Amsterdam is often regarded as the ‘Venice of the Low Countries’ and no wonder: this metropolis has hundreds of canals, moats and other urban waterways. The most famous of them all is Amsterdam’s canal ring, a system of town canals surrounding the old city centre - so unique the whole area has been declared a Unesco World Heritage Site.

During the Dutch Golden Age, when Dutch culture and economy peaked after the year 1600, the canals were the life lines of this trading centre. Large quantities of merchandise were imported or exported by ship, or stored in one of the city’s many warehouses. The city’s canal ring also reflects Amsterdam’s affluence in the era, and in this district you will discover elaborately decorated merchant houses, internationally acclaimed museums and bustling markets squares. This I-Tour will reveal much more about all its historic architecture and culture. We will show you some of the most charming spots in and around Amsterdam’s canal ring while providing information about this very special area by means of audio and video recordings and photographs.

The I-Tour starts here at the National Monument on Dam Square. This majestic statue symbolises the very heart of Amsterdam – and the whole of the Netherlands. This is where, every year, the Dutch commemorate the victims of the Second World War.

Begin your I-Tour with your back to the monument and cross the street towards the Royal Palace.