way, you have a cozy break in your ride, and such a basket looks super cute on the back of the car.
Take a cooking class
That food is a love language is no secret anymore. Nothing says ‘I love you’ clearer than a home-cooked dinner. But yes, we are not all star chefs. Taking a cooking class together is therefore the ideal date. You can test how well you can work together in the kitchen, and then enjoy the end result. If the recipe works, of course. And with a little practice, your home dinners will look very different from now on.
Visit a jazz festival
Want to surprise your lover with a musical date? Then a jazz festival is a top choice. If ‘La La Land’ has taught us anything, it's that jazz immediately creates that romantic atmosphere. The annual festivals in Breda and Haarlem are highly recommended. With a drink in hand, you can enjoy the music and maybe even try a dance. Enjoying it? Then a jazz bar or concert should definitely be on your list for the next date.
Go to a comedy show
Ask anyone what an ideal partner should be like, and the chances are high that humor is on the list. But yes, that remains something personal. What makes you laugh might be seen as silly by your partner. The ideal way to compare your humor is with a date to a comedy show. This way, you can see exactly what you both laugh at; and most importantly, whether that matches. Is it nothing like you expected? Well, that's kind of funny too, right?
A cheese tasting
With cheese, you have a bit of two camps: you love it or you hate it. Do you both belong to the cheese lovers? Then a tasting is a delightful date to go all out. At Kef in Amsterdam, you are in the right place. Here you can try all sorts of different cheeses and learn all about the production process. Of course, with matching wines. This way, you know exactly what to stock up on for your next wine night.
Organize a theme night
An at-home date certainly doesn't have to be boring. With a fun theme, you give your evening that extra touch. How about an Italian night? For dinner, you both cook a classic dish to surprise the other. A real Italian wine should not be missing, of course. With Andrea Bocelli in the background, it feels completely like la dolce vita. To perfectly end the evening, watch a movie with an Italian touch. A personal recommendation: ‘Call Me by Your Name’. The atmosphere of that film is just chef's kiss.
Book a padel court
Does it need to be a bit more active? Put on your sports outfit and off to the padel court. This is of course the perfect sport to do together, and also great for a double date. This way, you can combine date night with your workout; that's a win-win. You really don't have to be a pro; stumbling together has its charms too. And afterwards, you definitely deserve a drink.
Is it your turn to organize something? Then with these 32 date ideas, you at least have enough inspiration. Have fun!
image: hannaschonberg
