Amsterdam Canal Ring
ATTRACTION Keywords:
Good Views / Viewpoint,
Popular with Locals,
Sailing,
River
The first image one conjures up when thinking of Amsterdam is its tranquil canals. Three rings of canals, lined by elaborately decorated merchants' residences and warehouses built in the 17th century, the Dutch "Golden Age", give the city its iconic and easygoing image. In fact, 90 islands were created when the canals were built, and they’re all connected by hundreds of charming bridges.
The best-known canals form the central Grachtengordel (Canal Belt). To the wandering visitor, they’re like lifelines because the subtle turns in the center can throw your inner compass out of whack. The semicircular canals form a huge ring, cut by canals radiating from the middle like spokes on a wheel. Starting from the core, the major semicircular canals are the Singel, Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht. From east to west, the major radial canals are Brouwersgracht, Leidsegracht, and Reguliersgracht.
Barges, powerboats, Frisian skûtsjes, and rowboats glide through the canals throughout the day. The glass-topped canal boats, with their view of Amsterdam from the finest vantage point of all, is the best ride - you just sit back and let the city flow around you.
Latest Reviews
Review by cook31100, May 2013
Doing what: Amsterdam Canal Bus Hop-On Hop-Off
This was a great trip by canal, we hopped on and off frequently during the day
very nice way to get around
Review by Vicky M, Canada, May 2013
Doing what: Amsterdam Canals Candlelight Cruise
Wasn't sure what to expect while cruising "in the dark". Little did I know, the canals seem to come alive with their countless illuminated bridges that it makes for a totally new experience. Very nicely narrated as we go through special bridges, buildings or neighborhoods. The cheese selection is delightful and what can I say about the wine...they just kept on coming and refilling our glasses. It is a wonderful way to spend an evening in this lovely city.
Review by Carol A H, United Kingdom, March 2013
Doing what: Amsterdam Canals Candlelight Cruise
Great tour. The boat was warm even though the evening was pretty cold. Our glasses were never empty and the cheese was delicious. The salted peanuts were outstanding! Amsterdam is beautifully lit at night and the tour was an unhurried cruise through delightful canals.
Practical Info
Go for a stroll next to the waterways and check out some of Amsterdam’s 3,300 houseboats. The Prinsengracht is lined with a particularly great mix. Or just linger over a late-afternoon beer in a canal-side café and watch the boats drift by.
