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Europe Netherlands Amsterdam Do & See Museum of the Canals

Overview

Museum of the Canals

The guide was updated: 2025-03-19

A visit to Het Grachtenhuis (the Canal House) is the perfect way to learn more about the history of Amsterdam’s canal ring. The museum looks at the 17th-century city expansion projects that led to Amsterdam’s ring of canals which received UNESCO world heritage status in 2010. After seeing the interactive displays, you’ll look at Amsterdam in a whole new light when wandering through the city’s streets or taking a canal cruise.

Useful Information

Address: Grachtenmuseum, Herengracht 386, Amsterdam
Opening hours: Mon noon–5pm, Tue–Sun 10am–5pm
Website: grachten.museum/en
Phone: +31 20 4211 656

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

Rijksmuseum

Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is the largest and most important museum in the Netherlands. It boasts a collection of nearly 8,000 pieces spread over 80 galleries. Dive into the history of Dutch art and marvel at the magnificent oeuvres from medieval times through the Golden Age. See iconic paintings by Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Vermeer.

Jordaan

Jordaan

The Jordaan is a neighbourhood of the city centre of Amsterdam, west of Prinsengracht canal. Originally a working-class neighbourhood, the Jordaan has become one of the most expensive, upscale and desirable locations in the country. It is home to gorgeous historical residential buildings with cute hofjes (inner courtyards), numerous modern art galleries, speciality shops, cafes and restaurants. Rembrandt spent the last years of his life in the Jordaan, on the Rozengracht canal. The Anne Frank House is located on the edge of the Jordaan, on the Prinsengracht canal. Many houses in the Jordaan have a stone tablet on their facade, displaying the profession or family sign of the inhabitants, such as scissors for tailors and a piglet for butchers. See how many you can spot!

Van Gogh Museum

Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum offers an immersive look at the painter's masterpieces, from the iconic "Sunflowers" to "The Bedroom" and "The Potato Eaters". It presents his paintings, sketchbooks and letters, and documents the evolution of his art, reflecting on themes like love and hope, anxiety and suffering. This venue also highlights his influence on other artists, making it a beacon for art lovers worldwide. Since its inception in 1973, the museum has become a pivotal space for celebrating Van Gogh's legacy.

Anne Frank House

Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is the hiding place where Anne Frank wrote her famous diary during World War II. Now a museum, it recreates the war and holocaust years. Quotations from the diary, photographs, films and original objects belonging to the people in hiding and those who helped them all serve to illustrate the events which occurred at this location. Anne's original diary is on display in the museum as well.

Day Trip to Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam & Marken from Amsterdam

Day Trip to Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam & Marken from Amsterdam

Discover the jewels of the Dutch countryside on a fun day trip to Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam, and Marken leaving from Amsterdam. See typical Dutch windmills that are still in use today. Visit a local cheese producer, where the cheese master will explain how they produce Gouda and Edam cheeses. Discover the secrets of the klomp, the traditional Dutch clog, and much more.

De Wallen

De Wallen

Every visitor is aware of the existence of Amsterdam's red light district, locally referred to as De Wallen. Some head there straightaway while others prefer to walk around it — the choice is yours. The truth is, you will likely end up wandering through the area simply because of its location right in the city centre. The best way to get acquainted with the city's most notorious neighbourhood and discover its stories and secrets is by joining a walking tour. Follow your guide through winding cobblestone streets and narrow alleys as you learn the history behind Amsterdam's infamous adult destination. See, along the way, oddities like the world's first condom shop, the Museum of Prostitution as well as little-known sculptures, and sex theatres.

Jewish Historical Museum & Jewish Cultural Quarter

Jewish Historical Museum & Jewish Cultural Quarter

When visiting the Jewish Quarter, make sure to make time for its several attractions — the Jewish Historical Museum, Children's Museum, the Great Synagogue and the Dutch Theatre (Hollandsche Schouwburg). All of these are located within a short walking distance from one another.

Amsterdam Open Boat Canal Cruise

Amsterdam Open Boat Canal Cruise

Admire the sights along Amsterdam's UNESCO World Heritage canals on a 1-hour luxury boat ride. Get comfortable in your seat, grab a drink from the cash bar, and enjoy the scenic ride through several of the city's landmarks like the Museum Quarter and the infamous Red Light District.

Royal Palace

Royal Palace

The Koninklijk Paleis (Royal Palace) on Amsterdam’s Dam Square is one of three palaces still in use by the Dutch royal family. When not used for state visits, award ceremonies or other official functions, visitors can explore the magnificent interior and discover the rich history of the building.

