The Most Beautiful Canal in the World, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the canal you think is the most beautiful!
Updated on May 2, 2024 06:17
Canals have captivated the hearts of travelers and locals alike for centuries, offering breathtaking views and a unique perspective on the landscapes they traverse. However, opinions vary widely on what makes a canal particularly enchanting. By ranking these waterways, we help highlight the diverse beauty they offer, providing a useful guide for future explorations.
Your votes play a crucial role in shaping this ranking, reflecting a collective appreciation for the world’s most stunning canals. This is not just about personal preference; it's about sharing your experience and perhaps uncovering hidden gems you might otherwise overlook. Take part in celebrating and preserving the magnificence of these aquatic wonders by casting your vote.
What Is the Most Beautiful Canal in the World?
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151votes
Martin Falbisoner · CC BY-SA 4.0The Venice Canals are the most famous canals in the world, and for good reason. They are a beautiful network of waterways that wind through the city, lined with colorful buildings and stunning architecture.The Venice Canals in Italy are a network of picturesque waterways that crisscross the city of Venice. These canals are famous for their enchanting beauty, historic charm, and intricate architecture. The canals serve as the main transportation route in Venice, with gondolas and water taxis providing a unique way to explore the city. The stunning buildings and bridges that line the canals create a magical atmosphere that attracts millions of tourists each year.- Location: Venice, Italy
- Total Length: Approximately 26 miles (42 kilometers)
- Number of Canals: More than 150
- Main Canal: The Grand Canal, stretching 2.4 miles (3.8 kilometers)
- Bridge: The Rialto Bridge, a famous landmark connecting the city
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230votes
Suzhou Canals, China
Ancient Chinese engineersThe Suzhou Canals are known as the "Venice of the East" and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are lined with beautiful gardens and ancient buildings.The Suzhou Canals in China are a network of stunning waterways that wind through the historic city of Suzhou. These canals are renowned for their timeless beauty, intricate design, and cultural significance. The entire canal system covers around 1,000 miles in total length and consists of numerous connecting tributaries, lakes, and rivers.- Length: Approximately 1,000 miles
- Location: Suzhou, China
- Design: Intricate and aesthetically pleasing with elegant stone bridges, arched pagodas, and beautifully lined buildings
- History: Dating back over 2,500 years
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Recognized in 1997 for its outstanding cultural value
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326votesThe Bruges Canals are a picturesque network of waterways that wind through the historic city center. They are lined with stunning medieval architecture and charming cafes.The Bruges Canals, located in the charming city of Bruges, Belgium, are often regarded as one of the most beautiful canals in the world. The canals form a picturesque network that winds through the historic city center, lined with stunning medieval architecture and enchanting cobblestone streets. The Bruges Canals have become iconic landmarks and a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a wonderful way to explore the city and admire its timeless beauty.
- Location: Bruges, Belgium
- Length: About 7.5 kilometers
- Number of Canals: Several interconnected canals
- Historical Significance: UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000
- Architecture: Medieval and Gothic styles
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417votes
Amsterdam Canals, Netherlands
City of AmsterdamThe Amsterdam Canals are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are famous for their beautiful architecture, historic bridges, and bustling atmosphere.The Amsterdam Canals in the Netherlands are a stunning network of waterways that weave through the historic city of Amsterdam. Known for their beauty and unique urban design, these canals are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They were created in the 17th century during the Dutch Golden Age to facilitate trade and transportation.- Length: More than 100 kilometers
- Number of Canals: 165
- Ring Canals: Four main concentric ring canals
- Width: 10 to 100 meters
- Bridges: Over 1,200 bridges
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521votesThe Canals of Annecy are a series of beautiful waterways that run through the historic city center. They are surrounded by beautiful alpine mountains and stunning medieval architecture.The Canals of Annecy in France are picturesque waterways that wind their way through the historic city of Annecy. Often referred to as the 'Venice of the Alps,' these canals add a unique charm to the already beautiful surroundings. The canals are interlaced with cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and quaint bridges, creating a delightful atmosphere for locals and tourists alike.
- Location: Annecy, France
- Length: 4 kilometers
- Number of Canals: 3 main canals
- Width: Varying widths from 4 to 12 meters
- Depth: Ranges from 1.5 to 3 meters
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611votes
Gouwenaar · CC0Giethoorn Canals, Netherlands
Natural formationThe Giethoorn Canals are a network of waterways that wind through a charming Dutch village. They are known for their rustic charm and beautiful scenery.The Giethoorn Canals, also known as the 'Venice of the Netherlands,' is a charming and picturesque canal system located in the village of Giethoorn in the Overijssel province of the Netherlands. It is renowned for its idyllic setting, with numerous bridges, thatched-roof farmhouses, and beautiful gardens lining the waterways.- Location: Giethoorn, Overijssel, Netherlands
- Length: Approximately 7.5 kilometers
- Number of Canals: Multiple interconnected canals
- Bridges: Over 180 charming bridges
- Architecture: Thatched-roof farmhouses and cottages
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79votes
Martin Falbisoner · CC BY-SA 4.0The Canal Grande is the main waterway in Venice and is lined with stunning buildings and beautiful bridges. It is a popular spot for gondola rides and is considered one of the most romantic canals in the world.The Canal Grande in Venice, Italy is a picturesque waterway that winds its way through the heart of the city. It is considered one of the most beautiful canals in the world, renowned for its stunning architecture, historic palaces, and romantic atmosphere. The canal stretches for about 3.8 kilometers (2.4 miles) and is shaped like an inverted 'S'. It connects the lagoon near the Santa Lucia railway station to the basin in San Marco, the main square of Venice. The Canal Grande is an iconic symbol of Venice and is a popular tourist attraction, often explored by gondolas or water taxis.
