Amsterdam is a city of canals, and it is not for nothing that it is called the Venice of the North. The first thing a tourist who has arrived in this vibrant and colorful city should do is go on a water excursion, during which you can get to know Amsterdam much better.
The canals in this city are a well-planned cobweb. They cross each other, diverge, and then meet again. Their total length is several hundred kilometers. Water bodies divide Amsterdam into 90 islands, and there are almost one and a half thousand bridges. And, more importantly, all the channels of the city are under the protection of UNESCO.
A little about Amsterdam
You can immediately see that this city is not like the others. It is special, with its own zest, which is practically impossible to catch. Fascinating architecture, narrow streets cut by canals, magnificent nature, tulips and windmills - this is all of the Netherlands (Amsterdam).
The city is located on the banks of the Amstel River. Its history begins in 1276, when a dam was built on this site, and then a tiny fishingvillage. Gradually developing, it became what can be seen today - colorful Amsterdam. Actually, the name is translated as "dam on the river Amstel". Today there are a lot of different sights and unusual museums. And a walk along the canals of Amsterdam is the best opportunity to explore the city and its style, because the waterways are quite narrow, which gives the impression of a leisurely walk along the boulevard.
How many channels are there in the city?
To date, there are already more than 165 channels. All of them originate from the Amstel River, which flows through the central part of the city. The creation of a water "web" began with the Plan of Three Channels, presented in 1658 by the architect Hendrick van Keyser. All reservoirs are artificially created.
Only 4 water arteries remain the main ones:
- Prinsengracht.
- Singel.
- Keizersgracht.
- Herengracht.
They appeared as Amsterdam developed. The Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht and Herengracht canals were dug in 1612-1613. Initially, they only reached the Leidsegracht, and only after almost 50 years their path was extended to the Amstel River, and even further. Having an arched shape, together they go around the central part of the city, forming the Golden Bend. This name was given because old mansions were built on the banks.
But the very first canal appeared in 1452. It was Singel. It was created as a city moat, and when Amsterdam began to develop, it was turned into an internal canal. It starts near the mainstation and flows into the river at Muntplein.
The longest is Prinsengracht, which was named after Prince William of Orange. The Imperial Canal, or Keizersgracht, got its name from the emperor of the Holy Roman Empire - Maximilian. The last one, Herengracht, is dedicated to those who ruled the city and developed Amsterdam. The canals, according to the information received, are a little more than just a waterway for the Dutch.
It is worth paying attention to Grachtengordel - one of the most popular districts of Amsterdam, whose name translates as "Ring of Canals". In 2011, the Het Grachtenhuis Museum was opened in his honor, where guests are told interesting facts and events, the history of the canals and much more, as well as multimedia material and exhibits. In general, this museum will tell you in more detail about the main feature of the city.
Amsterdam bridges as works of art
Speaking of Amsterdam, the canals and architectural features of the city, one cannot but mention the bridges. They complement the unsurpassed image that is created by ancient buildings, cobbled streets and charming lanterns. The city has modern steel structures, the most striking of which is the Piton. It not only adorns Amsterdam, but is also one of the ten most amazing bridges in the world. This massive steel structure is painted red, due to which it can be seen from afar. And the bridge got its name due to its meandering shape.
There are also ancient bridges in Amsterdam, built of wood or stone. For example, Blaubürg has existed since 1883, and before that time there was a wooden predecessor in its place. The Blue Bridge can also be called beautiful, although it has changed dramatically. But back in the 17th century, it was wooden and painted blue.
Boat, swim! How to get on the tour?
Passenger ships are the most popular transport in Amsterdam. This is such a kind of attraction that no tourist will miss. And he will do it right, because a boat trip will give a lot of pleasant impressions and colorful memories. You can choose a tram or even a boat with a transparent roof. All channels are used exclusively as an excursion route, and the speed of the boat is strictly limited. They move very slowly, but it cannot be said that this is a minus, because this way you will be able to better see everything around and take pictures as a keepsake.
Excursion can be booked almost anywhere in the city where there is a channel. The cost starts from 10 euros and can be much higher - the price depends on the chosen route. Tourists are offered an audio guide who speaks most foreign languages. In addition, you can buy a ticket for passenger ships following several routes. They stop near museums, shops and attractions.
What can you see on a canal cruise?
If you choose the latter option, that is, buy a ticket for a boat that follows several routes, you can not only enjoy swimming, but also periodically go tointeresting museums, shops, to be photographed near the sights. The simplest boat trip will also give a lot of impressions. The Netherlands (Amsterdam) in all its glory will present unique bridges, cobbled streets and, of course, nature. Trees will bow their heads trying to reach the boat, and since the boats move slowly, you can take many colorful photos against the background of bright greenery.
It is worth taking a good look at the buildings, because they are so unusual - narrow and high, and have long become a distinctive feature of Amsterdam. By the way, they are like that because earlier land was very expensive, people bought small plots and built high-rise housing, but close to other houses. If you use the services of a personal guide, he will tell you a lot of interesting things about the country and the city.
What do tourists who have been here advise?
At any time of the year you can go to Amsterdam. Canals, houses, bridges and streets change their "dress" depending on the weather, so the city is beautiful in summer, autumn, winter and spring. In addition to the boat trip, which is mandatory, people who have a rest here advise:
- Buy tulip seeds.
- Try on and purchase clogs - traditional wooden shoes.
- Try cheese and genever.
- Enjoy the taste of pastries and coffee.
- Try the main dish - s alted herring.
- Be careful with the smoking mixes common here and hash or mushroom patties.
Amsterdam - so many emotionshiding behind one word! No other city is like it. To visit Amsterdam means to make the best gift in life for yourself. And in no case should you refuse water walks and photographs. They will give the most vivid impressions!
