Day 2
The Netherlands' most iconic village
Sights of Volendam
Uniquely Volendam
Everyone who has ever been to Volendam, will agree: Volendam is unique. As soon as you arrive in this beautiful fishing village, you feel the unique ambiance. Volendam differs from the rest of the country, the same goes for her inhabitants. That’s why a man from Volendam once said: “There are 16 million Dutchmen and 22,000 people from Volendam.” Volendam is a village full of hard working, family oriented people who form a close knit community. ‘Volendammers’ are very proud of their village, which has a rich history always connected to the water beyond the shore. The people are also hospitable, as they will show you during your visit. Every year, tourists from The Netherlands and abroad visit Volendam for this wonderful village is world famous as a unique piece of Holland. Download our walking routes with sightseeing information here.
1. Walk along the world-famous dike
In our list of places of interest the famous Volendam dike should not be missed. For example, walk around the dike and check out the many souvenir shops. Are you tired of all the walking? Strike down at the cozy cafes and terraces. While enjoying a fresh fish or delicious waffle from the view over the Markermeer. Behold the many boats in the harbor and the view of the old fishermen’s cottages. It could hardly be better.
2. Cheese from Volendam
The people from Volendam do everything their own way, even their cheese. Even though the famous Dutch cheese from the village of Gouda, or the neighbourhood village Edam, Volendam is putting itself on the map as well! Visit the Cheese Factory Volendam to learn all about the craft that goes into making the savoury goodness. The demonstration ends with a tasting of the many different flavours. What a treat!
3. Restaurant de Lunch
The name may suggest otherwise, but at Restaurant de Lunch you can go for more than just lunch. Here you can enjoy lunch, dinner, drinks and desserts. It is a very cosy place in the middle of the harbour where you can taste the old atmosphere of Volendam. Literally! Not only the delicious typical fish dishes, but also the decor. The authentic interior with lots of Volendam memorabilia gives a cosy and warm feeling. Even if you are sitting on the terrace outside, we would recommend you to have a look inside! Fish is of course the specialty, try them all with the fish mix or the Volendam plank.
4. Get lost in the neighbourhoods
By visiting the sights of Volendam, you will really get to know the village. The neighbourhood 'Doolhof' is the oldest part of Volendam's centre. Doolhof means maze and is named after the buildings that did not follow a well-defined street pattern. The houses and other structures seem to have been placed randomly. Get lost in the centuries-old streets and narrow alleys. As you look around, you will see beautifully coloured fishermen's houses, drawbridges and several churches. Also stroll around the Oude Kom (around the Dril, along the Havendijkje and Meerzijde).
5. Boat trip to Marken with the Volendam Marken Express
From the very cosy, hospitable Volendam to the authentic Marken; that’s worth a ferry crossing! Step aboard and enjoy the boat trip on the Gouwzee. On board you will learn everything about the fascinating history and culture with our entertaining audio guide. Along the way you will see cute houses, bicycles, tulips and clogs.
Curious about the sights in the former peninsula of Marken? We have also listed the must sees and must do’s of Marken.
Come and enjoy all the beauty and sights that the old Dutch fishing village has to offer. The Volendam Marken Express offers various packages. Discover in 1 day all the beauty that both villages have to offer. All packages include a boat trip.
