Amsterdam
Amsterdam · Jewish heritage

Jewish Cultural Quarter in Amsterdam

A vibrant collection of museum sites exploring Jewish history and heritage in the heart of Amsterdam.

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The Jewish Cultural Quarter in Amsterdam invites you to explore four authentic buildings in the old Jewish neighborhood. Delve into Jewish life, history, religion, and customs, from ancient traditions to contemporary perspectives. The quarter offers a comprehensive journey through centuries of Jewish heritage.

Explore four historic locations in Amsterdam's old Jewish quarter, showcasing four centuries of Jewish culture, history, religion, and customs.

Jewish Cultural Quarter
About the Jewish Cultural Quarter

The Jewish Cultural Quarter in Amsterdam is a central hub dedicated to four centuries of Jewish culture, history, religion, and customs. Comprising authentic historical buildings in the city's old Jewish neighborhood, this complex invites visitors to explore sites such as the Jewish Museum and Portuguese Synagogue. Each location offers unique insights into Jewish life in the Netherlands, from ancient traditions to poignant wartime history.

Courtyard with gravel ground, white modern building with two windows, flanked by covered walkways with columns, leafless trees, adjacent traditional buildings under cloudy sky
Jewish Cultural Quarter opening hours in Amsterdam

Check today’s opening status, weekly schedule, and special date changes for Jewish Cultural Quarter. Use these opening hours to plan your arrival and avoid closed times in Amsterdam.

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
14:00-17:00
14:00-17:00
12:00-17:00
14:00-17:00
14:00-17:00
12:00-17:00
12:00-17:00
Jewish Cultural Quarter Ticket Information

Admission to the Jewish Cultural Quarter in Amsterdam is generally paid, with options for student tickets. Entry to the Hollandsche Schouwburg is free. Paid tickets are typically valid for one week, though a €2 surcharge applies for on-site purchases, and a time slot is required for the National Holocaust Museum.

Combiticket: Jewish Cultural Quarter
€30.00

€2.00 surcharge for tickets bought at the desk. Access to Jewish Museum, Portuguese Synagogue, National Holocaust Museum, Hollandsche Schouwburg. Valid for one week.

Duoticket: Jewish Museum & Portuguese Synagogue
€20.00

€2.00 surcharge for tickets bought at the desk. Access to Jewish Museum, Portuguese Synagogue. Valid for one week.

National Holocaust Museum ticket
€20.00

€2.00 surcharge for tickets bought at the desk. Access to National Holocaust Museum, Hollandsche Schouwburg. Valid for one week. Time slot required for National Holocaust Museum visit. Booking online is advised due to high demand.

Visitor amenities at the Jewish Cultural Quarter

The Jewish Cultural Quarter in Amsterdam provides a range of facilities to ensure an accessible experience for all guests. The sites offer wheelchair access and mobility aid support, alongside dedicated options like Dutch Sign Language tours and free audio guides. While service animals are welcome, please note that other pets are not permitted on the premises.

Aangepaste toiletten

Available

tactile objects

Limited

Lift

Available

Loophulpmiddelen en scootmobiels

Available
Family Visits to the Jewish Cultural Quarter

The Jewish Cultural Quarter provides engaging experiences for visitors, highlighted by the Jewish Museum junior, which is designed as a family home for ages 6 and older. Children can participate in interactive activities like baking and music. Families with children aged 10 and older may also appreciate the historic synagogues within the main museum.

Recommended age: Ages 6+

Discover Jewish culture, traditions, and history across multiple venues, including the interactive Jewish Museum junior, designed as a family home.

Why families will enjoy it

  • Jewish Museum junior is designed as a family home where everything can be picked up and used
  • Hands-on baking activities in the kitchen when a host is present
  • Free family guided tours offered during school holidays at the Jewish Museum
  • Voted a Kidsproof Museum by children

Activities and resources for children

Family route

An hour at Jewish Museum junior with the kids (6+)

Ages 6+60–60 min

A one-hour route tailored for families to explore the interactive Jewish Museum junior.

