The most romantic day trips in the Netherlands for Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is only a few days away and if you and your significant other find yourself stumped for what to do this year to celebrate, don’t worry! IamExpat has you sorted with our list for some of the most romantic day trips you can go on right here in the Netherlands.

5 Romantic day trips for couples in the Netherlands 

Celebrating Valentine's Day can be tricky; the time of year means the weather in the Netherlands can be pretty grey, wet and cold, and there's all this pressure to make it perfect and show your partner how much you care.

Of course, there are plenty of fun, more traditional date ideas - go for a meal at your favourite restaurant, or catch a film at your local cinema (Pathe Tuschinski in Amsterdam is always a super romantic spot for a date!). Or perhaps you're looking for something a little more playful so opt to plan an evening at one of the Netherlands' many cool arcades. 

But maybe this year you're looking to branch out a little more, and are on the hunt for Valentine's inspiration a little further afield. Don't worry though, you don't have to travel too far for a romantic trip. In fact, why not consider a weekend away or a day trip right here in the Netherlands - there’s plenty to do!

Enjoy a private boat tour in Utrecht

Amsterdam is known for its many canals and various boat tours, but of course it isn't the only Dutch city full of gorgeous canals. If you like the idea of a romantic boat trip but are looking for something to do outside of the Dutch capital, then you could head to Utrecht! There are a number of companies running boat tours or boat rentals, and you can decide whether or not you would like a guide to help you explore the city via its waterways.

Visit Giethoorn: the Venice of the Netherlands

You might not have heard of Giethoorn, but you've probably seen photos and videos of this quaint Dutch village that looks like it was plucked right from the pages of your favourite fairytale. Located in the province of Overijssel it might be a bit of a trek to get to, but there is certainly no other village in the Netherlands like it. 

If you want to spend the afternoon in Giethoorn, you could of course book a boat trip, but there are also other things you could do - visit one of the village's museums, or enjoy some food and drinks at one of its many bars or restaurants (one of them even has two Michelin stars!). 

Live out your fairytale dreams at a Dutch castle

The Netherlands is a small country, but it has tonnes of castles and palaces that are worth a visit. There are the really famous ones like Paleis het Loo, Kasteel de Haar and Muiderslot that are great for day trips, but there are others that operate as hotels or bed and breakfasts and could offer the perfect weekend getaway spot. 

There's Château Wittem in Limburg which has a history dating back all the way to the 12th century, or Kasteel de Wittenburg on the outskirts of The Hague. 

Wine tasting at a vineyard in Limburg

It might not feel like vineyard season, but that doesn't mean you can't still enjoy some wine tasting at one of the many vineyards you can find in the southern province of Limburg. 

If you're worried that Limburg is a bit far to travel for just a day, why not make a weekend of it and spend a night or two in Maastricht - as one of the country's oldest cities, it offers lots of gorgeous historic architecture and is known as a city of culinary highlights.

Channel your inner explorer in the Biesbosch

The Netherlands may not be known for its wildlife, but the country does have dozens of gorgeous national parks for hikers, birdwatchers and nature lovers alike - whether they be avid or aspiring! If you and your significant other are considering celebrating Valentine's Day in a more active way this year, you should consider taking a trip to the beautiful Biesbosch Natural Park in North Brabant. 

The bountiful Biesbosh is famous for being the largest freshwater tidal area, and is flush with streams, rivers and little islands, as well as flora and fauna aplenty. You could hire a canoe and explore, engage in some birdwatching or fishing, or keep it simple and go for a leisurely walk or bicycle ride along one of the park's various routes. 

Happy Valentine's Day!

Whether you're celebrating Galentine's this year with a group of friends, planning a special night for your significant other, or just treating it like a normal Wednesday, here's hoping you have a happy Valentine's Day in 2024!