In most large cities around the world, waterways are the norm, not the exception–but some places capitalize on their location more than others. These 15 cities all have unique personalities centered around their waterfronts, where visitors can stroll along bustling harbors, sample the catch of the day, and climb to the city’s best vantage points to take in panoramic views of the water. From the winding canals and historic grandeur of Venice, to the seaside splendor of Cape Town, here are our picks for the world’s best waterfront cities.
by Emily Wasserman
VENICE
Photo Credit: © Duki84 | Dreamstime.com Shimmering canals, sprawling palaces, and historic ambiance make Venice one of the world’s most enchanting waterfront destinations. Stop by the Piazza San Marco to browse the area’s best boutiques, and don’t miss the Basilica di San Marco, a Byzantine monument that doubles as the city’s religious center. Take a picnic to Torcello, a secluded island with a magical ambiance and hauntingly beautiful cathedral. End the day at one of the city’s bacari, or wine bars, for traditional Venetian tapas and a taste of local wines. Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Venice Guide
BERGEN
Photo Credit: Vlada Z / Shutterstock As Norway’s second largest city, Bergen enchants visitors with its pastel wood houses, bustling harbor, and picturesque mountains. Bryggen, the wharf running by the harbor on the northern side of the city, features colorful Hanseatic merchant houses and small, cozy shops perfect for exploring. Take a stroll down the tree-lined Ole Bulls Plass, a popular avenue with some of the city’s finest restaurants. Bergen Kunstmuseum features paintings by modern and Renaissance painters.Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Bergen Guide
AMSTERDAM
Photo Credit: ©Sborisov | Dreamstime.com The Dutch capital is perfect for roaming through picturesque latticework canals. On sunny days cafes along the water will fill up with patrons, and visitors can take a cruise along the 60 miles of canals that circle the city. Stop by the Grachtengordel, or Canal Ring, to view historic homes or enjoy a leisurely day on the water. Amsterdam’s museum district boasts the popular Van Gogh Museum with changing shows of the famous painter’s work. The city’s most beautiful street, Brouwersgracht, features grand views and plenty of opportunities for photos. Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Amsterdam Guide
Photo Credit: Leah-Anne Thompson / Shutterstock Visitors come to Sydney for its world-class beaches and natural beauty, but stay for its plethora of cultural and wildlife attractions. Stop by the Sydney Opera House to catch a performance in one of the venue’s five theaters, or take a backstage tour during off hours. For unparalleled views of the city, stroll down to Sydney Harbour Bridge and climb the 200 steps to lookout over the sparkling blue water. Get an up-close look at native birds and vibrant wildflowers at theRoyal National Park, or catch a glimpse of endangered species at Taronga Zoo. Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Sydney Guide
SAN FRANCISCO
Photo Credit: Chao Kusollerschariya / Shutterstock Few places compare to the city by the bay, and San Francisco makes the most of its waterfront location. Visitors can explore lush gardens or oceanfront trails at Golden Gate Park, or stop by the historic Ferry Building for panoramic bay views and a taste of local cuisine. Science lovers will enjoy Exploratorium, a pier-side museum with supersize experiential exhibits and a glass Bay Observatory. Watch master shipbuilders assemble boats and step aboard a full-rigged sailing vessel at Hyde Street Pier, one of the city’s maritime epicenters. Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s San Francisco Guide
BRIGHTON
Photo Credit: (c) Khrizmo | Dreamstime.com Travelers flock to Brighton for its vibrant seaside culture and lively arts scene. Once a fashionable vacation spot for Londoners looking for a quick retreat, the English city has since become a destination in its own right. Take a stroll down the pebbled shoreline at the city’s eponymous beach, or tour the Royal Pavilion, an enchanting seaside villa with exotic interiors and a popular tearoom. Don’t leave Brighton without sampling fresh seafood. Riddle and Finns offers a variety of fresh catches and traditional side plates like bubble and squeak (fried vegetables and potatoes). Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Brighton Guide
STOCKHOLM
Photo Credit: Oleksiy Mark / Shutterstock Stockholm boasts an archipelago landscape with attractions for every traveler. Visit the central island Gamla Stan to explore small, café-lined squares and captivating medieval architecture. Take a ride on Skyview, a glass-covered gondola that offers unparalleled views of the city. Djurgården and Skansen, the city’s pleasure island, boasts a popular amusement park and a peaceful waterfront ambiance perfect for a relaxing picnic. Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Stockholm Guide
HONG KONG
