Is Amsterdam high on your bucket list? It is for a lot of people, and it is crowded! Crowded in a way that makes it hard to enjoy.

If you want the look and feel of Amsterdam, without the hordes of people, there are quite a few places you can find it. Here are some of the best my family and I have seen.

The Amsterdam Look in Smaller Cities in the Netherlands

If you’re looking for a taste of Amsterdam’s charming European vibe without the crowds, look no further than these smaller cities in the Netherlands.

Haarlem, Netherlands

Located just 20 minutes by train from Amsterdam, Haarlem is a picturesque city with winding cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and a relaxed atmosphere. Stroll along the canals, visit the Grote Markt square, or explore the Frans Hals Museum to taste Dutch art and history.

Leiden, Netherlands

Leiden is a charming university town with a rich cultural heritage. Its historic city center boasts beautiful canals, quaint streets, and stunning architecture. Visit the Hortus Botanicus, the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands, or explore the Leiden American Pilgrim Museum to learn about the city’s connection to the Pilgrims who sailed to America on the Mayflower.

Delft, Netherlands

Famous for its blue-and-white ceramics, Delft is a charming city with a rich history. Stroll along the canals, visit the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) and the Oude Kerk (Old Church), or explore the Vermeer Centrum Delft to learn about the life and work of the famous Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer.

Among all of the small towns we visited in the Netherlands, Delft was the most like Amsterdam, just on a smaller and more manageable scale.

Canal Towns Beyond the Netherlands

There are a few destinations worth considering if you’re looking for canal towns that offer the same charm as Amsterdam but without the crowds. Here are three canal towns beyond the Netherlands that are worth exploring.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges, also known as the Venice of the North, is a picturesque town with a network of canals and a well-preserved medieval city center.

The town is filled with stunning architecture, including the famous Belfry Tower and the Gothic-style Church of Our Lady. Visitors can take a boat tour along the canals or wander through the cobblestone streets. Bruges is also known for its delicious chocolate and beer, making it an excellent destination for foodies.

Ghent, Belgium

Ghent is another Belgian town that tourists often overlook. But it has very similar architecture to Amsterdam, and canals running throughout the city.

Visitors can explore the medieval castle of Gravensteen or admire the Gothic-style St. Bavo’s Cathedral. The town is also known for its vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine, including the famous Belgian waffles.

Colmar, France

Located in the heart of the Alsace region, Colmar is a picturesque town unlike any you have seen before.

The town has colorful half-timbered houses, winding canals, and charming bridges.

Visitors can explore the historic Old Town, which features the Gothic-style St. Martin’s Church and the picturesque Little Venice district. Colmar is also known for its delicious Alsatian cuisine, including the famous tarte flambée and local wines.

Hidden Gems in Scandinavia

Looking for a place that has the charm of Amsterdam without the crowds? Scandinavia has some hidden gems that are worth exploring. Here are two cities in Scandinavia that offer beautiful canals, colorful buildings, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is a vibrant city that tourists often overlook. The city has a canal network that is perfect for a leisurely boat ride.

Stroll down Nyhavn, a picturesque street lined with colorful buildings, and enjoy a drink at one of the many outdoor cafes. The city also has a thriving food scene, with many traditional Danish cuisine restaurants.

Plus Copenhagen has just as many bike riders as Amsterdam, if not more. Copenhagen might be the most similar European city to Amsterdam.

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm is a city built on 14 islands connected by bridges. The city’s canals and waterways are a great way to explore the city. Take a boat tour and see the beautiful architecture and landmarks of the city.

Gamla Stan, the old town of Stockholm, is a must-visit. It has narrow streets and alleys lined with colorful buildings and many cafes and shops.

Picturesque Towns in the UK

The UK has plenty of options if you’re looking for a charming European-style town without the crowds. Here are two picturesque villages that are reminiscent of Amsterdam:

Bath, England

Located in southwest England, Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Georgian architecture and natural hot springs. The town is home to the famous Roman Baths, which date back to the 1st century AD.

Visitors can also explore the beautiful Bath Abbey and stroll along the River Avon. Bath is a popular destination, but it’s not as crowded as some of the larger cities in the UK.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital city, but it has a small-town feel. The city is known for its stunning architecture, including the iconic Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, a historic street lined with shops, pubs, and restaurants.

Visitors can also explore the charming neighborhoods of Stockbridge and Dean Village, which are filled with colorful houses and quaint cafes. While Edinburgh is a popular tourist destination, it’s not as crowded as some other major cities in Europe.

You also won’t find canals running through the center of town, but the feeling of Amsterdam is similar.

Alternative Destinations in Eastern Europe

If you’re looking for a taste of Amsterdam without the crowds, Eastern Europe offers some great alternatives. Here are a couple of our favorites:

Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

Located in the southern part of the Czech Republic, Cesky Krumlov is a picturesque town often compared to Amsterdam. It is situated on the Vltava River and is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and beautiful castle.

One of the best things about Cesky Krumlov is that it is much less crowded than Amsterdam, so you can enjoy the town’s charm without feeling overwhelmed by tourists. There are plenty of things to see and do in Cesky Krumlov, including visiting the castle, taking a stroll through the old town, and exploring the surrounding countryside.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana is the capital of Slovenia and is often described as a smaller, more manageable version of Amsterdam. The city is situated on the Ljubljanica River and is known for its charming old town, beautiful bridges, and vibrant arts scene.

Despite being Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana is still relatively unknown to many tourists. This means that you can enjoy the city’s attractions without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. Ljubljana’s must-see sights include the Ljubljana Castle, the Triple Bridge, and the Dragon Bridge.

Is Amsterdam Still On Your List?

Amsterdam is a beautiful city and a popular spot to visit. I would suggest visiting in the off-season so you can enjoy the city without the noise and crowds. You might fall in love without even more.