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11 iconic things to do in Volendam in 2024

More like Volen-dayummm 🤩

Volendam is packed full of things to do to channel your inner, traditional Dutchie.

The historical fishing town of Volendam offers so many underrated experiences to make you feel like a true Nederlander . 🇳🇱

From eating some lekker haring on the town’s famous dike to visiting an old ship of the Dutch East India Company, there are many iconic things to do in Volendam. 

1. Dress up in traditional Dutch clothes at Fotostudio Volendam

2. stuff your face with herring on the dike, 3. get in touch with volendam’s history at experience volendam, 4. soak up the rays at volendam’s beach, 5. look inside an old dutch voc ship at voldendam’s harbour, 6. visit the old fish auction building, 7. indulge in dutch cheese at the cheese factory museum, 8. sail on the incredible marken express, 9. watch how clogs are made at alida hoeve clog factory, 10. enjoy an unr(eel) musical tour at the palingsound museum, 11. take in the sights at marina volendam.

What’s a better way to familiarise yourself with Dutch culture than by dressing up in classic Dutch farmer attire?

At Fotostudio Volendam , you can do precisely that. Whether you’re with a friend or an entire group, grab a traditional-dress costume along with some wooden clogs, and “Say cheese!” (Yes, another very Dutch thing)! 🧀

Pro tip: You can request to have your picture in a classic Sepia filter, for that old nostalgic effect! 😎

Your pictures will be printed and ready within just an hour after taking them — an unforgettable souvenir and a top thing to do in Volendam.

💰 Price : Prices vary depending on size and number of persons ⏰ Opening hours : Daily from 10 AM to 6 PM 📍 Location : Haven 82, 1131 ET Volendam

If slipping a fresh, onion-topped herring in your mouth doesn’t make you feel like a true Nederlander , we don’t know what will. 

Herring, a small oily fish, has long been part of Dutch tradition. Today it’s bought from street kiosks and fish stores, served with chopped onion, and eaten all in one go. Eet smakelijk!

On its famous dike, Volendam offers several shops and kiosks with fresh haring to satisfy your taste buds. 😋

💰 Price: About €2 for one serving ⏰ Opening hours: 10 AM to 6 PM Monday to Saturday 📍 Location : Haven 82, 1131 EP Volendam

Become acquainted with some local townsy culture and experience what Volendam looked like 100 years ago! 

Experience Volendam lets you look at the city circa 1916 via virtual reality glasses — and it’s so realistic you can almost smell the fish at the harbour. 🐟

READ MORE | The liberation of the Netherlands like you’ve never seen it before (coloured videos inside)

The experience needs at least two people, so make sure to tag along with another history buff for some good company. 

💰 Price : €8.75 per person ⏰ Opening hours : Daily from 11 AM to 5 PM 📍 Location : Haven 154, 1131 EW Volendam

When compared to other Dutch towns, Volendam is quite small, and so is its beach. But, it’s definitely worth taking a dip in the freshwater of Lake Marker (A.K.A Markermeer). 🏊

While the lake used to be made up of salt water, after the closing of the Afsluitdijk in 1932, the water became completely refreshed. 

READ MORE | Best beaches in the Netherlands: the ultimate guide to Dutch beaches

Usually, the beach is busiest between 9 AM and 1 PM , but you’ll only have to consider that during warm summer days when the sun is shining and the water isn’t freezing.

💰 Price : Free ⏰ Opening hours : 24/7 📍 Location : Havendijkje, 1131 XP Volendam

As an old harbour city, it seems almost essential to check out the true-to-history replica of the old Dutch VOC ship that dates all the way back to the 17th century. 

The original ship, called Halve Maen , is best known as a discovery ship and a freighter in the bulk trade, and is currently open to the public as a museum!

On board, you can get learn about all the adventures the ship has had and get some lekker dinner on board afterwards. 🥘

💰 Price : €9 for adults, €4.5 for kids up to 14 years ⏰ Opening hours : 12 PM to 4:30 PM on Saturday and Sunday (last viewing 30 minutes before closing time) 📍 Location : Havendijkje 2, 1131 EZ Volendam

In this historical building, built as a trade office in 1934 and later used as a fish auction hotspot, lies Volendam’s rare and intact monument: St. Vincentius’ Fish Auction Cooperative.

Though, since April 2017, it acts as a shop where you can buy local products that are handmade in Odion’s day activity centres .

You can visit the monument at Volendam’s harbour. It’s built in the style of expressionism, and, while the superstructure is made of wood, it rests entirely on concrete beams and legs. 

Miss the fish? You’ll be happy to know that the fish auction is often re-enacted during school outings and popular festivities, so keep your eyes on the calendar. 🐠

💰 Price : Free entrance, but the rest depends on what you buy there 🛍 ⏰ Opening hours : April to November, 9 AM to 4 PM from Tuesday to Thursday 📍 Location : Haven 41, 1131 EP Volendam

In prime position on Volendam’s dike is The Cheese Factory Museum — how Gouda! 🧀

Here, you can indulge in melt-in-your-mouth cheese tastings, discover how Dutch cheese is produced, explore the museum, or grab a tasty souvenir in the gift shop.

No reservation is necessary, so pop on in and have a cheesy time! 💁

💰 Price : Free entrance ⏰ Opening hours : 9 AM to 8 PM every Sunday to Thursday and 9 AM to 9 PM every Friday and Saturday 📍 Location : Haven 25, 1131 EP Volendam

This 30-minute cruise sails across the water from Volendam to the still and peaceful island of Marken. ⛴

With a bar on board, you can enjoy a drink while taking in the serene atmosphere as you look onto the still lake water. 

Once arrived at the Marken peninsula, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the island’s coastal beautiful sights, visit the Marken Museum and gaze through its harbour. 

The Volendam Express has been sailing for almost 100 years, which truly makes it an unmissable piece of Volendam history! 🛥

💰 Price : €16 for adults and €10 for kids over three ⏰ Opening hours : Daily from 10 AM to 5 PM  📍 Location : Haven 39, 1131 EP Volendam

While this factory calls for a trip outside of the main city of Volendam, it’s always worth a visit to watch the traditional production process behind a pair of Dutch clogs. 🇳🇱

Luckily, you don’t need to pay a single cent for entrance, parking, nor to watch the demonstration, which lasts a bit less than one hour. 

Alida Hoeve also doubles as a cheese farm, where you’ll find the world-famous Edam, sheep, and goat cheese. Lekker! 😋

💰 Price : Free ⏰ Opening hours : daily from 9 AM to 6 PM 📍 Location : Zeddeweg 1, 1131CW Volendam

Who would’ve thought that there was a connection between electric eels and Dutch music?

Well, at Smit Brokkum’s Palingsound Museum , that’s exactly what you’ll find! 🎶

With an exhibition on Volendam’s music history, the museum offers a look into 100 years of the city’s music, made by “ordinary” Volendammers who put the city on the map. 🌍

Where do eels come into play? Well, it’s a nod to Volendam’s maritime economy and a reference to the type of music made by Volendammer artists, a smooth and relaxing melody, which they have come to call “eel sound”. 

So, sorry to the aquatic lovers, there are no eels on display! But, you can reserve lunch or dinner at the restaurant after the tour, where you might just find eel on the menu. 😉

💰 Price : €1.75 ⏰ Opening hours : 9:30 AM to 6 PM from Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays) 📍 Location : Slobbeland 19, 1131 AA Volendam

Last but definitely not least, Volendam has a wonderful marina with a gorgeous view of Lake Marker. 🌊

With various restaurants and cafés on Volendam’s famous dike, you can grab a glass or a snack and stroll around the marina, enjoying the aquatic winds. 🌬️

💰 Price : Free ⏰ Opening hours : 8 AM to 5 PM Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM Saturday and Sunday 📍 Location : Pieterman 12, 1131 PW Volendam

As you’ve just read, there are so many iconic things to do in the city of Volendam. And, since it’s quite the small city, you can easily make a day trip out of it! 🚗

Did you like this list of things to do in Volendam? Have other things to add to it? Tell us in a comment below! 👇

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• Top attractions

Volendam, also known as “The Pearl of the Zuiderzee” is a fishing village founded in the fourteenth century , located 20km northeast of Amsterdam, between Edam and Marken.

Volendam has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Netherlands, and this small town depends on both fishing and tourism .

What to do in Volendam?

Volendam does not stand out for any particular landmark, instead what draws thousands of visitors to this small town every year is the town ’s pretty architecture and well-looked-after streets . The best things to do is to walk along its promenade , discover its quaint shops and city center and have a drink at one of its cafés.

One of the most characteristic things about Volendam is its traditional costumes , sometimes still worn by its inhabitants.

If you want to take a curious souvenir with you from Volendam, head to one of the town’s photography shops where you can try on the costumes and get your picture taken.

There are various typical Dutch cheese farms that also sell wooden clogs on the way to Volendam from Amsterdam. Stop to see how the cheese and clogs are made and enjoy a free tasting of delicious traditional cheese.

A great day-trip

Unless you’re only staying in Amsterdam for a weekend, we highly recommend spending a full day or half-day at Volendam . This little town is extremely pleasant and only twenty minutes away by car.

