8 Canal Towns That Aren't Venice

The fame of canal towns date centuries back, and the city of Venice holds its niche in history. Certainly, Venice is not the only monumental canal town in the world. Throughout Europe, Asia, North America, and North Africa are beautiful canal towns.

8. St. Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg was built in the marshlands of River Neva delta containing many tributaries across the city. The rivers form part of the beautiful fabric of St. Petersburg. The city has many bridges, and the Winter Palace, Peter Fortress, and the Admiralty are built on the banks of River Neva, Griboyedov Canal, Bolshaya Neva, Moika River, Malaya Neva, and Fontanka River. The canals and rivers of St. Petersburg have played a vital role in military, trade, and flood prevention ever since the city's inception. During summer nights, boats can be found on the canal.

7. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is Thailand’s old city that boasts of traditional temples, greeneries and buildings with flashing lights. The city downtown area has numerous canals with floating markets. Along the banks of the longest canal (Khlong Saen Saeb) are various hotels serving mouth-watering Thai dishes. The boats along Khlong Saen Saeb are often used for sightseeing. Historically, the canals were dug to protect the city from attack. Since then, so many canals have been drained leaving the Khlong Saen Saeb running across the city with numerous floating markets which are also famous tourist attractions.

6. Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Fort Lauderdale, Florida has been known as the Venice of the America. It is a coastal region with magnificent waterways of more than 300 miles and about 165 miles of navigable waterways. Kayaking along the canals are common recreational activities. The stunning beaches make the major tourist attraction point in Fort Lauderdale. The Las Olas Boulevard forms the central portion of Fort Lauderdale and stretches from the beach.

5. Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a major tourist destination in Belgium and has been classified as a cultural heritage site by UNESCO. The medieval buildings and historic nature of the city adds further to its unique quality. The city has dreamy canals crisscrossing it and chocolate shops in every corner making it particularly attractive for tourists. Using a boat to explore the city would take approximately 30 minutes.

4. Fenghuand, China

Fenghuang is an ancient mountainous city in China that is positioned at the foot of verdant mountains on the banks of Tuojiang River. The city has a population of about 350,000 people. This ancient city dates back to about 1,300 years ago, and its history is marred with historical fights. The water in the city flows freely throughout the whole place. The houses are built on stilt, and beautiful high bridges interconnect the various parts of the city. The historical building in Fenghuang is Huang Si Qiao Castle which was constructed in 687. This stone castle is well-preserved and acts as a tourist attraction.

3. Alleppy, India

Alleppey city is located in the Kerala state of South India. Alleppey city is built on a beautiful area of Kerala backwaters and has a population of 174,164 people. The most beautiful part of the vast waters of this city is the Vembanad backwater. The town has been named the Venice of the East due to its breath-taking view, canals, buildings, and culture. A speed boat ride or a floating houseboat makes the visit even more scintillating. The Vembanad Lake is the largest lake in Kerala state covering almost 1000 square miles.

2. Annecy, France

The city of Annecy is a dreamy town of France. It is located about 26 miles from the city of Geneva, Switzerland. This Alpine city contains beautiful water canals, Lake Annecy, and mountains. The vibrant colors of the town lend a unique color to the canal and lake water. Its serene location and aura make Annecy succinctly unique.

1. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands. The intercalated canals, islands, and bridges make it beautiful, particularly within the aerial view. Amsterdam has more than 62 miles of canals, 1,500 bridges, and about 90 islands. The Keizersgratch canal, Herengratch canal, and Prisengratch canal form belts around the city. The canals are served by boats which help in touring the city and easing vehicular traffic. The magical grounds of Keukenhof Gardens contain beautiful tulips that blossom only two months a year.