- Length: 3.8 kilometers (2.4 miles)
- Shape: Inverted 'S'
- Location: Venice, Italy
- Connects: Santa Lucia railway station to San Marco
- Architecture: Stunning historic palaces
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84votes
Coyau · CC BY-SA 3.0Canal Saint-Martin, Paris, France
Napoleon BonaparteThe Canal Saint-Martin is a beautiful waterway that runs through the heart of Paris. It is lined with beautiful buildings and charming cafes and is a popular spot for picnics and boat rides.Canal Saint-Martin is a stunning waterway in Paris, France, known for its picturesque charm and scenic surroundings. It was originally commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, with construction completed in 1825. The canal stretches for approximately 4.5 kilometers and is a major tourist attraction in the city. Its tranquil atmosphere, tree-lined banks, and charming bridges make it a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.- Length: 4.5 kilometers
- Construction Year: 1802-1825
- Location: Paris, France
- Landmarks: Bridges, tree-lined banks
- Tourist Attraction: Yes
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97votes
Esquilo · CC BY-SA 3.0Stockholm Canals, Sweden
City of StockholmThe Stockholm Canals are a beautiful network of waterways that wind through the city. They are surrounded by stunning medieval architecture and are a popular spot for boat tours.The Stockholm Canals in Sweden are a stunning network of waterways that traverse through the heart of the city. They offer a picturesque and enchanting experience for both locals and visitors alike. The canals are a vital part of Stockholm's history, contributing to its unique charm and architectural beauty.- Length: 120 kilometers
- Number of Islands: 14
- Water Area: approx. 945 square kilometers
- Depth: Up to 9 meters
- Construction Period: 17th to early 20th century
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105votesThe Xochimilco Canals are a network of waterways that wind through the suburbs of Mexico City. They are lined with colorful boats and floating gardens and are a popular spot for picnics and parties.Xochimilco Canals, Mexico is a network of ancient canals located in the southern part of Mexico City. These canals, which have been in existence for over 1,000 years, are known for their vibrant floating gardens, colorful boats, and traditional trajineras that provide a unique and picturesque experience for visitors.
- Length: 80 kilometers
- Width: 10 meters
- Depth: 2 meters
- Total number of canals: over 180
- Designated as: UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Ranking factors for beautiful canal
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SceneryThe surroundings of the canal should be visually appealing, and the area should have a unique charm or natural beauty that makes it stand out.
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ArchitectureThe presence of architecturally significant buildings, bridges, and other structures along the canal can enhance its beauty.
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Historical significanceA canal with a rich history can add a layer of depth and meaning to its beauty.
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Cultural ImportanceThe canal's role in local culture, traditions, or festivals can make it feel more special and contribute to its overall beauty.
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Water clarity and cleanlinessAn attractive canal should have clean, clear, and healthy water, free of pollution or debris.
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Landscaping and maintenanceThe vegetation along the canal should be well cared for, and the area should be clean and well-maintained.
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LightingThe canal should be well-lit at night, not only for safety but also to enhance its beauty in the evening hours.
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Accessibility and walkabilityA beautiful canal should be easy to access and explore, with paths and walkways that allow people to enjoy its scenery.
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Width and depthThe proportions of the canal should feel balanced and visually pleasing, with neither an overly wide nor an overly narrow channel.
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Local atmosphereThe canal should offer a sense of atmosphere and experience, whether through food, shopping, or people-watching, that adds to its overall appeal.
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Seasonal changesA canal that is beautiful throughout the year, whether it showcases colorful foliage in the fall, ice in the winter, or flowers in the spring and summer, has added appeal.
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Popularity and recognitionA canal that is internationally recognized or widely regarded as beautiful can add to its status and prestige.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most beautiful canal in the world. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or canal is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
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- 182 votes
- 10 ranked items
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Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each canal once every 24 hours. The rank of each canal is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
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More information on most beautiful canal in the world
Canals have been a vital part of transportation and trade for centuries, and many of them have become iconic landmarks in their respective cities. From Venice's Grand Canal to Amsterdam's Canal Ring, the world is full of beautiful waterways that have captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike. These canals offer a unique perspective of the city from the water, allowing visitors to take in the stunning architecture and picturesque scenery. Whether it's a romantic gondola ride in Venice or a bike ride along the canals in Copenhagen, there's no denying the charm and beauty of these waterways. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the most beautiful canals in the world and what makes them so special.
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