Amsterdam is my home and there’s no other city I’d rather live in (ok, for now!). Amsterdam is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world with a vibrant arts, culinary and cultural scene, and it’s all within a relatively small area. There are world-famous museums like the Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum, and the city’s equally famous nightlife and tolerant attitude. One of the best things I enjoy about Amsterdam is its UNESCO World Heritage canals and the beautiful houses and buildings which line them. One of my favourite things to do in Amsterdam, something I’ll never tire of, is a stroll along the canals at any time of the year or a leisurely cruise on a summer evening.
A brief history of the Amsterdam canals
The history of the Amsterdam canals goes back to the Middle Ages when they were created to manage the flow of water and for defensive purposes. During the city’s Golden Age in the 17th century, Amsterdam’s system of canals was expanded dramatically. More than 100 kilometers of canals (grachten) were dug and 1,500 bridges were built like a concentric web surrounding the old city centre, with the Dam Square at its heart. This massive project, completed in about 1660, expanded the size of the city by four times and allowed merchants from around the world to deliver goods straight to the houses of the city’s rich. This project changed the face of the city forever and is nowadays, arguably, the prime attraction in Amsterdam.
In the early-20th century, the city replaced or built new bridges to accommodate heavier traffic. Designed in the Amsterdam School architectural style, these new bridges, with their decorative wrought-iron railings and stone sculptures, added a more exuberant look to the cityscape.
Photos of Amsterdam canals
Scrolling through my many Instagram photos of Amsterdam, I realised that I take LOTS of photos of the canals – I can’t help it and I’m sure you understand why! I sifted through my photos and selected some of them, taken during my walks throughout the year. I hope you enjoy these scenes as much as I do! I’ve also included a city map below to show you where these photos were taken.
Explore Amsterdam at your own leisure with the IAmsterdam City Card which provides free public transportation, free admission to selected museums and attractions, a free canal cruise and lots of discounts.
Read about a luxury weekend in Amsterdam.
Read about my favourite day trips from Amsterdam
Check out more photos of winter in Amsterdam
Read about how I spent my birthday in Amsterdam
Visit the Velvet Escape Travel Planning Resources page
And finally, one of the most iconic spots in Amsterdam: the row of houses that faces Damrak, the boulevard that stretches from the Central Station to the Dam Square. I’ll never tire of taking photos at this spot, by day or night.
Spots to take beautiful photos of Amsterdam canals
View Amsterdam canals in a larger map
It’s a simply magical experience to stay in a houseboat on one of the canals or the Amstel River. My favourite is the 2 Houseboat Suites (Booking.com) on the Prinsengracht canal. There are just two suites: Rembrandt and Van Gogh. In addition to the lovely hosts and a fantastic location in the historic city centre, this newly-built boat has large windows, a comfortable bed and all the amenities that will make your stay comfortable, such as an en-suite bathroom, heated floors, a Nespresso coffee-maker and mini-bar.
Read about other places to visit in the Netherlands
- A drive around the tulip fields
- Holland at its best
- A weekend in Rotterdam
- Delightful Delft
- Charming Amersfoort
- Things to see in Gouda
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So beautiful!!!
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What a wonderful journey through the seasons in one of my favorite cities in the world! Superb photos too my friend! I need to get back SOON!
Thanks Leigh! It’s just a small selection from my Amsterdam photos – my phone is full of them. 🙂
What a beautiful set of photos Keith.
Enjoy Amsterdam!
This is lovely and exciting as we are coming to Amsterdam next week. We have hired a houseboat on the Prinsengracht so am looking forward to watch life in this exciting city. Thank you, Regards Paula McInerney
These are gorgeous images of Amsterdam. How l love to see these places in person. Amsterdam is one of the best destinations I’ll visit in my future travels. Thanks for showing them.
Beautiful photos. I can’t wait to get back to Amsterdam some day
Thanks Maria! 🙂
Looking at those pictures made me realise how much I miss the low lands! 🙂 Lovely pics!
I haven’t been to Amsterdam for a long time but looking at your pictures I think I will plan to go back there soon. Thank you for sharing!
Love the canal shot in the snow. They’re very romantic (canals) and like sunsets and sunrises, you can see them daily but each time it’s just a little bit different so keep snapping photos and I’ll keep coming back to view them. Thanks *grin*
Yes, we’d say Amsterdam looks like a lovely city to live in! You must always be happy to return home after a trip :-).
i am also in love with this city! what a lovely article and pictures too
Thanks Andi! 🙂
What gorgeous pics!
Good article and very clear and beautiful pictures
thanks for sharing
Thanks Catherine. Glad you enjoyed the post. 🙂
Hi Tracy,
You should! 🙂
Cheers,
Keith
Thanks Noel! 🙂
Thanks Margie. Hope you make it to Amsterdam some time soon!
Cheers,
Keith
A great article and your photos are beautiful, Keith. I have not been here but would love to see it some day. The canals look wonderful
that’s interesting seeing Amsterdam with the change of seasons, I love the purple skies….dramatic!
These look great, I’ll have to make it out to Amsterdam one of these days to see the canals in person!
I can’t wait to explore your city Keith! Great photos, and thanks for the useful map!
i love Amsterdam. and love evem more throught your lenses.