Volendam
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Volendam's hidden gems and unique experiences!
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.
Awake to the sounds of nature and take a morning walk to the nearby Waterland area, where you can enjoy the tranquil nature and beautiful waterways. Breathe in the fresh air and maybe even spot some wildlife as you traverse the scenic trails. Afterward, stop at a local café for a delightful breakfast featuring freshly baked bread and farm-fresh eggs.
In the afternoon, rent a bike and explore the scenic landscapes surrounding Volendam, including the traditional countryside and beautiful landscapes. Visit the nearby Beemster Polder, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take in the stunning 17th-century Dutch landscape design. Bike back to Volendam for a refreshing drink at a terrace café.
As the sun sets, book a table at a riverside restaurant and savor a delightful dinner while enjoying a view of the water. Engage in a cultural evening by attending a local folklore performance or a live music event highlighting traditional Dutch songs. End the day with a calming walk along the shore, perhaps catching a glimpse of the illuminated Volendam at night.
Visit an artist’s studio to see firsthand how local artists create beautiful craftworks and paintings inspired by the scenery of Volendam. Participate in a short workshop to unleash your own creativity and take home a piece of art as a souvenir. Enjoy a light breakfast nearby at a café, fueling up for the day ahead.
Spend your afternoon exploring the local artisan shops filled with unique handmade items, from traditional Dutch clogs to vibrant ceramics. Take the time to chat with the artisans and learn about their crafts while picking up a few souvenirs. Head back to the seaside for lunch with a view, relishing fresh seafood dishes that reflect the area's maritime culture.
For dinner, find a cozy bistro that offers both traditional and modern Dutch dishes, allowing you to taste the best of both worlds. Afterward, stroll through the vibrant streets of Volendam, absorbing the energetic evening atmosphere filled with laughter and chatter. Find a charming pub to unwind and enjoy a nightcap, reflecting on your artistic day in this beautiful Dutch town.
Kick off your day at the local market, where you can explore an array of fresh produce, local cheeses, and delicious baked goods. Interact with the vendors to learn more about their products and enjoy sampling some of their specialties. After shopping, find a tranquil spot to enjoy your breakfast with local pastries and fresh fruit.
Dedicate your afternoon to a food tour that introduces you to traditional Dutch dishes prepared by local chefs, showcasing the culinary heritage of Volendam. Savor the flavors of fresh herring, Dutch pancakes, and hearty stews at various stops throughout the day. Make sure to leave room for dessert as you discover unique local sweets along the way.
As the sun sets, settle down for a culinary experience at a restaurant that features a tasting menu designed around seasonal ingredients. Allow your taste buds to explore various flavors, accompanied by suitable local wines or beers. Cap off your evening with a sweet treat from a local ice cream shop, enjoying a taste of Dutch indulgence.
Embark on your journey with a visit to the historic sailing ship 'De Rustende Jager', a ship that offers insights into the maritime history of the Netherlands. Explore the deck and learn about the ship's past, as well as its role in Volendam's seafaring practices. After touring the ship, enjoy breakfast at a local café specializing in hearty Dutch breakfasts.
Head to the nearby village of Monnickendam, which is rich in history, to explore its medieval architecture and harbor. Visit the historical museum to learn about the region's fascinating past, including its connection to the water. Grab lunch at a traditional Dutch inn, indulging in local flavors and dishes.
Return to Volendam for a delightful dinner at a restaurant boasting traditional recipes passed down through generations. As the day comes to an end, participate in one of the local storytelling evenings or historical reenactments. Reflect on your day steeped in history with a leisurely evening walk around the harbor, watching the fisherman prepare their boats for the next day.
Start your day with a thrilling bike ride along the coastal trails that connect Volendam with neighboring areas, enjoying the beauty of nature along the waterways. Stop at picturesque viewpoints along the route, soaking in the scenic vistas. Have breakfast at a cozy café in a nearby village to refuel for your day ahead.
After a hearty breakfast, engage in a variety of outdoor activities such as windsurfing or paddleboarding on the IJsselmeer, suitable for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts. Enjoy the thrill of adventure while admiring the serene surroundings of the water and the charming Volendam landscape. Take a break for lunch at a seaside café upon finishing your water activities.
Conclude your day with a charming dinner at a local restaurant featuring a menu highlighting seasonal ingredients. After dinner, enjoy a bike ride back to Volendam while witnessing the stunning sunset reflecting off the water. Relax at a lounge with a view, sipping on a refreshing drink to end your adventurous day.
Explore the markets and artisans of Volendam in the morning, where you can taste and purchase local delicacies, fresh produce, and handmade crafts. Interact with the friendly vendors and perhaps join a pottery workshop for a unique, hands-on experience. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café, indulging in fresh local bread and spreads.
Take a guided tour to immerse yourself in the local culture, visiting family-run farms and witnessing traditional craftsmanship in the making. Delve into the stories of the locals, hearing about their everyday lives while enjoying a farm-fresh lunch prepared with seasonal ingredients. Visit the shops showcasing local craftsmanship, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, enjoy a dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant featuring dishes made with ingredients sourced from local farms. After dining, consider joining a community event, whether it's storytelling, music, or a dance, as the locals gather to celebrate their heritage. End your night at a cozy tavern, sharing anecdotes with locals and travelers alike, enjoying a sense of community.