The Enchanting Canals of Grachtengordel-West, Amsterdam
Discover the charm of Grachtengordel-West, Amsterdam's iconic canal district, rich in history, culture, and delightful experiences.
Grachtengordel-West is a picturesque district in Amsterdam, renowned for its iconic canals, charming bridges, and vibrant atmosphere. Explore a wealth of history, culture, and delightful experiences that await you in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
A brief summary to Grachtengordel-West
- Amsterdam, Amsterdam-Centrum, NL
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning for a quieter experience and stunning reflections in the water.
- Consider a canal cruise to see the area from a different perspective and learn about its history.
- Explore the local markets, especially the Noordermarkt on Saturdays for organic produce and antiques.
- Check out the hidden courtyards and gardens along the canals, as they often reveal beautiful surprises.
- Try local specialties like stroopwafels and herring from street vendors for an authentic taste of Amsterdam.
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Grachtengordel-West in Amsterdam from Utrecht, start at Utrecht Central Station (Utrecht Centraal). Take a train to Amsterdam Central Station (Amsterdam Centraal). The journey takes about 25-30 minutes. Once you arrive at Amsterdam Central Station, exit the station and head towards the main street, which is called Damrak. Follow Damrak toward the Dam Square (Dam). After reaching Dam Square, turn left onto Rokin Street, and continue walking until you reach the intersection with the canal. From here, you will be in the vicinity of Grachtengordel-West.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bike in Utrecht. Start at the city center and head towards the cycle path leading to Amsterdam. The route is approximately 45 kilometers and will take about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your cycling speed. Follow the signs for the LF7 cycle route towards Amsterdam. Once you arrive in Amsterdam, follow the signs to the city center, and head towards Grachtengordel-West, which is along the canals.
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Walking
While walking from Utrecht to Amsterdam is not practical due to the distance (approximately 45 kilometers), you can take a train to Amsterdam Central Station and then walk to Grachtengordel-West. From Amsterdam Central Station, walk towards Dam Square, then follow Rokin Street to the canal area. This walk will take about 20 minutes after arriving at the station.
Discover more about Grachtengordel-West
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Herengracht 124
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Hunter Street Hause
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Torensluis
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Van Brienenhofje
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Descartes House
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Westermarkt
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Homomonument
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Anne Frank House
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Spuistraat
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Westertoren
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Van Gogh & Rembrandt in Amsterdam
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The New Church
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Noorderkerk
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The Bench
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Royal Palace Amsterdam
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Unmissable attractions to see
Embassy of the Free Mind
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Proeflokaal Arendsnest
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Rode Hoed
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Leliegracht
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Those Dam Boat Guys
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Canal Leliegracht
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Blauwburgwal
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Grey Area Coffeeshop
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Inkie street-art
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Astoria
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Multatuli Statue
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Tower Bridge
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Lovers canal cruise Anne Frank
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Amsterdam Cheese Museum
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Museumhuis Bartolotti
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Essential places to dine
Black and Blue
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Boca's
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La Oliva
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THE DUCHESS
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de Silveren Spiegel
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d&a hummus bistro
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Humphrey's
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Restaurant De Belhamel
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Toscanini
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La Maschera Lillo Tatini
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Box Sociaal Jordaan
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Scheltema
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Luna
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Bistrot Neuf
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Restaurant The White Room by Jacob Jan Boerma
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gimme Glitter Designer Vintage Amsterdam
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the Otherist
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Amsterdam Duck Store
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Bij Ons Vintage
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Almost Summer store (by Universe on a t-shirt)
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The Smallest Gift Shop
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By Popular Demand - Things You Want Giftshop
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Dutch Souvenirs Shop
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Crafted Stories
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Vindit Vintage
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mokumokum vintageshop
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Treasures.Amsterdam
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Babylon Vintage Amsterdam
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Concrete Matter
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It's a Present!
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tales & Spirits
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Three Little Bottles
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Sins of Sal
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Bar Pif
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The Papeneiland Café
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Pulitzer's Bar
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Café Chris
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Café De Nieuwe Lelie
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Lost in Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar
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Bar TwentySeven
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BOBBI’S
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Café The Flying Dutchman
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Bar The Tailor
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Belushi's
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Golden Palm Bar
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