Amsterdam is compact, international and built around bikes and canals. Dutch dating culture is known for its directness: people tend to say what they mean, splitting the bill is common, and a first date is usually casual, such as a drink on a canal-side terrace or a cycle to a park. Many Amsterdammers plan their social lives well ahead, so spontaneous invitations can be rarer than newcomers expect, and it helps to be clear and straightforward about what you are looking for.
The city has one of the largest international populations in Europe, and English is spoken almost everywhere, though locals appreciate any effort with Dutch. The Jordaan has narrow streets, courtyards and a village feel; De Pijp is lively and diverse, centered around the Albert Cuyp market; Amsterdam-Oost is greener and more residential; and Noord, across the IJ on a free ferry, has become a creative area with old shipyards turned into studios and event spaces. The city has been a pioneer of LGBTQ+ rights for decades, and the Netherlands was the first country to legalize same-sex marriage, in 2001.
With cycling part of daily life, the cyclists tribe fits naturally, and the LGBTQ+ tribe reflects the city’s long history of openness. Souldaters is completely free, and nobody can message you until you have both liked each other. If you have just moved here for work, Friends mode is a relaxed way to find people for canal walks, museum visits and weekend rides.
Tribes to join in Amsterdam
Tribes work everywhere. Join a few and filter Discover to people nearby who share them.
First date ideas in Amsterdam
- Cycle through Vondelpark, the city's most famous park, and find a quiet spot by the ponds.
- Take the free ferry from behind Central Station across the IJ to explore the NDSM wharf area in Noord.
- Browse the Albert Cuyp Market in De Pijp, one of the best-known street markets in the Netherlands.
- Visit the Rijksmuseum and walk through its free gardens and the passage beneath the building.
- Get lost in the lanes of the Jordaan and the Nine Streets, crossing the canals at dusk.
- Cycle out to the Amsterdamse Bos, a large forest park on the edge of the city with lakes and trails.
How to make friends in Amsterdam
- Join a rowing, korfball or field hockey club, which are popular ways the Dutch socialize.
- Go to language exchange evenings to practice Dutch and meet other newcomers.
- Volunteer with a local community project or neighborhood festival.
- Join a group bike ride out of the city along the Amstel river toward the countryside.
More ideas: how to make friends in a new city.
The vegan & plant-based scene in Amsterdam
Amsterdam has a large and well-established vegan scene, with plant-based restaurants, bakeries and shops across the city and vegan options in most supermarkets and cafes.
Meet plant-based people in Amsterdam through the Vegan and Vegetarian tribes, and switch on the free "Only show vegans" filter.
Dating in Amsterdam: FAQ
Is there a free dating site in Amsterdam?
Yes. Souldaters is free for everyone in Amsterdam, with no premium tier, no paid boosts and no paywall on seeing who liked you. You can only chat after a mutual like, so there are no unwanted messages. It is inclusive of all genders and orientations and available in English.
Where can I meet vegan singles in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam has many vegan cafes, restaurants and events spread around the city, and plant-based eating is very common among younger residents. On Souldaters you can join the vegan tribe and use the free dealbreaker filter to see only vegans, or vegans and vegetarians, living in and around Amsterdam.
How do I make friends in Amsterdam as an expat?
The Dutch tend to have established friend groups and busy calendars, so joining something regular helps: a sports club, a language exchange, or a volunteering project. Be direct about suggesting plans. Souldaters Friends mode and the expats tribe help you meet people nearby, and chat opens once you have both waved.