A city like Venice is one of a kind. However, if you’ve got a fetish for canals, boat rides and bridges but don’t fancy going to Italy, these cities named the Venice of the North are just for you.
A visit to the Venice of the North will fill you with wonder and give you ample opportunity to explore a city from the water without battling the crowds the real Venice is notorious for. You’ll find canals and waterways, culture and architecture and romantic vibes galore when visiting these stunning canal cities.
St Petersburg, Russia
St Petersburg is one most beautiful cities in the world, and much of its appeal lies in the canals flowing through the city. With more than 300 km of rivers and canals intersecting Russia’s cultural capital, it’s perhaps the most iconic city claiming to be the Venice of the North.
The best way to see this smashing city is from a canal cruise along the city’s watery arteries. You’ll float past incredible baroque and neoclassical architecture and granite embankments and see St Petersburg’s most famous landmarks.
Make sure that you book a canal cruise that goes to the smaller canals like the Griboyedov Canal, Winter Canal, Moyka River and Fontanka River, as well as the big Neva River.
Other Must-Do’s in St Petersburg
- Admire the incredible art in the Hermitage
- Ride the metro and see the stunning stations
- Stroll around the gardens and fountains of Peterhof
- Overdose on gold and art in the St Issacs Cathedral
- Appreciate the simplicity of the Kazan Cathedral
- Eat blini and borscht at Teremok
- Look out for Pyshechnaya, a cafe near the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood selling the city’s famous Soviet doughnuts.
Aveiro, Portugal
Set along the lagoon of Ria de Aveiro, Aveiro is often called “the Venice of Portugal”. The city is famous for its colourful gondola boats – moliceiros, traditionally used to harvest seaweed. Nowadays, they are a major tourist attraction and taking a moliceiros ride is one of the best things to do in Aveiro.
Aveiro lies on the west coast of Portugal, and it’s located about 70 km from Porto and 60 km from Coimbra, making it a perfect day trip destination if you’re travelling in this part of the country.
Along with the scenic canal rides, Aveiro is also renowned for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. This style became very popular here at the beginning of the 20th century when immigrants from Brazil returned to Portugal and brought it with them. One can not only admire the gorgeous Art Nouveau buildings all around the city but also visit the Art Nouveau Museum. It’s easy to see that Aveiro is one of the most beautiful places in Portugal.
Other enjoyable sights include the Cathedral of Aveiro, the zodiac designs on the pavements, and the salt pans. In the 12th century, the region around Aveiro was a major salt producer, thanks to its favourable location and climate. Not far from the centre of Aveiro, you can see the salt pans that have remained, and visit the Ecomuseu Marinha da Troncalhada to learn about the methods and the whole salt production process.
By Lyubomira from Bulgarian On The Go
Gdansk, Poland
History buffs and those looking for the Venice of the North will love Gdansk on Poland’s Baltic coast. The beautiful city was the scene of several major events in the 20th century, from the outbreak of World War II to the Solidarity protests that brought an end to communist rule and hastened the fall of the Soviet Union.
An extensive series of canals connects the Old Town and the shipyards to the Baltic Sea. Due to its strategic location and historical importance to Prussia and later Germany-when it was called Danzig-Gdansk grew in importance and joined the Hanseatic League. Gdansk Old Town is one of the best examples of a Hanseatic city and a must on any Eastern Europe itinerary.
The wealth it accumulated is reflected in the beautiful merchant houses that line the Old Town’s streets. You can easily fill a two- or three-day visit with the following sights and activities in or near Gdansk:
- The Long Market (with Neptune’s Fountain and Artus Court), which forms the main thoroughfare of the Old Town
- Go on a walking tour to learn about the facts and legends of Gdansk
- The National Maritime Museum and the mediaeval Zuraw crane that is part of it
- St Mary’s Church, one of the largest brick churches in the world
- The European Solidarity Centre, which documents the anti-Communist movement
- St Dominic’s Fair in summer is a good time to sample traditional delights and look for flea market bargains
- The ruins of the first attack of World War 2 at the Westerplatte Monument
- Take a trip to Gdynia and Sopot (part of the Tri-City area) for the aquarium and the beaches
By Nicholas from Rambling Feet
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is the most famous city in the country and an iconic city. The city is, among many things, famous for its canals. You can easily spend a day wandering along the beautiful canals.
The 17th-century canal area is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century, Amsterdam became one of the most important ports in the world.
The canals aren’t the only iconic thing leftover from the Golden Age, so are the narrow houses with gabled façades on the canals.
Besides its 17th-century landmarks, Amsterdam is known for its art museums, bike culture, nightlife and festivals. Amsterdam is also considered one of the most multicultural cities in the world.
Must-do and see in Amsterdam:
- Visiting Dam Square, the heart of the city. The location of many national events. On Dam Square are the Royal Palace, Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), Ripley’s Believe It or Not, Madame Tussauds Amsterdam, NH Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky and the National Monument.
- The Westergasfabriek, is a former gasworks factory from the 19th century. Now the area is used as a cultural park and venue. You’ll find terraces and restaurants here. Among the festivities organized here is The Amsterdam Coffee Festival. There’s also the Fabrique des Lumières, an immersive digital art centre.
