Discovering the Jewish Quarter in Amsterdam

Looking for the perfect independent break in Amsterdam? Hostels located near the vibrant city centre make a wonderful accommodation option and are a pleasant and sociable alternative to the usual chain hotel. From any of the excellent Amsterdam hostels, the city is easily accessible by foot or bicycle – allowing you to explore in your own time with your own unique itinerary. Many hostels provide free maps and plenty of information and insider tips about what to do and where to go in the city, so you won't be left short of ideas.

Exploring the Jewish Quarter of Amsterdam

Hostels usually attract the more independent or adventurous traveller, many of whom prefer to discover a new city on foot. Amsterdam is a fabulous place to do just that, and with so much to see it's wonderful to simply take your time and allow yourself to get lost in the atmosphere of this lovely city. One popular place to head out and explore is the fascinating and emotive Jewish Quarter.

For 300 years, up until 1940, the city was well known throughout Europe as a very important centre for the Jewish people. As you stroll through this ambient district, you will stumble upon many relics of the history upon which modern Amsterdam is built.Your first stop should be the Jewish Historical Museum; located right in the very heart of the district, it is one of the most interesting museums in the entire city. Although not as large in stature as some of the others, it holds great standing due to its incisive programming. Housed in a synagogue, it boasts a host of permanent exhibitions that take the visitor through the elaborate history of Judaism. There is also a children’s museum, which has some excellent learning facilities.

As you continue your exploration around the streets of the Jewish Quarter, you'll come across the Gassan Diamonds building; it is here, on site, that for over 400 years rough diamonds have been cut and shaped into stunning finished stones in preparation for their use in jewellery. You can take a tour of the building and see firsthand the process of diamond cutting from start to finish.

Other highlights of the Jewish Quarter include the Rembrandthuis Museum, the Waterlooplein market, the Russian shul, the Auschwitz monument and the infamous Hollandsche Schouwburg. The latter building was once a theatre, but in much more dour times became the principle centre for the deportation of Jews during the time of the Holocaust. Today it stands as a monument, and its eternally burning flame holds a striking relevance for many people still living in the city.

Within very easy access of any of the central Amsterdam hostels, the Jewish Quarter makes for an interesting and very memorable day out.

Looking for your dream travel experience? Jason H. Cunningham works for Hostelling International, a company with more than 4,000 hostels worldwide in fantastic locations. For the best Amsterdam hostels, or anywhere else, join our global community and say hi to the world. From quality, affordable accommodation and backpacker tips, to meaningful volunteer opportunities and enriching our eco footprint, we are the world’s local hostelling hub.

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