Canals / Amstel River / Harbour, Amsterdam

This is the canal, Groenburgwal looking towards the Zuiderkerk in the distance. It ceased to be a church about 70+ years ago and now is home to a permanent exhibition on public housing.

Montelbaanstoren on Oudeshans. This used to be part of the medieval fortifications of the city and featured in some paintings/drawings by Rembrandt. Its not open to the public.

The Amsterdam - this is a full size replica of the East Indiaman ship that is berthed outside the Scheepvaart museum (on Kattenburgerplein) which is the national maritime museum.

While riding along the Amstel River out of Amsterdam you'll see a couple windmills. This one is further out than the 'Windmill De Rieker' but still an easy bike ride just the same.

On various parts of the canal system, you will come across canal barges and smaller boats berthed snugly. Many of these are now lived in year round and if I ever get to live in Amsterdam . . . .

In general Amsterdam is a very lush city, with some beautiful nearby parks, great to walk around with typical European trees....What an impression! A great place im very likely to return to.

Most tourists do go see the canals by boat, but ofcourse you can also discover pretty sights along the canals on foot.

I was amazed by all the ornate, narrow old buildings that leaned. Most of Amsterdam I learned is built on top of pilings to keep above water level.

Just get walking in Amsterdam away from the main drags. There are some spectacular views to be found around the city that are quiet and peaceful.