Photo Credit: cozyta / Shutterstock Towering skyscrapers and a chic, cosmopolitan vibe make Hong Kong one of the world’s leading waterside cities. The town capitalizes on its coastal location and has no shortage of land and sea attractions. Buy a ticket for the 125-year-old Peak Tram and climb to the top of Victoria Peak, Hong Kong Island’s highest hill. Explore Mong Kok markets to sample traditional street food and browse stands filled with colorful knickknacks, flowers, and jade. Visitors can escape the city’s hustle and bustle in Southside, a tranquil residential area with beautiful sea views and laidback sandy beaches. Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Hong Kong Guide
BALTIMORE
Photo Credit: John Keith / Shutterstock A bustling harbor and lively downtown area make Baltimore a favorite destination among tourists. Walk down Charles Street to explore Inner Harbor, Baltimore’s main thoroughfare. Visitors can sign up for sailboat tours and boat rentals, or browse exhibits at the National Aquarium or Science Center. End the day watching the sunset over the water at The Rusty Scupper, a popular local seafood restaurant famous for its jumbo lump crab cake—a Baltimore specialty. Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Baltimore Guide
VANCOUVER
Photo Credit: Lissandra Melo / Shutterstock Captivating natural beauty and a distinctly cosmopolitan flair make Vancouver one of the world’s most unique waterfront cities. The city balances its well-preserved wildlife with a host of tourist attractions, and offers something for every traveler. Visit Stanley Park to explore 1,000 acres of serene forests and oceanfront. Take a ferry to Granville Island, a waterside hotspot with a bustling food and crafts market and about a dozen studios and galleries. For an authentic taste of Chinese food and culture, visit Chinatown. Visitors can stop by colorful produce stalls to pick up an afternoon snack, or take a leisurely stroll through Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Vancouver Guide
SAN SEBASTIAN
Photo Credit: AnnaKostyuk / Shutterstock Centered on a scallop-shaped beach in northern Spain, San Sebastián has grown over the years to become one of Europe’s most popular waterside retreats. Sprawl out on the sand at La Concha, or travel up the western side of the bay to visit Monte Igueldo. The towering promontory offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city’s gardens, parks, and sparkling blue bay. To take a break from the sun, stop by Kursaal. Located at the mouth of the Urumea River, the bright glass complex includes a postmodern concert hall, two auditoriums, and terraces overlooking the estuary. Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s San Sebastián Guide
LISBON
Photo Credit: Carlos Caetano/Shutterstock Stunning riverside vistas, colorful pastel houses, and a buzzing port district are a few of the things you’ll find in Lisbon. Visitors can explore the city’s cobbled streets by foot, and climb winding sets of steps to reach the town’s best vantage points. Ride an ancient streetcar to St. George’s Castle to view the ancient ramparts, or head to downtown Baixato explore the bustling city squares. The old port district of Alcântara is the perfect place to relax by the river, while Belém includes some of Lisbon’s best museums and monuments. Families will enjoy Oceanário de Lisboa, Europe’s largest indoor aquarium. Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Lisbon Guide
RIO DE JANEIRO
Photo Credit: Paura / Dreamstime Also known as the Marvelous City, Rio de Janeiro is famous for its stunning stretches of sand, colorful celebrations, and lively culture. Visitors can explore the city’s 23 beaches, or head the opposite direction to the mountains for dramatic cliffside views. Spend an afternoon wandering around Urca, a peaceful tree-lined neighborhood with authentic colonial architecture. Ride cable cars to Pão de Açúcar, a giant granite block at the mouth of the bay with dramatic cliffside views. Gourmands will love Rua Dias Ferreira, a Leblon hotspot with some of the city’s best restaurants. Dance the night away to classic samba music at Circo Voador, a popular nightclub with live entertainment. Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Rio de Janeiro Guide
NEW ORLEANS
Photo Credit: ©Ed Metz | Dreamstime.com The colorful port city boasts a laid-back culture, vibrant nightlife, and ongoing festivals that celebrate its rich tradition and history. No visit to New Orleans is complete without stopping by the infamous French Quarter. Sample beignets from Café du Monde, catch a jazz performance, or party it up at a funky local bar or music club. Visit New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) to browse 46 galleries and tour the museum’s renowned sculpture garden. Architecture buffs will enjoy exploring the city’s Garden District, a leafy oasis with towering 19th-century Greek Revival mansions and cottages. Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s New Orleans Guide
CAPE TOWN
Photo Credit: Paul D Smith / Shutterstock Not many cities boast stunning mountain vistas and stylish beaches, but Cape Town is one of the few. The South African city is no one-trick pony, with natural beauty and a fascinating history. Take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain for spectacular panoramic views of the slopes and water. Visit Robben Island to tour the former prison where Nelson Mandela was confined. Explore a five-story kelp forest or get up-close views of marine life at Two Oceans Aquarium, a popular family destination with hands-on exhibits and entertainment. Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s Cape Town Guide
FONTE: HuffingtonPost