A great option is to combine a visit to Volendam and Marken . You can get to both places by bus (with the right ticket) or cross from one village to the other by boat.

• Ferry to Volendam to Marken

How to get to Volendam?

The easiest ways to get to Volendam are:

• Book  a day trip: the easiest way to visit Volendam and other local sights, for € 35 ( US$ 38.40) you can  book a day trip from Amsterdam online
• Coach : If you prefer to take public transport to Volendam, a bus ticket costs € 7 ( US$ 7.70)  and is valid for the whole day . The ticket is also valid to visit Marken and other nearby villages. All the buses depart from Amsterdam Central Station and stop several times before getting to Volendam.
• Hire a car : If you want to explore Holland by car and visit several cities, you can easily  hire a car in Amsterdam.

20km to the northeast of central Amsterdam.

Nearby places

Marken (4.4 km) NEMO Science Museum (17.3 km) Amsterdam Central Station (17.5 km) Our Lord in the Attic Museum (17.8 km) Dutch Resistance Museum (17.9 km)

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HollandDreams

7 Best Things to See in Volendam Fishing Village

Volendam is the Netherlands best-known fishing village that attracts visitors from around the globe. The village is located on the Markermeer lake, in the Dutch province of North Holland . Only 20 kilometers from Amsterdam , Volendam is a popular destination for day trip, often in combination with Zaanse Schans .

In this article, we’ll share with you the best things to see in Volendam, along with our travel tips.

What is Volendam?

Volendam is known as the most popular fishing village in the Netherlands. The village features colorful houses , a beautiful harbor and plenty of activities for solo-travelers and families alike.

Volendam used to have direct access to the North Sea. However, in the 14 th century, neighboring town Edam constructed a shorter canal with an independent harbor. That’s when the need for Volendam harbor’s disappeared. The old harbor was then dammed up and reclaimed for land. That explains the name Volendam , which translates to filled dam .

After the land was reclaimed, many local fishermen settled in the area. Today, Volendam is the country’s most iconic fishing village that attracts visitors from around the globe.

What to See and Do in Volendam

Despite being a village, there are quite some things to experience in Volendam. The good thing is that all those activities and sights are close to each other which means you can perfectly combine them during a (half) day trip.

1. Walk along The Dyke

The highlight of Volendam is the Dyke (De Dijk). It’s a boulevard alongside the lake Markermeer , just a few minutes off the city center.

The Dyke is lined with many souvenir shops and restaurants. If you’re familiar with Dutch culture, you’ll know that Dutch people are all about gezelligheid (conviviality). When the sun is us, locals and international visitors stroll along the Dyke and enjoy having a drink or food (often fresh fish) in one of the many restaurants’ terraces. The ambiance truly adds to Volendam’s unique charm!

Even if you don’t like crowds, walking up and down the length of the dike is a must-do. The harbor is full of old fishing vessels, and freshwater fishing still takes place at IJsselmeer lake.

2. Eat Fresh Fish

If you like fish and would like to eat typical Dutch food , you should definitely eat freshly-caught fish in one of the restaurants in Volendam. Local specialities are kibbeling (battered, deep-fried cod), paling (eel) or herring . If you happen to be in Volendam in June, you’re in luck as this is when Hollandse Nieuwe (New Dutch herring) season opens. At this time, you’ll get freshly-caught herring that the Dutch usually eat raw with onions and pickles.

Not in the mood for fish? Then you should head over to one of the pastry shops along the Dyke where you’ll get fresh stroopwafels (thin waffles with caramel filling), waffles (a type of cake, similar to pancake) or poffertjes (small pancakes).

3. Experience Volendam

One of the best things to do in Volendam is Experience Volendam , located off the Dyke.

Experience Volendam consists of a virtual reality experience. During the 30-minute show you’ll get to know how Volendam was during its heyday in the 18th century. It’s a modern experience using virtual reality but with a computer-generated host dressed in an original Volendammer costume! If you have time, we definitely recommend doing the VR experience as it allows you to understand the importance and history of Volendam much better.

4. Photo in Traditional Clothing

Our personal highlights in Volendam was the photo experience. You’ll get to wear traditional clothing (different local customs for men and women) and are photographed in front of a scenic fishing background. Depending on the package you choose, you can take home one or two print outs, and you’ll also receive a digital copy of your photo(s). A truly unique souvenir from your trip to Volendam!

As you walk along the Dyke, you’ll find multiple shops providing the photo experience. We walked into several of them and found quite a difference in quality. The clothing, background and photo quality isn’t the same everywhere. The most popular place for the photo in traditional clothing is Experience Volendam.

Our Tip: If you’d like to do the show and the photo experience, we recommend the Photo in Traditional Clothing and Experience Volendam ticket combo to get the best price.

5. Halve Maen

If you are interested in naval history, visit the VOC-ship called Halve Maen (Half Moon). As its name suggest, the ship ressembles the shape of a half moon. The ship on site is a replica of the ship that used to sail to Manhattan Island in the 17th century.

You can visit the ship for a fee of €5 (tickets have to be purchased on site). It’s a great way to learn about the time when the Dutch ruled the seas and traveled worldwide engaged in trade.

If you don’t want to enter the ship, it will certainly catch your eyes anyway as you explore Volendam. It’s located at the Volendam harbor along the Dyke.

Our Tip : Walk around the harbor (past the Halve Maen ship) to enjoy a great view of the ship and the lively Dyke.

6. Cheese Factory Volendam

Continuing on the Dyke, you’ll get to the Cheese Factory. If you’re in the mood for some cheese-tasting and shopping, you can’t go wrong with visiting Cheese Factory Volendam. At the museum, you’ll learn about cheese in general and the processes involved in manufacturing Dutch Gouda cheese in particular. A short 10-min cheese demonstration is also held throughout the day.

Entrance, cheese tasting and the cheese demonstrations are free of charge, so it’s definitely worth a visit.

If you love cheese and would like to learn more about traditional cheese making, we recommend a visit to the famous cheese market in Alkmaar .

5. Het Doolhof-Oude Kom

Het Doolhof-Oude Kom is the oldest part of Volendam. This is where you’ll see ancient houses and narrow streets. It’s located a little off the main part of Volendam.

What’s unique about this place is that the houses were built without any street pattern. And this streetscape naturalness is one of the reasons popular painters such as Picasso and Renoir stayed at Volendam and considered it a ‘retreat’ in the late 19 th century.

By the way, you’ll see a mini version of the Het Doolhof Oude Kom at Volendam Museum.

6. Volendams Museum

Volendams Museum is a small but beautiful museum situated in the city center of Volendam, a 2-minute walk from the lovely Dyke.

At the Volendams Museum, you’ll get an insight into how Volendammers lived in the late 19 th century up to the first 50 years of the 20th century. Volendam was popular for fishing and art throughout the past centuries and that’s what you’re going to experience here. The museum features numerous paintings by local artists and portraits the life of past generations. If you’ve done the Volendam photo experience, you’ll recognize the typical customs here.

One of the coolest things in this museum are the sigarenbandjes or sigarenbandjeshuisje . This artwork conists of a large room with mosaics made of cigar bands. These moscais show some truly impressive portraits of famous monuments (national and international), placed on its walls and ceiling. The project started in 1947 and consists of a remarkable 11 million cigar bands.

7. Palingsoundmuseum

Are you into music? Then you might like the Palingsoundmuseum. The small museum hosts 100 years’ worth of Volendam music history. Why is the place called Palingsoundmuseum or Eel Sound Museum ? Pavilion Smit-Bokkum is a 160-year-old smokehouse popular for smoking locally caught fish and eel (paling). Over the years, the ‘smooth sound’ of the music in the region simply got related to eel, and so Palingsoundmuseum seemed like the logical name to give the music museum!

The museum is located at the Pavilion Smit-Bokkum, near the Marinapark. If you’re in the area, it’s worth a short visit. If you aren’t interested in music history or short in time, you can skip this one.

How to Get to Volendam

Public transport.

From Amsterdam, just take Bus 316 (Volendam-Edam) , which departs every 15 minutes from the Amsterdam/CS IJzijde bus station located just behind the Amsterdam Centraal train station. Note that you have to go a level up behind platforms 14 and 15 to get there.

The Netherlands has amazing bike and cycling routes! Are you visiting Volendam from Amsterdam? Then you can totally cycle here! The route is around 20 kilometers and takes about 1 hour to complete. You’ll come across small towns and a windmill or two as well.

If you’re traveling by car, it’s just a 30-minute drive from Amsterdam taking the N247 route. We recommend that you set a car park as your destination, and then explore Volendam by foot.

Parking in Volendam

There are several options for parking in Volendam. The good news is that you’ll find free parking in Volendam which is not always the case in the Netherlands.

