Emperor's Canal (Keizersgracht)

Overview

Emperor's Canal, or Keizersgracht, is one of the four main canals in Amsterdam, known for its historic architecture and scenic beauty. It stretches from the northern part of the city to the Amstel River.

The canal is a significant part of Amsterdam's UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal district. It was named in honor of Emperor Maximilian I and has witnessed centuries of history.

Canal Walking Route

Location

Address

Amsterdam

Neighborhood: Jordaan

Coordinates

52.377900, 4.897100

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday Open 24 hours (public space)

tuesday Open 24 hours (public space)

wednesday Open 24 hours (public space)

thursday Open 24 hours (public space)

friday Open 24 hours (public space)

saturday Open 24 hours (public space)

sunday Open 24 hours (public space)

Admission

Adults

Free (walking along the canal)

Children

Free (walking along the canal)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April-June, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning or late afternoon

Fewer tourists, better lighting for photos

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

Half-day or full day with stops at museums and cafes

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild to warm, rain possible

• Tulip season
• Blooming trees

summer

Warm to hot, occasional rain

• Long daylight hours
• Outdoor cafes

autumn

Cool and crisp, rain possible

• Fall foliage
• Autumn colors

winter

Cold, possibly icy, short days

• Holiday lights
• Christmas markets

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Check weather forecast
Book canal tours in advance
Wear comfortable shoes

What to Bring

essential

Comfortable shoes Camera Water bottle

seasonal

Warm coat (winter) Sunglasses (summer)

not allowed

Drones Alcohol

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Low to moderate (walking along canals)

• Beware of bike traffic
• Watch for uneven cobblestones

Medical facilities: Nearby hospitals and clinics available

Payment Information

Accepted

Credit cards, Debit cards, Cash (Euros)

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Typical Costs

entry Free (walking along the canal)

parking €3-€5 per hour

food €10-€25 per meal

souvenirs €5-€30

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable clothing, Comfortable walking shoes, layers for changing weather, Walking shoes, Revealing clothing in religious sites (if visiting nearby churches)

Booking Tips

• At least a week for popular activities like canal tours
• Official tourism websites or trusted booking platforms
• Varies by activity, typically 24-48 hours in advance
• Available for major museums and attractions

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

I Amsterdam Official App

Size: 150 MB

Features: Interactive map, Event calendar, Ticket booking, Augmented reality canal guide

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Nearby cafes and visitor centers

Charging Stations: Available in some cafes and museums

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)

Distance: 17 km

Travel Time: 20-30 minutes

train

€5.50 20 min

taxi

€45-€60 25-30 min

bus

€5-€10 30-40 min

From City Center

Distance: 1-2 km from Centraal Station

walking

Free 15-20 min

bike

€10-€15 for rental 10-15 min

tram

€3.20 10-15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: It's a central part of Amsterdam's history and culture, offering beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere

Historical Significance: The canal was built during the Dutch Golden Age and has been witness to centuries of history, trade, and cultural development

Insider Tips

The best views are from the bridges, especially near Westerkerk
Local cafes along the canal often have great deals on Dutch beer and snacks
Early morning walks are the most peaceful

Local Recommendations

• Try a traditional Dutch stroopwafel at a local market
• Visit the nearby Noordermarkt for organic produce and vintage finds
• Explore the nine streets (De Negen Straatjes) for unique shops and cafes

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hallo

thank_you Dank je wel

where_is Waar is

how_much Hoeveel kost dit?

beautiful Mooi

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: Dutch, English, German, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Near Westerkerk Tower

Best Time: Golden hour in the evening

Tips: Use the tower as a backdrop for canal shots

Result: Stunning sunset reflections on the canal

#AmsterdamCanal #Keizersgracht #DutchBeauty

Jordaan neighborhood bridges

Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon

Tips: Capture the canal from bridge perspectives

Result: Classic Amsterdam canal views

#AmsterdamBridges #CanalLife #JordaanViews

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas along the canal

prohibited areas Inside private homes or businesses

flash photography Allowed in outdoor areas

commercial photography Permit may be required

drone policy Drones are restricted in Amsterdam city center

tripod policy Allowed in public spaces, but may be restricted in busy areas

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Anne Frank House

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Museum

Jordaan neighborhood

Distance: 500m

Walking: 10 min

Type: Historic Area

De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets)

Distance: 800m

Walking: 12 min

Type: Shopping Area

Westerkerk Tower

Distance: 300m

Walking: 5 min

Type: Historic Site

Reviews

4.8

Based on 5,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Visit during golden hour for best photos"
"Try a canal cruise"
"Explore the nearby Jordaan neighborhood"

Contact Information

+31 20 551 2288 (Amsterdam Tourism Office)

info@iamsterdam.com

www.iamsterdam.com

Social Media

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