Seeing a city can take on many forms from private driver in a limousine to a jaunty ride on a hop-on, hop-off bus. But in a waterway city, there’s nothing better than a slow-paced tour in a boat, complete with a guide narrating the landmarks in a city he loves!
We’ve written about the architecture tour in Chicago, but the canal tour in Amsterdam is in a class all its own.
In Amsterdam, the river and canals have been central to city life for the last four centuries
Janet Echelman
With over 160 canals in Amsterdam totaling more than 100 kilometers (60 miles) in length, you can see the influence of waterways ebbing and flowing throughout the landscape.
Looking up, it’s the architecture that nails this city — stair-step gabled rooflines or tall, curved tops adding elegance. But passing by slowly affords you the opportunity to enjoy the air and the loveliness at the same time.
We joined others on our boat who were pointing out “look-fors” — like bicycles on bridges, details on facades, and potted plants living on decks.
And with a city that boasts 1,700 bridges, we peeked under, over and through to form our own picture-perfect brochure shots.
Some boats (well, maybe most) lining the canals are part of the 3,000 houseboats in Amsterdam. And many look as if they’ve been residences for years: mature plants, areas for sitting and viewing, and clothes lines holding the wash of the day.
Not all of Amsterdam’s structures are quaint, old versions of the Dutch Golden Age. Some are new, sparkly, innovative, and spiffy as they glisten in the sun and invite you to wonder how in the world they built it.
Take the tour for the architecture, to see the waterways, or to get that step-back-in-time vibe that’s everywhere in Amsterdam. But for whatever reason, you just have to do it.
In Amsterdam, the water is the mistress and the land the vassal. Throughout the city, there are as many canals and drawbridges as bracelets on a Gypsy’s bronzed arms.
Felix Marti-Ibanez
You may even connect with a resident sipping morning coffee and sizing up the tourists.
Travel and wave back,
Rusha & Bert
This post is one in a series prompted by a recent trip to The Netherlands and Belgium. Thank you to Viking cruises (Holland & Belgium 2022) and our travel agent, Lauren Gunnels of Ortelius Travel Advisors, for the arrangements and free time to enjoy the scenery!
Although our canal tour was part of the Viking experience, you can find information about booking your own tour at Amsterdam Canal Cruises.
Amy
Beautiful photos, Rusha! You took much better photos than I did. What a wonderful trip you had!
Oh, the Places We See
There was a photo op at every turn!!!!
Wetravelhappy
Okay I will keep note of this Rusha – first, rent a bike, second, do the boat. 🙂 Love the pictures here. 🙂
WanderingCanadians
Taking a canal tour is such a great way to explore Amsterdam and get a different view of the city. It also makes you appreciate how this city was built.
Oh, the Places We See
I agree! Would love another trip to see in another light.
Toonsarah
Yes, definitely a must in any city with lots of water. It’s a great way to see the sights, and as you’ve demonstrated so well, to take photos 🙂
travelgarb
I couldn’t agree more! Exactly the conclusion I came to in my Amsterdam blog! https://travelgarb.wordpress.com/2019/09/19/burnt-at-the-stake-and-prosecco-on-the-water/
Oh, the Places We See
Thanks for sharing the link to your excellent post. You had as much fun as we did, even though one time may not be enough for me!!!
Nemorino
Glad you took a canal boat tour, one of the great things to do in Amsterdam.
anotherday2paradise
I love visiting Amsterdam. My South African niece lives on one of those houseboats and is so happy there. Lovely photos, Rusha.
Oh, the Places We See
I’d be happy, too! What a good life!
Curt Mekemson
We will be in Amsterdam in three weeks, Rusha. It’s where we will start our cruise up the Rhine with kids and grandkids. Love your photos, especially your rooflines and bridge photo! Thanks for the preview. Peggy and I rented a canal boat in England several years ago and went on a week tour of one of there canals along with Peg’s sister and brother-in-law. It was one off the highlights of all of our travels. –Curt
Oh, the Places We See
We found Amsterdam to be not only historic but also fun, energizing, and interesting. Get ready!!