• On-street parking : Depending on the zone, you’ll find 30-minute free parking or 4-hour free parking. It’s the best option if you visit Volendam for just half a day.
• Marinapark Volendam : If you don’t mind walking, then there are many free parking spaces outside the city center. The biggest is the Marina Park , located behind Roompot Marinapark , which holds up to 300 cars. The walk to the city center (the Dyke) is about 10 minutes.
• Parking garages : If you intend to stay the whole day and would like to have your car parked at a central location, you’ll find several parking garages in Volendam. The most central car park in Volendam is the Parkeergarage Centrum Volendam . It’s located right in the city center, a few minutes walk from the Dijk. Parking is €1 for the first hour or €9 for a day pass (as of 2022).

How to Get Around in Volendam

The charm of Volendam rests in its harbor and its old-style fishing village, which is characterized by authentic fishermen’s houses. As such, the best way to explore Volendam is by walking around the village.

As Volendam is a fishing village, you can’t go wrong with a boat tour. Try the Volendam Marken Express , a 30-minute boat ride to the small peninsula Marken. Enjoy the beautiful coastline of the former Zuiderzee area while learning about its history and development with an audio guide in English and Dutch. Note that you can get a roundtrip ticket to Marken or just get a one-way ticket, explore Marken and move on with the rest of your Dutch tour.

Planning on roaming around Volendam? You don’t need a ticket to visit Volendam and walk its scenic streets. However, attractions such as boat tours and entry to museums do require a ticket. If you have the I amsterdam City Card , then note that some attractions are already included in that card, so do check it out to avoid extra costs!

Volendam attractions that are included in the I amsterdam City Card:

• Volendams Museum (regular price €5 as of 2022)
• Volendam-Marken Boat Cruise (regular price €10. Can be purchased individually here Volendam – Marken Boat Tour )
• Bike rental (free 24-hour bike rental at Haven 45 Volendam)

Tickets that you’ll need to buy indivually:

• Tickets for Experience Volendam (VR experience only)
• Tickets for Experience Volendam + Photo in Traditional Clothing (Combi Ticket)

Additional Travel Tips for Volendam

We’ve received quite a few questions about Volendam in recent years. To give you additional travel tips, we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions from our readers, and our answers.

Volendam or Zaanse Schans?

Volendam and Zaanse Schans are popular destinations for a daytrip from Amsterdam. But don’t worry that you’ll have the same experience. If Zaanse Schans is all about windmills, Volendam is an all-out fishing village. If you have time, you should definitely visit both places.

If you had to pick one, we would go for Zaanse Schans. Unless you have already been or planning to visit Kinderdijk . In that case, we’d recommend you visit Volendam.

What are the best museums to visit in Volendam?

Despite being a village, there are several interesting museums in Volendam that are absolutely worth visiting. The best ones are Volendam Museum, Palingsoundmuseum and The Cheese Factory, If you’re short in time, you can just pick one of them. If you have a full day in Volendam or the weather is bad, museum hopping is a great activity.

How much time in Volendam?

Most people just make a day trip to Volendam. However, since it’s also the perfect place to jumpstart a trip to nearby Marken and Edam, most people stay longer and make Volendam their ‘base’ for these additional trips.

Accommodations in Volendam

Many travelers visit Volendam as part of a daytrip from Amsterdam, keeping their hotel in Amsterdam for the duration of their stay in the region. That’s a safe option if it’s your first time in the Netherlands and you want to mainly explore Amsterdam.

If you’d like to get out of Amsterdam and explore the Dutch countryside, you could spend a night in Volendam, and extend your trip to the beautiful Markermeer Lake.

There are various hotels in Volendam to choose from. These are our favorite hotels in Volendam:

• Van der Valk Hotel Volendam : Located off the city center. It’s a beautiful 4-star hotel with spacious and comfortable rooms and a large indoor pool. Our highlight at Van der Valk Volendam was the lake right behind the hotel and the beautiful nature all around. Note that this hotel is about 5-minute drive from the center. It’s a great place if you’re looking for a quiet setting and don’t mind a short drive.
• Hotel Spaander is another popular Volendam hotel. It’s been welcoming guests since 1881, and one of its rooms (Kamer 1 or Room 1) is still decorated in its original 19 th century style. What we liked about Hotel Spaander is very central location. The hotel is located at De Dijk, very close to all main attractions in Volendam. It’s a great choice for travelers looking for a comfortable hotel at the best location.
• Marinapark is a great option if you’re looking for a unique place to stay. Marinapark is a vacation park which is especially popular with families or groups (not the best option for solo-travelers). There are both holiday homes as well as several houseboats. During our last visit, we stayed at one of the houseboats which is a great option for couples and families. What we loved the most here is the beautiful view from the modern houseboat. The feeling you’ll get when waking up in the morning is truly unforgettable. The accommodation features a swimming pool and playground for children which makes it great when traveling with kids. In terms of location, Marinapark Volendam is close to the main sights in Volendam. It’s only a few minutes walk from the harbor.

In the Area

Looking for nearby places to visit? Check out the following destinations:

• Zaanse Schans (windmills)

Questions or Feedback?

Have you already been to Volendam or planning to visit soon? We’d love to hear from you! Share your experience or any questions you might have in the comment section down the page.

About Kitty & Yogesh

Hoi! We’re Kitty and Yogesh, expats in the Netherlands. HollandDreams is a blog dedicated to traveling and living in the Netherlands. Together with our beagle dog Pépa, we travel across the country to explore exciting destinations and gather useful tips for travelers and expats.

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A day in Volendam and Marken in the Netherlands: typical touristy and fun things to do!

Latest update: 20 June 2024

A stone’s throw (depending on how far you can throw) from Amsterdam are the beautiful Dutch villages of Volendam and Marken. They have been tourist hotspots for years because they are so very Dutch. There is plenty to do in Volendam and Marken for a day of fun: from the traditional tourist photo to badass cruising on a fat bike. Let’s go explore Volendam!

What do you want to know more about?

What to do in Volendam?

While just about every foreign tourist has been there, I have never seen Volendam with my own eyes, while it is in the backyard of Amsterdam, where I live! What has always kept me away is the image of a crowded dike full of tourists and full of souvenir shops – it simply didn’t excite me. But guess what, it’s very easy to avoid! Another advantage: you can easily combine a day in Volendam with a visit to Marken.

Best advice for visiting Volendam and Marken, Netherlands

Step 1 for a visit to Volendam: Go early, really early. Most terraces and cafés open at 10 am, and from about 10:30 am, it starts to get busier in Volendam. Before that, you share Volendam with the people of Volendam, suppliers who supply the restaurants, and a few other early risers (literally and figuratively: check out those sparrows on my cake!). You have plenty of time to stroll through Volendam and take pictures of the photogenic fishing village on the Markermeer.

Step 2: enjoy all the sights and activities you can handle in Volendam! Allow a total of three or four hours for a visit. It allows you plenty of time to discover the village on foot and do some fun things. If you have more time, like a full day, you can also visit the surroundings and Marken. Of course, I have some tips for things to do so that you have an ultimate day in Volendam . Here we go!

Tip! If you want to visit Volendam and you are coming from Amsterdam and are looking for some convenience, I recommend the Dutch Countryside Card or the Volendam, Marken, Windmills Guided Tour .

Tip 1 – De Dijk of Volendam

The first thing to do in Volendam is visit the Dijk. With the harbor on one side and souvenir shops, restaurants, and photographers on the other, this street is the typical image of Volendam. It is the tourist epicenter, but if you come early enough, you can walk around freely and relatively alone.

The buildings along the Dijk are all beautiful. One has a beautiful facade, another has beautiful wooden details, and the next is decorated with colorful flowers. However, the many flashy signs fighting for the attention of tourists do ruin the image a bit.

You can find traditional Volendam fishing boats in the harbor: they are called Vollendammer kwaks . You are not allowed to enter them, but you can admire them from very close by. On a clear day, you can even see Marken, the peninsula, from the Dijk.

Tip 2 – Take a photo in a traditional Volendam costume

In addition to many souvenir shops, you will also find a handful of photographers on the Dijk. Here, people like to have themselves immortalized in typical Volendam costumes. Whitecap, clogs, accordion, cheese: the whole shebang.

My best friend Patrick is EVERYTHING except convinced that this is a good idea. To be perfectly honest, I also have my doubts. Do I really want this? Uh yes! The picture taking is quick and efficient at Fotograaf Volendam (Haven 70). Before we know it, we are dressed in traditional costumes by the friendly employees, we step into our clogs, and we laugh at the camera in an old-fashioned living room.

Taking such a photo from Volendam is really easy, and we have no time to feel uncomfortable. At Fotograaf Volendam , we can choose whether we sit in the make-belief living room or rather take our picture in a fake boat, which attributes we hold (of course, I choose cheese), and which photo we want to print. We can download the rest online. Perfect!

You can already reserve a spot online .

Tip 3 – Het Doolhof – the oldest part of the city center

Directly behind the famous Dijk, you can walk into the oldest part of the center of Volendam – it is full of characteristic Volendam houses. This part is called the Doolhof (maze), and it’s not called that for no reason. It is wonderful to get lost in a maze of streets and canals with drawbridges. It doesn’t get more Dutch than this: cozy and gezellig .