- Visit the Museumplein with world-class museums such as the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and the Stedelijk Museum.
- Take a ferry over the river Ij and visit the booming Amsterdam-Noord with attractions such as This is Holland, A’DAM Lookout and the Eye Moviemuseum.
- Visit the Anne Frank House. This is where Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis.
By Cosette from KarsTravels.
Strasbourg, France
As the capital of the beautiful Alsace region of Northeast France, Strasbourg is bound to be a stunning destination.
With its half-timbered houses, a maze of canals, stunning Gothic cathedral, and picturesque La Petite France neighbourhood, there’s no doubt that Strasbourg is gorgeous.
Its unique Alsatian culture–in part a product of the fact that Alsace has been ruled by both the Germans and French over the centuries–makes for a fantastic food scene.
Strasbourg is also the self-declared Capital of Christmas and is home to some of the best Christmas markets in Europe each December.
Some of the best things to do in Strasbourg include touring the stunning cathedral (including climbing to the top and also admiring its magnificent archaeological clock), taking a boat tour through the canals, learning local history at the Alsatian Museum, wandering through La Petite France, and touring the nearby Alsace Wine Route.
Whether you’re enjoying vineyards and walking tours in the summer or markets and cosy winstubs (local wine bar) in the winter, Strasbourg is one of the best canal cities in Europe to visit.
By Kate from Our Escape Clause
Hamburg, Germany
Hamburg is where the Beatles found Ringo Starr and where they started their career, becoming famous way before moving back to the UK. The city offers something for every type of traveller: culture, heritage, architecture, fantastic gastronomy, and fantastic nightlife.
There are plenty of things to do in Hamburg, and it would take several visits to see everything.
Speicherstadt is a great place to stroll around to experience the bridges and the history of the city. Back in the 19th century, ships from all over the world would come here with coffee, tea, and spices. This is why the city, to this day, has an extraordinary coffee culture.
Another great place to visit in Hamburg is the Miniatur Wunderland, a fantastic museum which entertains the entire family.
Another great thing to do in Hamburg is to attend a concert at the Elbphilharmonie. The acoustic inside is one of the best in the world, and seeing a show here is an unforgettable experience.
Hamburg is different from any other city in Germany; and has its own cuisine highly influenced by the trades from the 19th century, Scandinavian heritage, and the sailors working on tall ships. The local dish of the city is labskaus, which must be tried at one of the many traditional restaurants in Hamburg.
Another great way to explore the canals of Hamburg is by taking a tour around Speicherstadt. The tours have English commentary and tell the area’s story and how it grew to be such a prosperous place until the beginning of the 20th century.
By Joanna from The World in my Pocket
Bruges, Belgium
With a maze of canals and numerous stone bridges dating back to the middle ages, it’s easy to see why Bruges is known as the Venice of the North. While this Belgian city is compact in size, making it a popular day-trip destination, why rush around in a single day when there is so much to see?
At centre stage of the town is Bruges’ old Markt (Market Square), dating back to 958 AD. Bordered by iconic guild houses, the Provincial Palace and the impressive Belfry of Bruges, it feels as though you have stepped back in time.
A must for any Bruges itinerary is a canal cruise, of course! Being able to float alongside the old wooden houses and stone buildings lining the canals is a real treat.
More things to do in Bruges include:
- Taking a brewery tour at Huisbrouwerji De Halve Maan (Belgium is known for its beer, after all!)
- Admiring the largest brickwork tower in the world at Church of Our Lady
- Witnessing a cloth believed to be stained by the blood of Jesus Christ at the Basilica of the Holy Blood
- Wandering the narrow cobbled streets in search of chocolate shops
- Kissing your partner on Lover’sLover’s Bridge to wish for eternal love
- Exploring out of the city centre by enjoying Minnewater Park.
By Alyse from The Invisible Tourist
Wroclaw, Poland
Wroclaw, a beautiful city located in southwest Poland and the capital of the Lower Silesia region, is one of the most exciting cities in the country and a top tourist attraction.
More than a hundred bridges cross the Odra River and canals run through the city, giving the city claim as “Venice of the North”.
There are so many great things to do in Wroclaw that you will definitely be busy during your trip there. The Main Square with a stunning town hall is among the most beautiful squares in Poland. That’s also where you find many small dwarves – the city’s symbol (currently, there are over 300 of them all over Wroclaw, finding them is such a joy).
The oldest part of the city, Ostrow Tumski, has a different, more spiritual vibe than the rest of Wroclaw, but it’s worth visiting for the grand panorama from the tower of the Cathedral of St. John Baptist. Be sure to also stop in the university’s main building to see the breathtaking Aula Leopoldinum and its Baroque decor. Wroclaw is also home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site – Centennial Hall, the masterpiece of modernist architecture.
By Kami from My Wanderlust
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is the vibrant capital city of Denmark and is frequently named one of the happiest cities in the world. Located on the coast of the island of Zealand in the Øresund Strait, Copenhagen is characterised by beautiful parks, waterfront promenades and picturesque canals crisscrossing its neighbourhoods.