Heineken Experience

Heineken Experience

The former Heineken Brewery in Amsterdam offers some 3000 square metres of special exhibition space. Learn more about Heineken's rich history, the tradition and craft of brewing, and the people behind this multinational company in this monumental building located at the Stadhouderskade. Good to know: two drinks are included in the admission price.

Negen Straatjes

Negen Straatjes

The Negen Straatjes (nine little streets) intersect the main canals between the Leidsestraat and the Jordaan district, and are dotted with great restaurants, cafes, art galleries, jewellers, boutiques and vintage stores. With an exceptional array of styles, trends and prices, this area is truly a shopper’s paradise.

Vondelpark

Vondelpark

The Vondelpark is one of the most popular parks in the Amsterdam, right next to the Rijksmuseum. Locals and tourists alike come here to spend some time in the sun, play games together, bike, stroll hand-in-hand, read a book or simply enjoy the serene ambiance that this cosy park has to offer. It is a favourite haunt of dog owners and their pets. Don't miss the colony of about 4,000 wild parakeets that has flourished in the park since the mid-1970s.

Madame Tussauds Amsterdam

Madame Tussauds Amsterdam

You won’t see so many celebrities gathered together anywhere else. From film stars to sporting heroes, from the Golden Age to modern times, national and international artists, Madame Tussauds truly has something for everyone.

A'dam Tower

A'dam Tower

A'dam is the iconic and controversial tall building next to the Eye Film Institute and opposite Central Station. It calls itself "a tower of many talents": you can grab a bite, work in a coworking space, rave at the club and spend the night at the hotel here. The tower hosts some major creative labels, so the crowd is always interesting. For some adrenaline, check out the A'dam Lookout — an observation deck with a panoramic view of Amsterdam, an interactive exhibition and free audio tour about Amsterdam’s history and culture. A swing that lets you dangle your feet off the edge of the building is the cherry on top.

Rembrandt House Museum

Rembrandt House Museum

The Rembrandt House Museum will be interesting for people who want to know more about the painter’s life, his work and about the Dutch Golden Age in general. The painter lived and worked in the house between 1639 and 1656 and these days visitors can see the reconstruction of the 17th-century interior. In addition to the main attraction, Rembrandt House has great temporary exhibitions as well as an interactive one for kids. A worthy cultural destination for the entire family.

Westergas

Westergas

Once the city's gasworks, the late 19th-century industrial buildings of Westergas are now one of Amsterdam's most vibrant creative hubs. At its core, Westergas is an event venue surrounded by hip tempting bars, restaurants, coffee roasters, an artisanal microbrewery, a small arthouse cinema, and a whole lot of creative businesses.

Hortus Botanicus

Hortus Botanicus

Hortus Botanicus is one of the world's oldest botanical gardens established in 1638 as an herb garden with medicinal plants for Amsterdam doctors and pharmacists. The plants were brought here from all over the world by the traders of the Dutch East India Company (VOC). Today, Hortus Botanicus holds more than 6,000 different plants, including unique ones, like the 2,000 years old agave cactus and a 300-year-old Eastern Cape giant cycad. The garden's orangery has a beautiful cafe with large outside terrace open to the garden. Find some peace and quiet here, especially on a drizzly day.

Diamond Museum

Diamond Museum

Located in the city centre, the Amsterdam Diamond Museum grants visitors an insight into the development of diamond production (from billions of years ago to modern times), and showcases some rare exhibits such as the incredible Rembrandt Diamond, the Katana and the Ape Skull.

New Church

New Church

The New Church (or Nieuwe Kerk) isn't just a regular 15th-century church. It played an important role throughout history, and hosted the inaugurations of multiple Dutch kings and queens. Today's royalty — the Dutch king and queen — exchanged vows here, too. These days the church frequently hosts various exhibitions.

Amsterdam Noord’s Renovated Shipyard (NDSM)

Amsterdam Noord’s Renovated Shipyard (NDSM)

NDSM, the renovated shipyard in Amsterdam Noord is a live music performance space with a strong industrial vibe. The complex houses creative businesses, small workshops, clubs, bars and eateries. Take one of Amsterdam's free ferries and come here for hip waterside hangouts, frequent festivals and events. The famed Botel and Crane Hotel Faralda are located nearby, so consider spending the night in the neighbourhood.

Amsterdam Museum

Amsterdam Museum

The Amsterdam Museum tells the compelling story of the growth and heyday of the Dutch capital. Discover seven centuries of the city's history — once a small settlement on the banks of the Amstel, and now a bustling, diverse metropolis. The rich collection of works of art, objects and archaeological finds brings to life the fortunes of the Amsterdammers of days gone by.

