Where roads don’t exist: Villages that rely only on waterways
By Afiur January 10, 2026
1. Giethoorn, NetherlandsFounded in the 13th century, Giethoorn has no roads at all but over 7 km of canals. Home to 2,600 residents, the village also called the “Dutch Venice”.
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2. Kampong Ayer, BruneiHome to nearly 30,000 people, this 1,000-year-old water village spans 40 km, relying entirely on boats and wooden walkways.2. Kampong Ayer, BruneiHome to nearly 30,000 people, t
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3. Ganvié, BeninBuilt in the 16th century, Ganvié houses about 20,000 residents on stilts. Schools and markets are accessible only by canoe.3. Ganvié, BeninBuilt in the 16th century, Ganvié houses abo
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5. Kolkata’s East Kolkata Wetland Villages, IndiaSpread over 125 km, these settlements depend on boats for daily life. Boating also supports livelihood of over 20,000 people who depend on fisheries an
Image: WikimediaImage: Wikimedia
4. Venice Lagoon Islands, Italy Several lagoon villages have no road access and use canals dating back to 421 AD. Water transport supports 50,000+ residents.4. Venice Lagoon Islands, Italy