Family route

An hour at the Jewish Museum with the kids (10+)

Ages 10+60–60 min

A one-hour route through the historic synagogues of the Jewish Museum for older kids.

Interactive experience

Baking at the Jewish Museum junior

Ages 6+

Bake Jewish challah or cookies in the junior museum's kitchen.

Jewish Cultural Quarter Location

The Jewish Cultural Quarter is situated at Nieuwe Amstelstraat 1 in the Burgwallen Oude Zijde neighborhood of Amsterdam. This central location places visitors directly within the historic old Jewish quarter, where its four authentic historical buildings collectively present four centuries of Jewish culture, history, and religion. Visitors can easily explore the interconnected sites that offer unique insights into Jewish life in the Netherlands.

© OpenStreetMap contributors

Nieuwe Amstelstraat 1

1011 PL Amsterdam

Burgwallen Oude Zijde, North Holland, NL

Visiting the Jewish Cultural Quarter

For your visit to the Jewish Cultural Quarter in Amsterdam, online advance ticket purchase is strongly recommended, especially for the National Holocaust Museum, due to timed entry slots that can fully book. Tickets bought on-site incur a " "2.00 surcharge. Your ticket provides a week of access to all four locations. Note that only debit and major credit cards are accepted, and large bags should be stored in the cloakroom.

Visiting the Jewish Cultural Quarter

Jewish Cultural Quarter: Exploring Jewish Life and History

The Jewish Cultural Quarter in Amsterdam provides a comprehensive journey through four centuries of Jewish life, culture, and history across its distinct sites. Located within the city's old Jewish neighborhood, this cultural complex showcases a rich heritage through authentic historical buildings like the Jewish Museum, the National Holocaust Museum, the Portuguese Synagogue, and the Hollandsche Schouwburg. Visitors engage with exhibitions and experiences that delve into ancient traditions, religious practices, and contemporary Jewish perspectives, alongside poignant wartime history. The quarter offers thematic depth, allowing visitors to meaningfully encounter the customs and narratives that have shaped Jewish life in the Netherlands. Enhancing the visitor experience, free audio tours are available in multiple languages at all locations, alongside daily guided tours, catering to a diverse audience including families and students, with accessibility features across all venues.

Bright museum interior with wooden floors, tall windows on left casting light, and empty glass display cases along right wall
Top exhibition picks at Jewish Cultural Quarter
Curated museum program highlights and what to see now in Amsterdam
Discover high-interest exhibitions at Jewish Cultural Quarter, selected to help you prioritize your route, compare show themes, and plan a more rewarding museum visit in Amsterdam.
Watercolor portrait of a woman with long dark hair wearing a white prayer shawl and head covering, set against a background of purple and gold washes with a chandelier.
From Jul 10, 2025

Snogeiros: People of the Snoge Exhibition at Jewish Cultural Quarter

A photographic documentation of the Portuguese Synagogue community.

Photographer Marte Visser captures the daily lives and traditions of the community gathered at Amsterdam's historic Portuguese Synagogue. The collection highlights human connection and ritual within this storied space.

Snogeiros Exhibition
Diana Blok: Time Tells Exhibition at the Jewish Museum Amsterdam Exploring Identity
Apr 17, 2026 – Oct 18, 2026

Diana Blok: Time Tells Exhibition at the Jewish Museum Amsterdam Exploring Identity

A photographic journey into family history, identity, and Jewish origins.

Discover the 'Time Tells' exhibition by Diana Blok at the Jewish Museum in Amsterdam. This powerful photography collection delves into her personal quest to uncover a complex family history and profound Jewish identity. Explore themes of memory and gender through her artistic lens.

Diana Blok Exhibition
Nov 14, 2025 – Nov 8, 2026

Please Continue… Conversations with Holocaust Witnesses: Interactive Survivor Testimonies

Engage virtually with powerful personal stories from history.

Discover the innovative 'Dimensions in Testimony' technology, enabling virtual dialogues with Holocaust survivors. This exhibition from USC Shoah Foundation brings profound personal narratives into direct interaction, making history tangible for visitors.

