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Oudegracht, Utrecht
© Jurjen Drenth
Category:Interests

Explore Dutch cities by water

Enjoy the summer in the heart of a Dutch city and opt for a different way to see the sights. Instead of walking or cycling, why not rent a boat, canoe, pedal boat or even a stand-up paddle board and get a fresh, new perspective of our charming cities. Relax on the beautiful canals and discover quiet hidden gems.

  • Sail along the greenery of the Singelpark in Leiden.
  • Admire Haarlem’s ancient city centre from the water.
  • Discover the old harbours of Dordrecht.
  • Couple sups on the Lauwersmeer
    © Marleen Annema via Visit Wadden
  • Boating on the canals in historical Leiden city center
    © Boris Stroujko via Shutterstock
  • View of Hartebrugkerk from canal with terraces Leiden trabantos
    © Trabantos Shutterstock
  • Canal in Leiden
    © trabantos via Shutterstock
  • View of boat in canal though the railing of a bridge with a flower pot on the right
    © VVV Delft
  • A boy supping in the water of the Hanseatic cities
    © MarketinOost
Leiden, Haarlem, Dordrecht, Delft…many Dutch cities are renowned for their beautiful canals. They were traditionally used for transportation, water control and defence of the city, but today their main purpose is recreation. So see the city from an entirely new perspective and rent a boat or canoe or try stand-up paddleboarding.

Leiden from the water

The historic city centre of Leiden has around 28 kilometres of canals, which makes it the perfect city to explore from the water. The Singelpark is a continuous green park that consists of the ring of outer canals, including all the adjacent parks and buildings, and it offers the perfect opportunity to see the city by water. It’s the ideal way to catch your breath and relax in the busy city.

People in boat on canal in Leiden
© Leiden Marketing

Haarlem

The Spaarne is the S-shaped canal that meanders through the old city centre of Haarlem. It runs through the city and makes its way to Spaarndam. Enjoy Haarlem from the water and admire the canals and the views of various monuments. Pass by traditional Dutch townhouses, churches and the Adriaan windmill. More than just a boat ride – it’s an experience to remember.

People on a canoe in canal of Haarlem
© Haarlem Marketing

Dordrecht

Dordrecht is inextricably linked to water but it has harbours instead of canals. Cruise along the narrow waterways and enjoy the most beautiful spots of the historic city centre. Admire the centuries-old arched bridges and pass by picturesque sites. National Park De Biesbosch is located in Dordrecht’s ‘backyard’ and this remarkable freshwater delta is a delight for those who love to canoe.

Dordrecht Wolvershaven canal with boat from Barone
© Dordrecht Marketing

Boating through the Netherlands

Of course, our country boasts numerous other beautiful places that you can enjoy by water. Rent a boat in The Hague and cruise through the city’s canals. Explore the city of Utrecht by canoe or pedal boat. And who could forget about Amsterdam, where you can cruise along its magnificent, world-famous canals. Although it may take a bit more effort to find the quiet spots in these busy cities.

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