Amsterdam Canal House Self Catering Apartments

Noted for its canals and bridges, Amsterdam, in North Holland, is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city, and one of the major tourist destinations in the Netherlands. One of the most unique things about Amsterdam are the many 17th century buildings, or canal houses which line the 4 major canals and offer comfortable accommodations to the weary traveler.

These canal houses, or merchant houses, were usually built as residences for wealthy citizens. Even though these heritage houses have been modernized inside during and since the 18th century, most of them still retain their old charm on the exterior. Today, the visitor to Amsterdam, can experience the city as a local, by staying in one of the many self catering apartments, that are found in these historic homes.

Imagine being able to enjoy sensational views of the canal from your home, and then step out of your door and stroll just a few paces to the famous Jordaan district of Amsterdam with its cafés, restaurants and hundreds of quaint boutiques for you to explore. One such place is called the Bosch apartment. This one is actually an entire canal house with four full floors and an outdoor patio area. The house has two bedrooms and will accommodation four people, which makes it very affordable if shared by two couples or a family.

Another is The Nostalgic Apartment, charmingly reminiscent of days gone by and located on the Runstraat, one of the famous “Nine Little Streets” well known for color and character, brimming with specialty shops, boutiques, cafés and restaurants, all contributing to a lively nightlife.

Located in the Herengracht Canal House, is another holiday apartment called The Van Gogh. This lovely apartment features many unique amenities including a window seat overlooking the canal, a large modern open shower, and a spacious airy living room with two sleep sofas. The best part is that you will be within walking distance to the multitude of museums and galleries, which make Amsterdam a history and art lover’s dream. View masterpieces at the world famous Rifksmuseum, which houses the world’s largest collection of paintings by Dutch masters such as Rembrandt or visit the Van Gogh Museum or the Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art, or Nemo, a fascinating science museum. Also pay a visit to the Anne Frank House, where Anne Frank and seven other Jews spent two years in hiding, as related in her famous diary.

The Rembrandt, is in a gorgeous, historic canal house built in 1650 in one of the most picturesque locations in Amsterdam.
Formerly the home of the Amsterdam Society for Historic Restoration, it is located on the famous Herengracht Canal. A leisurely stroll will take you to Dam Square and many museums, as well as the well known Jordaan district.
The Rembrandt occupies the top three floors of the canal house and has three bedrooms with charming built-in cabinetry.

So consider choosing a self catering canal apartment during your stay in the historic city of Amsterdam. Advantages are many especially if compared to hotel accommodations. Most canal apartments can accommodate at least 4 people so it gives you the opportunity to share expenses with family and friends. It also allows you to choose to stay home and eat in, after a long, wonderful day of sight seeing. Imagine staying in a historic canal house in your own comfortable home away from home. You will never forget your Amsterdam vacation!

If you have stayed in a canal house in Amsterdam, we would love to hear your experiences so please leave a comment.