Navigate Amsterdam on its Canals
Consider timing your canal voyage for twilight or the early evening hours. The city lights reflecting on the water create a magical ambiance that's truly unforgettable.
Why Travel by Canal in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam's canals offer a direct route through the heart of the city with a unique view that you won’t get on foot or bike.
Drifting under quaint bridges, past charming gabled houses, especially at twilight, can be incredibly romantic.
Canals connect you quickly to popular neighborhoods like Jordaan and de Pijp, and major attractions like the Anne Frank House and Rijksmuseum.
Renting a Boat and Exploring
From cozy, electric boats you can steer yourself to guided canal cruises, there's an option for every vibe and group size.
Rental Companies: Popular ones include:
Boaty Rent a Boat
Canal Motorboats
Pure Boats
Especially in peak seasons, pre-booking ensures you get the boat and time slot you want.
How to Not Get Lost: Maps and Apps
Download offline maps via Google Maps so you’re never disconnected from navigation.
Utilize apps like:
Amsterdam Canal Guide: Offers routes and info about significant canal spots.
Boaty: Provides details on renting and navigating their boats.
Some rental companies provide waterproof, easy-to-follow maps catered specifically for tourists boating the canals.
Must-See Canal Routes
Herengracht (Gentlemen's Canal)
This canal is famous for its beautiful Golden Bend (Gouden Bocht) with majestic 17th-century mansions and stunning architecture.
Must-See Spots:
The Mayor's Residence
Museum of the Canals (Het Grachtenhuis)
Keizersgracht (Emperor's Canal)
Known for its broad layout and stately buildings. It’s the middle of the three main canals and offers a peaceful journey through the heart of Amsterdam.
Must-See Spots:
Felix Meritis
The Dylan Hotel Amsterdam
Prinsengracht (Prince’s Canal)
The outermost of the three main canals, it's vibrant and lined with houseboats, trendy cafes, and boutiques.
Must-See Spots:
Anne Frank House
Westerkerk
Noordermarkt
Jordaan District
Dotted with narrow canals like Bloemgracht and Brouwersgracht, this area is charming with its cozy cafes, art galleries, and hidden courtyards.
Must-See Spots:
Westerstraat Market
The “9 Streets” for unique shopping
Amstel River
Although not a canal, cruising down the Amstel offers views of some of Amsterdam’s most emblematic scenes.
Must-See Spots:
Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug)
Hermitage Amsterdam Museum
Red Light District (De Wallen)
This area can be bustling, but it's home to some of the oldest and most atmospheric canals.
Must-See Spots:
Oudezijds Achterburgwal Canal
Oude Kerk (Old Church)
Insider Tip:
Consider timing your canal voyage for twilight or the early evening hours. The city lights reflecting on the water create a magical ambiance that's truly unforgettable.