Have you ever wondered what it would be like cruising the canals of
the world?
Where would you start if you could transport your vessel, or more
realistically hire a narrow boat to explore another cities canal systems?
We have put together a collection of images and information
of the top 10 canal cities we would love to visit.
We have decided not to included Venice also known as “The City of Water”
as if you ask most people to name a canal city, then Venice is usually the
first that comes to mind.
There are many
other cities that have a canal that refer to themselves as “The Venice of
Birmingham” for example, and these cities all offer their own charm, beauty and
history and are well worth a visit.
So having ruled out the most obvious, let’s have a look at
some of the other beautiful and magical canals around the world.
So in no particular order....
Amsterdam
Most of the buildings, which line Amsterdam’s major
canals are classified as monuments. There are wonderfully kept cafes, offices,
restaurants and apartments. This stunning place has canals, bridges, cobbled
streets and elegant architecture.
Stockholm Sweden
Sweden’s capital Stockholm is built on 14 islands with 57
connecting bridges, because of how it is built there are canals and boats
everywhere.
Birmingham UK
While the canals were originally used to transport goods around
the city and to the rest of England and Europe during the industrial
revolution. Today the canals are mainly visited by tourists and boat owners. Did you
know that Birmingham has more miles of canals than Venice?
Hamburg Germany
Hamburg is a famous harbor city and its port is the third
largest in the world. Just north of Rathausmarkt are the stunning white arches by a canal called Alsterarkaden. The whole area is also full of indoor shopping
arcades with the most popular being the Hanse Viertel.
St Petersbury Russia
In 1923, the Ekaterinsky Canal was renamed in honor of the
Russian playwright and diplomat Alexander Griboedov who had lived in a house on
the embankment. Today, traveling along the Griboyedov Canal - on foot or by
boat - is an indispensable part of exploring St Petersburg.
El Gouna, Egypt
El Gouna remains a relatively unknown Egyptian travel
resort. Conceived during the nineties, El Gouna is a dream come true for beach
lovers. The canals, channeling out from the Red Sea connect the islands and
breathe life into the desert sands.
Bruges, Belgium
Not far from home in a truly rural setting on a
spectacular waterway is Bruges, ideal for those who love being on a boat and also want to
visit some remarkable places.
So where do you see yourself going?