It’s not hard to understand why Amsterdam is known as the “Venice of the North”. The city is criss-crossed with waterways of every shape and size, but perhaps its most famous thoroughfares are the grand semi-circular canals constructed during the Dutch Golden Age of the 17th century.Three main canals make up the Canal Ring: the Herengracht, Prinsengracht and Keisersgracht. The inner canal district bordered by the IJ waterfront and the Singelgracht is today an internationally protected heritage site dating back to the 13th century, when the first canals were dug to protect the low-lying city from the North Sea. Over the centuries the network expanded along with the city’s importance, with barges from all over the world using the canals to transport goods inland. A trip round today’s Canal Ring offers spectacular views of the grand merchants’ homes and narrow gabled warehouses that line its banks.A pleasant few hours can be spent on two feet or two wheels circumnavigating the ring, passing under and over the many bridges that connect the picturesque cobbled streets of the old city. The bridges make an especially attractive sight at night with their illuminated arches reflecting on the still waters of the canals. For a more relaxing way to see the sights, take a canal boat cruise and learn more about the history of the buildings as you glide past.During the annual Gay Parade and the King’s holiday, beautifully decorated boats and their festive passengers fill the canals with colour and laughter, while when the canals freeze over in winter you can sometimes see intrepid Amsterdamers skating to work. Winter also brings the traditional Dutch treats of hot chocolate and oliebollen, or doughnuts, bought from canalside vendors and eaten al fresco.Many canal boat cruises offer English-language narration so you can make the most of your voyage of discovery. Alternatively, the hop-on hop-off Canal Bus stops at all the main tourist attractions so you can plan your own itinerary. Hire a bike for a do-it-yourself day out, or enjoy a stroll at your own pace along the banks of these historic waterways.
Canal Ring Travel Guide
Popular places to visit
Anne Frank House
Anne Frank’s world-famous diary chronicles the moving history behind this much-visited Amsterdam landmark.
Rembrandt Square
You can find out about the history of Amsterdam with a stop at Rembrandt Square. Discover the great live music in this vibrant area or seek out the cycling trails.
The 9 Streets
During your trip to Amsterdam, you can do some window-shopping at The 9 Streets. While in this walkable area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
Flower Market
Amsterdam’s historic Singel canal provides the picturesque backdrop for one of the city’s most vibrant and sweet-smelling attractions.
University of Amsterdam
Walk around the campus at University of Amsterdam during your visit to Amsterdam. Experience the acclaimed theatre scene and fascinating museums in this vibrant area.
Prinsengracht
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Prinsengracht during your travels in Amsterdam. Discover the acclaimed theatre scene in this vibrant area or seek out the cycling trails.
Activities
Amsterdam: Canal Booze Cruise with Unlimited Drinks Option
Amsterdam: Evening Canal Cruise with Unlimited Drinks Option
Exclusive Cruise! 90 min - 12 guests max - Book Leemstar!
Amsterdam XtraCold Icebar Tickets with Drinks
Amsterdam Canal Cruise With Live Guide and Unlimited Drinks
Amsterdam Small-Group Canal Cruise Including Snacks and Drinks
Our pick of the best Canal Ring Hotel Deals
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Other neighbourhoods around Canal Ring
Burgwallen Nieuwe Zijde
If you're spending time in Burgwallen Nieuwe Zijde, check out sights like Dam Square or Amsterdam Museum and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Paleisstraat Tram Stop or Spui Stop.
Red Light District
The fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries are notable features of Red Light District. Make a stop by Dam Square or Oude Kerk while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Amsterdam Central Metro Station to get around town.
Binnenstad
If you're spending time in Binnenstad, check out sights like Dam Square or Madame Tussauds and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Dam Stop or Paleisstraat Tram Stop.
Amsterdam City Centre
Known for its fascinating museums, charming cafes and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Amsterdam City Centre. Top attractions like Anne Frank House and Dam Square are major draws. Catch the metro at Nieuwmarkt Station or Waterlooplein Station to see more of the city.
Old Town Amsterdam
Known for its fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries, there's plenty to explore in Old Town Amsterdam. Top attractions like Dam Square and Anne Frank House are major draws. Catch the metro at Dam Stop or Nieuwezijds Kolk Stop to see more of the city.
Museum Quarter
Known for its fascinating museums and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Museum Quarter. Check out top attractions like Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum, and jump on the metro at Van Baerlestraat Stop or Concertgebouw Tram Stop to see more of the city.
- Places of interest
- What kind of hotels are in Canal Ring?
- Hotels Near Amsterdam, North Holland
- More holiday ideas
What kind of hotels are in Canal Ring?
Are there hotels near Canal Ring?
- Amsterdam City Centre Hotels
- Jordaan Hotels
- Amsterdam South Hotels
- Old Town Amsterdam Hotels
- Museum Quarter Hotels
- Red Light District Hotels
- Binnenstad Hotels
- Amsterdam East Hotels
- Oud-Zuid Hotels
- Nieuwmarkt en Lastage Hotels
- Burgwallen Nieuwe Zijde Hotels
- Grachtengordel-West Hotels
- Grachtengordel-Zuid Hotels
- De Weteringschans Hotels
- Weesperzijde Hotels
- Oude Pijp Hotels
- Weesperbuurt Hotels
- Amstelveld Hotels