Canal Ring Amsterdam Map Poster

Key Streets & Landmarks

Did you know?

1. 1

   Amsterdam's canal belt (Grachtengordel), built in the 17th century, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2010 and includes 165 canals, 1,753 bridges and 90 islands.

2. 2

   Houses along the canals have narrow facades (5-8 meters) because property tax was based on facade width. Hence the exterior stairs and pulleys for hoisting furniture.

3. 3

   The Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) over the Amstel, built in 1691 and rebuilt in 1934, is illuminated by 1,200 bulbs every night, making it one of the most photographed bridges in the world.

Neighborhood Vibe

Three concentric arcs of water lined with linden trees and stepped-gable mansions. At night, golden reflections of illuminated bridges dance on the dark canal surface, and the Magere Brug transforms into a necklace of lights suspended above the Amstel.

Discover on foot

Start at Muntplein and walk along the Herengracht, the 'gentlemen's canal', lined with the most majestic mansions. Pass through the Gouden Bocht (Golden Bend), the most prestigious section. Cross to the Keizersgracht (Emperor's Canal) and admire the stepped-gable houses. Continue to the Prinsengracht (Prince's Canal) and the Magere Brug, illuminated with 1,200 bulbs at night. End with a canal boat cruise to see the canals from the water. The canal belt is a 17th-century urbanism masterpiece.