Amsterdam's Most Beautiful Bridges – What to Look For on Your Canal Cruise

Amsterdam has over 1,200 bridges, but a handful truly stand out when you see them from the water.

Quick bridge map for cruisers

1. Magere Brug – the skinny bridge

The Magere Brug is a white wooden drawbridge over the Amstel River. At night, hundreds of small bulbs trace its outline.

• Best seen on evening cruises when the lights are on.
• Look for reflections of the bridge forming double arches in the water.
• Legend has it that couples who kiss here will stay together.

If your route includes the Amstel, keep your camera ready as you approach – boats sometimes pause briefly for photos.

2. Blauwbrug – Amsterdam's "blue" bridge

Despite the name, the Blauwbrug is now more stone than blue, but its ornate lampposts and balustrades stand out.

• Inspired in part by Parisian bridges.
• Frames great views towards both the Amstel and the city centre.
• Watch for tram lines overhead as boats slide underneath.

3. Torensluis – the old tower bridge

On the Singel, the Torensluis is one of Amsterdam’s widest bridges.

• Once hosted a defensive tower; its outlines are still visible in the pavement.
• From the boat, you can see its heavy arches and robust masonry.
• Nearby terraces make it a lively spot in summer.

4. Waalseilandbrug – harbour panoramas

The Waalseilandbrug marks a beautiful transition between canal belt and harbour.

• Look backwards for a classic row of canal houses and warehouses.
• Look forwards for the IJ harbour, cruise ships, and modern architecture.

This is a perfect point to feel Amsterdam’s past and present in one frame.

5. The legendary 15 bridges view

From the Reguliersgracht crossing the Herengracht, there’s a famous view where you can see a chain of arches – often called the 15 bridges.

• Small open boats sometimes pause here to let you line up the shot.
• Lean slightly and look down the canal: you’ll see arch after arch framed by streetlights.

Bridge-spotting game for your cruise

Turn your cruise into a mini challenge:

• Spot a classic drawbridge.
• Count how many arches you pass under.
• Find a bridge with bicycles lining the railings.
• Catch a photo of two bridges in a single frame.

Bottom line

Amsterdam’s bridges are not just crossings – they are frames for the city’s views.

Notice their shapes, names, and lights, and your canal cruise becomes a moving gallery of urban design.