Volendam
Volendam, Netherlands
Volendam offers a glimpse into the Netherlands’ past. Here, colorful wooden houses surround a boat-filled harbor, and locals wear traditional Dutch clogs, aprons, and bonnets. Once a source of inspiration for artists such as Picasso and Renoir, the village now draws visitors for its locally made cheese, fresh seafood, and historic atmosphere. It’s also just a ferry ride away from the scenic island of Marken.
The Basics
Arrive on a guided tour from Amsterdam—by boat, bike, or coach—and explore the maze-like streets with a local guide or delve into the town’s history at the Volendam Museum, which houses paintings, sculptures, and pottery. Many day trips include stops at the nearby Zaanse Schans windmills, Marken, and Edam. You can also learn about the evolution of Dutch cheese-making at the Cheese Factory and Museum or visit a clog maker to try on traditional Dutch costumes.
Things to Know Before You Go
Volendam is a must-visit for history buffs in the Netherlands.
Don’t miss the local seafood; for a signature meal, order salmon with dill or a bouillabaisse-style seafood stew.
Much of Volendam is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Winters in the Netherlands can be rainy and windy, so dress accordingly.
There's a tourist office on the corner of Juliana-Weg and Populierenlaan, and a tourist information stand near the waterfront.
How to Get There
Volendam is located on Gouwzee Bay, 13.5 miles (22 kilometers) northeast of Amsterdam, or 30 minutes by road. The village is easily accessible from the capital city by bus, car, or bicycle. Public car parking is available in town.
When to Get There
Though there's plenty to do year-round in Volendam, much of the village’s charm lies in its outdoor attractions; as such, late spring and summer are the best times to visit. Volendammer Weekend in June is especially festive, with traditional crafts and eel-smoking demonstrations, people in authentic Dutch dress, sailing competitions, and more.
Things to Do Near Volendam
The historic cheese-making town of Edam is set just a few minutes inland of Volendam, and the working windmill village of Zaanse Schans is also nearby. Across the bay lies the fishing village of Marken, which can be reached by a 45-minute ferry ride. You can visit the Alkmaar cheese market from April through September. If visiting Volendam in spring, consider going to Keukenhof Gardens to see the millions of flowering seasonal bulbs.
Ways to explore
The best way to visit Volendam is on a day trip from Amsterdam—by boat, bike, or coach. Explore the maze-like streets with a local guide or delve into the town’s history at the Volendam Museum, which houses paintings, sculptures, and pottery.
Most excursions combine the fishing village with the nearby Zaanse Schans, an open-air museum home to historic windmills, and Edam, world-renowned for its mild and chewy cheese. You can also learn about the evolution of Dutch cheese-making at the Cheese Factory and Museum or visit a clog maker to try on traditional Dutch costumes.
Accessibility
Volendam is mostly even and flat, with occasional cobblestones.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Due to its seafront location, the weather in Volendam can be unpredictable, so bring an umbrella.
What to wear
Wear clothing with an elastic waistband so that you can indulge comfortably in this village’s cheese and seafood.
Not allowed
Public consumption of alcohol
Amenities
Hotels, stores, ATMs, restaurants
Address
Volendam is located on Gouwzee Bay, 12 miles (20 kilometers) northeast of Amsterdam, or 30 minutes by road. The village is easily accessible from the capital city by bus, car, or bicycle. Public car parking is available in town.
Driving
From central Amsterdam, join the A10 ring road heading northwest toward Zaandam/Zaanstad. Take the exit to N247, continuing north toward Purmerend and Edam. Stay on N247 until you reach the N517, which leads directly into Volendam’s center.
Public transportation
You can take the 316 bus directly from Amsterdam Central Station to Volendam. The ride takes around 30 minutes.
Best times to visit
Day trip crowds typically arrive in Volendam around midday, so stay overnight to explore the town in the morning with fewer people around.
Best days to visit
Volendam is a popular weekend destination among Amsterdam locals, so for fewer crowds, come during the week.
Best months to visit
Visit during the spring months to see the fields full of tulips in bloom on the way to Volendam from Amsterdam.
Special events
At the start of September, the Volendammer Kermis festival celebrates local traditions and typically includes live music, food, rides, and games.
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