Experts' Choice Award Begijnhof
What the experts agree on
Hidden behind a Spui gate, this 14th-century courtyard of gabled houses feels like stepping into old Amsterdam—a serene oasis in the city center with fascinating religious history and a charming chapel that's open to visitors.
“Dating back to 1307, this quiet courtyard was once home to the lay sisterhood, the Beguines - women who lived a religious life but without taking vows.”
– Travel + Leisure
Lonely PlanetTop choice
"This enclosed former convent dates from the early 14th century. It’s a surreal oasis of peace, with tiny houses and postage-stamp gardens around a well-kept courtyard." Full review
Michelin Guide 3 Stars
"Although situated in the centre of the city, this hofje (inner courtyard) is a haven of peace." Full review
Let's Go "Today, the cute but unremarkable chapel is an English Presbyterian church (the Belgians would be livid) and is open to respectful visitors." Full review
Lonely Planet "Contained within the Begijnhof and dating from 1671, this is a 'clandestine' chapel where the Beguines were forced to worship after the Calvinists took away their Gothic church." Full review
Fodor's "Throughout Amsterdam, but most notably along the main ring of canals and in the Jordaan neighborhood are numerous hofjes, within which are some of the city's most charming houses." Full review
Frommer's "Entered through an ornate gate off Spui, this cluster of photogenic gabled houses around a leafy garden courtyard is the perfect place to feel the ambience of old Amsterdam" Full review
Afar Magazine "Escape the bustle of the city by ducking into the quiet courtyard garden of Begijnhof. Located just a few minutes on foot from the Koningsplein and the Singel canal, this tranquil oasis..." Full review
National Geographic "You could easily miss the wooden door that leads from bustling Spui Square to the Begijnhof, a secluded courtyard surrounded by medieval buildings that for several centuries housed..."
"This little-known courtyard right in the middle of the city is a respite from the relative hustle and bustle of the city that surrounds it. The Begijnhof was originally a kind of nunnery..."
The Guardian "Founded in 1346 as a lay religious sisterhood, it's now a private residence for single women but open to the public. A beautiful tiled passageway leads to elegant gardens and the statue..."
Kate Mosse: My journey of discovery in medieval Amsterdam
February 18, 2021
