Frequently asked questions

In our museum, you will find a multimedia exhibition about the history of the Amsterdam canals. In addition, there are temporary exhibitions in the period rooms.

The audio guide is available in the following languages: Dutch, English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, Chinese (Mandarin), and Russian.

Yes, you can also purchase a (temporary) Museum Card at the museum, while stocks last.

We accept the Museum Card, I amsterdam City Card, the ICOM card, and the Amsterdam City Pass. We do not accept the FriendsLottery VIP-CARD.

Unfortunately not. Fortunately, you can find the best cafés within walking distance. Feel free to ask our colleagues for advice during your visit.

Our garden can be visited during the Open Garden Days in Amsterdam. This takes place on the third weekend of June.

Dogs, cats, and other pets are not allowed in the museum. We do make an exception for guide dogs and assistance dogs.

The canals were constructed in the 17th century as part of a city expansion. They served for water management, transport, and city defense.

The oldest surviving canal is the Oudezijds Voorburgwal, which dates back to the 13th century. This canal is located in the oldest part of the city, in the current Red Light District. Originally, the Damrak (now largely filled in) was also part of the oldest waterways, but the Oudezijds Voorburgwal is the oldest recognizable and preserved canal.

The Golden Bend is located on the Herengracht between Vijzelstraat and Leidsestraat. It is the most prestigious part of the canal, featuring grand 17th-century regent houses.

In addition to many canal houses subsiding, they were sometimes intentionally built leaning. For example, many facades deliberately lean forward so that rainwater drains off better and more space is created.

In the past, the width of the facade determined the amount of tax. A narrow house therefore meant lower taxes.

At 6.3 kilometers, the Singelgracht is the longest canal in Amsterdam.

The Beulingsloot is the shortest canal in Amsterdam. It is only 50 meters long.

The order of the Amsterdam canals, from outside to inside, is Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht, Herengracht, and Singel. There is a handy Dutch mnemonic for this: 'Piet Koopt Hoge Schoenen' (Pete Buys High Shoes).

The depth of the canals varies by location, but on average they are between 2 and 4 meters deep. Some spots may be slightly deeper, especially where the water is dredged more frequently.

In recent decades, the quality of the canal water has improved significantly. Waternet, the Amstel, Gooi and Vecht Water Board, and the City of Amsterdam ensure that the water in the canals remains clean.

Although the Amsterdam canal water is becoming cleaner, it is not official swimming water. Doing so can lead to health problems and a fine.