The Canals of Amsterdam
The Canals of Amsterdam
The Dutch have dealt with a lack of space and overcrowding for centuries. As a result, they have reclaimed land from the sea. Much of Amsterdam has been reclaimed and as a result, has a giant network of navigable canals. The canals give the city much of its famous charm.
When I visited Amsterdam, I flew into Schiphol and then took the train to Amsterdam’s Central Station. As soon as I stepped out of the train station, I took in my first great view of the canals. One of the best views of St. Nicholas Basilica can be seen overlooking the canals from the front of Amsterdam Central.
The Canals of Amsterdam are all unique and have different appearances. Some are smaller and less traveled. Others are larger and filled with constant boat traffic. Many of the canals are lined with narrow streets and parked cars. Bridges are also a common sight as are people riding bikes. The Canals are indeed a magical experience, and I lost myself for hours just following the canals and exploring the city.
The Canals of Amsterdam are truly a sight that can only be appreciated in person. Walking around Amsterdam’s canals feels like going back in time. The canals are genuinely a must-see every time I visited this wonderful city.
The Canals of Amsterdam - Table of Contents
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Using the Hop On/Hop Off Pass - The Canals of Amsterdam
One of the best ways to view the canals is by taking a tour. A tour can be done either taking a river cruise, water taxi or buying a ticket for the Hop On/Hop Off Boat. A Hop On/How Off tour allows tourists to see the canals from an entirely different perspective as they are on the water. I purchased a ticket for the Hop On/Hop Off boat and used it as a tour. I only got off a few times and spent most of my time viewing the buildings of Amsterdam from the canal.
If you would like to preorder your Hop On/Hop Off Pass I have included a link below. Please note, that as an affiliate of Viator, I will receive a small commission if you book using my link. This commission is at no additional cost to you.
 Amsterdam Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and/or Boat - $30.54 ?Hop On Hop Off Tour Amsterdam is the best way to explore the city. Hop on the iconic red buses whenever and wherever you want and enjoy unlimited canal cruises through the historic canal district! Choose what fits your schedule: 24h or 48h hopping on and of the bus, boat, a bus-boat combination or a bus combination with LOVERS Canal Cruises! |
The Hop On/Hop Off boat made a stop at the ferry terminal on the other side of the broad river behind Amsterdam Central Station. The ferry terminal features a tall building with an observation deck. The observation deck provides excellent views of the area.
Another fun way to see the canals is by taking a dinner cruise. I have linked a few dinner cruises below.
 Amsterdam Canals Cruise Including Dinner and Onboard Commentary - $87.40 Learn about Amsterdam and its top attractions on a 2-hour evening canal cruise with onboard commentary plus a 4-course dinner! After a welcome drink of Kir Royale (Champagne with blackcurrant liquor), cruise around town while hearing tales of city sights like the Anne Frank House. As the sun goes down over sights such as Bloemenmarkt, Amsterdam’s vibrant flower market, enjoy a delicious 4-course dinner with drinks. |
 Amsterdam Canals Pizza Cruise Including Drinks - $41.26 Sail along Amsterdam's stunning canals at twilight and enjoy a delicious pizza as you cruise. This evening tour is the perfect introduction to Amsterdam, and great fun for all the family. |
The Anne Frank House
The most famous tourist destination in Amsterdam is Anne Frank’s House. Today it is a museum which is located on one of the canals. There is a special stop for the Anne Frank House on the Hop On/Hop Off boat. When I was in the area, the line was over three hours long. I decided to save this destination for a future trip as I often fly into Amsterdam as my gateway to Europe.
 | Private Tour: Anne Frank Walking Tour of Amsterdam - $127.73 Trace the early life of Anne Frank before she went into hiding on a 1.5-hour walking tour of Amsterdam-Zuid. The neighborhood is home to Anne’s school, her family house and even the place where she bought the diary that would make her famous. See it all, and make the most of commentary tailored to your questions by an attentive private guide. |
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