It’s no secret that Europe has more than its fair share of stunning historic towns. That’s the very thing the “Old Continent” is most famous for, in addition to its excellent food. There are, however, various types of towns in Europe, originating from former fortresses or expanded along river banks or something else entirely. In this post, with these top 5 most beautiful canal towns in Europe; we’ll highlight some of the prettiest European canal towns you can visit.
Top 5 Most Beautiful Canal Towns in Europe
From Scandinavia to the Benelux to Italy, the top 5 most beautiful canal towns in Europe are, not surprisingly, found in flat, coastal areas. All of them boast a wealth of history, excellent restaurant scenes and simply stunning architecture. Whichever town you decide to visit, make sure to give it at least two full days of your time. A weekend, for example, would be absolutely ideal for the following towns.
5. Copenhagen, Denmark
The Danish capital of Copenhagen does not lie on the European mainland, but on an island connected to the rest of the continent by bridges. The town is home to many beautiful canals and historic landmarks, making it one of the greatest canal towns in Europe. The best example of Copenhagen’s maritime past is Nyhavn, an old harbor district lined with colorful buildings.
Nyhavn in Copenhagen
4. Annecy, France
Unlike the other canal towns in Europe in this list, whose canals are fed by rivers, those of Annecy get their water from the Lac d’Annecy, France’s third-largest lake. This exceptionally walkable town has some of the cleanest water in all of Europe, thanks to the area’s strict environmental regulations. Its main landmark is the Palais d’Ile, a fortified palace that’s the centerpiece in the town’s main canal.
Annecy waterfront
3. Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Amsterdam is one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations and it’s easy to see why. There’s so much to see and do in this town you can easily spend a week there. Visit iconic historic sites such as the Anne Frank House, a museum like the Rijksmuseum or the Vondelpark. Explore the world’s most famous Red Light District and wander its charming alleyways. But most of all, go for a canal tour, possibly the very best way to see the city.
Canal in Amsterdam
2. Bruges, Belgium
Undoubtedly one of the greatest canal towns in Europe, Bruges is basically a living fairy-tale town. Beautifully preserved, this medieval town was once one of Europe’s wealthiest trade towns. A dense network of canals crisscrosses its historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gorgeous architectural highlights abound in Bruges. Literally everywhere you look, you’ll see wonderful old buildings.
Rozenhoedkaai, Bruges
1. Venice, Italy
The epitome of a canal town, Venice is one of the world’s most breathtaking cities. Located in the Venetian Lagoon, an archipelago made up of several small islands and islets, it’s unlike anywhere else on earth. Countless picturesque bridges span canals small and wide, while medieval churches, merchant’s houses and government buildings dot the city. It’s just a sensational town.
Scenic dining in Venice
What other canal towns in Europe are worth visiting? Let us know in the comments below!