Begijnhof courtyard tickets
Begijnhof Courtyard Tickets – Everything You Need to Know Before You Visit
Introduction
Hidden behind the busy streets of Amsterdam’s city centre lies one of its most peaceful and historic treasures — the Begijnhof Courtyard. This enclosed haven dates back to the Middle Ages and offers visitors a quiet escape surrounded by centuries of history, faith, and architecture. Despite its serene beauty and cultural significance, many visitors wonder whether they need tickets to enter, and how best to plan their visit.
This guide covers everything you need to know: the history of the Begijnhof, what to see inside, ticket and entry information, visitor etiquette, and practical travel tips.
What Is the Begijnhof Courtyard?
The Begijnhof is a hidden courtyard located in the very heart of Amsterdam. It was originally built as a residential complex for Beguines — devout women who lived together in a religious community without taking full monastic vows. These women dedicated their lives to prayer, charity, and helping the poor, while still maintaining a degree of independence unusual for the time.
The courtyard itself is enclosed by traditional gabled houses that seem frozen in time. Passing through its arched entrance feels like stepping from the modern world into the quiet atmosphere of medieval Amsterdam. The contrast between the bustling shopping streets outside and the silence inside is striking — and part of what makes the Begijnhof so memorable.
A Short History
The Begijnhof dates back to the 14th century, making it one of Amsterdam’s oldest inner courtyards. It was built at a time when the city was expanding rapidly, and small religious communities like this one offered women safety and structure.
During the Protestant Reformation, when Catholic institutions were closed or repurposed, the Begijnhof remarkably survived. It became one of the few places in the city where Catholic worship quietly continued. Even though it was hidden from public view for centuries, the community remained active, and the buildings were carefully preserved.
Today, although the Beguine community no longer exists, the Begijnhof is still a residential area, and its historic buildings and churches remain open to respectful visitors.
What You Can See Inside
A visit to the Begijnhof Courtyard is short but deeply atmospheric. Key highlights include:
- The Courtyard Itself – A peaceful green space surrounded by charming houses with step and bell gables. The central lawn and pathways are beautifully maintained and often filled with flowers in spring.
- The Wooden House (Houten Huys) – One of the oldest surviving wooden houses in Amsterdam, dating from the early 15th century. Its simple façade is a glimpse into how most houses once looked before stone construction became mandatory.
- The English Reformed Church – A small but historic Protestant church still used for services and concerts today.
- The Hidden Catholic Chapel – Known as the Begijnhof Chapel, this secret church was used by the Beguines when Catholic worship was forbidden. From the outside, it looks like an ordinary townhouse, but inside it reveals a beautiful, peaceful space filled with religious art.
- Historic Architecture – Each house around the courtyard has its own charm. Some have intricate carvings or date markers from the 17th century, while others show Gothic or Renaissance influences.
It’s a place for quiet exploration rather than entertainment — ideal for travelers who appreciate history, spirituality, or photography.
Do You Need Tickets?
The most common question visitors ask: Do I need a ticket to visit the Begijnhof Courtyard?
The answer is simple — no. Entry to the courtyard is completely free of charge.
The Begijnhof is open to the public during specific hours, and visitors can walk through freely without purchasing a ticket. However, there are some exceptions worth noting:
- Guided Tours – Many walking tours of Amsterdam include the Begijnhof as one of their stops. If you want to learn about the site from a professional guide, you can book a paid tour. In this case, the ticket price covers the guide’s fee, not an entry fee for the courtyard itself.
- Concerts or Events – Occasionally, concerts or religious events are held inside the English Reformed Church or the Begijnhof Chapel. These events require tickets, which can be purchased in advance.
- Private Visits – Access outside regular opening hours or for photography projects may require special permission.
In short, the courtyard itself is free, but special experiences may be ticketed.
