Volendam,
Volendam is a picturesque fishing village in the Netherlands known for its charming wooden houses and traditional Dutch architecture. The village is located on the coast of the IJsselmeer Lake, offering beautiful views of the water and surrounding countryside. Volendam is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its vibrant harbor, bustling shops selling local crafts and fresh seafood, and traditional Dutch costumes worn by locals.
In addition to its scenic beauty, Volendam offers a glimpse into the rich maritime history and cultural heritage of the Netherlands.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Bedankt" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Goedenavond" - Good evening
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Volendam
morning:Start your day with a peaceful walk along the Volendam harbor, admiring the picturesque Dutch architecture and fishing boats coming into the harbor. Stop at Visafslag Volendam for a classic Dutch breakfast and a cup of hot coffee.
afternoon:Visit Volendams Museum to delve into the local history and culture. Afterwards, take a relaxing stroll through the Doolhof park, with its beautiful gardens and peaceful atmosphere.
evening:For a delightful dining experience, head to Restaurant De Lunch. Later, immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife at the lively bars along De Dijk street.
Cultural Immersion
morning:Begin your day with a visit to the Volendam Sunday Market, where you can browse through local crafts and try traditional Dutch treats. Don't miss out on trying the famous Volendam cheese!
afternoon:Explore the Volendam Visafslag for an insightful tour of the fishing industry. Then, take a scenic boat tour along the Markermeer, learning about the area's maritime heritage.
evening:Enjoy a relaxing dinner at the charming Restaurant De Harmonie, known for its delectable seafood. Afterwards, take a leisurely evening walk by the lakeside promenade for a serene end to your day.
Nature and Relaxation
morning:Kickstart your day with a rejuvenating nature walk at the Volendam Beach, offering stunning views of the coastal landscape. Make a stop at Strandpaviljoen De Hulk for a delightful breakfast by the sea.
afternoon:Spend your afternoon at the Spaander Museum, renowned for its impressive collection of Dutch art. Afterward, embark on a leisurely bike ride through the scenic countryside.
evening:Indulge in a sumptuous dinner at Woltje's Backerij overlooking the waterfront. To end the day on a relaxing note, head to Spaander Café for a tranquil evening by the water.
Authentic Volendam Experience
morning:Start your day with a guided tour of the Volendam Fish Auction, immersing yourself in the local fishing culture. Enjoy a traditional herring breakfast at Vishandel Smit.
afternoon:Wander through Volendam's charming streets and visit the Volendam Old Dutch Costume Museum, where you can dress up and take memorable photos in traditional Dutch attire.
evening:Savor a delicious seafood dinner at Restaurant Havenzicht, followed by an entertaining evening at the Volendam Music Experience, featuring live music and performances.
Volendam Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Hollandse Nieuwe
Hollandse Nieuwe is a must-try local dish in Volendam. It is a traditional Dutch delicacy of marinated raw herring, typically served with onions and pickles. For an authentic experience, head to one of the local fish stands or seafood restaurants along the harbor, such as Visafslag Volendam or Palingrokerij en Vishandel Smit-Bokkum.
Must-Try!
Paling
Another local specialty is paling (smoked eel), which has been a staple of Volendam's culinary heritage for centuries. To enjoy this delicacy, visit renowned smokehouses like Palingrokerij Eveleens, where you can indulge in expertly smoked eel dishes.
Photography Spots in Volendam
Locations for the best views and photo opportunities
Volendam Harbour
Offers picturesque views of the traditional Dutch fishing village and the colorful boats.
De Dijk
A waterfront promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and perfect spots for capturing the iconic Volendam scenery.
Volendam lighthouse
Provides a stunning panoramic view of the town, the Markermeer lake, and the surrounding countryside.
Seasonal Advice
Best times to visit and what to expect in different seasons
Spring
Spring is a great time to visit Volendam, Netherlands, as the weather is mild and the famous tulip fields are in full bloom. You can expect colorful landscapes and various outdoor activities.
Summer
Summer is the peak tourist season in Volendam, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor events and festivals. Visitors can enjoy boat trips, fishing, and the lively atmosphere around the port.
Autumn
In autumn, Volendam experiences beautiful fall foliage, and the weather is still pleasant for outdoor activities. It's also the time for local harvest festivals and culinary events.
Winter
Winter in Volendam brings a charming atmosphere, with traditional Christmas markets and ice skating on the frozen canals. It's a quieter time to visit, and you can experience the authentic local life.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Volendam Saturday Market
Every Saturday, the Volendam Market comes alive with vibrant stalls offering an array of local produce, cheese, seafood, and other delicacies. It's a fantastic place to sample street food like raw herring, stroopwafels, and freshly baked goods while immersing yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the market.
Things to do in Volendam
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Volendam
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!