When we think of stunning canal-lined cities of the world, Venice is the first one that comes to mind of course. Did you know that many other cities boasting of gorgeous canals and an array of cultures? overcoming stress is 10 beautiful canal cities, apart from Venice. The development canals within the British city was due to industrial motives. They were initially constructed to move goods around the city, and also to towns in the course of the Industrial Revolution. Nowadays, people are flocking into these waterways to take a cruise. Birmingham is believed that it has greater canals that Venice. The boat rides through these waterways offer an opportunity to see the charming structures and beautiful landscapes.
Top 10 Most Beautiful Canal Cities in the World
1. Hamburg

The biggest port of Germany is a hub of modernity and classicism. It is often referred to as City of Bridges, Hamburg is almost completely surrounded by water. Its Alster as well as the Elbe rivers are the mainstays of the water network. The bridges, which are more than the city of any others, provide an unforgettable view in the heart of city. After visiting the classic architecture and lush landscapes, and the bustling harbour, you are able to spend your time shopping well.
2. Amsterdam
Sometimes referred to as often referred to as the Venice of the North, Amsterdam is the capital city of The Netherlands, is one of the most stunning cities across Europe. Amsterdam is home to many more canals than Venice and has more than 1,000 bridges that connect them. Some of them trace their roots through the middle ages. The four major canals which are the main canal network include Singel, Keizergracht, Prinsengracht and Herengracht. In 2009 Amsterdam’s central canal ring was included in the list of World Heritage sites by UNESCO.
3. St. Petersburg
The second-largest city in Russia, St. Petersburg is the home of an intricate canal system that connects with the Baltic Sea and River Neva. Enjoy a cruise along the canals while enjoying the magnificent view of palaces, old mansions as well as churches and museums that line the water, enough to please the eye. A cruise along the Moyka Canal will provide an insight into the life of the Russian elite in the past. The city hosts the White Night Festival every summer and is a lavish celebration of entertainment and shopping.
4. Alappuzha
The city is known by the name of Venice of the East, Alappuzha is a city located in Kerala the state of the southern part of India. It is located close to it is the Arabian Sea, the city is renowned for its canals, which were designed to transport Coir. They are connected to the backwaters, which are pristine. Thousands of houseboats offer services. You can hire one of them and enjoy the beautiful scenery and local cultural heritage. In the absence of city life, it’s an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the peace of the day.
5. Annecy
Also known by the name of Venice of the Alps, this charming city is located inside the Haute-Savoie region of France located on the shores of Annecy Lake, one of the most pristine lakes around the globe. In the Canal du Thiou is the most popular of the waterways. It is located within is the famed Palais de l’Ile, built in the 12th century is located. It is possible to spend your evening in one of the many restaurants along the canals, enjoying the local wine and the beauty of the crystal clear water.
6. Bruges
The beauty of nature as well as the beauty of Flemish architecture and art welcome visitors to this town of medieval origin in Belgium. The town is declared an World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Bruges is surrounded by canals that are commonly referred to as “Bruges Egg. The canals, also known as Reiens and meet the North Sea, passing traditional houses, churches from the medieval era and picturesque gardens along the journey. For those with an interest of the arts, Groeninge and Memling Museums give a glimpse of Flemish art.
7. Stockholm
Stockholm is one of the largest cities in Sweden. Swedish capital Stockholm is constructed on a number of islands that have bridges and canals connecting them. The most popular name is Beauty on Water, a third of Stockholm is made up of water. A boat ride through the waters will show you the royal palaces and beautiful landscapes. In the old city, the museums and galleries be able to speak for you with the dialect of olden times. The canals of the Scandinavian city freeze during the winter, but they are also a great place for skating.
8. Suzhou
The town is located in the middle in the middle of Yangtze Delta, Suzhou traces its roots to the fifth century BC. The town’s history is known for its water networks as well as Chinese architecture. The traditional gardens of the city, a lot of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the incredible water towns are among the top draw for visitors. The city is an insight into the past of China and its rich culture. The smell of the local food and the rhythm in Chinese music will take you into these.
9. Tigre
As the New York Times dubbed it as, this Argentinean city is kind of ‘Venice prior to development’. It is comprised of tiny islands within the delta of the Parana River, Tigre is located 20 miles of Buenos Aires. Take a cruise along the waterways which run between the islands and you’ll be able to see the traditional architecture of the area, which is largely unaffected by modernization. The stunning landscape and distinctive nature fill the space of modern hotels. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as canoeing or bird watching in this area.
10. Birmingham
The first canals to be constructed inside the British city was entirely due to industrial motives. They were built initially to transport goods within the city, and also to other cities during the industrial revolution. Today, visitors are lining into these canals. Birmingham is believed having greater canals that Venice. The boat trips through these waterways offer sights of the beautiful architecture and picturesque landscapes.
