15 Stunning Places That Have the Nickname Venice of the North

Amsterdam is one of the most famous cities known as the Venice of the North. The city has more than 100 kilometers of canals and over 1,500 bridges connecting charming neighborhoods. You can explore the Jordaan district, visit the Anne Frank House, and admire the scenic canal belt lined with historic houses, shops, and cozy cafes that make Amsterdam a favorite among travelers.

Bruges is a beautiful medieval city filled with canals, cobblestone streets, and old brick buildings that look like they belong in a storybook. You can enjoy the view from Rozenhoedkaai, visit the Belfry Tower, or explore the Markt Square. Its quiet canals and horse-drawn carriages give the city a peaceful, romantic charm that feels timeless.

Copenhagen has many waterways and colorful harbor houses that make it stand out. The Nyhavn district, filled with bright buildings and old ships, is one of the most photographed places in Denmark. You can also see the Little Mermaid statue, visit Tivoli Gardens, and enjoy a canal tour for a new view of the capital’s lively charm.

Ålesund is known for its Art Nouveau architecture, beautiful sea views, and scenic harbor. The town was rebuilt after a fire in 1904, giving it a unique look unlike any other Norwegian city. You can stroll along its canals, enjoy the Aksla viewpoint, and take in the mountain and fjord scenery that surrounds this picturesque coastal town.

Colmar is often called "Little Venice" because of its colorful houses and charming canals lined with flowers. The old town is full of half-timbered buildings, especially in the La Petite Venise area. You can enjoy local Alsace wine, visit the Unterlinden Museum, and experience the peaceful, cheerful atmosphere that makes Colmar truly special.

Cork is Ireland’s second-largest city and is built on islands connected by many bridges. The River Lee flows through the center, giving the city a unique charm. You can explore the English Market for local food, see St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, and admire the colorful houses that line the riverbanks, offering a warm and friendly Irish vibe.

Gdańsk is a historic port city on the Baltic coast with beautiful canals and impressive old architecture. The Motława River area is perfect for peaceful walks and scenic photos. You can see the Crane, St. Mary’s Church, and the Long Market filled with cafes and shops that reflect the city’s mix of Gothic and Hanseatic styles.

Lübeck is a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its Gothic brick buildings and scenic waterways. The Trave River runs through the city, giving it a calm and elegant look. You can visit the Holstentor Gate, St. Mary’s Church, and the old town’s narrow streets surrounded by beautiful canals that showcase Lübeck’s medieval charm.

Bourton-on-the-Water in the Cotswolds is often called the Venice of the Cotswolds for its charming river views. The River Windrush flows through the village with small stone bridges crossing it. You can visit the Model Village, Birdland Park, and Cotswold Motoring Museum, or simply relax beside the peaceful river with a traditional English tea.

Saint Petersburg has over 90 rivers and canals and more than 300 bridges connecting its grand streets. The city is known for its palaces, museums, and impressive architecture. You can explore the Winter Palace, Peterhof Gardens, and the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, all surrounded by waterways that make the city truly majestic.

Svolvær is a small town in the Lofoten Islands surrounded by clear sea channels and dramatic mountains. It is a perfect spot for people who love nature and quiet beauty. You can explore the fishing harbor, local art galleries, and enjoy boat trips through the nearby fjords where you might see sea eagles and northern lights.

Hamburg has more bridges than Venice and Amsterdam combined, making it one of Europe’s most water-rich cities. The canals connect many neighborhoods, creating a mix of history and modern life. You can visit the Speicherstadt district, Elbphilharmonie concert hall, and take a relaxing boat ride in the Alster lakes for beautiful city views.

Stockholm is built on 14 islands connected by more than 50 bridges, giving it a natural connection with water. The city blends nature and urban life beautifully. You can explore Gamla Stan (Old Town), visit the Royal Palace, and enjoy peaceful views from Djurgården island surrounded by sparkling blue water and green parks.

Giethoorn is a quiet Dutch village with no main roads, only peaceful canals and walking paths. Small wooden bridges connect the thatched-roof houses, creating a fairy-tale setting. You can rent a small boat, visit local museums, and enjoy the calm countryside charm that makes Giethoorn one of the most relaxing places in the Netherlands.

Strasbourg blends French and German culture and is known for its beautiful canals in the Petite France district. You can see the Strasbourg Cathedral, explore the old timber-framed houses, and take a boat tour to enjoy the city’s lovely waterways, bridges, and historical charm that make it truly unforgettable.