If you’re anything like me, you’ll spend your time in Amsterdam taking photos every few steps. Between the canals, crooked houses and flower-filled bridges, it’s hard to put your camera down! To help you make the most of your visit, I’ve taken my pick of the best photo spots in Amsterdam, including some of my favourite Amsterdam Instagram spots for the perfect shot.
- Heading to Amsterdam soon? Check out this perfect 3 day Amsterdam itinerary before you go!
Last updated 17/10/2025 | This post may contain affiliate links meaning I may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Read more in my disclaimer.
The best Amsterdam canal photo spots
Amsterdam’s canals are the heart of the city, and the perfect backdrop for your photos. And while you could take a beautiful shot from almost any bridge or waterside path in the city, here are my favourite Amsterdam canal photo spots to make it easy for you.
Nieuwe Spiegelstraat
There’s a bridge on Nieuwe Spiegelstraat that offers gorgeous views down the Keizersgracht Canal. Blooming trees line the water’s edge, meaning if you visit in summer, your photo will be filled with colour. And in winter, you’ll get a glimpse of the canal houses tucked behind.
Armbrug
Thanks to its position on a corner, the view from Armbrug has canals running in three directions, making it one of the best Amsterdam Instagram spots. In the background, spot one of the towers of the nearby Saint Nicholas Basilica.
Staalmeestersbrug
Staalmeestersbrug is one of the most iconic Amsterdam photo spots, with everything you need for the perfect postcard view. The white wooden drawbridge looks straight down to Zuiderkerk, its tower aligning perfectly with the bridge, while blooming trees and canal houses complete the scene.
Keizersbrug
In the north of Amsterdam, the canals widen and the views open up. On Keizersbrug, you’ll find a picturesque view over the Oudeschans Canal, often filled with boats. Look north, and you can spot the NEMO Science Museum in the distance.
Singel Canal
The Nine Streets is full of great photo opportunities, and this spot on the Singel Canal is one of my favourites. Where Widje Heisteeg meets Singel, there’s a lovely row of brown canal houses that make the perfect backdrop.
Prinsenluis
Another lovely canal bridge in the Nine Streets neighbourhood, Prinsenluis is lined with flower boxes that bloom in the summer and add a pop of colour to your shot. Looking south, you’ll catch a glimpse of Westerkerk in the background.
Rokin Canal
There’s a small stretch of canal at the end of the bustling Rokin street, where you can capture some classic Amsterdam architecture. The red and brown canal houses here are perfectly framed by the wide street and calm water – an easy spot to photograph even on busy days.
Check out these Amsterdam activities!
Other photo spots in Amsterdam
While the canals might steal the spotlight, this city also has plenty of other beautiful corners worth capturing. From vibrant city squares to modern art and local treats, here are some more great Amsterdam photo spots to check out!
Damrak
Damrak is home to probably the most famous Amsterdam Instagram spot. The Dancing Houses are instantly recognisable and make for a stunning photo, especially if you can catch their reflection in the water below. Go early to avoid the crowds, as most of Amsterdam’s canal tours leave from here.
Moco Museum
One of Amsterdam’s many museums, the Moco Museum is both cultural and incredibly photogenic. This modern art museum has many great photo opportunities, including the Studio Irma light exhibition and the outdoor sculpture garden. Be sure to book your Moco Museum tickets in advance.
Dam Square
In the heart of Amsterdam, Dam Square is surrounded by striking landmarks like the Royal Palace, New Church, and National Monument. There’s great architecture to capture here, and for a unique perspective, head to the top floor of H&M for free panoramic photos of the square below.
Van Wonderen Stroopwafel
Van Wonderen Stroopwafels taste just as good as they look – trust me, I’ve tried them! The sweet Dutch street food is famous here for the tasty, colourful toppings, and you have to grab a quick picture before you take a bite. Bonus points if you snap it against a canal backdrop for the ultimate Amsterdam moment.
NDSM neighbourhood
Across the IJ river in Amsterdam-Noord, NDSM has a completely different vibe from the city centre. The old shipyard has been transformed into a creative district filled with street art, industrial architecture, and great photo spots. Take a stroll around and you’re sure to find plenty to capture.
With these 12 Amsterdam photo spots under your belt, all you need to do is grab your camera and start snapping! Let me know with a comment where you’re most excited to photograph, or if I’m missing any of your favourite spots.
Seriously makes me want to visit Amsterdam!
I lived in Amsterdam for 2 years and I can see that you did a great job with this list! You make me wanna go there again!
Can’t wait to go to Amsterdam!! I’m in love with all these photo spots!!
Amsterdam is such a beautiful city! I was there over a year ago and loved its beauty so much. I definitely need to go back and see all of these other spots. 🙂
This would have been so handy for my trip to Amsterdam! So many beautiful spots to take photos. Pinning for when I return!