Holocaust Witnesses Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of a vintage magic stage featuring purple curtains, a levitating table, and a top hat on a wooden crate.
From Sep 25, 2026

Abracadabra Exhibition at the Jewish Cultural Quarter

A journey through the theatrical world of legendary illusionists.

Uncover the stories behind iconic magicians and the evolution of spectacular stage illusions. This exhibition celebrates the legacy of Jewish illusionists during a transformative era of performing arts.

Abracadabra Exhibition
A vibrant watercolor artwork by Judy Chicago featuring a central female genitalia motif surrounded by symbols of justice, Jewish heritage, and creation in flowing purple and pink hues.
Feb 6, 2026 – Aug 23, 2026

Judy Chicago: Revelations – Feminist Art & Jewish Heritage Exhibition in the Netherlands

Pioneering feminist artist Judy Chicago's first solo show in the Netherlands.

Discover 'Revelations,' Judy Chicago's seminal exhibition exploring gender, power, and social justice. Featuring drawings, archival materials, and video installations, it offers a deep dive into her Jewish-informed artistic journey. Engage with a powerful presentation of her work.

Judy Chicago Exhibition

History of the Jewish Cultural Quarter

The **Jewish Cultural Quarter** traces its origins to the opening of the Jewish Museum in Amsterdam on February 24, 1932, initially located in the Waag building. Its early history was interrupted by World War II, during which the museum was forced to close and much of its collection was lost. After reopening in 1955, the museum relocated in 1987 to its current site, occupying four former synagogues on Jonas Daniël Meijerplein square. This move solidified its role as the only museum in the Netherlands dedicated exclusively to Jewish history, culture, and religion, and its significance was recognized with the Council of Europe Museum Prize in 1989. A major seven-year renovation was completed in 2007, further enhancing the facilities of this important cultural complex.

  • Jewish Museum opened

    1932Founding

    The Jewish Museum in Amsterdam opened its doors on February 24, 1932. Initially, it was housed in the Waag building on Nieuwmarkt square.

  • Museum closed during WWII

    Historical period

    During World War II, following the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands, the Jewish Museum was forced to close. Much of its collection was lost during this period.

  • Museum reopened after WWII

    1955Opening

    After its closure during World War II, the Jewish Museum reopened its doors to the public in 1955.

  • Museum moved to new location

    1987Relocation

    In 1987, the Jewish Museum relocated to a new site. It now occupies four former synagogues on Jonas Daniël Meijerplein square, across from the Portuguese Synagogue.

  • Received Council of Europe Museum Prize

    1989Cultural significance

    The museum's significance was recognized in 1989 when it was awarded the Council of Europe Museum Prize. This was for its collection presentation and the architectural appearance of its buildings.

  • Major renovation completed

    2007Renovation

    A significant renovation project that lasted seven years was completed in 2007. This work modernized the museum's facilities and premises.

  • Collection includes early illuminated manuscript

    1250-1250Collection

    The museum's collection includes the Amsterdam Machzor, an illuminated manuscript of Ashkenazi origin written in Cologne around 1250, making it one of the earliest of its kind.

  • Collection includes 'Tree of Life' artwork

    1943Collection

    The museum holds the 'Tree of Life' artwork, created in 1943 by Eli Content, with stained glass manufactured by Hermine van Does.

  • Collection includes 'The mourning days' painting

    1884-1884Collection

    The museum's collection features the painting 'The mourning days', created by Jan Voerman around 1884.

  • Sole museum dedicated to Jewish history in the Netherlands

    Overview

    The Joods Museum is the only museum in the Netherlands exclusively dedicated to Jewish history, encompassing its culture and religion, both within the Netherlands and globally.

