Amstel

The Amstel is a river that winds through Amsterdam and branches into numerous canals forming a dense network of waterways. The system includes different canal layers with varying widths and depths, connecting different city districts and shaping Amsterdam's overall structure.

The river and its canal system developed in the 17th century as the city expanded rapidly and trade grew during the Dutch Golden Age. The waterways were systematically engineered and enlarged to handle goods movement and to supply new neighborhoods with water access.

The canals shape everyday life in Amsterdam, where houseboats, small bridges, and waterside cafés create a living scene. Residents and visitors use the waterways for strolling, cycling, and lingering at the edges, making the water central to how the city feels and functions.

The waterways are best explored on foot or by bicycle, as many paths and cycling routes run along the canal edges. Boat tours are also available, though they offer a different view of the buildings and infrastructure than walking.

Hidden beneath bridges and along the canal edges are small courtyards and gardens rarely visible from the water. These quiet pockets show how city life and water intertwine in unexpected ways throughout Amsterdam.

Location: North Holland

GPS coordinates: 52.28750,4.88750

Latest update: December 14, 2025 21:17