Best Things to Do in Volendam: A Local’s Guide 2026
Looking for the best things to do in Volendam? This famous fishing village on the Markermeer is one of my favourite places to escape Amsterdam for a day. Think pretty traditional houses, fishing boats, seafood restaurants, museums and, once you leave the busy waterfront behind, some surprisingly quiet little streets.
I have lived in the Netherlands for 29 years and I have lost count of how many times I have been to Volendam. I have come here by car, bus and bike from Amsterdam, brought friends and family when they came to visit me, and even spent the night here.
I visited Volendam again in August 2026, this time taking my time to explore the village, take new photos and look for places I had missed on previous visits. And I found quite a few!
In this guide, I am sharing my favourite things to do in Volendam, including the famous sights as well as some quieter corners that many visitors miss.
About Volendam
Volendam is a picturesque town in the Amsterdam countryside, renowned for its fishing heritage and traditional Dutch culture. Volendam was founded the 14th century, it began as a small settlement along the Zuiderzee. Over time, it grew into a vibrant fishing village, attracting artists and tourists alike with its distinctive wooden houses and locals dressed in traditional clothing.
Volendam has around 22,000 residents and remains a symbol of Dutch cultural heritage, celebrated for its music, seafood, and preserved historic charm.
Quick Answer: Is Volendam Worth Visiting?
Yes, I definitely think Volendam is worth visiting. I have been coming here for years and I still enjoy returning.
It does get busy, especially during spring and summer, and De Dijk and the harbour can feel very touristy. But this is only one side of Volendam. Walk away from the waterfront and into the old part of the village and you will find quiet little streets, traditional houses and some beautiful corners with hardly anyone around. This is actually the part of Volendam I enjoy the most.
One of my favourite ways to spend a day here is simply to wander around the old village without rushing and later return to the waterfront for a plate of mussels, one of the local specialities I always look forward to when I visit.
For me, Volendam is a lovely place to disconnect from Amsterdam for a few hours. And you don’t need to be visiting the Netherlands for the first time to enjoy it—I live in Amsterdam and still like coming here.
So yes, even with the crowds, Volendam is worth visiting. If you are spending a few days in Amsterdam, I would definitely make some time for it.
My Latest Visit to Volendam – August 2026
I visited Volendam again in August 2026 on one of those beautiful Dutch summer days when you almost forget you are in the Netherlands. It was around 30°C, sunny and warm, and the Markermeer looked incredible. The water had such a beautiful blue-green colour that day that, in some places, it almost looked tropical.
It was warm enough that I even saw people swimming in the Markermeer, something I don’t remember seeing on many of my previous visits. I should have brought my bikini, I thought when I was there.
Volendam was pretty busy, as you would expect on such a beautiful summer day, especially around De Dijk and the harbour. But what I love about this village is that it somehow still manages to keep a relaxed atmosphere despite the crowds.
As soon as I wandered away from the waterfront and into the older streets, everything became much quieter. I spent the day walking around, taking photos and exploring some corners I had never properly noticed before, even after so many visits to Volendam.
That is also why I decided it was time to completely update this guide. Some things have changed since I first wrote it, and I discovered several new places that I think are worth adding to a Volendam itinerary.
Volendam Location
Volendam is located 22 km North of Amsterdam in the Waterland.
Find here a pin with Volendam location:
How Long Do You Need in Volendam?
You can see the main attractions in Volendam in a few hours, which makes the village an easy day trip from Amsterdam. If you only have half a day, you will still have enough time to walk along De Dijk, explore the old part of the village, visit one or two attractions and stop for something to eat by the waterfront.
However, I wouldn’t necessarily rush back to Amsterdam. Volendam can also be a lovely place to stay overnight and use as a base for exploring the Dutch countryside.
Nearby you will find some of my favourite villages, including Edam, Marken and Broek in Waterland, and spending a night in the area gives you much more time to explore them without trying to fit everything into a single day.
If Volendam is your only destination, half a day is enough for the highlights, while a full day lets you explore at a much more relaxed pace.
How to Get to Volendam From Amsterdam
Volendam is only around 20 kilometres from Amsterdam, so getting there is very easy. You can travel by bus, bike or car, and I have personally done all three over the years.
