Things To Do
in Volendam
Volendam is a historic fishing village in North Holland perched on the IJsselmeer shore. It features a compact harbor lined with traditional wooden houses, bustling fish stalls, and plenty of photo-worthy waterfront scenes. The town preserves classic Dutch culture with clogs, cheese stalls, and seaside cafés coexisting with modern galleries and shops.
Visitors enjoy fresh seafood, scenic walks along the dyke, and easy day trips to Marken and Edam.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque harbor of Volendam, taking in the charming traditional houses and vibrant fishing boats. Visit the Volendam Museum to learn about the town’s rich history and culture, showcasing local art and historical artifacts. Stop by a local bakery for some famous Dutch treats like oliebol or stroopwafels to fuel your exploration.
Spend the afternoon enjoying the stunning views of the IJsselmeer from the waterfront or catch a ferry to the nearby island of Marken. Explore the quaint streets of Marken, where you can see traditional wooden houses and visit the quaint local shops. Return to Volendam and enjoy a relaxed lunch at a seafood restaurant, sampling the day's fresh catch.
As evening approaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at one of Volendam's waterfront eateries, savoring authentic Dutch cuisine. Following dinner, stroll along the bustling promenade, soaking in the lively atmosphere and perhaps enjoying some live music or local festivities. End the night with a traditional Dutch dessert while watching the sun set over the water.
Start your day by visiting a traditional cheese farm nearby, where you can learn about the cheese-making process and sample various types of Dutch cheese. Enjoy the scenic bike ride along the meadows filled with grazing cows and tulip fields on your way back to Volendam. Explore the local shops for handmade crafts and souvenirs that reflect Volendam's maritime heritage.
Spend the afternoon at the nearby Edam, famous for its cheese market, and enjoy a guided tour to understand the town's significance in Dutch cheese production. Wander around the charming streets lined with historic buildings, canals, and bridges, soaking in the serene atmosphere. Grab a hearty lunch at a local café, featuring Edam's famous cheese on the menu.
Return to Volendam for dinner and enjoy a dining experience at a restaurant specializing in fresh fish dishes from the North Sea. Afterward, take a relaxed walk by the waterfront, where you may witness the locals engaging in evening pastimes or catching fish. Conclude your evening with a visit to a cozy bar to enjoy Dutch beer or jenever while mingling with friendly locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍺Beer | $4-7 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $8-12 |
| 🚗Taxi starting fare | $4-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming, walkable town with authentic Dutch coastal character
- Excellent harbor views, seafood, and photo opportunities
- Can be crowded in peak summer with day-trippers
- Limited nightlife and larger-scale entertainment nearby
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you are
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is de trein?" - Where is the train?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ik begrijp het niet" - I don't understand
- "Kan ik een kaartje kopen?" - Can I buy a ticket?
- "Tot ziens" - Goodbye
- "Prettige dag" - Have a nice day
Places to Visit in Volendam
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic line of colorful wooden houses facing the harbor; best captured at sunrise or golden hour.
Wide IJsselmeer views from the dike, ideal for landscape and sunset shots.
Harbor basin filled with traditional fishing boats, nets, and market activity.
Historic square near the water, offering candid street photography and locals at work.
Food in Volendam
Volendam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh raw herring eaten with onions, a quintessential Dutch street snack often served on a bun or with pickles.
Must-Try!
Battered and fried cod bites usually served with garlic sauce or tartar sauce.
Fluffy mini pancakes dusted with powdered sugar, a popular treat at markets and cafés.
Large, thin pancakes that can be served sweet or savory, often enjoyed as a filling meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market by the harbor offering fresh fish, local cheeses, and souvenirs.
Quick bites along the quay — classic Dutch street food with seaside views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch people are typically straightforward in conversation; politeness is valued, but explicit communication is common.
Queue politely, keep voices reasonable near homes, and respect private property on the quay.
Give cyclists space; use bike lanes and signal when turning or stopping.
English is widely spoken; learning a few Dutch phrases is appreciated by locals.
Safety
Tipping in Volendam
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory. Round up the bill or leave about 5-10% for good service if not already included.
Cash and cards (debit/credit) are widely accepted; contactless payment is common; some smaller stalls may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, sunny days with long evenings; expect crowds from cruise ships and day-trippers. Great for harbor photos, boat trips, and outdoor dining; afternoons can be breezy by the water.
Milder days with colorful skies and fewer crowds. Perfect for quiet strolls along the dyke and cheese-tasting stops.
Cool to cold with potential rain or light snow. The town feels cozy with festive lights; indoor cafés and museums provide warmth and culture.
Fresh green tones around the harbor and nearby canals; tulip season brings vibrant scenery and pleasant walking weather.
Volendam at Night
Hiking in Volendam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic coastal walk from Volendam to Marken and back, featuring water views and traditional island architecture.
Gentle rural trails through polders and canals, connecting Volendam with Edam and other lakeside areas.
Expansive greenspace with birdlife and water routes, suitable for longer walks and cycling near Amsterdam.
Airports
How to reach Volendam by plane.
Major international gateway about 25-30 minutes by train or car from Volendam; frequent connections and convenient access to Volendam via bus or taxi.
Smaller regional airport offering some domestic and European flights; reachable by road or rail links via nearby towns.
Another option for regional connections; farther from Volendam but possible with rail connections and road travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Dutch families and retirees, with a steady stream of seasonal workers and long-time locals in the harbor area.
Large share of day-trippers from Amsterdam and other cities, attracted by the harbor, seafood, and photo opportunities.
Some tourism-focused roles peak in spring and summer; many local shops depend on seasonal demand.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular way to explore the water-rich landscape around Volendam and neighboring towns.
Common throughout the Netherlands; local clubs and casual play are part of everyday life.
Boating, sailing, and fishing are traditional activities tied to the IJsselmeer coast.
When temperatures permit, the flat countryside is suitable for skating on frozen canals and lakes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Volendam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most cafés and markets. Look for cheese plates, vegetable soups, and veggie sandwiches; inform staff of any dairy or egg restrictions.