Tip 4 – Walking through Volendam with a free audio tour

The tourist office Laag Holland has put together a nice walk through Volendam. It’s a free audio tour available on your phone. In about an hour, you can walk past all the highlights of Volendam. You will hear a large portion of Volendam history supplemented with images of paintings to illustrate the life of the past.

The audio tour starts at Hotel Spaander. Once you are there, turn on the audio tour ( you can find it here ), and start the walk.

Tip! Up for a beer? Order a Volendam beer, available at most cafes and also on the Marken Express. Beer brewery Volendam brews six different beers.

Tip 5 – Museums and attractions in Volendam

Actually, there is a lot more to do in the small fishing village. Do not expect giant museums or attractions that will take you hours, but small-scale initiatives. What about:

• Woltjes Stroopwafels & Museum: at Woltjes , you can buy stroopwafels in all shapes and sizes. You can participate in a demonstration of stroopwafel baking, including tasting stroopwafels, of course. Sounds good? Reserve a spot . There is a small museum on the first floor of the store, apparently sponsored by Droste. Here, a house from the past has been reconstructed.

• Cheese Factory Volendam: the cheese museum in Volendam is, in my opinion, more intended for foreign tourists than for the Dutch. You can see how cheese is made and do a tasting. But actually, I think it’s more of a cheese shop disguised as a cheese museum. Judge for yourself!
• Volendam Museum: curious about the history of Volendam and the unique traditional costume? Then pay a visit to the Volendams Museum . In the museum, you will find a collection of traditional costumes and jewelry, paintings, and even a full-size Volendam ship ( botter ).

• Volendam Experience: this is a virtual reality experience where you go back to 1916 and get to know Volendam from the past. How people lived back then, how Volendam was created, and what it looked like back in the day. And all of that through the VR glasses of the Volendam Experience .
• Palingsoundmuseum: the attic of eel smokehouse Smit-Bokkum has been transformed into a small museum with 100 years of Volendam music history. In Dutch, we call the music from Volendam palingsound , eel sound. That’s due to the fishery industry, of course. Whether the music sounds fishy is up to you. For only € 1.75, you can visit the Palingsoundmuseum and admire photos, gold records, and more of the Volendam singing talents. Jan Smit, Piet Veerman (from whom I once again asked for an autograph together with my grandmother), BZN, Nick & Simon… they are all here.

Tip 6 – Eat eel in Volendam, Netherlands

When you are in Volendam, you more or less owe it to yourself to eat an eel sandwich. Or any other fish. You will find more than enough fish stalls on the Dijk. Or go to the sunny terrace of eel smokehouse Smit-Bokkum, just outside the center. Then you can quickly visit the Palingsoundmuseum too.

Tip 7 – Cruise through the surroundings of Volendam

When you have finished up in Volendam, it is time to explore the world – aka: the Dutch countryside. You’ll have the most fun with a fat bike or an e-scooter from Rent & Event . It isn’t easy to choose which one is more fun, the fat bike or the e-scooter. They both go pretty fast; we loved testing their speed!

The friendly employees of Rent & Event show me how everything works and give tips for a scenic route. It takes some getting used to at first, but soon I want to take the e-scooter home. What an incredibly cool ride! And I feel very cool riding it. 🙂

We drive to Marken via Katwoude and Monnickendam . It’s a lovely ride. I enjoy cruising along the meadows and am eager to make a short stop at cheese farm Henri Willig to see the cows. A visitor center teaches interesting facts about cows and offers information about keeping cows.

We use the fat bike and e-scooter for four hours, and that gives us just enough time to reach Marken, have a look around, and take the Marken Express back to Volendam. Don’t worry – you can take your bike or e-scooter on the boat. If you plan to make more stops (for example, have a drink in Monnickendam), then four hours is a bit too tight – consider renting your ride for the entire day.

If you’re not sure about taking a fat bike or e-scooter out yourself, you can always opt for a guided bike tour.

Tip 8 – What to do on Marken, Netherlands

Just like you are on Urk , you are also ON Marken. Marken used to be an island, but thanks to the dam, it has been a peninsula since 1959. If you come from Volendam with a fat bike or e-scooter, you drive over this dam. We first go to the lighthouse of Marken. It is called the Paard van Marken (Horse of Marken). It is an inhabited lighthouse, and I have heard that it is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country. It is also at a beautiful spot – very scenic. Because people live here, you cannot visit the lighthouse. But even from a distance, it’s still pretty.

Back to the center of Marken. The whole of Marken is an attraction. No fewer than 140 buildings in Marken are monuments. The village is like a fairytale village with picturesque, mostly green-colored wooden houses, narrow alleys, and waving laundry on the line. Only residents’ cars are welcome in Marken – if all us visitors brought our cars, I don’t think it would fit.

On the outskirts of the village is an authentic clog factory where you can see how clogs are made out of a block of wood, and of course, you can buy as many souvenirs as you want. If you have time, visit the Sijtje Boes house: you can enter the Markense house for one euro, it’s decorated in the 1940s style. Also lovely: visit the Marker Museum to learn everything about the history of the former island and admire the clothing.

You will find all the terraces in the harbor, where the Marken Express also arrives and departs. On a busy day, it is crowded here.

Tip! Speaking of clogs… You can do a clog workshop in Volendam .

Tip 9 – Volendam – Marken with the Marken Express

The Marken Express takes you from Volendam to Marken in about half an hour, or vice versa. Boat rides always give me holiday vibes. I even like the ferry from Amsterdam Central to Amsterdam Noord, so I definitely enjoy the crossing from Marken to Volendam.

You can take your bicycle, fat bike, or e-scooter with you on the Marken Express. Buy a drink on board, or choose a package deal with snacks when buying your ticket. If you go for a drink: try a Volendam beer!

If you want to buy your ticket in advance, you can do so h e re .

How to get to Volendam in the Netherlands?

The easiest way to travel by public transport is to take the bus from Amsterdam Central Station to Volendam: line 316. It leaves every 15 minutes and takes about half an hour.

Be sure to check out the Dutch Countryside Card .

If you come to Volendam by car, you want to park for free, right? You can do that at the Slobbeland car park . The later in the day you come, the less chance of a free spot, of course.

And if you’re looking for a tour, I recommend the Volendam, Marken, Windmills Guided Tour . They show you all the main things to do in Volendam and Marken.

Spending the night in Volendam – great hotels

As there is more than enough to do in Volendam, maybe an overnight stay isn’t such a bad idea. Are you looking for a nice hotel in Volendam? Then check out the Boutique Hotel The Old Bridge (so beautiful!) And nowadays Hotel Spaander is open again! Or try one of the other options on Booking.com .

More travel inspiration for the Netherlands

Useful links for travel in the Netherlands

• Accommodation. Forever favorites: Booking.com and Campspace . Or try a holiday resort via Roompot . Rather stay in a hostel? Try HostelWorld .
• Activities . You book the best tours and activities with GetYourGuide and Viator . Another good option is WithLocals . Try a ‘free’ walking tour with Freetour or GuruWalk , and for bike tours, try Baja Bikes .
• Attractions and museums. Get a 5% discount on museums and attractions via Tiqets with the coupon code KIMOPREIS22.
• Car rental. Compare more prices at Discover Cars and Rental Cars .
• Money.  Your debit and credit cards may not get accepted everywhere. You could opt for a  Revolut card  as an additional card when you travel. 
• Package deals. Rather go on a catered trip? Try CheapOair or Expedia .
• Public transport. Use the regular public transport options, or find a bus, train, or other mode of transportation on Busbud or Omio .
• SIM card. Beware of unexpectedly high calling and internet costs. Buy a local SIM card when you arrive, or arrange one online via Airalo .
• Travel guides . I love the practical travel guides from Lonely Planet, buy them Amazon . I always enjoy seeing my own country through the eyes of foreign visitors.
• Yoga retreat. Or try a yoga retreat in the Netherlands .

Some of the links on this site are affiliate links. If you buy something through these links, I might receive a small commission .

Tourist office Laag Holland invited me to visit Volendam and Marken.

First published: July 2020. Updated since!

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I had a great time in Volendam and Marken! The typical touristy things to do are definitely worth doing, but I also recommend checking out the local markets and bakeries. The people are friendly and the scenery is beautiful.

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10 Best Things to Do in Volendam, Netherlands | An Epic Day Trip Guide

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Volendam, Netherlands is one of the most popular day trips from Amsterdam . The delightful fishing village known for its picturesque harbor is a tourist destination for visitors to the Netherlands.

Often combined with a visit to the towns of Edam and Marken, there are several fun and unique things to do in Volendam that make for a memorable stop on a vacation itinerary.

From sampling Dutch cuisine to learning how to make wooden shoes, this travel guide to the best things to do in Volendam will ensure you don’t miss any of the best experiences in this charming and beautiful tourist destination. 

PREFER A GUIDED TOUR? BOOK A TOUR TO VOLENDAM, MARKEN, EDAM, AND ZAANSE SCHANS HERE .

How to get to Volendam from Amsterdam 

Volendam is located 20 km North of Amsterdam. Driving is the easiest way to get to Volendam, but you can also take the bus.

