About
The Magere Brug, known in English as the Skinny Bridge, is one of Amsterdam's best-known landmarks. It crosses the Amstel River and is recognisable by its elegant white wooden frame. It is a double-leaf bascule bridge, the kind that lifts its two halves to let boats pass, and it is a popular stop for anyone walking or cruising along the river.
What to see
- The white wooden frame, which gives the bridge its graceful, picturesque look from both banks.
- The night illumination: hundreds of light bulbs outline the bridge after dark and are reflected in the water, making it a particularly atmospheric sight in the evening.
- The opening spans: the bridge opens regularly for boat traffic, so you may be able to watch the mechanism at work if you happen to be there at the right moment.
Planning your visit
The bridge is an outdoor sight, best enjoyed as a short stop rather than a destination in itself. It sits on the Amstel, so it pairs naturally with a walk along the river or a canal boat trip. Its address is Amstel 242, and it is easy to reach on foot from the city centre. Because it opens for boats, allow a little extra time if you want to catch it in motion, and consider an evening visit to see the lights reflected on the water.