FAQ, we answer your questions
Read the below answers to frequently asked questions.
Visitor information
What can we see in the museum?
We offer an audiovisual experience that shows you the history of the canals of Amsterdam. In addition, there is also a temporary exhibition in our beautiful period rooms.
What are the admission fees and opening hours?
All practical information can be found on this page.
In what languages are your audio guides available?
We offer audio guides in Dutch, English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Chinese (Mandarin), Japanese and Russian.
Do you sell the Museumkaart?
Yes, you can buy a Museumkaart from us, while supplies last.
What discount cards do you accept?
We accept the Museumkaart, Stadspas, Iamsterdam City Card and ICOM Card.
Can I buy tickets online?
Yes. Click here to buy your e-tickets. It is not mandatory to order tickets online before your visit.
Is the museum accessible for people who use wheelchairs?
Yes, our museum is wheelchair friendly. Read more about our accessibility on this page.
Do you have any wheelchairs available in the museum?
Yes, we have a wheelchair you can borrow. To reserve this, you can call 020–4211656 in advance or email us via mail@grachten.museum.
Do you have a café in the museum?
Unfortunately, not. But you can find the coolest cafes within walking distance. Ask our colleagues for advice during your museum visit.
Can I visit the garden?
Our garden is open to visit during the Open Garden Days in Amsterdam. This is on the weekend of June 13, 14, and 15, 2025.
Are pets allowed in the museum?
No, we don’t allow dogs, cats or other pets in the museum. Guide dogs or therapy dogs are seen as an exception.
History of the canals
How did the canals of Amsterdam originate?
The canals were constructed in the 17th century as part of a city expansion. They served purposes of water management, transportation, and city defense.
What is the oldest canal in Amsterdam?
The oldest still-existing canal is the Oudezijds Voorburgwal, which dates back to the 13th century. It lies in the oldest part of the city, in today’s Red Light District. The Damrak (now largely filled in) was also part of the earliest waterways, but the Oudezijds Voorburgwal is the oldest preserved and still recognizable canal.
Where is the Golden Bend in Amsterdam?
The Golden Bend is located on the Herengracht between Vijzelstraat and Leidsestraat. It is the most prestigious stretch of canal with rich regent houses from the 17th century.
Why are canal houses crooked?
Besides subsidence, some canal houses were intentionally built leaning. For example, many facades lean forward on purpose to help rainwater drain off better and to create more space.
Why are canal houses narrow?
In the past, property tax was based on the width of the façade. A narrow house meant lower taxes.
What is the longest canal?
At 6.3 kilometers, the Singelgracht is the longest canal in Amsterdam.
What is the shortest canal?
The Beulingsloot is the shortest canal in Amsterdam. It is only 50 meters long.
What is the order of the canals in Amsterdam?
The order of the canals, from the outside in, is Prinsengracht–Keizersgracht–Herengracht–Singel. A handy mnemonic in Dutch is: Piet Koopt Hoge Schoenen (“Piet Buys High Shoes”).
How deep are the canals in Amsterdam?
The depth of the canals varies from one to another. However, most canals are between 2 and 4 meters deep.
How clean is the water in the Amsterdam canals?
Over the past decades, the quality of the canal water has significantly improved. Waternet, the Amstel, Gooi and Vecht Water Board, and the Municipality of Amsterdam work together to keep the canal water clean.
Can you swim in the canals of Amsterdam?
Although the canal water is becoming cleaner, it is not officially designated for swimming. Doing so may lead to health risks and a fine.