Top 10 – Sights during a canal cruise in Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the capital of The Netherlands, is known for its beautiful canals. These canals are not only an important part of Dutch history and culture, but as of today, they’ll provide the perfect setting for a relaxing canal cruise. On a canal cruise through Amsterdam, you will enjoy the historic architecture, beautiful bridges and lively atmosphere. But with so much to see and do, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this blog, we take you on a virtual canal cruise through Amsterdam. Hop on board and discover the top 10 sights you wouldn’t want to miss during your visit to this gorgeous city.

| 1 |

The Anne Frank House

As one of Amsterdam’s most iconic landmarks, the Anne Frank House attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world every year. The museum is located in the former hiding place where Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis for more than two years during World War II. During your visit to the museum you will hear stories about Anne Frank and her family, besides that, it gives a unique insight into their lives during the war. From our canal cruise you have a beautiful view of the Anne Frank House, our skipper will be happy to tell you more about the history of Amsterdam and the secret annex where Anne Frank tried to survive.

| 2 |

The National Maritime Museum

Ahoy, sailor! Are you ready to join us on a cruise past the magnificent National Maritime Museum? Then hoist the sails for an unforgettable journey through the maritime history of the Netherlands. Located in the heart of the city, the National Maritime Museum is the perfect location for lovers of the sea and sailing. The museum boasts an impressive collection, consisting of more than 500,000 objects that reflect the Dutch maritime history. From ship models to maps, paintings and even rare ship attributes, you will be amazed by the diversity of the collection. During a canal cruise with Flagship Amsterdam, you will not only sail past this museum, you’ll also learn more about Amsterdam’s past as an important trading city and its role in it. You will hear stories about the sailers who represented the Dutch flag, and sailed through the Amsterdam canals. So what are you waiting for?

| 3 |

The 9 Streets

Located in the heart of the city between the Prinsengracht and the Singel, you can find the 9 Streets in one of Amsterdam’s most charming and vibrant neighbourhoods. The streets are filled with boutiques, art galleries, vintage shops, and quaint catering establishments. It is the perfect place to shop, eat and wander around the beautiful surroundings. But the best way to discover the 9 Streets is by taking a cruise through the adjoining canals. Board a classic saloon boat and relax as you cruise past the picturesque canal houses and discover the neighbourhood’s hidden gems. Along the way, you will encounter numerous other sights, such as the Anne Frank House, the Westerkerk, and even a view of the Royal Palace. Hop on board and discover the beautiful 9 Streets.

| 4 |

The Rijksmuseum

For me, the Rijksmuseum is perhaps the most beautiful building in Amsterdam, so it was not to be missed in the Top 10 Sights during a canal cruise in Amsterdam. It has an impressive collection of more than 1 million objects, ranging from paintings, sculptures, furniture, and ceramics. Not surprisingly, the Rijksmuseum is considered one of the most important art museums in the world. One of the most famous works of art in the Rijksmuseum is the Night Watch by painter Rembrandt van Rijn. The Night Watch is a huge painting, measuring 4.5 metres wide and 3.6 metres high. Did you know that there is a secret trench hidden in the Rijksmuseum’s tunnel? The so-called Night Watch slot serves as a secret exit during emergencies. The last time the trench was used was during World War II. So don’t forget to look up as you walk through the Rijksmuseum tunnel.

| 5 |

The Westerkerk

Did you get lost while walking through neighbourhood the Jordaan? Then look up, and you’ll see the tower of the Westerkerk. After all, it juts out 85 metres into the sky, so you can hardly miss it. Besides being a beautiful piece of architecture, it is an important historical monument. The building dates from the 17th century and is an influential example of Dutch Renaissance architecture. In addition, a renowned artist is buried there. Can you guess who that is? You’ll find the answer somewhere in this article, good luck. However, it was not only a cemetery for celebrities, it also became a location for funerals of resistance fighters during World War II. The Westerkerk became a place of hope and encouragement for many Amsterdammers, local people, during these dark days. That’s why the Westerkerk is a special place for many people.

| 6 |

The Flower Market

Discover the colourful world of Amsterdam’s Flower Market. This market has been an iconic attraction for tourists and locals alike for centuries. Located on the Singel, the market offers a wide spectrum of flowers, plants, seeds, and souvenirs. Whether you are looking for tulips, roses, or other flowers, you will find it all at this market. What makes the Flower Market so unique? The shops are built on boats and thus float on water. This gives the market a magical, romantic atmosphere that cannot be found at other markets. The florists have decorated their boats to look like charming gardens, complete with flower pot and all.

| 7 |

The Jordaan

The Jordaan was a truly working-class neighbourhood, where famous Amsterdammers such as Rembrandt van Rijn, Tante Leen, Johnny Jordaan and Willy Alberti grew up. Thus, at right angles to the intersection of Prinsengracht and Elandsgracht, you will find the Johnny Jordaanplein. This square features statues of famous singers from the Jordaan, such as Johnny Jordaan, Tante Leen, Manke Nelis and Jonny Meijer. The Jordaan is a district with a rich history. Hop off the canal cruise and stroll through the striking neighboorhood and explore.

| 8 |

The Red-Light District

The Red-Light District, also known as the Rosse Buurt in Dutch, is a neighbourhood that offers a mix of history, culture, and vibrancy. Cruising through the district’s canals, you can see the sex workers in their red-lit windows and the neighbourhood’s distinctive architecture. Old and new come together in this area, with historic buildings like the Oude Kerk standing next to modern shops and lively bars. A cruise through the city centre, and the Red-Light District, is a special experience not to be missed during your visit to Amsterdam.

| 9 |

Artis

Founded in 1838, Artis is not only the oldest zoo in the Netherlands, it is also the favourite destination for animal lovers from all over the world. Located in Amsterdam’s charming Plantage neighbourhood, this historic zoo attracts millions of visitors every year. When you take a canal cruise through Amsterdam, you will pass by the back of Artis. While enjoying yourself aboard the boat, you can look out for a glimpse of the giraffe enclosure. The majestic giraffes, with their graceful necks, are a real treat to behold.

| 10 |

Hermitage Amsterdam

The Hermitage Amsterdam is an annex of the Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg, Russia. You can find the museum next to the Amstel river, and it houses an impressive collection of artworks and historical objects. The jetty, located in front of the museum, attracts many visitors during summer who use the spot for sunbathing or for a refreshing dip in the Amstel river. The jetty near the Hermitage offers a nice view of the Skinny Bridge, but it could be better! During a cruise on the Amstel, you can enjoy fantastic views of both the Hermitage Amsterdam, and the Skinny Bridge.