Volendam is a beautiful fisherman’s town just outside of Amsterdam. Discover ‘Old Holland’ for a day out.
About Volendam
An introduction about Volendam
Volendam is located in the province North Holland within 25 kilometers of Amsterdam. It is a popular destination for foreign visitors, but also for Dutch citizens. My maternal family used to visit Volendam once a year when I was younger.
The meaning of Volendam can be sperated between two words ‘Volen’ and ‘Dam’. This area was water instead of land centuries ago. The area with the harbor was closed down and named ‘full’ or ‘closed’. ‘Vol’ is Dutch for ‘Full’ and ‘Dam’ is Dutch for ‘Dyke’.
Nowadays Volendam is well-known for two things in the Netherlands:
- Fish
- Music
It is amazing to see how many musician had a big influence on the Dutch music industry.
Brief history about the town
Volendam, a charming fishing village in the Netherlands, is steeped in history and cultural heritage. Located on the western shore of the Markermeer, it originated in the 14th century when a nearby harbor in Edam silted up. Locals created a new port and settlement, which became Volendam.
Over the centuries, it grew as a vibrant fishing community, known for its distinctive wooden houses, boats, and residents often dressed in traditional Dutch attire. Its picturesque setting and rich traditions have made Volendam a magnet for artists and tourists alike, preserving its legacy as a symbol of Dutch maritime culture.
Why Volendam is a popular destination
Volendam, a picturesque fishing village in the Netherlands, is a popular tourist destination known for its charming harbor, traditional Dutch culture, and vibrant history. Visitors are drawn to its unique wooden houses, colorful boats, and the opportunity to experience authentic Dutch life through its iconic costumes and traditional music.
Did you know this town only has about 23.000 inhabitants?
The town is famous for its smoked eel and other seafood delicacies, which are enjoyed in its waterfront restaurants. Tourists often explore its quaint streets, visit the Volendam Museum for insights into local history, and enjoy a photo opportunity in traditional Dutch attire. Additionally, its proximity to Amsterdam makes it an easy and appealing day trip for travelers seeking a mix of cultural heritage and scenic beauty.
Getting to Volendam
How to reach Volendam by car or by public transportation
Volendam, a charming fishing village in the Netherlands, is easily accessible by both car and public transportation. By car, it is just a 25-minute drive from Amsterdam, primarily via the A10 and N247 highways. There is ample parking available near the village, especially in designated parking areas at the outskirts to maintain the town’s pedestrian-friendly charm. Please keep in mind that a parking fee may apply
For those opting for public transportation, buses from Amsterdam’s central station provide a direct and convenient route. Lines like Bus 316 (operated by EBS) frequently connect Amsterdam and Volendam, taking approximately 30 minutes. Tickets can be purchased through OV-chipkaart or mobile apps, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Best routes and tips for first-time visitors
Volendam, a picturesque fishing village in the Netherlands, offers a delightful experience for first-time visitors. Start your visit at Haven, the bustling harbor area, where charming houses, souvenir shops, and seafood stands create a vibrant atmosphere. From there, explore the Doolhof, a maze-like network of narrow streets lined with traditional wooden houses that showcase Volendam’s unique architecture.
Don’t miss the Volendams Museum, which provides insights into the town’s history, traditional costumes, and fishing heritage. For panoramic views, consider a ferry ride to Marken, a nearby island known for its quaint charm. Make time to try local delicacies like smoked eel or fresh herring at one of the harbor’s eateries. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or late afternoon, and consider renting a bike for a scenic ride along the IJsselmeer coastline. With its rich culture and idyllic scenery, Volendam offers an unforgettable journey into Dutch tradition.
The top activities to do in Volendam
The town in the province of North Holland has a widespread of activities to do.
Walk around the famous harbour in the center of the city
Begin your day with a leisurely walk by the famous Volendam harbor. Watch colorful fishing boats and feel the sea breeze. The harbour has a combination between the scenary of ‘Old Holland’ and the seaside.
The lively and picturesque Volendam Harbor, a quintessential Dutch fishing harbor that encapsulates the essence of maritime life and culture. Here, you’ll find an array of activities that offer a glimpse into the maritime heritage of this charming Dutch fishing village.
Try authentic Dutch Cuisine
Volendam is famous for their fish in the Netherlands. Most fish shops in this country usually have a name of a town at the front of their store. This is mostly ‘Volendam’ or ‘Urk’. Don’t forget on trying herring with pickles and onions.
At a typical Dutch fish store, you’ll find a variety of popular seafood dishes that are deeply rooted in Dutch culinary tradition. One of the most iconic is haring (herring), usually served raw with onions and pickles, which locals often eat by holding the fish by the tail and taking a bite. Kibbeling, another favorite, consists of battered and fried pieces of white fish, typically cod, served with a garlic or tartar sauce.
