Volendam is the Netherlands' most famous former fishing village, in North Holland about 25 km northeast of Amsterdam. It is loved for its colourful timber houses, the harbour-front promenade known as 'de Dijk', traditional costume and smoked eel (paling), and draws more than two million visitors a year. In 2026 the village still gets very busy with tour buses and day-trippers in peak season (July–August), so it is best enjoyed as a half-day trip in the quieter early morning or evening, ideally combined with the ferry to the neighbouring island of Marken.
The harbour promenade 'de Dijk' — the beating heart of the village, lined with fish stalls, souvenir shops and waterside restaurants
Volendams Museum — famous for the 'Cigar Bands House', a room decorated with mosaics made from 11 million cigar bands
Traditional costume photo studios — dress in classic Volendam attire for a souvenir photo (about 25 minutes), with several studios along the harbour
Smoked eel (gerookte paling) and fresh herring (Hollandse Nieuwe) — Volendam eel is prized as among the finest, and herring is in season May–July
The old 'Doolhof' maze and the Marken ferry — the oldest quarter, a warren of canals and wooden drawbridges, plus a scenic ~30-minute crossing to Marken
Good to know
SafetyWatch for pickpockets on the crowded harbour promenade, on bus 316 and around Amsterdam Centraal. Keep your wallet and passport in a front zipped pocket or crossbody bag and split cards and cash across several places.
SeasonThe best time to visit is April–September, with July–August the busiest. Herring is in season May–July, and in winter ferry, museum and shop hours may be reduced — always check the latest opening times before you go.
RulesBus 316 (EBS) is the easy link between Amsterdam and Volendam. Pay by contactless card (OVpay) or a pre-bought ticket and tag on and off (check in/out); regional passes such as the Waterland day ticket are also valid. Fares should be confirmed for the latest rates.
MannersCyclists have priority in the Netherlands — do not stand in or block the bike lanes along the harbour and lanes to take photos. Tipping is not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving about 5–10% when satisfied is the norm.
CautionBuy ferry tickets only at the official Marken Express counter or website, and don't pay a premium to touts. Confirm prices at costume photo studios, harbour stalls and restaurants before you order or sit down.
SafetyThe Markermeer waterfront can be windy and exposed to strong sun, and quaysides can be slippery. Bring a light layer and comfortable shoes, and keep a close eye on children and belongings near the water's edge.
Practical info
From Amsterdam Centraal (IJ side, behind platforms 14–15) the EBS bus 316 reaches Volendam harbour in about 30–35 minutes, running roughly every 15 minutes during the day. The village and harbour promenade are free to wander, while museums, costume photo studios and the Marken ferry (departing from Haven 39) are paid. Opening hours, prices and ferry timetables vary by season and peak periods, so confirm the latest details on official channels before visiting.
On-site reviews📍 Verified on-site
No reviews yet. If you are here, be the first to leave one.
