The canals are one of the most iconic landscapes in the Netherlands, meandering through the heart of the city, lined with traditional Dutch architecture and stunning scenery. The canals of the capital Amsterdam are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making them a must-see for visitors to Amsterdam.
In fact, other less touristy cities in the Netherlands also have picturesque canal views, making them ideal for day trips or excursions.
01. Leiden
Leiden is an old and cozy city in the province of South Holland. Leiden is known for being the oldest university in the Netherlands, but also for its many beautiful historic buildings, courtyards, and canals. Leiden is also known as the City of Keys because the city bears the coat of arms of the keys. Leiden originated as a village at the confluence of the Old and New Rhine.
Like other cities in the Netherlands, Leiden's core is surrounded by canals, and it's a pleasure to walk around Leiden's cobbled streets, canals and bridges. The shoreline is full of old historic buildings, including old-fashioned houses, churches and bridges. On sunny days, many people choose to take a boat trip or a boat trip on the canal to better appreciate the beauty of Leiden.
Leiden's canals also play an important cultural and social role. There are many cafes, restaurants, and bars along the canal, providing visitors with a place to rest and enjoy a good meal. In addition, some of Leiden's important historical buildings and museums are also located near the canal, and visitors can easily explore the sights by walking along the canal.
If you visit Leiden at the beginning of October, you will have the privilege of experiencing the "Leidens Ontzet" Freedom Day in Leiden. People hold revelry events across the city, including parades, fireworks, and many other exciting events.
02. Groningen
Known for its beautiful canals and historic buildings, the city of Groningen is a city of stunning scenery. In Groningen, you can take a boat trip along the canal or take a walk along the picturesque canal.
When visitors to Groningen, they must visit the harbour of Reitdiep, which is home to beautiful little colourful houses. Especially when their figures are reflected in the water, they exude a unique charm, and it is a great place to take photos of the scenery. The marina is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
If you don't want to tour among the colorful houses of the Reitdiep neighborhood, you can sit down with a cold and refreshing beer at a quality brewery on the banks of the canal. The landmark of Groningen is a 97-metre-high church tower called the Martini Tower. Climb the tower for a great view of the city and the canals.
03. Leeuwarden
Leeuwarden has more than 700 years of history, a bustling shopping district, a rich cultural life and a great nightlife. With more than 600 historical sites and theatres, cinemas, cafés, restaurants and bars on the banks of the old canals, it is the perfect place to experience the exciting life of Leeuwarden.
Leeuwarden is also the hometown of Ahlaen van Luin, who built the world's oldest still functioning astronomical clock, which is now listed as a World Heritage Site.
04. AZ Alkmaar
Alkmaar is a cozy and tranquil city surrounded by winding canals. The city is steeped in history, with traditional cheese markets and windmills being the local specialty. The Alkmaar date back to the 10th century, and the city center retains many of its 17th-century buildings, such as the town hall and church, showing the prosperity of the Dutch Golden Age.
As we stroll along the waterways, we are sure to be drawn to one of the city's landmarks, the old Dwag Church. It was built in the 14th century as a hospital and accommodation for poor travelers, and later became a place for trade in the city.
To this day, the cheese is still weighed locally and then sold every Friday at Alkmaar's famous cheese market. The market is held right in front of the building in Waagplein Square.
The cheese market in Alkmaar attracts tourists from all over the world. Visitors can see cheese deals from the last Friday in March to the last Friday in September between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. each year. This traditional cheese market started in the 16th century and is still very active today, where you can experience the true Dutch tradition.
After tasting delicious cheeses, it's a good idea to relax in one of the cafes or restaurants on either side of the canal, or take a cruise to continue your tour of the canal city.
05. Utrecht
While many cities in the Netherlands have their own canal systems, Utrecht's old canal has a charm like no other because it's old enough. The history of the canal, which runs from north to south, dates back 1,000 years, when the northern section was built.
By 1122 Utrecht was officially declared a city, and the water trade expanded rapidly, the northern section of the canal was no longer sufficient for the business-loving Dutch, so the southern section was born, which has been preserved to this day.
Ancient castles, canals, cathedrals, and the historic University of Utrecht, make up the city's landscape. Utrecht is also a cultural capital with a lot of historical heritage. The city's main attractions include the Domescheon, Utrecht Castle, Utrecht Town Hall, and the ancient canals and streets. Visitors can stroll along the canals and admire the magnificence of the historic buildings, or feel the vibrancy of the city in the squares in the heart of the city.
The Oudegracht Canal in Utrecht runs along the historic city centre and is home to numerous cafés and restaurants. Here, you can enjoy a delicious cake while watching the hustle and bustle of the canal. You can also take a boat cruise along the canal or rent a canoe for rowing.
Utrecht is also famous for its flower market, which takes place every Saturday at 8 a.m. in Janskerkhof and attracts a lot of people.
06. Dordrecht
Although Dordrecht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, it is not very well-known. The city is surrounded by rivers on all sides, making it an important trading center. Today, these rivers provide water for the city's canals.
Dordrecht is home to many historical buildings, such as the Dordrecht Town Hall and the old church. Dordrecht is also a centre for art and culture, with numerous museums and galleries such as the Dordrecht Museum and Pictura, one of the oldest painting societies in the world.
In Dordrecht, the famous Conkett celebrations are also held every year to celebrate the birthday of the King of the Netherlands, attracting thousands of tourists. If you're in Dordrecht at this time, be sure to soak up the lively local atmosphere.
07. Harlem
Located 20 kilometres west of Amsterdam, Harlem has a quintessentially Dutch landscape and is full of Dutch flair. Harlem is also rich in history with its eclectic museums and countless historic buildings.
Dating back to the 13th century, the city was a thriving commercial centre during the Middle Ages with an active woollen trade. Today, Harlem is popular with tourists for its historic buildings, beautiful canals, and active cultural life.
Harlem's main attractions include the Flandren Church, Harlem City Hall, the Frank Hals Museum, and the old Market Square. Visitors can take a walk along the canals, admire the old buildings, and experience the cultural atmosphere of the city.
The heart of Harlem is Grote Market, home to a myriad of lovely cafes, restaurants, and small shops. Next to the market is the Church of St. Bavo, known locally as the "Grote Church". Built between 1370 and 1520, this antique Gothic church is a great place to take photos.
There is also a "golden street" around the market, with many small shops selling second-hand goods or antiques, and maybe you will have an unexpected catch there. Because Harlem is not far from the capital city of Amsterdam, it is often an ideal day trip.
It's spring season, so head to these Dutch towns away from the hustle and bustle of the city and experience the romantic canal atmosphere.
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