Volendam: Traditional fishing village with charm

Visitor Fee

• Entry to the village – Free
• Volendam Museum – €5 (Adults), €3 (Children)
• Cheese Factory Volendam Tour – Free
• Boat to Marken – Around €9 (one-way), €16 (round-trip)

Transportation

Volendam is just 20 km north of Amsterdam and easily accessible:

• By Car – About a 30-minute drive from Amsterdam, with parking available.
• By Bus – Direct buses from Amsterdam Centraal (Lines 316 & 312) take about 30 minutes.
• By Bicycle – A scenic bike ride from Amsterdam through Dutch countryside.
• By Boat – A ferry connects Volendam and Marken, offering a beautiful view of the lake.

Things to Do in Volendam

1. Walk Along the Harbor (De Dijk) – Enjoy a stroll along colorful wooden houses, fishing boats, and souvenir shops.
2. Try Fresh Seafood – Taste Dutch herring, smoked eel, and kibbeling (fried fish bites).
3. Visit the Volendam Museum – Learn about the town’s fishing heritage, traditional costumes, and artwork.
4. Get a Traditional Dutch Photo – Dress in classic Volendam attire for a fun keepsake.
5. Explore Cheese Factory Volendam – Watch a cheese-making demonstration and enjoy free tastings.
6. Take a Boat to Marken – Visit the nearby Marken Island, known for its wooden houses and maritime history.
7. Walk Through the Old Quarter – Discover charming streets, hidden courtyards, and historic buildings.
8. Visit St. Vincent’s Church – A beautiful Catholic church dating back to the 19th century.
9. Go Cycling Along the IJsselmeer – Ride along peaceful Dutch countryside and dike roads.
10. Shop for Souvenirs & Handicrafts – Buy local wooden clogs, Delftware, and traditional Dutch gifts.

Why People Enjoy Visiting Volendam

• Classic Dutch Atmosphere – A picturesque village with old-world charm.
• Rich Fishing & Maritime Heritage – One of the most famous fishing villages in the Netherlands.
• Delicious Seafood & Cheese – A paradise for food lovers, especially those who enjoy fresh fish.
• Scenic Waterfront & Harbor Views – Great for relaxing walks, photography, and boat tours.
• Cultural & Historical Experience – Offers a glimpse into traditional Dutch life and customs.

How Old is This Place?

Volendam was originally a small fishing settlement in the 14th century, established in 1357. It has maintained its historic charm for over 650 years, making it one of the most well-preserved traditional villages in the Netherlands.

List of Activities

• Walking along the harbor (De Dijk)
• Eating fresh seafood and Dutch cheese
• Visiting the Volendam Museum
• Dressing in traditional Dutch clothing for photos
• Taking a ferry to Marken Island
• Exploring the Cheese Factory Volendam
• Cycling along the IJsselmeer coastline
• Shopping for wooden clogs and souvenirs
• Visiting St. Vincent’s Church
• Enjoying the waterfront cafes and terraces

Additional Nearby Attractions

1. Marken – A nearby island village with historic wooden houses and a scenic lighthouse.
2. Edam – Famous for its cheese market and charming canals.
3. Zaanse Schans – A windmill village with traditional Dutch crafts and museums.
4. Amsterdam – Just 30 minutes away, perfect for a day trip to the capital.
5. Monnickendam – A lesser-known but beautiful historic town with old harbors and churches.

Volendam is a must-visit for those wanting to experience traditional Dutch culture, taste fresh seafood, and enjoy a picturesque waterfront village!