The bus departs from Amsterdam Central Station and takes about 25 minutes to the center of Volendam. The bus station at the central station in Amsterdam is located on the canal side of the station, whereas the train station is located street-side.

Look for bus 316 , you will be on the bus for 11 stops until you reach Volendam Centrum. Public transport is a convenient and inexpensive way to get to Volendam from Amsterdam on a day trip.

Discover the Charming Town of Volendam | What is Volendam famous for?

Volendam is perhaps the most famous fishing village in Holland and one of the best places to visit in the Netherlands . Known for its colorful houses, quintessential Dutch architecture, and scenic harbor, Volendam attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists every year. 

Plan to spend at least 3 days in Amsterdam before taking a Volendam day trip for a nice change of pace and scenery.

There are several things to do in Volendam that make the small fishing community a popular place to visit. And after roaming the streets of this charming town, you’ll have a greater appreciation for the simple and safe lifestyle of a small Dutch town. 

Top things to do in Volendam, Netherlands 

To make the most of your visit or day trip, be sure to check out these great Volendam attractions and things to do. 

Take a Stroll through the Historic Village Center

One of the most charming things to do in Volendam is to simply wander the old neighborhoods in the oldest part of the Volendam village center. The narrow streets are lined with class Dutch houses. 

From the main shopping street along the harbor, divert into the neighborhood which sits directly behind it. There you’ll find cute houses linking a narrow canal, where ducks tend to hang out in summer.

Wandering the brick streets is a great way to escape the crowds you’ll find along the Volendam Dike and take in the beauty of the village. 

Eat Smoked Eel

Given its shoreside location, Volendam is renowned for its fresh seafood. And smoked eel is one of the most popular meals to try in Volendam. 

Lining the boardwalk by the harbor, you’ll find no shortage of restaurants and food stalls serving the local favorite along with other seafood and fish dishes.

While admittedly, it wasn’t something we would probably ever order again, we always enjoy trying local cuisine and loved trying eel in Volendam.

Explore the Volendam Museum

One of the most fascinating things to do in Volendam for history lovers, the Volendam Museum is a walk-through time from the late 1800s through the mid-1900s. 

The museum features permanent exhibitions depicting traditional Volendam costumes and historic home interiors. 

From work routines to religion, the museum gives visitors a glimpse at what daily life was like in Volendam for typical families and how the town has evolved and changed over the years.

Admire the Volendam Harbor and its Picturesque Views from De Dijk van Volendam

De Dijk van Volendam , or the Volendam Dike is the tourism hub of the town. This area of Volendam along the harbor is lined with restaurants and shops selling Dutch souvenirs housed in colorful buildings boasting beautiful Dutch architecture. 

Spend some time walking through this lively area, taking in the sites and atmosphere along the way.

Many of the top things to do in Volendam from the cheese factory to photography businesses are all located along De Dijk van Volendam. 

Visit the Edam Cheese Market in Summer

The towns of Volendam and Edam are right next to each other. And you may recognize the name Edam thanks to the world-famous cheese with the same name that hails from the town.  The Netherlands is known for its cheese .

If visiting the Netherlands in summer, one of the most popular things to do on a Volendam / Edam / Marken day trip is to visit the Cheese Market in Edam. 

From Volendam, you will want to hop back on bus 316 or 314 and take it a few more stops to Edam Bus Station, which is about a 7-minute walk from the cheese market. 

Every Wednesday during the months of July and August you can catch a historic reenactment of the original cheese market from the Middle Ages. The show gives visitors the opportunity to see how cheese trading once happened. 

Afterward, you can sample and purchase cheese and walk through the charming town with its beautiful old buildings. It is one of the most unique things to see on a day trip to Volendam and the surrounding towns. 

Go on a Scenic Boat Tour on the Volendam Marken Express 

Set off for the small town of Marken aboard the Volendam Marken Express . Depart from the Volendam harbor where you will sail 30 minutes to the once island community of Marken.

Although Marken is now accessible by road, as well, for the best experience, take an authentic boat from Volendam. 

In Marken, explore the community of cute wooden houses, and even visit an Old Dutch House .  If you have extra time, head to the far eastern tip of the island to take in the views of an old lighthouse which has been on the island for at least 100 years.

After your visit to the quiet community head back to Volendam or you can catch a bus directly to Amsterdam.

Marvel at a replica of the famed Halve Maen ship

Currently at port in Volendam for the foreseeable future, the Half Moon is a replica of the 1609 historic Halve Maen ship the Henry Hudson sailed up the Hudson River in the United States. 

This unique replica ship was originally constructed as an educational vessel linking the Dutch heritage in New York state to the origin country. After several years in Hoorn, the ship found a new home in Volendam, where it has been since 2020. 

Kids will think there are actual pirates at port when they first cast eyes on the elaborate ship with its billowing sails. The full-scale replica of the 17the century ship has appeared in several movies and is currently a popular photo opportunity at the Volendam marina.

Sample Dutch Cheese

Holland may be known for its canals, windmills and wooden shoes, but it’s world-class cheese among the list of its accolades. And you can sample all varieties of Dutch cheese at the Cheese Factory Volendam . 

Located just a few buildings away from the harbor, you can take a free tour showing how they make cheese in the Netherlands, and then sample and buy your favorite types to bring home.

As long as it isn’t opened, the cheese can stay fresh for up to a month without refrigeration, so it makes for a wonderful souvenir or gift to bring home from your travels.

Take a Photo in Traditional Dutch Costumes

Volendam is one of only a few places in the Netherlands where you can see people in traditional costumes.

The costumes are most often characterized by a black aproned skirt of dress for women, with a shawl and a pointed lace cap which curls up on the sides. The male costume includes wool pants with silver buttons, a waistcoat or jacket and a flat hat.

Although it may be touristy, one of the most popular things to do in Volendam is to have your photo taken in the traditional Dutch attire , as well.

There are several photo shops along the main street by the harbor where you can dress up and have a souvenir photo taken in authentic clothing.

Watch a Live Demonstration at the Wooden Shoe Factory in Marken 

Want to learn how those wooden shoes in the Netherlands are made and why the Dutch people love them so much? Head to the Wooden Shoe Factory when you arrive in Marken. 

The small shop has a demonstration area in the back where you can see how the Dutch carve their famous clogs. The demonstration is very short.

It will only take about 5 minutes, so even if you are short on time, this is an easy addition to a Volendam/Marken day trip. 

Of course, there is also a gift shop where you can try on a pair and buy some wooden shoes, which are one of the most popular souvenirs from the Netherlands. 

How long do you need to see Volendam, Netherlands? 

Given its close proximity to Amsterdam, you can visit the small fishing village of Volendam in a few hours. In fact, to make a full day of it, a Volendam day trip is typically combined with visits to neighboring Edam and Marken.

You could even combine a visit to Volendam with the quaint windmill village of Zaanse Schans , which is equally worthy of spending some time.

COMPARE ALL DAY TRIPS AND EXCURSIONS TO VOLENDAM HERE .

Conclusion: Is Volendam worth visiting?

If you want to escape the busyness of Amsterdam and retreat to a small and enchanting village, Volendam is worth visiting. The Dutch village on the shores of Markermeer Lake boasts colorful wooden houses lining a picturesque harbor.

It’s a great place to grab some seafood and take in the Dutch culture and customs which are an important part of Volendam’s history and daily life. 

Like the village of Giethoorn, Netherlands , Volendam is a highly popular day trip from the city of Amsterdam, and with good reason.

With so many great things to do in Volendam and the surrounding area, a day trip is well worth the short journey from the Dutch capital. It was a great addition to our Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg itinerary .

Do you have a question about any of these best things to do in Volendam, Netherlands? Or do you have other suggestions on things to see on a Volendam day trip? We’d love to hear from you! Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

Like this Volendam day trip guide? Pin this list of things to do in Volendam to save it for later!

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Volendam is a small, quaint fishing village located north-east of Amsterdam and is the perfect destination for a day trip from the capital. What better way to discover the Dutch territory and culture by taking a day trip from Amsterdam to explore the surrounding area? Volendam is a village that is part of the municipality of Edam-Volendam and was founded in the 14th century right next to the harbour of Edam. At one time, fishermen had direct access to the North Sea from here via the Zuider Zee.

Thanks to its location, Volendam was for years a small, orderly fishing village . Now, however, it is a town that is gaining more and more visitors thanks to its tranquillity, its still authentic spirit and its atmosphere. In fact, the charm of this location won over numerous painters and artists in the early 19th century who loved coming here because they were seduced and inspired by the fascinating landscapes.

Thanks to the presence of more and more artists, between the 19th and 20th century Volendam changed its reputation and started to develop as a tourist destination . Now the city presents itself as an ideal destination for a day trip from Amsterdam where you can spend some time relaxing, away from the pace of the capital.

Things to do in Volendam

The heart of this small village is certainly its charming harbour where many fishing boats and even yachts dock and where numerous shops, restaurants and clubs are located.

Here, visitors like to stroll around, buy some souvenirs in the little shops and stop to enjoy typical fish dishes in some of the restaurants overlooking the harbour.