Latest museum updates from Jewish Cultural Quarter
Recent announcements, stories, and institutional updates in Amsterdam
Read the newest updates from Jewish Cultural Quarter, including exhibition announcements, program changes, and cultural stories that add context before your visit in Amsterdam.
Photo League: New York 1936-1951 Exhibition to Open at the Jewish Museum

Photo League: New York 1936-1951 Exhibition to Open at the Jewish Museum

The Jewish Museum in Amsterdam will host the first European exhibition dedicated to the Photo League, a pioneering collective of street photographers active in New York City from 1936 to 1951. Visitors will explore their work capturing daily life and social inequality, including contributions from prominent Jewish and female photographers. The exhibition runs from June 27, 2025, to January 11, 2026.

ExhibitionPhotographyHistoryNew YorkSocial Justice
Read article
Jewish Cultural Quarter Issues Statement on Israel-Gaza Conflict

Jewish Cultural Quarter Issues Statement on Israel-Gaza Conflict

The Jewish Cultural Quarter has released a statement expressing deep concern over the Israel-Gaza conflict and its global ramifications, particularly regarding its influence in the Netherlands. The statement advocates for a just and safe resolution for all involved, upholding Israel's right to exist and Palestinians' right to autonomy. It also addresses rising polarization, antisemitism, and Islamophobia, reaffirming the institution's commitment to fostering a just society.

StatementCurrent EventsCommunityMissionSocial Issues
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Between You and Me: Memory Boxes Exhibition at the National Holocaust Museum

Between You and Me: Memory Boxes Exhibition at the National Holocaust Museum

The National Holocaust Museum presents 'Between You and Me: Memory Boxes,' an exhibition by Amos van Gelder and Amit Gur. This artistic display explores intricate family stories and personal interpretations of the Holocaust, featuring portraits housed in 'Memory Boxes' with accompanying Hebrew texts and a unique musical composition. Visitors can experience diverse narratives of survival, betrayal, and resilience from March to October 2025.

ExhibitionHolocaustArtHistoryMusic
Read article
Judy Chicago's "Revelations" Exhibition Opens at Jewish Museum Amsterdam

Judy Chicago's "Revelations" Exhibition Opens at Jewish Museum Amsterdam

The Jewish Museum in Amsterdam is set to host "Judy Chicago: Revelations," the first comprehensive exhibition in the Netherlands of the influential feminist artist. Running from February 6 to August 23, 2026, the show highlights Chicago's six-decade career, exploring themes of gender equality, creation, and Jewish heritage.

ExhibitionArtFeminismJewish HeritageAmsterdam
Read article
Nationaal Holocaustmuseum Welcomes 100,000th Visitor

Nationaal Holocaustmuseum Welcomes 100,000th Visitor

The Nationaal Holocaustmuseum in Amsterdam has reached a significant milestone, welcoming its 100,000th and 100,001st visitors shortly after its official opening. This achievement underscores the museum's vital role in educating about the Holocaust and preserving its history for future generations.

MilestoneMuseumHolocaust EducationVisitor Information
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National Holocaust Museum and Hollandsche Schouwburg Set to Open March 2024

National Holocaust Museum and Hollandsche Schouwburg Set to Open March 2024

The Jewish Cultural Quarter is preparing for a significant opening in March 2024, with the new National Holocaust Museum welcoming its first visitors and the Hollandsche Schouwburg reopening its doors. These sites aim to offer profound insights into Holocaust history and remembrance.

Museum OpeningHolocaust HistoryMemorialAmsterdamReopening
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Jewish Cultural Quarter Clarifies Stance on Red Line Demonstration Endorsement

Jewish Cultural Quarter Clarifies Stance on Red Line Demonstration Endorsement

The Jewish Cultural Quarter has issued a statement clarifying that it did not endorse the 'Red Line' demonstration and was mistakenly included in a list of supporting cultural institutions. The organization emphasizes its role as a non-political entity that engages with current events through its programming, exhibitions, and educational initiatives, fostering open dialogue.

StatementAnnouncementCultural EngagementCurrent Events
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New Stumbling Stones Commemorate Victims at Waterlooplein

New Stumbling Stones Commemorate Victims at Waterlooplein

The Jewish Cultural Quarter announces the upcoming placement of new 'Stolpersteine' or stumbling stones at Waterlooplein in 2024. These memorial plaques will honor victims, and their families and acquaintances are invited to attend the ceremony. Further details regarding the individuals being commemorated are available for download.

