Keizersgracht Canal

Emperor’s Canal in Amsterdam

The Keizersgracht canal is one of the most renowned and picturesque canals in Amsterdam. It is the third and widest of the main canals in the city, alongside Singel, Herengracht and Prinsengracht.

The Keizersgracht canal, like the other canals in Amsterdam’s canal belt, is adorned with beautiful bridges and tree-lined streets, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors to stroll along its banks or take a leisurely boat tour. The canal area is also home to numerous cultural attractions, hotels, shops, cafes, restaurants and nightlife.

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Keizersgracht Canal History

The history of Keizersgracht canal is intertwined with the broader history of Amsterdam and the Netherlands. Specifically during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century, when the city experienced a period of immense economic prosperity and cultural flourishing.

Construction

Keizersgracht, along with Herengracht and Prinsengracht, were constructed during the early 17th century as part of the ambitious urban expansion projects in Amsterdam. These canals were designed to facilitate trade, transportation and defense, while also serving as prestigious residential areas for the city’s wealthy merchants and traders.

Naming

Keizersgracht is named after Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor (in Dutch, “Keizer” means Emperor). All the canals were given attractive names to encourage wealthy merchants to build with elegance along their banks. Prince’s Canal, Emperor’s Canal, Governer’s Canal speak volumes to early day marketing techniques.

Economic Importance

The canal played a crucial role in the economic life of Amsterdam during the Dutch Golden Age. It served as a vital artery for trade with goods being transported via boats along the canal to and from warehouses and markets. The wealth generated from this trade contributed to the prosperity of the city and subsequently the flourishing of arts and culture.

Modern Times

Today, Keizersgracht is not only a historic waterway but also a vibrant and dynamic part of Amsterdam’s urban landscape. The canal and its surroundings are cherished for their beauty, architectural significance and cultural value. Keizersgracht canal attracts visitors from around the world to explore its charms, enjoy boat tours, and admire the historic buildings that line its banks.

What is on the Keizersgracht Canal? 

The Keizersgracht canal, like many of the canals in Amsterdam, is lined with a diverse array of buildings, landmarks, and attractions.

Some notable attractions along Keizersgracht canal include:

• Westerkerk (Western Church): Located near the intersection of Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht, Westerkerk is one of Amsterdam’s most famous churches. Built between 1620 and 1631, it is known for its distinctive tower which offers panoramic views of the city. The renowned Dutch painter Rembrandt is buried in the church’s graveyard.
• The Jordaan: The Keizersgracht is part of the Jordaan neighbourhood, a very popular and pretty part of Amsterdam which everyone will enjoy exploring.
• Bridges: Keizersgracht is spanned by several picturesque bridges, each with its own unique architectural style. These bridges not only serve as practical crossings but look amazing in photographs.
• Historic Canal Houses: The canal is renowned for its elegant and well-preserved canal houses, many of which date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. These houses feature characteristic Dutch architecture, with narrow facades, tall windows, and ornate gables. Some of them are now private residences, while others have been converted into museums, offices or boutique hotels.
• Cafés and Restaurants: Along the banks of Keizersgracht, you’ll find numerous picture perfect cafés, restaurants and bars, where you can enjoy a meal or a drink while watching the world pass by. You’ll find a mix of local and International cuisine available.
• In terms of attractions, Huis Marseille is Amsterdam’s oldest photography museum and has a large collection and shop set in two beautiful 17th century canal houses. The H’ART Museum formely known as Hermitage is a global art museum showcasing collections from around the world. It is located at the far end of the canal after crossing the Amstel River. You can also find the Artis Royal Zoo and Hortus Botanicus this side of the river Amstel.

What to do on the  Keizersgracht Canal 

The Keizersgracht canal offers a variety of activities and attractions. 

• Take a Canal Cruise: There are multiple canal boat tours that feature the Keizersgracht Canal. On a canal boat tour you get to see the city from the water which is a whole different experience. Canal boat tours can be taken during the day and in the evening and often feature dining and drinking options.
• Visit the Anne Frank House: Located at 263 Prinsengracht, the Anne Frank House is a must-visit attraction. Strictly speaking, it is not along the Keizersgracht, but rather the Prinsengracht canal, but it so close by that it would be hard to miss.
• Walk or Cycle Along the Canal: Keizersgracht Amsterdam is very pretty and walking or cycling along its banks is such a lovely way to sepend some time. You can take in all the beauty of its buildings and bridges and stop off at any of the shops or cafes along the way for a riverside break.
• Discover the Jordaan District: The charming Jordaan neighbourhood is one of the most beautiful parts of Amsterdam, you’ll find lovely cafes, art galleries, cobbled streets and boutique shops. Wandering around here is a joy.
• Waterside Restaurants: Keizersgracht Canal has its fair share of waterside restaurants, cafes and bars. You can relax at a table and enjoy watching the world float or cycle by, while you tuck into lovely local or International food.
• Explore churches, museums and galleries: You’ll find museums like the Huis Marseille and H’ART Museum, natural attractions like Hortus Botanicus and the Artis Royal Zoo, as well as plenty of art galleries along or nearby the Keizersgracht canal. Westerkerk is also to be seen here, towering over the skyline.
• Photography: You will probably spot a fair few photographers along this canal. Not just those looking for a snapshot memory, but enthusiasts who are drawn to the beautiful buildings and bridges of the iconic canal, at all times of the day and night.

Canal House Keizersgracht