Doolhof , which literally means ‘labyrinth’, is the area in the innermost part of Volendom. Here, in fact, lies a veritable labyrinth of narrow streets, bridges and canals where the best thing is to get lost. This part of town is characterised by numerous typical small houses with red roofs, elegant facades and numerous floral decorations. Amongst these streets you can still find small shops and small restaurants that are also frequented by many locals. This is the most authentic area that attracted and welcomed many artists to the city in the 19th century.

Volendam Museum

The Volendam Museum displays rich exhibits that tell the story and traditions of this famous fishing village. Habits and customs, typical food, clothes with a history going back hundreds of years: Volendam is a town with a historical and cultural heritage to discover!

In addition to numerous paintings, period clothing and jewellery , several model ships and boats are kept in this museum. Here, you can also visit the ‘cigar band house’, where marvellous mosaics and works of art made using 11 million cigar bands are preserved.

Hotel Spaander

Situated in the picturesque lanes of the city, not too far from the Volendam Dam, is the famous Art Hotel Spaander . Numerous artists stayed here between the 19th and 20th century who came to Volendam for its creative and inspirational ambience.

Initially, a café was opened here by Leendert Spaander and his wife Aaltje in 1854, but the building was later converted by the couple into a hotel to accommodate some artist friends who came to town. From this moment on, Hotel Spaander became a famous establishment and a cultural club that welcomed numerous painters.

For a time, some artists were able to pay for their hospitality at Hotel Spaander in works of art, which is why the interior is still filled with works that remind us of their presence in the city. The hotel also houses a restaurant where you can sample excellent local cuisine.

Volendam Cheese Factory

If you come to Volendam, you must try its excellent cheese, the Dutch Gouda. The Volendam Cheese Factory is the right place to have an interactive experience discovering this traditional food. At the Cheese Factory, you can taste this typical delicacy but also discover a lot of information about its birth, production and spread.

In fact, the Volendam cheese factory is not only a production site but also a small museum . Here you can learn about the entire cheese production process, participate in guided tastings and even buy cheese.

Discovering traditional clothes

Volendam is a town with a unique cultural and folklore heritage. In the town on holidays, the inhabitants of Volendam often still wear traditional costumes. The traditional dress, particularly for women, has given the town of Volendam an international reputation and has become one of the symbols of the Netherlands for many. Also very famous are the Dutch wooden shoes, known as klompen. Near the harbour there is still a small factory that shows visitors how these handmade shoes are made and here you can even buy a pair to take home!

Boat trip to Marken

From Volendam it is easy to reach the cosy town of Marken via a beautiful ferry crossing! The former island of Marken is located on the Markermeer lake and has now become a peninsula as it has been connected to the mainland by a 1.6 km long embankment.

Marken is famous for being a quiet fishing village characterised by colourful wooden houses, drawbridges and a picturesque harbour. The town is also famous for its beautiful lighthouse at the easternmost tip of this strip of land on a small sandy beach.

Where to stay in Volendam

Volendam is often visited as a day trip from Amsterdam but if you want, you can stay a night in the town to admire it in the quiet of the evening. Volendam is a cosy and hospitable village and there are several facilities here that are ready to welcome tourists. Besides the historic Hotel Spaander, you can find really cosy accommodation in old fishermen’s houses, small B&Bs or characteristic hotels. Volendam is not a very big place, the accommodations are not many, so especially in the summer period it is recommended to book your accommodation in advance.

Recommended hotels in Volendam

How to reach volendam.

Volendam is located about 20 km from the city of Amsterdam, so this village can be easily reached in different ways from the capital.

If you have a car , you can reach this location via the N247 in about thirty minutes. Alternatively, you can take the regular buses that leave from Amsterdam Central Station every 15-20 minutes and take about 30 minutes to reach Volendam.

Given its proximity to Amsterdam, the village can also be reached by bicycle by following a route that is almost entirely on a cycle track.

There are also numerous tours from Amsterdam that make it possible to organise a day trip that includes a visit to Volendam and Marken.

Volendam Weather

What's the weather at Volendam? Below are the temperatures and the weather forecast at Volendam for the next few days.

Where is located Volendam

Volendam from an administrative point of view is a fraction of the municipality of Edam-Volendam, a town located along the south-east coast of North Holland. This fishing village is approximately 20 km from Amsterdam, 35 km from Alkmaar and 45 km from Haarlem.

Location around

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<a href=\"https://tools.wmflabs.org/wikivoyage/w/poi2gpx.php?print=gpx&amp;lang=en&amp;name=Volendam\" title=\"Download GPX file for this article\" data-parsoid=\"{}\"><img alt=\"Download GPX file for this article\" resource=\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" src=\"//upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f7/GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" decoding=\"async\" data-file-width=\"20\" data-file-height=\"20\" data-file-type=\"bitmap\" height=\"20\" width=\"20\" class=\"mw-file-element\" data-parsoid='{\"a\":{\"resource\":\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\",\"height\":\"20\",\"width\":\"20\"},\"sa\":{\"resource\":\"File:GPX Document rev3-20x20.png\"}}'/></a></span>"}'/> Volendam is a fishing village in North Holland , 20 km north of Amsterdam . Sometimes called "the pearl of the Zuiderzee", this place is a highly popular tourist destination. Here, you'll find many Dutch clichés, including the traditional costumes and wooden shoes. Most of them, however, have a lot of historic truth to them.

Its rather isolated location and the character of its inhabitants, have given Volendam a very specific atmosphere. It's a fishermen's village, and the bustling harbour area with the many boats are still a major attraction today. From the 1880s it was a popular dwelling place for artists, who found that the town seemed hardly touched by time and captured its characteristics in lots of different paintings and other works of art. Volendam's traditional costume is one of the best known examples of ancient clothing in the country. Only a handful of people wear it in their daily lives today, but as the locals have recognized its value for tourism you will probably still run into it here or there.

In the Netherlands, Volendam is famous for its singers. There's an extensive Dutch music scene here and several of the most popular Dutch singers originate from this village. This music is known as the palingsound , literally "eel sound", a reference to the village's heritage as a fishing village. In the 1960s, the Cats was a popular group and in the 1970s BZN took over as the new flagship group. In 1995, BZN performed a duet with the ten year old Jan Smit, who quickly became a celebrity in his own right and is now the leading singer of the village. You can find posters and merchandise of him across town.

• 52.49488 5.07091 1 VVV tourist information office Volendam , Zeestraat 37 , ☏ +31 299 363 747 . The tourist information office is very helpful. It has lots of information on sights, activities and lodging options. ( updated Jun 2020 )

By road, the N247 will take you to the municipality of Edam -Volendam from Amsterdam or Monnickendam. To get to Volendam centre, exit the N247 where it connects to the N517, which will lead you there. The N247 connects to the A7 just before Hoorn . Alternatively, the N244 connects Volendam to Purmerend and connects to the A7 there.

Bus lines 110, 112, 118 and 373 connect Volendam to Amsterdam. Lines 113 and 213 run to and from Purmerend.

In summer, a ferry connection between Volendam and the peninsula of Marken every 30 to 45 minutes.

A great way to get to Volendam is by bike . There are many cycle routes that will take you there:

• From Purmerend train station - Volendam Cycle Route (45 or 37 km).

The village is best explored on foot or by bike. If you're travelling with two or more people, renting a "freemover", a Segway, is a good alternative. Short boat rides are another excellent way to see region around Volendam. There are different types of boats for rent or you can get on an organized trip.

What draws most travellers to Volendam is the typical village centre with its old houses, the bustling harbour area and fishermen's town atmosphere. Just walking around the old centre will quickly make you get the vibe. The oldest part of the centre is sometimes called "the labyrinth", for its narrow streets and seemingly random plan. There are a few specific sights of interest:

• 52.4942 5.07651 3 Visafslag , Haven 41 . The wooden building where fishermen sold their fish to customers for a large part of the 20th century. Build in 1934, it was a central point in town. Now a heritage sight, it remains a landmark today, even between the many other wooden houses. ( updated Jun 2020 )
• 52.49288 5.07396 5 Experience Volendam , Haven 154 , ☏ +31 630957271 , [email protected] . Daily 10:00-18:00 . 3D experience of Volendam, which tells the story of Volendam 100 years ago. €8.75 . ( updated Jun 2020 )

Have your picture taken, dressed in an original Volendam costume. It's a popular thing to do and, although not very authentic, it does provide a fun souvenir. There are a few places that offer this service, all in the harbour:

• 52.49398 5.07577 1 Foto de Boer , Haven 82 .  
• 52.49509 5.07691 2 Foto Zwarthoed , Haven 12 .  
• 52.49352 5.07516 3 Fotoshop Volendam , Haven 102 .  

The dike is lined with restaurants, bars and shops. You'll find an ample collection of typical souvenirs, including clogs and local costumes.

There are many restaurants in this town, most of them close to the waterfront. Unfortunately, the tourist crowds, who will usually not eat more than once at the same place, seem to have had a bad influence on the quality of food and service. Some of the better restaurants are connected to the larger hotels and bed&breakfasts, so check the Sleep section too.

