The Complete Guide to a Kosher Trip to Amsterdam
Amsterdam is home to one of Europe's oldest and most influential Jewish communities, with roots dating to the 16th century. The impressive Portuguese Synagogue (Esnoga) stands at the heart of the historic Jewish quarter (Jodenbuurt), while the modern Albert Cuypstraat today centers community life, with a Chabad house and a range of kosher restaurants. Here's a short guide to planning your visit.
The Portuguese Synagogue
The Portuguese Synagogue (Esnoga), consecrated in 1675 and considered one of the most impressive Jewish buildings in Europe, was originally built for the Spanish-Portuguese Jewish community that fled to Amsterdam to escape the Inquisition. It's still active today, and to this day is lit only by candlelight — no electricity — during evening services.
See all optionsChabad House and where to eat
Chabad Amsterdam, on Albert Cuypstraat, serves both tourists and Israeli visitors, and three central kosher restaurants operate on the same street: Machane Yehuda, Meat Me Kosher, and La Biss. Kosher Point grocery rounds out the shopping.
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The Anne Frank House — book weeks ahead
The Anne Frank House, where the family hid for over two years, is one of Europe's most sought-after sites — tickets are sold only through the official website, usually weeks in advance. Practical tip: new tickets go on sale every Tuesday at 10am Amsterdam time, six weeks ahead — it's worth setting a calendar reminder and grabbing them the moment they open.
See all optionsBetween the striking Portuguese Synagogue and the Anne Frank House, Amsterdam offers a rare depth of Jewish history alongside a magical canal city that's easy to fall for.
Stay in the kosher area of Amsterdam
For Shabbat in Amsterdam, base yourself in or near De Pijp, around Albert Cuypstraat - Chabad Amsterdam Tourists & Israeli Center (Chabad house listed on the site) is within walking distance from there, along with the other kosher listings for the city.
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Recommended hotels & apartments in Amsterdam
Available hotels and apartments in this destination, shown together with our synagogues, Chabad houses and mikvehs - so you can see at a glance what is within walking distance.
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Guided Tours & Experiences
Guided tours, entry tickets and experiences in every destination - most with free cancellation, so you can plan ahead and still stay flexible around Shabbat and the chagim.
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The next step of the trip - a car, an airport transfer and a stay, ready to book from here.
Rent a car in Amsterdam
Compare prices across local and international car rental companies at every destination - often significantly cheaper than booking direct, with free cancellation.
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Airport Transfer to Your Hotel
Book a private transfer from the airport to your hotel and back - a fixed price agreed in advance (no meter surprises), a driver waiting for you with a sign bearing your name, and no need to haggle or speak the local language.
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