You’ve heard it before—everywhere from Europe to Asia, any city with even a hint of canals proudly claims the title “The Venice of.” There’s “The Venice of the North,” “The Venice of the East,” and countless other variations. But here’s a question: why is Venice the standard? Amsterdam, with its sprawling, organized canal network, argues that maybe every canal city should instead be called “The Amsterdam of.” After all, it’s got more canals than Venice. Could it be time to rethink our canal city naming conventions?
Why Cities Are Called the “Venice of” Anything
When you picture a canal city, Venice, Italy, likely comes to mind first. Known for its winding waterways, historic gondolas, and romantic ambiance, Venice has earned a reputation as the ultimate canal city. Its roots go back to the 5th century, when the canals were built for protection, helping Venetians turn their city into a fortified island. As Venice grew into a powerful trade center during the Renaissance, its influence spread, and so did its reputation as a city of beautiful canals.
Venice’s impact was so profound that, over time, other cities with waterways were labeled as “Venices.” It wasn’t long before cities like Amsterdam, Bruges, and Suzhou adopted variations of “The Venice of” moniker. The idea was simple: Venice was iconic, and so, any place resembling it—whether in Europe, Asia, or beyond—could capture some of its allure. But as travelers have come to realize, not all Canal Cities are alike, and “Venice” doesn’t always fit the atmosphere or layout of these unique places. In many ways, calling every canal city a “Venice” feels a bit restrictive.
So, while Venice’s name became shorthand for any picturesque canal setting, each of these cities has its own character. Amsterdam locals might say it’s time to look past Venice and embrace another city as the model for canal culture. But why Amsterdam?
The Case for Amsterdam: More Canals, More Practicality
Amsterdam, Netherlands, offers a very different canal experience. Built during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century, Amsterdam’s canals were more than scenic—they were a logistical marvel. The city’s canal network was organized with precision, forming a structured semi-circle around the city center and providing an easy-to-navigate layout. Unlike Venice’s organic, winding canals, Amsterdam’s canals follow a deliberate plan, each serving a purpose in a city designed for commerce and trade. It’s a bit like the difference between a carefully planned garden and a wild, untamed landscape—both beautiful, but with very different vibes.
Amsterdam’s canals have a scale and organization that Venice can’t quite match. With over 100 kilometers of canals, 1,500 bridges, and numerous islands, Amsterdam’s waterways are larger and more structured than those of Venice. The Dutch are proud of this, often pointing out that if Canal Cities were really about efficiency and reach, Amsterdam should be the inspiration. While Venice’s canals transport you to a timeless, romantic setting, Amsterdam’s canals reflect a certain industrious charm, a practical side of canal life that feels distinctly Dutch.
It’s not uncommon to hear locals joking that places with organized canal grids, like Hamburg or even Tokyo, should be called “The Amsterdam of.” In some ways, it makes sense. Amsterdam’s influence, especially in cities with functional canal systems, seems more relevant than Venice’s dreamy waterways.
Why “The Amsterdam of” Might Make More Sense
Here’s the thing: Amsterdam’s canals represent a unique approach to city-building. They weren’t just for show but for efficiency, a way to transport goods, manage water flow, and support daily life. Amsterdam became a major trading hub thanks to these canals, and the city’s infrastructure helped it grow into one of the most influential centers of commerce in Europe. Unlike Venice, where canals have become largely romanticized, Amsterdam’s waterways are still used actively, supporting houseboats, tour boats, and personal watercraft.
For many travelers, Amsterdam offers a more approachable version of canal life. Its tidy grid and welcoming atmosphere make it easy to explore, even if you’re new to the city. Each canal is lined with narrow, gabled houses and historical merchant buildings that reflect the Dutch style—charming, practical, and often understated. When compared with Venice’s elaborate palaces and Gothic architecture, Amsterdam’s style feels grounded, familiar, and distinctly modern. So, while Venice draws you into a sort of dream, Amsterdam lets you stroll through a history that’s alive and bustling.
Amsterdam’s canals symbolize a kind of “working beauty,” an aesthetic that’s about functionality as much as charm. Cities like Stockholm, with practical, navigable canals, might feel closer in spirit to Amsterdam than Venice. And for many, that mix of charm and utility makes Amsterdam the more fitting inspiration for other Canal Cities.
Could the World’s Canal Cities Be Better as “The Amsterdam of…”?
Perhaps it’s a bit ambitious to suggest rebranding every canal city after Amsterdam. Venice’s title as a canal city standard-bearer is hard to argue with. But Amsterdam’s network has its own appeal—an appeal that’s structured, organized, and accessible. For cities that prioritize practicality, a bit of Dutch influence might feel more fitting.
Think about Bruges, Belgium, another city called “The Venice of the North.” Its canals are narrower, more intimate, and filled with history, much like Amsterdam’s. In fact, calling it “The Amsterdam of the North” could highlight the practical, structured side of Bruges, which shares similarities with Amsterdam’s compact, merchant-centered canal layout. Or consider Suzhou, China, known as “The Venice of the East.” Suzhou’s canals and historic gardens reflect a cultural blend that’s unique, but with a spirit closer to Amsterdam’s emphasis on harmony and balance than Venice’s intricate, romanticized designs.
In the end, cities with canal systems designed for trade and transport might find that Amsterdam’s influence suits them better. Amsterdam stands as a reminder that Canal Cities don’t all need to follow the Venetian model. Each one can take pride in its unique layout, history, and character.
The Role of Canal Cities in Modern Travel
Today, Canal Cities attract millions of visitors, each drawn to the unique blend of water and architecture that defines these places. Venice and Amsterdam stand at the forefront, but cities like Bruges and Suzhou have created quieter, more intimate canal experiences. Travelers have a lot of choices, from gliding down Venice’s Grand Canal in a gondola to exploring Amsterdam’s scenic Prinsengracht. Each experience offers something special, whether you’re after Venice’s dreamy atmosphere or Amsterdam’s efficient charm.
For travelers eager to experience these cities with a bit of insider guidance, a Travel Advisor can be incredibly helpful. Not only can they recommend hidden gems and unique canal Tours, but they can also offer insights on avoiding the usual tourist traps. With a knowledgeable guide, exploring these cities can feel more like uncovering secrets rather than following the crowds.
Final Thoughts
Whether cities are known as “The Venice of” or “The Amsterdam of” may ultimately come down to personal taste, but both Venice and Amsterdam represent essential aspects of canal culture. Venice captivates with its romantic waterways and historic allure, while Amsterdam shows us how water can be a functional, accessible part of city life. As we explore Canal Cities across the world, each offers a new perspective, a reminder of how waterways continue to shape our cities, culture, and travel. So, next time you visit a canal city, ask yourself: is it more Venice or Amsterdam? Either way, there’s a whole world of water-bound beauty to discover.
