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Volendam, the iconic fishing village that takes you back to the Netherlands of old. Just 20 kilometers from Amsterdam, this picturesque pearl on the Markermeer is home to colorful wooden houses, old fishing boats and traditional costumes. Not for nothing does Volendam attract more than a million visitors a year from all over the world. But even as a Dutchman, it is the perfect place to play tourist in your own country for a day. From strolling along the famous Dijk to tasting fresh fish, in Volendam you will experience a day full of authentic Dutch charm. Here are the best tips for your visit!
The history of Volendam: a fishing village with character
Did you know that Volendam was originally called Follendam? For locals, that name is still familiar. The village came into existence in 1357 when the port of nearby Edam was dammed, causing fishermen to look for a new place. Thus Volendam grew to become the most famous fishing village in the Netherlands. Although fishing no longer plays the main role there, Volendam still breathes that maritime atmosphere.
How to get to Volendam?
Volendam is easy to get to, both by car and by public transportation. From Amsterdam Central, a bus leaves for Volendam every 15 minutes, taking you there in about 30 minutes. Traveling by car? Keep in mind that parking in the center can be busy, especially on weekends and in the summer months. Paid parking is available in several parking garages, but you can also park for free at Parkeerplaats Volendam or Parkeerterrein Marina.
These are the best things to do in Volendam
Eating fresh fish and taking pictures in Dutch costumes are typical things to do when you are in Volendam. But what else can you do there? These are our Volendam tips for a fun day out!
1. Visit the Volendam Museum
If you are interested in the history of the fishing village of Volendam then a visit to the Volendam Museum don't miss. It is a small museum, but you will find an awful lot of information about Volendam of the past. Of course there are exhibits that deal with traditional costumes, but there is also an exhibit about fishing and there are several paintings you can view. Surely the highlight of the Volendam Museum is the Cigar Tapes Museum.
2. Have photos taken in Dutch costume
The traditional costume of Volendam is one of the most famous examples of old Dutch clothing. Having your picture taken in traditional costume is the highlight of a visit to Volendam. You can ask yourself the question: have you been to Volendam if you don't have a picture in traditional costume? You'll find several shops in Volendam where you can go from head to toe. Get dressed up for a typical Dutch photo. A nice memento of a day in Volendam!
3. Sail by boat to Marken
You can take the boat from Volendam harbor to Marken, a small peninsula. Marken can be described as the smaller and quieter Volendam and also has more charm than the fishing village. Stroll through the narrow streets and across the drawbridges. Admire the picturesque houses and don't be surprised to see clotheslines full of clean laundry hanging down. Besides strolling around, be sure to visit the clog factory or take a peek inside Sijtje Boes' cottage.
With the Volendam-Marken Express sail from Volendam to Marken in half an hour. The ferry service sails every day. A one-way ticket for an adult costs €10 and a return for an adult costs €16.
4. Walk through 't Maze
The historical heart of Volendam is also called 't Doolhof. Depart from wide shopping street and discover the oldest part of Volendam. 't Doolhof is cozy and it consists of a maze of narrow streets, canals and drawbridges. Everything is crisscrossed, even the houses. Hence, of course, the name. As you walk around here, be sure to imagine how people used to walk around here in costume. That must have been a special time!
5. Rent an e-fatbike and ride to Edam and Monnickendam
Want to see more of the area? Rent an e-fatbike and ride to Edam and Monnickendam in no time. Both villages are at least as atmospheric as Volendam, but a lot quieter. Do you have time to spare? Then extend your route to Broek in Waterland and Zuiderwoude for the ultimate Dutch bike ride.
6. Walk along the Dike of Volendam
De Dijk is where it happens in Volendam. Tourists always flock to De Dijk where you will find several restaurants, bars and stores. The houses on De Dijk you will surely recognize from the pictures of Volendam, they are beautiful in architecture. If you walk on De Dijk you will pass without a doubt the most striking building, the Visafslag from 1934. This was the central point of Volendam during the once flourishing fish trade. Now it is a monumental building that you can only walk underneath.
7. Eating fish in Volendam
Originally, of course, Volendam is a fishing village, and even though it hasn't made a living from fishing for a long time, eating fresh fish at De Dijk is really the tip for in Volendam. You can opt for a portion of kibbeling or a roll of herring, but really what Volendam is all about is an eel sandwich. Will you sit down at one of the restaurants or would you rather get a fish from a fish stall? You can do both!
Tip: Vishandel Lekkers is by hearsay (but by now also by taste) the best in Volendam!
8. Visit the Cheese Factory Volendam
Say Holland and you say cheese. So be sure to walk into the famous Cheese Factory Volendam where you can taste and buy different types of cheese. The store also gives demonstrations about cheese, but these are mainly attended by foreign tourists. There is also a small museum with more information about the production process of cheese should you find this interesting. From the store you can walk right in (free of charge).
9. Combine a visit to Volendam with the Zaanse Schans
Want to make your day out even more special? Combine Volendam with a visit to the Zaanse Schans, where you take a step back in time among historic mills and traditional cottages. Here you will also find the very first Albert Heijn in the Netherlands.
Travander
At Travander, we’re all about exploring hidden gems, unique destinations, and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Our motto, “Let’s Travel and Wander,” reflects our passion for discovering both local treasures and faraway adventures. As experienced travel bloggers and travel consultants, we share insider tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you make the most of every trip. From city breaks and weekend getaways to tailor-made travel itineraries, we guide you to the most beautiful and inspiring places. Explore the world with Travander and let us spark your next unforgettable adventure!
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