Amsterdam to Volendam by Bus
For most visitors, the easiest way to get from Amsterdam to Volendam is by bus.
EBS bus 316 connects Amsterdam Centraal with Volendam, with the journey taking around 35–40 minutes depending on traffic and where you get off.
You don’t need to buy an OV-chipkaart. Simply check in when you board and check out when you leave using a contactless debit card, credit card or your phone with OV pay. Make sure you use the same card or device to check in and out.
If you are planning to visit several places in the Amsterdam countryside on the same day, a day ticket may work out better than paying separately for every journey. You can check the current Waterland fares and tickets.
Tip: Bus routes and departure times can change, so I always recommend checking 9292 shortly before travelling.
Amsterdam to Volendam by Car
Driving is another easy option and normally takes around 30–40 minutes from Amsterdam, depending on traffic.
A car becomes particularly useful if you want to combine Volendam with other villages in the Dutch countryside, such as Edam, Marken, Monnickendam or Broek in Waterland.
For Volendam alone, however, I don’t think you need a car. The direct bus from Amsterdam and the cycling route make it very easy to visit without one.
Amsterdam to Volendam by Bike
If the weather is good, cycling from Amsterdam to Volendam is my favourite way to get there.
I have done this route several times, and the journey itself is part of the experience. Once you leave Amsterdam, you cycle through the beautiful Waterland countryside, passing flat green landscapes, canals and small Dutch villages along the way.
Allow roughly 1.5 hours each way, depending on your speed and where in Amsterdam you start.
If you enjoy cycling and have a full day available, this is the way I would choose.
Find here the bike itinerary to get to Volendam from Amsterdam:
Best Things to Do in Volendam
There are plenty of things to do in Volendam beyond walking along its famous waterfront. You can explore the old fishing village, visit museums, eat local seafood, take the boat to Marken or simply wander away from the crowds and discover some of the quieter streets.
These are my favourite things to do in Volendam after visiting the village many times over the years.
Walk Along De Dijk
Walking along De Dijk is one of the first things I recommend doing in Volendam. This lively waterfront street is the heart of the tourist area, lined with fish restaurants, cafés, souvenir shops and traditional buildings overlooking the harbour and Markermeer.
It is also the busiest part of Volendam. When I visited again in August 2026, De Dijk was packed with visitors enjoying the beautiful summer weather, but it still had the relaxed atmosphere that I have always associated with the village.
Take your time walking along the waterfront and enjoying the views before heading into the old part of Volendam. I also love stopping here for something to eat, particularly a plate of mussels overlooking the water.
Explore Het Doolhof and the Oude Kom
If I had to choose my favourite place in Volendam, it would probably be Het Doolhof and the Oude Kom.
Het Doolhof, which means “the labyrinth”, is part of the historic heart of the village. Instead of a regular street plan, you will find narrow lanes winding between traditional houses, small bridges and quiet corners.
This is also where you can get away from the crowds. Even on busy summer days, I have found these streets surprisingly peaceful compared with De Dijk.
It is one of the most photogenic parts of Volendam, so don’t just stay around the harbour. Give yourself some time to wander without following a strict route. Getting a little lost is part of the experience here.
Visit the Volendams Museum
If you want to understand the village beyond its pretty houses and waterfront, visit the Volendams Museum.
The museum explores the history and culture of Volendam, including its fishing heritage, traditional clothing, everyday life and the artists who became fascinated by the village.
I recommend visiting the museum relatively early in your day. Learning a little about Volendam’s history first gives much more context to the traditional buildings and places you will see while walking around afterwards.
Check the museum’s current opening days and hours before your visit, particularly if you are travelling outside the main tourist season.
Take the Marken Express
One of the best ways to combine two beautiful Dutch villages in one trip is to take the Marken Express from Volendam to Marken.
The boat crosses the Markermeer and the journey takes around 30 minutes. Rather than travelling between the villages entirely by road, you get to enjoy the lake itself and see Volendam from the water as you leave the harbour.
Once you arrive, you can explore Marken, another historic fishing village with traditional wooden houses and a completely different atmosphere from Volendam.
If you have enough time, I definitely recommend combining Volendam and Marken rather than choosing between them.
Try Volendam’s Herring, Eel and Other Seafood
You cannot really talk about Volendam without talking about fish.
