7 Out-of-the-Ordinary Experiences to Have in Amsterdam
4. Jewish Historical Museum and Portuguese Synagogue
If you like history, this is one not to be missed. Though there is no longer a large Jewish population in the Netherlands due to the devastating impact of the Holocaust, it was once referred to as the Jerusalem of the West. There is a ton of Jewish history all over Amsterdam, but the untrained eye may be oblivious to it.
If you take a visit to the Jewish Historical Museum, you can learn all about the Jews in Amsterdam and Holland, from their first appearance to present day. The Museum also has a bimah (or altar) from a synagogue that was desecrated by the Nazis, in addition to many Torah scrolls from destroyed synagogues throughout the country.
Just across the street is the Portuguese Synagogue. Before the Holocaust, Amsterdam had a vibrant Sephardic community, mostly hosting those from Portugal. Although the congregation has dwindled, the synagogue itself remains a treat to see. If you go into the synagogue during evening hours, the lighting resembles a gorgeous Rembrandt painting.
It is worth a look for anyone interested in history, Jewish culture or architecture. The synagogue also houses a small museum.
5. Begijnhof
A bit like a secret inside of Amsterdam, here visitors can enjoy a little tranquility in the middle of the Amsterdam hustle and bustle. The Begijnhof is an inner courtyard with an entrance at Spui, but it is not necessarily noticeable to those who don’t know it exists.
Inside the courtyard sits a chapel, one of the only Catholic churches to remain in existence after the Protestant takeover in 1578. The surrounding houses used to be owned and operated by beguines, nun-like women who took a vow of chastity, but who were able to leave religious life whenever it suited them.
Now, the houses overlooking the courtyard are inhabited by 105 women. Because it is a private residence, you must be quiet when you enter the Begijnhof, but it is definitely worth a look.
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6. Vondelpark
If you’re in Amsterdam with kids during one of the few sunny days of the year, take a trip to Vondelpark to enjoy a picnic or an afternoon in the sun. The extensive park is located in the centre of Amsterdam and is completely dog friendly.
It is big enough that you can bike through it, and is a great place for those who want to bike in Amsterdam but haven’t quite gotten their bearings yet, as it isn’t bombarded by bikers. On nice summer days you can grab an ice cream or cold juice from one of the many stands.
