Begijnhof

The Basics

While the Begijnhof—one of the oldest residences in Amsterdam—is private property, visitors are welcome to roam around the courtyard and visit the chapels during opening hours. Organized tours and large groups are not allowed inside, but many Amsterdam walking tours pass by the Begijnhof gates, just steps from bustling Kalverstraat Street. You can attend daily mass at the Roman Catholic Begijnhof Chapel (Begijnhofkapel) or Sunday service at the English Reformed Church.

How to Get There

The Begijnhof is located in central Amsterdam near the Amsterdam Museum. From Amsterdam Centraal Station, walk for 15 minutes, or take tram 2, 11, or 12 to the Spui stop. It can be difficult to find the narrow passageway that leads into Begijnhof, so look for the small sign off of Spui square.

Trip ideas

6 Must-See Amsterdam Neighborhoods and How to Visit

See all the sides to Amsterdam with our guide to the city's top neighborhoods.

10 Tours That Celebrate Women’s History in Europe

Find out about the European women who made history.

Van Gogh Museum Virtual Tours and Activities

Spend your downtime becoming an expert on Vincent van Gogh. The museum honors the Dutch painter’s life with an extensive collection of virtual activities including school lessons and an app to uncover hidden details in his paintings. Then channel your inner artist with downloadable coloring pages.

Visiting Amsterdam for the First Time? Here's What to See and Do

Our top recommendations for checking off the Dutch capital’s highlights—especially for first timers.

Heineken Experience Virtual Brewery Tour

Enjoy a Heineken happy hour from home. Join your guide on a virtual beer tasting, where you’ll duck into a hidden bar to taste proper brews and food pairings, hear about the brewing process, and learn perfect pouring and tasting methods—beer not included.

Where to Find the Best Views in Amsterdam

Because this is a city worth admiring.

An Insider’s Guide to LGBTQ Amsterdam

Tour company owner Henk B. de Vries talks Pride Amsterdam and the city’s reign as the world’s gay capital during the ‘80s and ‘90s.

5 Must-See Amsterdam Museums

Amsterdam's compact center holds an incredible variety of top-notch museums. Get on a rental bike, water taxi, or hop-on hop-off bus, and make your way to these essential cultural attractions.

Experience Amsterdam with a Local Guide

Duck into the home of a local guide, who will divulge tales of a modern and bygone Amsterdam. Personalize the tour with your own interests, from Dutch art and cuisine to history and culture. Once borders open, you’ll touch down in the Netherlands’ capital with essential information on lock.

Art Lover's Guide to Amsterdam

The Houten Huys

On the southwestern edge of the Begijnhof courtyard stands a medieval house with a wooden facade claiming to be Amsterdam’s oldest house. The Wooden House (Het Houten Huys) is one of Amsterdam’s only two wooden-front houses remaining in the city, with original construction dating back to the 1420s, according to some sources. Amsterdam once had many wooden houses, but timber construction was banned outright after several devastating fires in the 1600s.