Fishing is an important part of the village’s history, and De Dijk is full of places where you can try Dutch seafood. Herring and smoked eel (paling) are particularly associated with Volendam, but you will find plenty of other fish and seafood dishes as well.
Personally, one of my favourite things to eat when I come to Volendam is mussels. Sitting near the waterfront with a plate of mussels while looking out over the Markermeer has become one of my little Volendam traditions.
Even if raw herring isn’t for you, I would still stop at one of the fish stalls or restaurants and try something local.
Take a Photo in Traditional Volendam Costume
You will see images of people wearing traditional Volendam clothing all over the village, and having your own photograph taken in traditional costume has become one of Volendam’s classic tourist experiences.
Several photo studios around De Dijk offer the experience. They provide the clothing and dress you in the traditional Volendam style before taking your photograph in a recreated Dutch setting.
Yes, it is touristy. But Volendam has been famous for its distinctive traditional clothing for generations, and if you want a fun souvenir from your visit, this is certainly one of the most characteristic ones you can take home.
See the Old Fish Auction
While walking along the waterfront, look out for the old fish auction building (Visafslag).
Built in 1934, the distinctive wooden building is a reminder of the period when fishing played an even greater role in Volendam’s economy. Fish auctions continued here until 1990.
You don’t need a long time to see it, but don’t walk past without stopping. It is one of the historic buildings that helps connect today’s tourist waterfront with Volendam’s fishing past.
Visit Hotel Spaander and Its Art Collection
Hotel Spaander is much more than somewhere to sleep. It is part of Volendam’s artistic history.
From the late 19th century onwards, artists from different countries came to Volendam, attracted by the fishing village, its people and its distinctive landscapes. Hotel Spaander became an important meeting place for many of them, and artists sometimes exchanged their work for accommodation.
The result is an extraordinary collection of paintings connected with Volendam and its artistic past.
If you enjoy art or history, Hotel Spaander is worth a stop even if you are not staying overnight. It is one of those places that helps explain why this relatively small Dutch village became internationally famous.
Walk Around Volendam Marina
For a quieter side of the waterfront, walk towards Marina Volendam.
The marina is away from the busiest section of De Dijk and is filled with sailing boats and yachts. I particularly like this area when I want a break from the crowds around the historic harbour. You can simply walk along the water and enjoy the boats and views across the Markermeer. There is also accommodation around the marina if you decide to spend the night in Volendam rather than returning immediately to Amsterdam.
Visit a Cheese Farm and See How Dutch Clogs Are Made
If this is your first trip to the Netherlands, you may also want to combine Volendam with two of the country’s most famous traditions: cheese and wooden clogs.
The Alida Hoeve cheese farm is located outside the centre of Volendam and offers demonstrations explaining how Dutch cheese is made, followed by opportunities to taste different varieties.
There is also a clog-making experience nearby where you can see how traditional Dutch wooden shoes are produced.
This is undoubtedly one of the more tourist-oriented experiences around Volendam, but it can be fun if you are visiting the Netherlands for the first time or travelling with children.
Discover Volendam’s Palingsound
One of the more unusual things about Volendam is the enormous influence this relatively small village has had on Dutch popular music.
The local musical style became known as Palingsound, or “eel sound”, a name that combines Volendam’s association with eel fishing with the distinctive smooth pop sound produced by musicians from the village.
Bands and artists connected with Volendam include The Cats, BZN, Piet Veerman, Jan Smit, Nick & Simon and the 3JS.
If you are interested in Dutch music, you can learn more about this part of Volendam’s culture at the Palingsound Museum. It is a very different attraction from the traditional houses and fishing heritage and shows another side of the village that many international visitors know nothing about.
Visit the Stolphoevekerkje
Hidden among the old streets of Volendam, the Stolphoevekerkje is a small wooden church and one of the most charming historic buildings in the village.
The church dates from 1658 and is one of Volendam’s national monuments. Its unusual stolp shape is typical of traditional North Holland architecture and makes it look quite different from most churches you will see in the Netherlands.
I particularly like its location. It sits away from busy De Dijk, surrounded by traditional houses and quiet streets. It is very easy to miss if you only visit the waterfront, so make sure you wander further into the old village.
