Amsterdam's canals are famous around the world, but they are far from the only ones worth seeing. Across the Netherlands, many towns grew up around rivers and waterways, and their historic centres still follow the lines of old canals. Most of them are easy to reach by train, which makes them perfect for a day trip. Here are some canal towns that offer a quieter, and often more relaxed, side of Dutch life.
Utrecht: Canals on Two Levels
Utrecht has a canal layout that is unusual even by Dutch standards. Along the Oudegracht, the main canal through the old centre, the quays are built at water level, below the street. The old cellars that once served merchants now house cafés and restaurants with terraces right by the water. Above it all rises the Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the country, which you can climb for wide views over the city. Utrecht is a lively student city, and its centre is compact enough to explore on foot.
Leiden: A University Town on the Water
Leiden is home to the oldest university in the Netherlands and has a relaxed, studious atmosphere. Its canals are lined with old brick buildings, almshouse courtyards and small bridges. The city is known as the birthplace of the painter Rembrandt, and it has several museums covering art, history, science and antiquities. A boat trip on Leiden's canals is a pleasant way to see the city from a different angle.
Delft: Blue Pottery and Golden Age History
Delft is famous for Delft Blue, the blue and white pottery that has been made in the city for centuries, and for the painter Johannes Vermeer, who lived and worked there. The market square, with the town hall on one side and the Nieuwe Kerk on the other, is one of the most photographed in the country. The Nieuwe Kerk is also the traditional burial place of members of the House of Orange, which makes Delft an interesting stop for anyone curious about the Netherlands royal family.
Haarlem: Close to Amsterdam, Calmer in Feel
Just a short train ride from Amsterdam, Haarlem offers canals, a beautiful market square and a historic church that dominates the skyline. The city has well-regarded museums, including one dedicated to the painter Frans Hals, and plenty of independent shops and cafés. Many visitors find Haarlem a comfortable base, as it is also close to the dunes and beaches along the North Sea coast.
Giethoorn: A Village Without Roads
Giethoorn is a different kind of canal destination. Instead of a city, it is a village in the province of Overijssel where the old centre is crossed by narrow waterways and wooden footbridges. Thatched farmhouses sit on small islands, and the usual way to get around is by boat or along footpaths. Giethoorn is less direct to reach by public transport than the cities above, and it can be busy in summer, so arriving early in the day is a good idea.
Tips for Planning Your Day Trip
Trains connect most Dutch cities frequently, so you can usually travel without booking far in advance. Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends, especially in popular spots. Many towns offer canal boat tours, and some places rent small electric boats that you can steer yourself. For more inspiration, see our overview of Netherlands tourist attractions.
Visiting smaller canal towns gives you a fuller picture of the Netherlands. Each has its own character, history and pace, and together they show that Dutch canal life extends far beyond the capital.
