Canal Belt, Amsterdam

Amsterdam's famous canal belt is home to several significant cultural attractions and some of the finest specimens of Dutch Golden Age architecture, making it city’s popular tourist destination. The network in the form of rings gave the city its recognizable crescent shape during the Dutch Golden Age. Deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this network is referred to as the "Grachtengordel" (the canal belt) and is made up of four canals the Singel, the Keizersgracht, the Prinsengracht, and the Herengracht.

The canal network was constructed in the mid-17th century to boost trade in Amsterdam, but it also served as a barrier against invaders. The canal ring was mostly frequented by traders, therefore many businesspeople constructed lavish palaces to settle there. Many of these structures are still in existence today and have become iconic attractions. After becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010, the historical canal belt has gained popularity among tourists seeking the Best Europe Packages.

Canal Belt boasts several important cultural institutions, including the Anne Frank House, FOAM, Huis Marseille, Het Grachtenhuis, Museum Willet-Holthuysen, as well as some of the most famous restaurants, cafes, markets, and hotels. Take a tour of these places to learn about the city's rich history or go on a canal cruise to observe them from the best vantage point while sipping champagne and taking in the scenery.

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• Take a boat cruise to enjoy the tranquil scenery and explore the magnificent buildings around the canal belt.
• Learn about the 400-year history connected to canals which is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Discover the history, culture, and traditions of the city by visiting museums including the Anne Frank House, Huis Marseille, and Het Grachtenhuis.
• Stroll along the canal side markets such as Waterlooplein and the floating Flower Market to get a sense of local products and food.
• Marvel at any of the famous bridges over the canal belt, like Torensluisbrug and Blauwbrug to spend some memorable moments and enjoy the scenery.
• Head to Negen Straatjes and soak in the lively ambiance while browsing its boutiques, shops, vintage stores, bookstores, galleries, and delicacy stores.
• Treat yourself to a delectable meal at one of the canalside eateries such as Belhamel, Jansz, and Breda while taking in the scenery.

By Bus - Taking a bus to reach the canals in Amsterdam is the most cost effective way. You can take the buses 22, 305, 314, 347, 40, 41 which has their route passing through the canals 

By Train - IC, ICD, SPR transit lines have routes that pass near Amsterdam Canal Cruise.

By Metro -  If you are coming from meteor, then take the lines who have route no - 51, 53, 54.

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The warmer spring to summer months (April to August) are the best times to visit the canal belt, explore its attractions, and partake in activities available there. The weather is perfect during this period for outdoor excursions. The best time of day, however, is the early morning or late afternoon, when the views of the rising or setting sun add to the splendor of the canals.

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Tips to Visit

• Early in the morning is the best time to visit the canal belt since you will have more time to explore and see everything, and the rising sun panorama adds to the beauty of the canals and environs.
• Make a list of places you want to visit during your excursion to make things simpler for you.
• Try the delicacies from street vendors and browse the souvenir stores that dot the belt to have a truly local experience.
• Opt for a guided walking, bike, or boat tour to explore the canal belt like a local.
• Purchase the Go City, Amsterdam city. Card to get the advantage of discounted entry to attractions as well as unlimited use of public trams and buses.

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