Singel Flower Market

Singel Flower Market

The Singel Flower Market is one of Amsterdam’s most colourful attractions. The small shops are located inside a row of floating barges — a holdover from the days when the flowers arrived in Amsterdam every day from the countryside by boat. At the flower market you’ll find tulips of every colour — either in bouquets or as bulbs to plant at home. If you plan to buy bulbs to take out of the country, be sure they have a "customs cleared" stamp on the packet so you won’t have trouble at the border.

National Maritime Museum

National Maritime Museum

The National Maritime Museum invites its visitors to discover how the Dutch culture has been shaped by the sea. The building has been completely restored and modernised, the courtyard now covered by a glass roof. The museum includes a restaurant, a waterside terrace and even a replica of the Dutch East India Company ship "Amsterdam" moored outside.

Amsterdam Dungeon

Amsterdam Dungeon

The Amsterdam Dungeon brings 500 years of dark history to life with 12 shows, 7 actors and 1 terrifying experience. Can you survive the horrific plague during the 80 minute tour? Make sure you don’t get tortured by the executioner Peter Titelmann from the Spanish Inquisition or get lost in the mirror labyrinth. There is also a roller coaster for the really brave visitors.

H'ART Museum (formerly Hermitage Amsterdam)

H'ART Museum (formerly Hermitage Amsterdam)

H'ART Museum, situated along the Amstel river in Amsterdam, showcases a diverse array of global art and stories. Unique exhibitions, ranging from world-renowned collections to innovative displays, are featured in this iconic location. Once affiliated with Saint Petersburg's Hermitage Museum, H'ART now stands independently. Housed in the historic Amstelhof, a classic 1681 edifice, the museum also offers an array of activities including concerts, educational programs, and a vibrant café, all set within an inviting indoor garden.

Museum of the Canals

Museum of the Canals

A visit to Het Grachtenhuis (the Canal House) is the perfect way to learn more about the history of Amsterdam’s canal ring. The museum looks at the 17th-century city expansion projects that led to Amsterdam’s ring of canals which received UNESCO world heritage status in 2010. After seeing the interactive displays, you’ll look at Amsterdam in a whole new light when wandering through the city’s streets or taking a canal cruise.

EYE Film Institute Netherlands

EYE Film Institute Netherlands

The EYE Film Institute screens classic and art-house movies on a daily basis. If you love films and cinematography, be sure to visit this new ultramodern building along the IJ waterway, which is home to an internationally-renowned collection of films covering the whole history of cinema. The museum’s extensive programme includes exhibitions and events examining the history of film and contemporary cinematographic developments. Pop in to see their collection of film posters!

Artis Royal Zoo

Artis Royal Zoo

One of the oldest zoos in all of Europe, Artis Royal Zoo contains multiple species of land and marine animals, as well as an aquarium and a planetarium. The zoo grounds invite for a pleasant stroll among the trees and give the visitors the opportunity to admire a myriad of animals ranging from chimps to elephants.

Frans Hals Museum

Frans Hals Museum

Haarlem’s Frans Hals Museum is home to the largest collection of paintings by Frans Hals in the world. Hals, the most famous Haarlem painter of the Golden Age, specialised in portraits. In addition to paintings by Hals, the museum has works by his predecessors and his contemporaries, as well as furniture, ceramics, glass and silver.

Het Concertgebouw

Het Concertgebouw

Built in 1888, the Concertgebouw is a world-famous concert hall located in the city centre. Take a guided tour and discover some of the hidden areas of this magnificent building, such as the backstage and the attic above the Main Hall, while listening to some interesting anecdotes.

Amsterdam Exchange Experience

Amsterdam Exchange Experience

The famous Amsterdam Exchange index (AEX) throws open its doors to the public with this new attraction taking visitors on an exciting interactive journey from the beginnings of the Dutch East India Company right through to today's modern electronic trading floor.

NEMO

NEMO

NEMO is the largest science centre in the Netherlands. With five floors full of exciting things to do and discover, this is the perfect place for anyone with an inquisitive mind. Exhibitions, theatre performances, films, workshops and demonstrations: you will smell, hear, feel and see how the world works.

Allard Pierson Museum

Allard Pierson Museum

Allard Pierson Museum narrates stories of ancient civilisations via informative displays which include artefacts from the Great Roman Empire, ancient Egypt, ancient Greece, Etruria, and Near East. This archaeological museum is sponsored by the University of Amsterdam.

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