Opening Hours
The Begijnhof is generally open daily during daylight hours. While times can vary slightly throughout the year, typical visiting hours are:
- Summer (April to October): 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Winter (November to March): 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
The churches within the courtyard have separate opening hours. The English Reformed Church often opens for Sunday services, while the Begijnhof Chapel may host daily masses or prayer sessions. Visitors should respect these times and avoid entering during religious ceremonies unless attending the service.
How to Get There
The Begijnhof is located right in central Amsterdam, close to Spui Square and Kalverstraat, one of the city’s main shopping streets. It’s just a short walk from Dam Square or a 10-minute walk from Amsterdam Central Station.
If you’re arriving by tram, the Spui stop is the closest — served by several tram lines that connect different parts of the city. The entrance to the courtyard is easy to miss: look for a modest wooden door leading into a quiet passageway. Once inside, you’ll immediately notice how the sound of the city fades away.
Visitor Etiquette
Because the Begijnhof is still a residential area and a place of worship, visitors are expected to behave respectfully. Keep the following in mind:
- Silence is appreciated. Speak quietly and avoid phone calls or loud conversations.
- Photography should be discreet. Taking pictures is allowed, but do not photograph residents or peer into windows.
- Stay on the paths. The central garden is private property.
- No picnics or gatherings. It’s not a park — it’s a place of reflection.
- Respect religious services. Avoid entering the churches during mass or ceremonies unless you plan to participate.
- No large groups. Guided groups should remain small and quiet.
Visiting the Begijnhof is about appreciating its peace and history — it’s a rare place where you can experience silence in the middle of one of Europe’s liveliest capitals.
Tips for Your Visit
- Go early in the morning for the calmest experience.
- Visit on weekdays — weekends are busier with tourists.
- Combine your trip with nearby attractions such as Spui Square, Amsterdam Museum, or the Flower Market.
- Stay respectful — remember that people still live here.
- Bring your camera, but focus on the architecture and atmosphere rather than selfies.
Why the Begijnhof Is Special
Few places in Amsterdam capture the city’s spiritual and social history as clearly as the Begijnhof. It reflects a time when women sought independence within faith, when religious tolerance had to be quietly negotiated, and when beauty was found in simplicity.
Even today, stepping through the gate feels like a small act of time travel. The modern world disappears, replaced by the sound of birds, the soft creak of bicycles, and the view of ancient façades catching the Dutch light.
Should You Book a Guided Tour?
While entry is free, joining a guided walking tour can greatly enhance your experience. Guides explain the symbolism behind the buildings, the role of the Beguines in society, and the survival of the community during the Reformation. Some tours combine the Begijnhof with nearby attractions such as the Amsterdam Museum or the Canal Belt.
For visitors who love stories and context, a guided tour is well worth the modest ticket price. But if you simply want a quiet moment or a place to take beautiful photos, exploring independently is perfectly rewarding too.
Suggested Itinerary
If you’re exploring Amsterdam on foot, here’s an easy half-day plan:
- Start at Dam Square – Visit the Royal Palace and the National Monument.
- Walk toward Kalverstraat – Browse shops or stop for coffee.
- Enter the Begijnhof Courtyard – Enjoy 30–45 minutes of peace and quiet.
- Visit Spui Square – Relax at one of the cafés nearby.
- Continue to the Flower Market – Just a few minutes’ walk away.
This route lets you experience both Amsterdam’s energy and its hidden serenity in a single morning.
Conclusion
The Begijnhof Courtyard is one of Amsterdam’s most enchanting and meaningful places — not because it’s grand or filled with art, but because it captures the soul of the city in its quiet simplicity.
You don’t need to buy a ticket to step inside, only a moment of curiosity and respect. Whether you’re a history lover, photographer, or traveler searching for calm, the Begijnhof invites you to pause and reflect.
If you want to deepen the experience, you can book a guided tour or attend a concert in one of the churches. But even without tickets, the Begijnhof remains one of the most rewarding free experiences in Amsterdam — a timeless courtyard where the city’s medieval heart still beats softly.