Amstel River
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Flowing through the capital and providing the UNESCO–listed canals with their water, the Amstel River is Amsterdam’s main artery. And not only that—the city was first built around the river, which gave it its original name of Amstel Dam. Today, the river and its banks boast some of Amsterdam’s top attractions, including Magere Brug, nicknamed Skinny Bridge due to its narrowness, and the Stopera, an opera house that also functions as City Hall.
The Basics
Follow the path along the Amstel to find a number of city landmarks including the Hermitage Museum, the Royal Theater Carre, and the iconic Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug). Once you get to Amsterdam South, the river makes way for a beautiful path along which locals cycle, sail, and enjoy a stroll before turning into bucolic meadows and rural villages.
Most tours in Amsterdam include a stop along the Amstel. If you want to explore like a local, hop on a bike tour to explore the city’s highlights, including the Amstel path. Numerous river cruise options are also available to see the city via the Amstel and numerous canals. To save on admission fees, combine attractions such as the Rembrandt House Museum, the Rijksmuseum, and Keukenhof Gardens (in the spring) with a city tour of Amsterdam.
Things to Know Before You Go
The Amstel is a must-visit for all visitors to Amsterdam, as it is the city’s main watery artery.
Don comfortable walking shoes to enjoy strolling along the riverside path.
Boat tours of Amsterdam make it easy for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility to see the Amstel and the city’s main attractions.
How to Get There
The Amstel is easily accessible from many points in Amsterdam. The best way to experience it, and many city landmarks, is on a river and canal cruise. If you prefer to stay on land, head to the Hermitage Museum and the Skinny Bridge to walk along the riverbank without leaving the city.
When to Get There
Amsterdam sees huge crowds of travelers during the summer months. Try to visit during spring or autumn, when there are fewer people and less chance for rain. The city really comes alive when the tulips are in bloom, generally between the end of March and the end of May.
The Lifeblood of Amsterdam
The Amstel is more than just a transportation waterway in Amsterdam. Since the days of early settlers, the river has provided the most vital irrigation resource and was even diverted to the Amstel Brewery to keep its stock of beer chilled. The river was also an inspiration for many artists, including Rembrandt and Mondrian. The dams, which wind their way through Amsterdam and the Netherlands, are a feat of engineering and provide water and transportation for thousands of Dutch citizens.
Ways to explore
Most tours in Amsterdam include a stop along the Amstel. If you want to explore like a local, hop on a bike tour to see the city’s highlights, including the Amstel River walking route, a 1.3-mile (2.2-kilometer) path that begins in the Jewish Quarter. A number of river cruise options are also available, allowing you to take in the city from the water.
To save on admission fees, combine attractions such as the Rembrandt House Museum, the Rijksmuseum, and Keukenhof Gardens (in the spring) with a city tour of Amsterdam.
Accessibility
With its flat paths, most of the Amstel River walking route is accessible; however, cobbles in some parts might make it a bumpy ride.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Bring a refillable water bottle and some snacks if you plan to walk the whole route along the riverbanks.
What to wear
Most of the riverbanks are exposed, so dress for sun and rain, and bring an umbrella too.
Not allowed
Swimming except for on designated days
Amenities
Bars, hotels, stores, restaurants, cafés, museums, ATMs
Address
The Amstel is easily accessible from many points in Amsterdam. The best way to experience it, and many city landmarks, is on a river and canal cruise.
Driving
From Amsterdam Central Station, head south on Prins Hendrikkade. Follow signs for Centrum/Amstel and then take Vijzelstraat or Amstelstraat, which both lead toward the Amstel River.
Public transportation
For stops close to the river, take tram 4, 14, or 24 to Rembrandtplein or Muntplein, or metro line 51, 53, or 54 to Waterlooplein. The Amsterdam Amstel train station is also a convenient choice.
Best times to visit
The Amstel River looks particularly lovely early in the day, when morning mist adds to the atmosphere.
Best days to visit
While it's usually prohibited to swim in the river, once a year in early September, you're allowed to take the plunge.
Best months to visit
The city really comes alive when the tulips are in bloom, generally between the end of March and the end of May. Amsterdam sees huge crowds of travelers during the summer months.
Special events
From December to mid-January, the banks of the Amstel are illuminated with themed installations for the Amsterdam Light Festival.
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