MemorialHistoryEventRemembranceHolocaust
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Jewish Cultural Quarter FAQs: Practicalities, Etiquette, and More

Curious about visiting the Jewish Cultural Quarter in Amsterdam? Whether you're wondering if you can explore all four locations in a single day or if men need a head covering at the Portuguese Synagogue, we've got answers. Dive into our full FAQ section for practical tips and unique insights for your visit.

How can I contact the Jewish Cultural Quarter for other questions?

For other questions or specific enquiries, you can visit the 'For other questions' section on the Jewish Cultural Quarter's website, which is dedicated to visitor contact.

Where can I find answers to common questions about the Jewish Cultural Quarter?

The Jewish Cultural Quarter provides an FAQ section on their website where you can find answers to many common visitor questions.

What is the phone number for the Jewish Cultural Quarter?

You can reach the Jewish Cultural Quarter for general enquiries by calling +31 20 531 03 10.

Does the Jewish Cultural Quarter have an email address for contact?

Specific email contact information is not explicitly provided. For general enquiries, please use the phone number or visit the contact pages on their website.

Tips for Visiting the Jewish Cultural Quarter

It is advisable to purchase tickets online in advance for the Jewish Cultural Quarter, especially for the National Holocaust Museum, as timed entry slots can become fully booked. On-site ticket purchases will incur a €2.00 surcharge, and only debit cards or major credit cards are accepted for payment. Your ticket grants access to all four locations within the Jewish Cultural Quarter and remains valid for a week. Small bags (A4 size or less) are permitted inside, but larger items should be stored in the provided cloakroom area with lockers and coat hooks. Free audio guides are available at all locations, and wheelchairs can be borrowed at the Jewish Museum and National Holocaust Museum, with advance booking recommended. Photography for personal use is allowed.

Jewish Cultural Quarter: Visitor Suitability

The Jewish Cultural Quarter in Amsterdam welcomes a diverse range of visitors, including families with children, students, and those with accessibility needs. Interactive experiences at the Jewish Museum Junior are suitable for children aged 6 and up, while other sites within the quarter are recommended for visitors aged 10 and older. All locations are wheelchair accessible, with special guided tours available for visitors with hearing and visual impairments, and service animals are permitted. Photography for personal use is generally allowed, allowing guests to capture their exploration of Jewish history, culture, and religion.

Jewish Cultural Quarter: Sites and Collections

The photos of the Jewish Cultural Quarter in Amsterdam offer a comprehensive look at its diverse sites and visitor experiences. You can preview the historic Portuguese Synagogue's interior with its grand chandelier and wooden pews, alongside modern exhibition spaces and poignant historical artifacts such as a Holocaust-era dress. These visuals provide insight into the rich Jewish history, culture, and architecture preserved across the quarter's various venues.

Red dress with yellow Star of David marked 'Jood' and name tag 'R. APPFELD' worn during the Holocaust
A painting in a gold frame showing people seated around a table in a room with a window, illuminated by light from the window.
Courtyard with gravel ground, white modern building with two windows, flanked by covered walkways with columns, leafless trees, adjacent traditional buildings under cloudy sky
Spacious interior of a historic synagogue with wooden pews, large chandelier, tall arched windows, and stone columns under a vaulted wooden ceiling
Bright museum interior with wooden floors, tall windows on left casting light, and empty glass display cases along right wall
Minimalist interior room with exposed brick walls, wooden ceiling panels, and large windows showing trees outside
Joods Museum entrance with blue awning, brick building with arched windows, people walking on sidewalk in Amsterdam
Hallway with yellow and white walls, wooden staircase, and round ceiling lights in a modern building interior
Modern building entrance with glass doors framed by brick walls, narrow pathway leading to an interior space with contemporary architecture visible
Wooden pews face an ornate ark under high ceilings with large windows in a historic synagogue interior.
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