Amsterdam centre and canal belt

Canal district 

The Amsterdam canals were built during the so-called Golden Age (1600-1700) for two practical reasons: to facilitate the Dutch trade and as an urban expansion. The Amsterdam canals, also called the canal belt, were deservedly listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010. It is the international recognition of the unique character of this part of Amsterdam's historic centre and it underlines what everyone has already known for ages: the canal belt is a world-class monument.

Today, Amsterdam is particularly known to foreigners for its stately, historic canal houses along the Singel, Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht. Museum Het Grachtenhuis is the perfect place to learn more about how people lived along the canals in the old days. One of the other and most renowned museums in this area is, of course, the Anne Frank House, which attracts a million visitors each year. Apart from all this, the canals are also home to events such as King's Day, The Canal Festival, the Prinsengracht Concert, and the Gay Pride.

City Centre

Thinking of the city centre of Amsterdam, you think of a boat tour on the canals, the Royal Palace on the Dam square, the Flower Market, and a visit to the Van Gogh Museum. But the historic centre has so many other surprising sights to see, like interesting museums, sometimes hidden behind stunning façades along the canals, as well as interesting neighbourhoods such as the Spiegel Quarter – a true art lovers’ paradise. The 9 Streets, a cluster of connecting streets between the canals, with their many exclusive and unique boutiques, is a must-see for keen shoppers. When it comes to going out for any meal and nightlife, the centre has loads of options for everyone and every taste, especially around the Leidseplein and in the Jordaan area.