Lekkerbekje is similar to kibbeling but made from larger fillets and often compared to fish and chips. Garnalen (Dutch shrimp) and paling (smoked eel) are also widely enjoyed, with the eel being a delicacy due to its rich, smoky flavor. These dishes are usually accompanied by bread or fries, making a visit to a Dutch fish store a delicious way to experience the country’s love of fresh, high-quality seafood.
Dress in traditionale old Volendammer costumes
Feel like a true local by trying on traditional Volendammer costumes. Capture this fun moment in a photo to remember your trip. It is popular for companies to try this activity and also for small groups.
These traditional outfits, particularly worn during special occasions and by older generations, have deep historical roots and are a source of local pride, reflecting the region’s history and identity.
The costumes also attract tourists, who visit Volendam to experience the living history of Dutch culture, often posing for photographs in rented traditional attire.
Take a boat tour
Hop on a boat and sail on the scenic Markermeer. Being on a boat brings a certain sense of relaxation You’ll get a unique view of Volendam from the water, making for some great photos!
Taking a boat tour from Volendam over the Markermeer is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of the Dutch waterways while immersing yourself in the rich maritime heritage of the region. As you set sail from the picturesque fishing village of Volendam, you’ll enjoy stunning views of traditional Dutch landscapes, including quaint villages, green pastures, and iconic windmills that line the shores.
The Markermeer’s calm waters are ideal for a relaxing cruise, and the journey offers the unique opportunity to visit nearby historic towns like Marken and Monnickendam, where you can explore local culture, wooden houses, and traditional crafts. The boat tour also provides a peaceful escape, allowing you to take in the fresh air and wide-open views, making it a perfect way to enjoy both the scenic beauty and cultural charm of the Netherlands.
Traditional Culture and Costumes in Volendam
Overview of Volendam’s cultural heritage
Volendam, a picturesque fishing village in the Netherlands, boasts a rich cultural heritage that reflects its historical charm and maritime traditions. Nestled along the shores of the IJsselmeer, the village is renowned for its well-preserved wooden houses, vibrant harbor, and iconic traditional costumes. These costumes, often adorned by locals during festivals and cultural events, feature distinctive embroidered patterns and peaked hats, embodying a unique facet of Dutch heritage.
Volendam’s rich artistic legacy includes its association with notable painters and musicians who have found inspiration in its serene landscapes and lively community. Folk music remains an integral part of its identity, with traditional songs passed down through generations. The village also offers a glimpse into its past through museums, such as the Volendams Museum, which showcases artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that capture the essence of its fishing history and local customs. Visitors to Volendam are immersed in a living tapestry of Dutch tradition and maritime culture, making it a captivating destination for heritage enthusiasts.
The famous clothing and its significance
Volendam, a picturesque fishing village in the Netherlands, is renowned for its distinctive traditional clothing, which reflects the area’s rich cultural heritage. The traditional Volendam costume, particularly the women’s attire, is iconic and instantly recognizable. Women wear intricately embroidered blouses with vibrant floral patterns, paired with a striped skirt and an apron.
The look is completed with a high, pointed bonnet, a hallmark of Volendam’s style. Men traditionally wear baggy trousers, a woolen jacket, and a flat cap. These costumes were once everyday wear but are now preserved for special occasions, festivals, and tourism. The clothing symbolizes Volendam’s historical connection to its fishing industry and its community’s pride in maintaining cultural traditions amidst modernization.
Shops offering photo sessions in traditional attire
Shops offering photo sessions in traditional attire in Volendam provide a delightful way for visitors to immerse themselves in Dutch culture. Located in this picturesque fishing village, these establishments invite tourists to dress in authentic costumes, complete with the iconic pointed hats, wooden clogs, and detailed dresses or jackets typical of the Volendam region.
Once dressed, participants can pose in charmingly recreated settings, often featuring classic Dutch props like fishing nets, wooden barrels, or old-fashioned interiors. The result is a memorable keepsake—a beautifully staged photograph that captures the essence of traditional Dutch heritage. These sessions are popular among travelers and offer a unique blend of entertainment and cultural appreciation.
Famous people in relation to Volendam
The Cats
This Dutch rockband are original from Volendam. Their song ‘Be my day’ reached the US charts in the year 1974.
Jan Smit
Born and raised in Volendam and well-known for his music in the Netherlands and Germany. He was one of the presenters of the Eurovision Song Contents in Rotterdam in 2021. In addition, he was chairman of the local football club ‘FC Volendam’
Joey Veerman
Raised in Volendam and Dutch international football player
Micky van de Ven
Made his debut in Dutch football at FC Volendam
Mühren, Molenaar and Jonk
Three former internationally known football players from Volendam
Trivia about Volendam
- The town is part of the municipality Edam-Volendam
- Music from Volendam is called ‘Palingsound’ (Paling refers to eel in English)
- People from Volendam have its own language next to the Dutch language
- The local football club also has orange clubcolors just like the national squad. Hence the nickname: ‘the other orange’
- Someone from outside of Volendam is called a ‘Jas’ (jacket) and someone with one parent from Volendam a ‘bodywarmer’.