Follow ‘t Burgerpad Historical Walking Route
If you want to discover more of Volendam than De Dijk and the harbour, look out for ‘t Burgerpad, a historical walking route through the village.
The complete route takes around two hours and has historical information panels with old photographs and stories about Volendam and the people who lived here. The route takes you through different parts of the village and past historic places such as the Stolphoevekerkje and St Vincent’s Church.
You don’t necessarily need to follow the entire route. I like that you can simply wander around Volendam and stop to read the panels you find along the way.
It is a great way to understand what you are looking at rather than simply walking past beautiful old buildings. Keep an eye out for the brown historical panels as you explore the village.
Visit St Vincent’s Church
St Vincent’s Church (Sint Vincentiuskerk) is one of the most noticeable landmarks in the old part of Volendam.
The Catholic church was built in 1860, and its tall tower rises above the surrounding houses. I particularly like the area around the church, with the little bridge, trees, water and traditional houses. It is a beautiful scene and feels completely different from the busy waterfront.
Close to the church you can also see the statue of St Vincent de Paul, the patron saint of Volendam.
If you are already exploring the old village or following ‘t Burgerpad, it is an easy place to include in your walk.
Look Out for Volendam’s Statues and Monuments
While walking around Volendam, keep an eye out for the statues and monuments scattered around the village. Some are connected with Volendam’s fishing traditions and local characters, while others commemorate much more serious moments in its history.
One of the most important is the Monument voor de Gevallenen, a memorial dedicated to people from Volendam who lost their lives during the Second World War.
Around the harbour and De Dijk you will also come across statues representing Volendam’s strong connection with fishing. One of my favourites is De Bap, a bronze fisherman sitting on a bench. You can simply sit down next to him for a photo, which is exactly what I did.
These are small things that are easy to miss, but they are another reason why I recommend exploring Volendam on foot and taking your time rather than just visiting the harbour and leaving.
Where to Eat in Volendam
You won’t have any trouble finding somewhere to eat in Volendam. De Dijk and the harbour are full of fish restaurants, cafés and small fish shops, and trying some local seafood is part of the experience for me.
I particularly love eating mussels when I come to Volendam, preferably sitting outside with a view over the Markermeer. If you want something quick instead, try some kibbeling, herring or smoked eel from one of the fish shops along the harbour.
Here are a few restaurants to consider:
Smit-Bokkum
If you want to try something closely connected with Volendam’s fishing traditions, Smit-Bokkum is one of the most interesting choices. The family business has a long history of smoking eel and fish, and the restaurant specialises in fish and seafood.
The Palingsound Museum is also located here, so you can easily combine the two.
De Lunch
De Lunch is located directly on the harbour, making it a convenient place to stop while exploring De Dijk.
The menu includes fish and seafood as well as other dishes, and the location is the main attraction for me: you are right in the middle of the historic harbour with the Markermeer in front of you.
Restaurant Pieterman
If you are exploring the marina, Restaurant Pieterman is a good alternative to the restaurants around busy De Dijk.
It is located by the water in the marina area and has a broader menu, making it a useful choice if not everyone in your group wants fish. My tip: On a warm summer day, I would choose somewhere with an outdoor terrace and simply enjoy the waterfront. Volendam is a place where I prefer taking my time over lunch rather than grabbing something and rushing to the next attraction
Where to Stay in Volendam
You don’t need to stay overnight to see Volendam, but I think it is worth considering if you want to slow down and explore more of the Waterland countryside.
Staying here also puts you in a great position for visiting Edam, Marken, Monnickendam and Broek in Waterland without having to return to Amsterdam after every trip.
Here are four places I would consider:
Art Hotel Spaander – Best for History and Character
If you want to stay somewhere that is actually part of Volendam’s history, Art Hotel Spaander is the obvious choice.
The hotel dates from the 19th century and became famous for its connection with the artists who came to paint Volendam and its inhabitants. It is also in an excellent location directly by the historic harbour.
I would choose this one for its character, history and central location rather than simply looking for the most modern hotel.
Hotel Old Dutch – Best for the Harbour
Hotel Old Dutch is another very central option, directly on the famous harbour.
This is a particularly convenient location if you want to walk out of your hotel and immediately be among the restaurants, shops and attractions of De Dijk. Some rooms also have views over the harbour and Markermeer.
