Herengracht

The Basics

The Lord’s Canal is one of the most important waterways in all of Amsterdam, and has been known for its wealth and opulence since the 17th century. It is lined with numerous buildings of historical significance, including the former headquarters of the Dutch West India Company; the Bartolotti House, an ornate, curved-facade structure built in 1617; and the oldest house in the city, dating back to 1590.

Many Amsterdam canal tours glide along Herengracht as well as other scenic canals, showcasing the very best of the city. Some offer refreshments for you to sip and nibble during the cruise.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Lord’s Canal is a must-visit for travelers with an interest in history or architecture, and all first-time visitors to Amsterdam.

• The canal is best explored by boat but can also be discovered on foot or by bike.

• Give yourself plenty of time to stop along the way.

How to Get There

The Lord’s Canal, which runs right through Amsterdam, is situated between two other major canals: Emperor’s Canal (Keizersgracht) and Singel. It is easily accessed throughout the city center, and is about a 10-minute walk from Centraal Station.

When to Get There

Like all of Amsterdam’s waterways, this canal is a year-round attraction. The best time to visit is in summer, when the weather is warm and relatively dry, as it can be uncomfortably cool along the canal during the winter. Daytime visits make for the best sightseeing.

The Heren Regenten

Herengracht is named for the Heren Regenten, the ruling class who had considerable power under the Dutch Republic up until mid-18th century uprisings changed the dynamics in the Netherlands. Back then many members of the city’s most affluent merchants, politicians, and regents lived along the Lord’s Canal, particularly at its Golden Bend section.

Ways to explore

As one of the most scenic canals in Amsterdam, the Herengracht is a must-see destination for sightseeing in the city. Many Amsterdam canal tours glide along the Herengracht and other local canals for an hour or two, showcasing the very best of the city; some even offer dinner and drinks packages to enjoy from the comfort of the boat. Of course, you can also explore the canal on land, whether it’s hiring a pedicab to take you along them or joining a bike tour to ride to its most picturesque spots.

Accessibility

Streets and sidewalks along the canal are narrow, but bridges are usually accessible. You may encounter obstacles that make using wheelchairs or strollers difficult.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, water bottle, umbrella,

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, layers when visiting outside of summer

Not allowed

Don’t swim in Amsterdam’s canals, both because of boat traffic and because it’s illegal.

Amenities

Many cafés and restaurants line the Herengracht.

Address

The Herengracht is the second canal looping around Amsterdam’s historical center. Walk or bike to its western section from the city center, or use public transportation to reach other parts of the canal.

Driving

Because of its inner city location with one-way streets and limited parking, it’s easier to park at a garage near Centraal Station and walk to the canal from there.

Public transportation

Take the metro or train to Centraal Station and walk for roughly 10 minutes to reach the canal. Otherwise, take the #2, #12, or #17 trams to Koningsplein and walk one block.

Best times to visit

Daytime visits make for the best sightseeing, but the canal is especially captivating at sunset.

Best days to visit

Visit during the week for the least crowded experience. There is more demand for boat cruises along the canals on the weekends.

Best months to visit

While Amsterdam’s canals are year-round attractions, they’re more enjoyable to explore on warm and dry summer days.

Special events

A boat party fills the Herengracht and other major canals on April 27 to celebrate the King’s Day national holiday.