Top Notch Activities in Volendam, Netherlands: A Fantastic Day Tour Itinerary
Volendam, a popular destination for a , is a picturesque fishing village known for its vibrant houses and quintessential Dutch architecture. This travel guide will take you through the best things to do in Volendam, making sure you don't miss any of the unique experiences this charming village has to offer.
Getting to Volendam from Amsterdam
Located approximately , Volendam can easily be reached by car or public transportation. Taking the bus is a convenient and affordable option, with bus 316 departing from Amsterdam Central Station and taking approximately to reach Volendam Centrum.
Discovering Volendam
Known as one of the most famous fishing villages in Holland, Volendam is a for tourists seeking a change of pace and scenery. The town's colorful houses, beautiful harbor, and traditional Dutch lifestyle make it an unforgettable stop on your vacation itinerary.
Top Things to Do in Volendam
To make the most of your visit to this charming town, make sure to check out the following attractions and activities:
Take a Stroll through the Historic Village Center
Wander the old neighborhoods of Volendam village center, characterized by narrow streets lined with charming Dutch houses. From the main shopping street along the harbor, venture into the neighborhood located behind it, where you'll find picturesque canals and ducks lounging during the summer months.
Eat Smoked Eel
Volendam's seaside location means that seafood is a staple in the local cuisine, with smoked eel being one of the most popular dishes. Line the boardwalk by the harbor to find an abundance of restaurants and food stalls serving this local favorite, along with other seafood and fish dishes.
Visit the Volendam Museum
History lovers will appreciate the Volendam Museum, a walk-through exhibit depicting life in the town from the late 1800s through the mid-1900s. The museum features permanent exhibitions showcasing traditional Volendam costumes and historic home interiors, providing a glimpse into daily life in Volendam throughout the years.
Admire the Volendam Harbor and its Picturesque Views from De Dijk van Volendam
De Dijk van Volendam, or the Volendam Dike, is the tourism hub of the town, lined with restaurants, shops selling Dutch souvenirs, and colorful buildings displaying beautiful Dutch architecture. Spend time walking through this lively area, taking in the sights and atmosphere.
Scenic Boat Tour on the Volendam Marken Express
Set sail aboard the Volendam Marken Express and visit the tiny town of Marken, reachable only by boat or road. The boat trip takes about , and in Marken, you can explore the picturesque wooden houses, visit an Old Dutch House, and take in the views of an old lighthouse.
Marvel at a Replica of the Halve Maen Ship
Currently in port in Volendam, the Halve Maen is a full-scale replica of the ship that Henry Hudson sailed up the Hudson River in the United States in 1609. The ship has been featured in several movies and is a popular photo opportunity for visitors.
Sample Dutch Cheese
You can't visit the Netherlands without sampling some cheese, and Volendam is no exception. Stop by the Cheese Factory Volendam to take a free tour and learn about cheese-making, then sample and purchase your favorite varieties.
Dress Up in Traditional Dutch Costumes
One of Volendam's unique claims to fame is the opportunity to try on traditional Dutch costumes, complete with wooden shoes. Many shops along the main street by the harbor offer these memorable photo opportunities, allowing you to take home a souvenir photo as a Dutch local.
Take a Photo in Traditional Dutch Costumes
Pose for a picture in traditional Dutch attire, complete with a black apron for women and wool pants for men, as well as a hat. Although it may seem touristy, it's a popular thing to do in Volendam and a fun way to capture your visit.
Watch a Live Demonstration at the Wooden Shoe Factory in Marken
Learn how wooden shoes are made at the Wooden Shoe Factory in Marken, where you can watch demonstrations showcasing the age-old craft of carving Dutch wooden shoes. A short but engaging experience, it's a must-see addition to your Volendam day trip.
Visit Edam Cheese Market in Summer
If you visit Volendam in the summer months, consider taking a quick trip to nearby Edam to see the traditional cheese market. A reenactment of the original cheese market from the Middle Ages, the event offers the opportunity to learn about cheesemaking and sample various Dutch cheeses.
How Long to Spend in Volendam
While Volendam can easily be squeezed into a day trip from Amsterdam, spending an extra day allows you to explore the town at a more leisurely pace, enjoy its cuisine and attractions, and appreciate the traditional Dutch way of life.
By following this travel guide, you'll be able to discover the best things to do in Volendam, the most famous fishing village in Holland. Your visit to this enchanting town is sure to be memorable and leave you with a greater appreciation for the Dutch culture and lifestyle.
Embrace the Dutch charm by extending your visit to Volendam, as spending an extra day allows you to immerse yourself in the unique lifestyle, savor local dishes such as smoked eel, visit museums, and explore picturesque home-and-garden landscapes. A must for travelers seeking a truly authentic home-and-garden experience, Volendam is also a perfect addition to any home-and-garden or lifestyle travel itinerary in the Netherlands.
