A Guide to Amsterdam’s Most Charming Small Canals

As you wander around Amsterdam — whether by bike, boat or on foot — you’re bound to lose yourself in the canals. The three main large canals (Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht) carve out the concentric, watery horseshoes in the city and offer hours of sightseeing. However, some of the most charming spots in Amsterdam exist along its smaller canals. Here, you’ll discover our favorite small canals and the picturesque bridges, buildings, and sights that make them special.

01. Reguliersgracht

Address: Reguliersgracht, 1017 Amsterdam, Netherlands

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The seven (or eight, depending on which ones you count) humpbacked, lighted bridges that cross this tranquil canal are quintessential Amsterdam and provide excellent photo opportunities. Largely residential, Reguliersgracht is home to quaint cafés and restaurants as well as the charming Seven Bridges Hotel.

Where to Find It: In Amsterdam’s Eastern Canal Belt, conveniently located near Rembrandtplein.

02. Leidsegracht

Address: Leidsegracht, Amsterdam, Netherlands

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The Leidsegracht canal provides a peaceful escape from the busy nearby street, Leidsestraat. Here, you’ll find some of the most beautiful canal houses in Amsterdam, with their neck gables leaning gracefully over tree-lined streets. Notable views include looking towards De Krijtberg church and the intersection with Keizersgracht.

Where to Find It: In Amsterdam’s Central Canal Belt, not far from Leidseplein.

03. Brouwersgracht

Address: Brouwersgracht, Amsterdam, Netherlands

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Brouwersgracht, although not quite as small as some others on this list, presents fascinating sights with its classic 17th-century Dutch architecture, including former warehouses that are now apartments featuring huge windows and painted shutters. The surrounding neighborhood, known as Jordaan, offers a laid-back atmosphere, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Where to Find It: In Amsterdam’s Western Canal Belt, close to Noordermarkt.

04. Bloemgracht

Address: Bloemgracht, Amsterdam, Netherlands

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Who wouldn’t adore a canal named the “flower canal”? The serene atmosphere of Bloemgracht makes it a sought-after residence in the Jordaan area. Standout features include the historical step-gabled houses, notably No. 87-91, established in 1642.

Where to Find It: In Amsterdam’s Western Canal Belt, not far from the Westerkerk.

05. Egelantiersgracht

Address: Egelantiersgracht, 1015 Amsterdam, Netherlands

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Similar to its neighbor, Bloemgracht, Egelantiersgracht represents a peaceful, tree-lined retreat in a residential setting. It also boasts one of the delightful cafés, Café ‘t Smalle, positioned at the corner near Prinsengracht.

Where to Find It: In Amsterdam’s Western Canal Belt, close to Westerkerk.

06. Groenburgwal

Address: Groenburgwal, 1011 Amsterdam, Netherlands

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Wandering through the older parts of the city, if you come across a picturesque canal view, you might find yourself at Groenburgwal. This small canal leading toward Zuiderkerk offers stunning postcard-perfect views.

Where to Find It: In Amsterdam’s Old City Center, near Zuiderkerk.

07. Leliegracht

Address: Leliegracht, Amsterdam, Netherlands

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Many canal cruises navigate Leliegracht, also known as the “lily canal,” right by local cafés. It offers visitors a unique perspective that showcases the beauty of Amsterdam. If exploring on foot, you shouldn’t miss the specialty bookstores lining the canal.

Where to Find It: In Amsterdam’s Western Canal Belt, close to Westerkerk.

08. Oudezijds Achterburgwal

Address: Oudezijds Achterburgwal, 1012 Amsterdam, Netherlands

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This fascinating canal compels visitors to look past the nearby Red Light District, offering a seamless view of historic architecture amidst a canopy of trees. The adjacent University of Amsterdam gives this neighborhood a lively, youthful atmosphere.

Where to Find It: In Amsterdam’s Old City Center, very close to Oude Kerk.

09. Spiegelgracht

Address: Spiegelgracht, 1017 Amsterdam, Netherlands

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The tiniest of all the canals featured here, the short Spiegelgracht is one of the favorites due to the charming shops lining its streets, quickly transforming into the bustling Nieuwe Spiegelstraat. This area is recognized as the Spiegelkwartier, an unofficial antique district and one of the city’s notable shopping hubs. Although usually buzzing with bike traffic, this small canal is delightful nonetheless.

Where to Find It: In Amsterdam’s Central Canal Belt, not far from the Rijksmuseum.

Updated by Kristen de Joseph.