• 52.49065 5.0656 1 Paviljoen Smit-Bokkum , Slobbeland 19 , ☏ +31 299 363 373 . Has its own eel-smoking facilities. Not the cheapest place around, but the sea-food dishes get good reviews. They have a small delicatessen store too, if you want to take the smoked food home. €25 . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• 52.49259 5.07325 2 d'Ouwe Helling , Zuideinde 5 , ☏ +31 299 321 333 . Of the larger restaurants in town and quite nice in terms of atmosphere. The service isn't always great and the food seems to have good and bad days, too. mains ~€18 . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• 52.49848 5.05317 3 De Witte Deli Snacks , Steile Bank 2 , ☏ +31 299-367139 . This place is a combination of a fresh fish store and a snack place. It's a great option if you want a fast bite or a cheap meal. It has a good range of standard fries and snacks. There are simple, pre-made meals too, which they can either warm up for you to eat straight away, or pack to take home and heat there. Of course, they also sell the typical Dutch herring, smoked fish and other seafood snacks. from €4 . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• 52.49282 5.07353 4 Viswinkel en Traiteur De haven Volendam , Zuideinde 2 , ☏ +31 299-322822 . Located directly on the Dike in Volendam this is a fresh fish and take away meals store with only top quality products. There's a cook with 35 years of experience to deliver the best quality. You can ask for the special takeaway dinner for the Marinapark Volendam. from €4 . ( updated Jun 2020 )

In the evenings, the lively dike and seaside area is the place to be. In summer, the bars and restaurants there all have outdoor terraces and make a great place to have a beer.

• 52.49364 5.07403 1 DV Groep Bed & Breakfast , Zeestraat 13a , ☏ +31 299 321678 . Modern rooms above a pizzeria from the same owner, which is a good choice for food. It's a no-frills place but has all basic needs. Some rooms have no windows, only sky-lights. 70 . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• 52.49496 5.07714 2 Hotel Restaurant Spaander , Haven 15-19 , ☏ +31 299 363595 , [email protected] . Hotel in the Best Western chain with reasonable rooms. Breakfast is not included and a bit overpriced. Ask for a room with lake view. €100 . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• 52.49299 5.07442 3 Hotel Old Dutch , Haven 142 , ☏ +31 299 399888 . Spacious rooms and friendly service. The restaurant is good, too. It can be a bit of a challenge to find the place though, and if you're a light sleeper, the noises from the popular harbour area might keep you up. Otherwise, a good pick. €99.50 . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• 52.49329 5.07525 4 Hotel Restaurant Van den Hogen , Haven 106 , ☏ +31 299-363775 . Rooms have basic facilities. The central location is great for those looking for some nightlife, but can be a bit noisy for those who aren't. €90 . ( updated Jun 2020 )
• 52.49147 5.06401 5 Vakantiepark & Hotel Marinapark , Pieterman 1 , ☏ +31 900-8810 . A rental home in this seaside holiday park (part of the Roompot chain) is a comfortable option if you're staying at least a good weekend or if you're travelling in a small group. Fully equipped kitchens are available in every apartment. There are also a few hotel rooms. For all: make sure to book well in advance. €79 for a hotel room . ( updated Jun 2020 )

Hop on a boat to visit the nearby village of Marken . The ferry leaves every 30 to 45 minutes from the harbour. Or take a cycling tour across the region taking in Monnickendam , Broek in Waterland and the windmills of the Zaanse Schans . The adjoining village of Edam is so close that it can be reached on foot.

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Tourist’s guide to Volendam and Edam – towns with the spirit of old Holland

Volendam (Holland) is a fishing village near Amsterdam where you can see how Dutch fishermen lived in the 19th century. Volendam is not an open-air museum, its population lives its usual life, providing an opportunity for guests to watch it with the hospitality of hospitable hosts. Without a visit to Volendam and the nearby town of Edam and the village of Marken, acquaintance with Holland would not be complete.

General information

The history of the village of Volendam (Netherlands) is inextricably linked with the nearby city of Edam. Edam has been known since the middle of the 13th century, in 1357 he was given city status, and by the beginning of the 16th century he became the center of shipbuilding in North Holland. However, after a couple of hundred years, the construction of ships stopped here, and cheese making became dominant in the economy of the city. From the middle of the 16th century and until 1922, official cheese fairs were held here weekly.

Now Eddam is a small town with a population of about 7,000 people, which, like Volendam, is a landmark in Holland and attracts many tourists. The interest of the country’s guests in these places is not only informative, but also gastronomic – many people come to Volendam to taste the freshest Dutch herring, smoked eel and shrimp, and Edam attracts with its famous cheese, bearing the same name as the city.

Related entries:

• Tourist’s guide to Zaandam and Zaanse Schans: windmills near Amsterdam
• Tourist’s guide to Leiden – a city on the canals in Holland
• Tourist’s guide to Patmos, Greece: a very devout island
• What to bring from Holland – gift and souvenir ideas

Initially, Volendam served as the harbor of Edam, but over time, a canal to the Zuidersee Bay was dug, and the former harbor lost its significance for the city. The fishing and farm settlements that appeared here formed the village of Volendam. Now about 22,000 people live in it, which is three times more than in Edam. Getting from Amsterdam to Volendam on your own is not at all difficult.

Attractions and entertainment

Volendam itself is a landmark of the Netherlands monarchy . People come here to feel the spirit of old Holland, to find out how this country lived for many centuries.

Neat village streets with traditional Dutch architecture, windmills, all kinds of fishing boats, directly from which you can buy freshly caught fish – all this will tell about Holland better than any guide. It is enough to see with what love every square decimeter of land is used here to understand how much the inhabitants of Holland value land, because they have to literally conquer it from the sea.

Openness is an important part of the Dutch culture, this tradition has been preserved since ancient times, when the wives of fishermen who went to sea did not close their windows to show their loyalty to their husbands. Openness allows residents of Volendam to live and work calmly under the relentless attention of an endless stream of tourists. Many windows in Volendam are not curtained, like many centuries ago.

For visitors to Volendam, there are many attractions here. This is a local historical museum with old household items and scenes from the life of fishermen of the past, workshops for making wooden shoes, and traditional cheese dairies and pastry shops. Attractions also include the church of St. Vincent, built in the middle of the 19th century.

There is also its own picture gallery. For the village of Volendam (Holland), this attraction is of particular importance, because the development of tourism here occurred precisely thanks to the artists.

At the end of the 19th century, the owner of the village hotel, Leendert Spaander, began providing artists with rooms in exchange for their paintings. This attracted many painters to the village, and the local landscapes they painted spread around the world, attracting new travelers to these lands.

Every year the fame of this Dutch village grew, and with it the influx of tourists. Among the admirers of Volendam, there are such famous personalities as Auguste Renoir, Claude Monet, Walt Disney, Elizabeth Taylor, etc.

Judging by the number of tourists, the main attraction of Volendam is its promenade. Most of the tourist flows are concentrated on Marina Volendam, it is always crowded and noisy. A characteristic component of the landscape – numerous yachts, boats, fishing boats moored on the shore.

Typical buildings of Volendam are one-story houses with an attic and a gable roof. The exception is the promenade, where you can see two-story and three-story houses in the style of traditional Dutch architecture. The first floors in all buildings of the embankment are occupied by numerous shops, cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops.

An interesting feature of the Volendam embankment is that it rises above the village. If you take a photo from the sea, Valendam will be completely hidden by a number of coastal houses. The fact is that the embankment is located on a dam and is located slightly above sea level, while the rest of the village is located significantly below sea level. If not for the efforts of its inhabitants, the territory of Volendam would have been the seabed.

Traditional entertainments on the embankment are feeding ducks and cormorants, fish for which you can buy here, tasting local fish specialties, photographing in Dutch national costumes, boat trips on boats. There are also sights here – bronze figures of people from the past, hurrying about their business, or sitting down to rest on benches.

From the promenade of Volendam 8 months a year (from mid-March to mid-November) the ferry goes to the small village of Marken, located on the island of the same name. A ferry to Marken runs every 30-40 minutes, the first departure at 9.45, the last flight from Marken to Volendam at 18.00. You can get here in half an hour. The price of a ticket is € 8 one way, or € 11.50 – round trip.

The village of Marken is small, its population is about 1800 people. Since the 13th century, after the flood, its territory was isolated from the mainland, which led to the emergence of special customs, dialect, costume. In the middle of the 20th century, a dam and a road were built to the island, on which you can get to it by regular bus services. The main industry of the inhabitants used to be fishing, now the main source of income is tourism.

Marken is interesting for the peculiar architecture of stilt houses, the cleanliness, comfort and well-groomed courtyards. At the service of tourists are many cafes and restaurants serving local cuisine, souvenir shops.

See also: What to try in the Netherlands – dishes of national cuisine .

Although Edam has only 7,000 inhabitants, it is a real city. Its architecture is dominated by two and three-story brick houses, there are many interesting sights. Being in these parts, do not forget to visit Edam, Volendam is only ten minutes away.

