The 10 most beautiful sights from the water
A city with a rich history and vibrant contemporary culture, Amsterdam reveals its most enchanting sights from the water. Whether you are visiting for the first time or have lived here for years, a cruise through Amsterdam’s canals offers a unique opportunity to experience the city from a new perspective. Discover below some of the most impressive places you can see from the waterfront with our Central Station route.
Scheepvaartmuseum
During our cruise, we encounter the Scheepvaartmuseum first. Housed in a former naval warehouse, this museum guarantees Dutch maritime history. With exhibitions ranging from historic ships to nautical instruments, the Scheepvaartmuseum offers a fascinating insight into the influential role of shipping on Dutch culture.
De Sluyswacht
Originally built in 1695 as a watchman’s house, this charming building is located on the edge of the historic city centre. Today, it functions as one of Amsterdam’s most picturesque cafés. Did you know that from this café you have an excellent view of the passing water traffic, making the most of the lively atmosphere along the canals?
National Opera & Ballet
This impressive building on the Amstel River is the beating heart of the Dutch opera and ballet. With its stately architecture and beautiful waterfront location is this building an essential highlight during your canal cruise.
Royal Theater Carré
Right next to the National Opera & Ballet is the Royal Theatre Carré. Originally founded as a circus, this theatre has grown into one of the Netherlands’ leading venues, where national and international artists take to the stage.
Skinny Bridge
The Skinny Bridge, one of Amsterdam’s most iconic and often photographed bridges, spans the river Amstel. At night, illuminated in all its splendour, the bridge offers a romantic spectacle that blends seamlessly with the city’s charming aura.
House with the Columns Official residence of the Mayor of Amsterdam
An unmissable landmark is the House with the Columns, the official residence of the mayor of Amsterdam. This impressive building on Herengracht is a stunning example of sophisticated urban architecture and reflects the city’s rich political history.
De 9 Straatjes
As you cruise through the canals, we pass the charming shopping area De 9 Straatjes (The 9 Streets). These idyllic streets crisscross the main canals and are a veritable treasure trove of unique boutiques, atmospheric cafés and unusual shops you won’t find anywhere else.
Keizersgracht
The Keizersgracht, one of three prominent canals in the centre of Amsterdam, is surrounded by stately canal houses depicting the city’s rich history and prosperity. As you cruise along this beautiful waterway, you will see the elegant architecture that bears witness to Amsterdam’s Golden Age. Each building has its own story, often rooted in the trade and culture that made the city world-famous.
Westertoren en Westerkerk
The Westertoren, frequently sung about in Dutch folk songs, with the Westerkerk, forms one of Amsterdam’s most iconic landmarks. This historic location is closely associated with Rembrandt, one of the Netherlands’ greatest artists, whose final resting place is in the Westerkerk. For anyone passionate about culture and history, this is a must-see attraction on our Central Station Route. Feel the city’s rich artistic heritage and admire the timeless architecture that makes Amsterdam unique.
Anne Frank Museum
A stone’s throw from the Westerkerk is the Anne Frank House on the Prinsengracht. This museum brings to life the moving story of Anne Frank and her family. In this historic house, where Anne wrote her world-famous diary, you experience a deep connection to the past. It serves as a powerful monument recalling the resilience and tragedies of World War II.
Book a cruise with Mokumboot
Want to admire the most beautiful sights of Amsterdam from the water yourself? Book a canal cruise with our itinerary from Central Station at Mokumboot. During our tour, we will reveal the city’s most breathtaking sights. Book your place on board today and be enchanted by the beauty of Amsterdam.
