DUTCH TREAT

Exploring Amsterdam by boat, tram and on foot

As our tour boat glided along, we admired the sight of picturesque canal houses on narrow cobblestoned streets which fronted the canals.

Meanwhile, on the water, we passed rowboats and small pleasure boats, including two-seaters with pedals known as canal bikes. Often people waved as they passed: there was a mood of good cheer. The day was sunny, the water was sparkling, and the charms of Amsterdam were on full display.

A boat tour of the canals is an ideal way to begin an exploration of this Dutch city. The life of Amsterdam is defined by the water. It’s even named for a river, the Amstel.

Positioned on the North Sea, Amsterdam has one of the largest harbors in Europe. It also has 120 miles of canals and 1100 bridges spanning its numerous waterways.

All types of boats travel these canals - pleasure boats, ferries, boats that stop at several of the major museums and the glassroofed tour boats that cruise along the canals. They are among the most popular attractions in Amsterdam.

The tour I took included recorded narration in three languages, which was both entertaining and informative.

As we traveled along many of the major canals, one highlight was the variety of 17th century canal houses with decorative details and gables galore.

Each canal had its own name, often related to its history: for instance, Brewer’s

PETER DEJONG — THE ASSOCIATED PRESS People enjoy a boat ride on a sunny afternoon with temperatures going up to 27 degrees Celsius, or 80 degrees Fahrenheit, in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

PETER DEJONG — THE ASSOCIATED PRESS People sit on a cafe terrace on a sunny afternoon with temperatures going up to 27 degrees Celsius, or 80 degrees Fahrenheit, in Amsterdam, Netherlands.