Home to one of the oldest monarchies in the world, the city has a fascinating history dating all the way back to the Viking Era. There’s an abundance of historical attractions, museums, castles and royal palaces to explore where you can learn about the country’s past.
Copenhagen is also known for its world-class culinary scene. Whether you’d like to dine in one of the city’s 14 Michelin-star restaurants, visit its laid-back street food markets or indulge in mouth-watering Danish pastries, this place is a paradise for any food lover. This foodie tour is a must to experience the best of Copenhagen’s food culture.
Although the city is relatively small compared to many other European capitals, there’s no shortage of fun activities and amazing places to visit.
Here are some of the most unique things to do in Copenhagen:
- Take a relaxing boat tour through the city’s canals
- Visit Tivoli Gardens, the second-oldest amusement park in the world
- Stroll along Nyhavn, an iconic canal lined with colourful 17th-century buildings
- Take a photo with the famous Little Mermaid statue
- Watch the changing of the guard at Amalienborg Palace, the residence of Denmark’s royal family
- Visit the self-governing alternative neighbourhood Christiania
- Grab a bite at Reffen, the largest street food market in the Nordics
By Marjut from The Smooth Escape Travel Blog
Colmar, France
Colmar is a small town in France’s Alsace region, straight out of a fairytale. It is known for its half-timbered buildings, rich food, and wine. One area of the town is called Little Venice because of the peaceful “canal” (Launch River), lined with colourful houses. It’s a lovely place to visit all year, but it is known for its market and festive decorations during the Christmas season.
There is quite a bit to do for a town its size, so you should plan on staying for at least a few days. You won’t need a car as all the top attractions are within walking distance.
While you are in Colmar, be sure to:
- Take a ride on one of the mini-trains around the town
- Visit the Bartholdi Museum to learn more about the sculptor who made the Statue of Liberty
- Browse the covered market and sample some of the tasty treats
- Do a wine tasting in Colmar
- Go Inside St. Martin’s Church
- Visit the Toy Museum and relive your childhood
- Check out the art at Musee Unterlinden
- Make your own chocolate with a chocolatier at Choco Story
By Anisa from Two Traveling Texans
Manchester, UK
There are many miles of rivers and canals in Great Britain, and Manchester is no exception. This busy city offers impressive canal walks leading to famous attractions and some hidden gems. While exploring Manchester canals, you will find amazing murals and quiet spots to relax by the water.
Some of the attractions situated by the canals include Manchester Cathedral and People’s History Museum. There are plenty of restaurants with fantastic water views, such as Scene Indian Street Kitchen or Menagerie Restaurant & Bar.
If you want to have the best experience of exploring Manchester, known as a Venice of the North, make sure to book your stay at one of the hotels located by the canal. The Lowry Hotel is just a few minutes’ walk to the city centre and offers great city views. If you are looking for a budget stay in a beautiful location, choose Travelodge Manchester Central.
By Paulina from ukeveryday
Little Venice, London, UK
Of all the relaxing things to do in London, a visit to Little Venice must be one of the most charming. This London district just north of Paddington features picturesque canals and waterways lined with cute little houseboats and cosy waterside cafes and restaurants.
Canal boats are all the rage here, and if you want, you can take a waterbus or narrowboat along the Regent’s Canal to Camden Lock Market. Or you can enjoy a theatre play or puppet show in one of the nearby venues.
If you want to relax by the water, The Waterway is one of the most popular spots and one of London’s greatest outdoor terraces. Or, if you’re in the mood for some delicious no-frills pub food, stop by The Bridge House, a traditional British retreat overlooking the canal and serving all kinds of roasts, steaks, and pies.
By Laura from Travelers Universe
Giethoorn, Netherlands
Giethoorn is a fairytale village in The Netherlands. It is located in the northeastern province of Overijssel and is also commonly known as the Venice of The Netherlands because it has no roads.
This picturesque town can easily be reached by train followed by a connecting bus from Amsterdam or Utrecht. On entering the town, you will find that the city is built on a series of canals, with pretty cottages built on lush green patches of land on both sides. Tiny bridges connect the town and are perfect for taking a stroll over.
For those visiting for a day, you can rent out an electric boat and ride it along the canals while you soak in the beautiful views. If not, you can also join a group canal tour on a water taxi and discover the city with fellow tourists.
Those looking to learn more about the town’s history should not miss the Museum of Giethoorn.
By Merryl from Merryl’s Travel and Tricks
Other Cities Known as the Venice of the North
- Alesund, Norway
- Amiens, France
- Annecy, France
- Bamberg, Germany
- Birmingham, UK
- Bydgoszcz, Poland
- Friedrichstadt, Germany
- Haapsalu, Estonia
- Lübeck, Germany
- Passau, Germany
- Skipton, UK
- Stockholm, Sweden
Which Venice of the North Will You Visit?
Will it be St Petersburg, Amsterdam or where will you go next? Let us know in the comments below which city is most deserving to be called the Venice of the North.