If this is your first visit and you want to stay right in the middle of Volendam, this is one of the locations I would look at first.
Marinapark Volendam – Best for the Marina
For somewhere a little removed from the busiest part of De Dijk, consider Marinapark Volendam.
It is located around the marina, so you still have the water and boats around you but are away from the busiest part of the historic harbour.
This is also a good option if you are staying for more than one night and want Volendam to feel more like a base for exploring the surrounding countryside.
Van der Valk Hotel Volendam – Best for a Modern Stay
Van der Valk Hotel Volendam is a more modern option, although it is important to know that the hotel is actually located in nearby Katwoude rather than in the historic centre of Volendam.
I would consider this hotel if you are travelling by car, prefer a larger modern hotel or plan to use the area as a base for exploring several villages in Waterland.
If your priority is being able to step outside your hotel straight onto De Dijk, however, I would choose one of the more central Volendam hotels instead.
My tip: For a first visit, I would stay around the historic harbour if you want to experience Volendam itself. If your plan is to explore the wider Dutch countryside for several days, the marina or a hotel outside the centre can make more sense.
Volendam FAQs
Is Volendam Worth Visiting?
Yes, Volendam is worth visiting, especially if you want an easy escape from Amsterdam and a taste of the Dutch countryside. The harbour and De Dijk can be busy, particularly in spring and summer, but the quieter old village is my favourite part and has a completely different atmosphere.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Volendam?
The best things to do in Volendam include walking along De Dijk, exploring Het Doolhof and the Oude Kom, visiting the Volendams Museum, taking the Marken Express, trying local seafood and exploring the historic village.
I also recommend looking beyond the most famous attractions. The Stolphoevekerkje, St Vincent’s Church, ‘t Burgerpad and Volendam’s statues and monuments are all worth looking out for as you walk around.
How Much Time Do You Need in Volendam?
You can see the main attractions in half a day, but I prefer having a full day so you don’t have to rush. This gives you time to explore the old village, visit a museum, have lunch by the water and simply enjoy walking around.
If you want to visit nearby Edam, Marken or other villages in Waterland, consider staying overnight or spending more than one day in the area.
What Is Volendam Famous For?
Volendam is famous for its fishing heritage, traditional Dutch clothing, wooden houses, historic harbour and seafood, particularly herring and smoked eel.
The village is also surprisingly important in Dutch popular music. The distinctive music associated with Volendam became known as Palingsound, and many well-known Dutch singers and bands originated here.
How Far Is Volendam From Amsterdam?
Volendam is around 20 kilometres north of Amsterdam. The journey normally takes around 30–40 minutes by car or approximately 35–40 minutes by direct bus, depending on traffic.
Its proximity to Amsterdam is one of the reasons Volendam works so well as a day trip.
Can You Visit Volendam Without a Car?
Absolutely. You don’t need a car to visit Volendam. You can travel from Amsterdam by public transport and explore the village itself entirely on foot.
You can also cycle from Amsterdam to Volendam through the Waterland countryside, which is one of my favourite ways to make the journey when the weather is good.
Can You Visit Volendam and Marken on the Same Day?
Yes. Volendam and Marken are very easy to combine in one day. The Marken Express connects the two villages across the Markermeer, and the boat trip itself is part of the experience.
If you only have a few hours, I would concentrate on Volendam. With a full day available, combining the two works very well.
Is Volendam Free to Visit?
Yes, Volendam itself is free to visit. You can walk along De Dijk, explore the old village, see the harbour, churches, monuments and traditional houses without paying an entrance fee.
You will only need to pay for optional attractions and experiences such as museums, the Marken Express, traditional costume photographs, food and other activities.
I hope you have enjoyed this comprehensive guide to the Volendam!
While you’re here, make sure to check out some of my other articles below, where I go into more detail on some of the places mentioned in this article.
- 13 cool things to do in Volendam
- 9 awesome things to do in Broek in Waterland
- 13 top things to do in Edam
- 14 best things to do in Marken
- Monnickendam: a hidden gem in the Amsterdam countryside
RECAP
Get on the bike if it is Summer time or get a guided tour or a bus and visit Volendam it will not disappoint you and you will be able to taste some amazing Dutch culinary fish delicacies.