The main attraction of Edam is his famous Edam cheese, which made this city famous throughout the world. Cheese lovers can come here all year round, but a special holiday awaits them if you get here in July and August. At this time, on Wednesdays, theatrical cheese fairs are held in Edam, recreating the atmosphere of a medieval market.

In Edam, there are 176 national monuments, among which attractions such as:

• one of the largest in the Netherlands Church of St. Nicholas of the 17th century with ancient stained-glass windows, whose area is 550 sq.
• Edam Historical Museum with a floating basement, located in a merchant house of the 16th century .;

• attracting its beauty the old Town Hall of the 18th century;
• The weight chamber, built in the 18th century. for weighing cheeses;
• Ancient houses, canals with drawbridges, etc.

Having decided to get to Edam, it is worthwhile to devote more time to sightseeing his sights and more space in his luggage for his wonderful cheeses. To get to Edam and Volendam, it is not necessary to book excursions, this can easily be done independently.

Another city famous for its whole cheese is Gouda. Find out what it is and whether to visit it on this page .

Prices on the page are for May 2018.

How to get to Volendam from Amsterdam?

If you do not know how to get to Volendam from Amsterdam, we will tell you. Buses 316, 312, 110, 118 follow from Amsterdam daily to Volendam. They depart from the bus station, which is located on the back of Amsterdam Central Station. A bus leaves each route approximately once per hour. Travel time is 30-40 minutes, ticket price is about € 5.

Video: A short walk through the city of Volendam in Holland.

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Edam, town of cheese and much more!

When people first think of Edam, they usually think of cheese.  But while Edam is very proud of its round, yellow cheeses, that for several centuries have been sent to all corners of the world, this ancient city is known for much more. The city itself is a conservation area and it is wonderfull to stroll along the canals (called harbours), the streets and wondering old fronts dating from mostly the 17th and 18th century.

Less than 30 minutes by bus from the hustle and bustle of the capital city of Amsterdam, you can find one of the Netherlands’ best kept secrets – the historic city of Edam. In the centre of Edam, you’ll find classy shops and café terraces. the Edam museum in the ‘Coopmanshuis’ with its floating cellar floor, and City Hall where you can meet the tallest woman in history who once lived in the city. Well-preserved gables, squares, bridges, and monuments will capture your imagination and take you back to the past.

Edam cheesemarket every summer

Every Wednesday morning in July and August you can experience for yourself what life was like for the cheese merchants who raced to be first to offload their merchandise and secure the best prices. Local Edammers re-enact the scenes of yesteryear in the historic market square. There you can buy authentic Edam cheese produced by local farms

The Great Church

One of the city’s proudest possessions and has its origins in the 15th century.  It’s known for being the largest ‘hall’ church of its kind in western Europe and has cathedral proportions.  Its beautiful stained-glass windows tell the story of how cities and guilds across North Holland came together to replace those lost in a fire caused when lightning struck the tower in 1602. They survived a similar fire when lightning struck again in 1699. 

Just a 15-minute walk outside the city centre you’ll find Fort Edam, part of the Defence Line around Amsterdam. It was constructed between 1880 and 1920. There you will find spectacular views of the wetlands around Edam and the former Zuiderzee. Fort Edam is a listed UNESCO World Heritage site.

Guided City Walk

For those who would like to know more about Edam’s history, join one of our expert tour guides for a walk around the city. Tours are available every Saturday at 14.00 hrs from the old City Hall. Tickets cost just 6 euros per person. Tours are also possible for groups on different days and times by booking via our Edam Tourist Information (VVV) website. 

Edam Boat Cruise

In the spring and summer, you can gain a different perspective of our lovely city from the water.  Edam boat cruises, with an experienced guide, are available via our website. 

You’ll receive a warm welcome when you drop in to the Tourist Information Office ‘VVV’ on Dam Square in the centre of Edam. We look forward to seeing you! 

Edam is a city with a rich history. It began in the 12th century when farmers and fishermen settled along the little river Ye.

After making a dam in the river Ye, Yedam (Edam) came into being. Edam really began to develop when it was awarded

city rights in 1357. Shipbuilding played an important role in this growth. This primitive settlement became an increasingly prosperous city and remained so well into the 17th century. 

Edam is known for its once thriving shipyards of which there were 33. The shipbuilding industry helped to establish it as one

of the most commercial cities in north Holland along with Amsterdam, Hoorn, and Enkhuizen. Perhaps the most famous ship to have been constructed in Edam was the ‘Halve Maen’ (Half Moon).  It was built for the English explorer Henry Hudson, who in 1609, tried to discover a northern route to the East Indies. Unfortunately, his attempt failed, and the ‘Halve Maen’ eventually became stranded on the island of Manhattan.  

Today Edam is known for its authentic 17th century architecture.  It boasts 200 listed national monuments.

As you walk along its streets and canals let your imagination roam as you take in the well-preserved gables,

squares, bridges, and monuments that give a nod to the city’s glorious past. Walk along the historical tea-houses

on the 'Schepenmakersdijk', and the leaning Carillon tower (1561) on the Lingerzijde to the Dam square.

Just outside of Edam is the ‘Strandbad.’  There you will find a campsite and restaurant on the edge of the Markermeer (formerly known as the Zuiderzee).  When the IJsselmeer dam was completed in 1932, what was the sea became a sweet water lake.  On a fine day you can bask in the sun on the Strandbad’s terrace, and on a windy day you can watch kitesurfers taking advantage of the wind and waves.

We could easily continue summing up the attractions Edam has to offer, but we prefer inviting you personally to come to Edam and discover the quiet and beauty of this little IJsselmeer-town. You're more than welcome!

VVV Edam-Volendam

Office Edam: Visitors: Damplein 1 (Town hall) 1135 BK Edam Postal: PO Box 91, 1135 ZJ Edam Tel +31299-315125

Office Volendam: Visitors: Zeestraat 37 (Museum) 1131 ZD Volendam Postal: PO Box 44, 1130 AA Volendam Tel +31299-363747

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© 2024 Stichting Tourist Information Edam-Volendam

The Edam-Volendam urban community has something for everyone. Volendam is known for its traditional costumes, lively harbour, beautiful village centre, smoked eel, distinctive music and sporting achievements. One of the best-kept secrets is Edam. Here you can stroll through the quiet old cobblestone streets enjoying art, culture, beautiful historic buildings, the famous Edam cheese and cheese market, wonderful shops and excellent restaurants. Former Zeevang is an area characterised by an expansive peat landscape with many recreational opportunities. These marshy grasslands still exude the atmosphere of old Holland: tranquillity, wide open spaces and great natural beauty.

Volendam has a strong musical heritage  and is placed on the map by their successful musicians. Local football club FC Volendam, well-known for its constant 'ups and downs' (promotion and relegation) in the professional football leagues, and their handball club, a five-time Dutch champion regularly put Volendam in the spotlight. 

Volendam is also the place tourists 'must see' when visiting Holland thanks to its traditional dress, harbour with bustling fish market which forms the lively heart of the village where fishing vessels, old smacks (type of traditional fishing boat), pleasure crafts and yachts lie snugly side-by-side in a delightful setting. 

The old centre of Volendam lies behind the dyke and is called the Maze (Doolhof). Characteristic of this part of Volendam are the small wooden houses and the ancient atmospheric maze of narrow streets.  

More information Volendam

For more information on all leisure activities, sights, museums, restaurants, bars, shops or accommodation on Volendam, please visit the  Volendam Tourist Information website .

Visiting Edam is like stepping back in time, most of the city is as it was centuries ago. No extensions, no new buildings but preserving all the beauty of bygone days. And that’s quite something as in the fourteenth and fifteenth century Edam was one of Holland's most prominent trade ports of the day. Shipbuilding and cheese industries in particular ensured that Edam flourished. This prosperity is still visible in the form of richly decorated gabled rooftops and impressive historic buildings.

For most people Edam is synonymous with cheese. Edam is famous for its 'Edammer', a round cheese that has been exported from Edam to all corners of the world for centuries. The Edam traditional-style cheese market is open for visitors weekly during the summer months.

More information Edam

For more information on all leisure activities, sights, museums, restaurants, bars, shops or accommodation on Edam, please visit the  Edam Tourist Information website .

Former Zeevang

The former Zeevang comprises the villages Beets, Oosthuizen, Middelie, Kwadijk, Hobrede, Schardam and Warder. The small country roads, unique grassland birds and ribbon villages are typical to this region. It is an ideal countryside for cycling, walking and canoeing. And it offers a wonderful view of the Marker Lake. Another interesting point about this typical Dutch landscape is that it holds the second-lowest point in the Netherlands which is almost seven metres below sea level.

Experience the agricultural life here by visiting working farms and strolling down country lanes and crossing the waterways with pull-ferries. The school where C. Joh. Kieviet, writer and creator of Dik Trom, a classic children's book, taught and where he wrote his first Dik Trom book is also open to visitors. Zeevang is a fascinating area rich in cultural history and well worth a visit! 

More information former Zeevang

For information on all leisure activities, sights, museums, restaurants, bars, shops or accommodation please visit  the website: Laagholland.com .