Discover the Charm of Volendam
Volendam is a picturesque fishing village that began to take shape in 1357 when the inhabitants of Edam built a shorter canal to the Zuiderzee and a new port. The name "Volendam" translates to "Full dam," referring to the original harbor that was dammed for land reclamation. Today, with a population of about 36,000 people, Volendam has transformed from a traditional fishing community into one of the Netherlands' most beloved tourist destinations, while maintaining its authentic charm and rich cultural heritage. The village is renowned for its colorful wooden houses, traditional costumes, vibrant music scene known as "palingsound," and its historic connection to artists who flocked here in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Historic Harbor
The heart of Volendam beats at its bustling harbor, lined with traditional fishing boats and waterfront restaurants. Here you can enjoy fresh seafood, particularly the famous Dutch herring, while watching the boats bob in the water. The harbor promenade, known as "de Dijk," is always lively with tourists, street performers, and locals in traditional costume.
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Traditional Costumes
The Volendam traditional costume, or "klederdracht," features the iconic high pointed bonnet for women and is one of the most recognizable Dutch traditional outfits. At various photo studios along the harbor, you can dress in authentic costumes complete with wooden clogs for a memorable souvenir photo that captures the essence of old Holland.
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Cruise Destination
Volendam shares its name with the famous MS Volendam of Holland America Line, highlighting its maritime heritage. The village serves as a popular port of call for river cruises and day trips from Amsterdam. Visitors can also take the historic Volendam Marken Express ferry, which has been sailing for almost 100 years, connecting Volendam to the nearby island of Marken.
Cruise InfoPopular Attractions in Volendam
Cheese Factory
Visit the famous Volendam Cheese Factory or Alida Hoeve to witness traditional cheese-making demonstrations and taste authentic Dutch varieties including Gouda, Edam, sheep, and goat cheese. Entry is free and includes parking.
Fish Market
Experience the traditional fish market at the harbor where you can try fresh herring the Dutch way - raw with onions and pickles. The local specialty "paling" (smoked eel) is also a must-try delicacy.
Stroopwafels
Taste freshly made stroopwafels from local bakeries along the Dijk. These thin waffle cookies filled with caramel syrup are best enjoyed warm, straight from the iron.
Harbor Tours
Take a scenic boat tour with the Volendam Marken Express (€16 adults, €8 children) for a 30-minute crossing to Marken island, or join longer tours exploring the IJsselmeer and surrounding waterways.
Plan Your Visit to Volendam
Getting to Volendam from Amsterdam
Volendam is easily accessible from Amsterdam, located just 20 kilometers north of the capital. The most convenient public transport option is taking bus 316 from Amsterdam Central Station, which runs frequently throughout the day.
- Direct bus 316 from Amsterdam Central Station (behind platforms 14-15)
- Journey time: approximately 30-35 minutes
- Frequency: Every 15 minutes during daytime
- Day ticket: €12.50 for unlimited travel in Waterland region
- Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket also valid
- Free parking available at Central Volendam underground garage (€9/day)
Where to Stay in Volendam
Volendam offers accommodation options ranging from the historic Hotel Spaander with its impressive art collection to modern resort facilities at Roompot Marinapark. Most hotels are within walking distance of the harbor and main attractions.
- Hotel Spaander: Historic waterfront hotel dating from 1881 with 1,400+ artworks
- Roompot Marinapark Volendam: Family resort with indoor pool and traditional-style houses
- Budget options from €75 per night
- Luxury suites with lake views available
- Many properties offer free Wi-Fi and parking
Volendam Day Trips
Zaanse Schans, Volendam & Marken Tour
Experience the best of traditional Holland in one day! Start at Zaanse Schans, an open-air museum featuring historic windmills and traditional crafts demonstrations. Continue to Volendam to explore the fishing village and enjoy lunch at a harbor restaurant. Finally, take the ferry to Marken, a former island known for its distinctive green wooden houses on stilts and lighthouse. This popular combination tour showcases authentic Dutch culture, from cheese and clogs to windmills and traditional costumes. Many operators offer guided tours with transportation from Amsterdam, or you can explore independently using public transport.
Book TourDiscover Volendam's Rich Heritage
The Artists' Colony
In the late 19th century, Volendam became a magnet for artists from around the world. Hotel Spaander, established in 1881 by Leendert and Aaltje Spaander, became the epicenter of this artistic movement. Artists often paid for their accommodation with paintings, resulting in an extraordinary collection that still adorns the hotel's walls today. The village's picturesque scenes, traditional costumes, and authentic atmosphere inspired countless masterpieces now displayed in museums worldwide, including the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Tate Britain.
Museums & Culture
Explore Volendam's cultural heritage at the Volendams Museum, showcasing traditional costumes, historic interiors, and the famous cigar band house - a room entirely covered with over 11 million cigar bands forming intricate mosaics. The Palingsound Museum celebrates 100 years of Volendam's unique music scene, including the distinctive "eel sound" genre that emerged in the 1960s. For a modern experience, try Experience Volendam's virtual reality journey back to 1916 (€8.75 per person).
FC Volendam - The Pride of the Village
Football Heritage
FC Volendam, nicknamed "de Palingboeren" (the Eel Farmers), was founded in 1920 and currently plays in the Eredivisie, Dutch football's top tier. The club has earned the nickname "heen-en-weer club" (back-and-forth club) due to its record-breaking ten promotions between divisions. Home matches are played at the 6,984-capacity Kras Stadion, located just 500 meters from the harbor.
The club has produced notable players including Wim Jonk, Arnold and Gerrie Mühren, and achieved its best Eredivisie finish of 6th place twice. FC Volendam also reached the KNVB Cup final in 1958 and 1995. The club's strong youth academy continues to develop local talent, maintaining deep connections with the community.
Match ScheduleLocal Tips & Hidden Gems
The Doolhof Quarter
Venture beyond the tourist harbor into the "Doolhof" (maze), Volendam's oldest neighborhood. This labyrinth of narrow streets features authentic houses with red roofs, elegant facades, and flower decorations. Here you'll find small local shops and restaurants frequented by residents, offering a glimpse of authentic village life away from the crowds.
Best Photo Spots
For stunning photography, visit the dike at sunset for golden hour shots of the harbor. The colorful houses along the water make perfect subjects, while the traditional boats create foreground interest. Early morning offers misty atmospheric shots with fewer tourists. Don't miss the sculptures and paintings along the dike path.
Seasonal Events
Time your visit for special events: Volendammer Kermis (annual fair), traditional costume days, or summer music festivals featuring palingsound bands. The harbor comes alive during Dutch holidays when many locals still wear traditional dress. Winter brings a peaceful charm with crisp air and festive decorations.