Canals, Cobblestones and Culture: A Photography Journey Through Amsterdam, Haarlem and Leiden














My recent trip to the Netherlands took me through three of the country's most photogenic cities, each offering its own unique character and endless opportunities behind the lens. Amsterdam's iconic canals provided the perfect backdrop for golden hour shots, with historic gabled houses reflecting in the water and bicycles lining every bridge. A short train ride brought me to Haarlem, where narrow cobblestone streets wind past centuries-old buildings painted in brilliant whites and deep blues. Leiden offered a more intimate experience, with its quiet canals, and a charming windmill just outside the city centre. From the bustling energy of Amsterdam's bike-filled streets to the peaceful morning light filtering through Leiden's tree-lined waterways, each location revealed new perspectives on Dutch culture, architecture, and the timeless beauty of canal-side living.