Herengracht

About

Herengracht, often called the Patricians' Canal, is one of Amsterdam’s three main canals that form the Grachtengordel, the city’s concentric belt of waterways. Built during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century, it stretches from the IJ‑Bay to the city’s center and is lined with grand 17‑century mansions, many of which now house museums, embassies, and private homes. The canal’s most iconic stretch, the Golden Bend, showcases double‑wide houses, inner gardens and former coach houses. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Herengracht offers visitors a glimpse of Amsterdam’s maritime and architectural heritage and remains a popular route for sightseeing canal tours.

Highlights

• Golden Bend
• Herengracht Mansions
• Grachtengordel

Must-See Areas

Good to Know