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Volendam is a fishing village in North Holland, 20 km north of Amsterdam. Sometimes called "the pearl of the Zuiderzee", this place is a highly popular tourist destination. Here, you'll find many Dutch clichés, including the traditional costumes and wooden shoes. Most of them, however, have a lot of historic truth to them.
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Volendam has 4 churches, which are easy to spot. The two most interesting ones are in the old town centre. The oldest one is the wooden Protestant Stolphoevekerk, build in 1658. This lovely little church is still in use, and most of the time isn't open for visitors. It's a national heritage sight.
The St. Vincentiuskerk was opened in 1860 after strong protests from the Roman Catholic community, which had to walk to the church in Edam for centuries. On weekends, it's open for visitors.
The wooden building where fishermen sold their fish to customers for a large part of the 20th century. Build in 1934, it was a central point in town. Now a heritage sight, it remains a landmark today, even between the many other wooden houses.
For an insight in life and work in Volendam as it was at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century, visit this museum. As Volendam was a popular painters subject, you'll get to see a good deal of art, but also traditional costumes, expositions on the fishery and cigar activities, ancient house interiors and folk art.
3D experience of Volendam, which tells the story of Volendam 100 years ago.
Has its own eel-smoking facilities. Not the cheapest place around, but the sea-food dishes get good reviews. They have a small delicatessen store too, if you want to take the smoked food home.
Of the larger restaurants in town and quite nice in terms of atmosphere. The service isn't always great and the food seems to have good and bad days, too.
This place is a combination of a fresh fish store and a snack place. It's a great option if you want a fast bite or a cheap meal. It has a good range of standard fries and snacks. There are simple, pre-made meals too, which they can either warm up for you to eat straight away, or pack to take home and heat there. Of course, they also sell the typical Dutch herring, smoked fish and other seafood snacks.
Located directly on the Dike in Volendam this is a fresh fish and take away meals store with only top quality products. There's a cook with 35 years of experience to deliver the best quality. You can ask for the special takeaway dinner for the Marinapark Volendam.
Modern rooms above a pizzeria from the same owner, which is a good choice for food. It's a no-frills place but has all basic needs. Some rooms have no windows, only sky-lights.
Hotel in the Best Western chain with reasonable rooms. Breakfast is not included and a bit overpriced. Ask for a room with lake view.
Spacious rooms and friendly service. The restaurant is good, too. It can be a bit of a challenge to find the place though, and if you're a light sleeper, the noises from the popular harbour area might keep you up. Otherwise, a good pick.
Rooms have basic facilities. The central location is great for those looking for some nightlife, but can be a bit noisy for those who aren't.
A rental home in this seaside holiday park (part of the Roompot chain) is a comfortable option if you're staying at least a good weekend or if you're travelling in a small group. Fully equipped kitchens are available in every apartment. There are also a few hotel rooms. For all: make sure to book well in advance.
By road, the N247 will take you to the municipality of Edam-Volendam from Amsterdam or Monnickendam. To get to Volendam centre, exit the N247 where it connects to the N517, which will lead you there.
Read in the guideThe village is best explored on foot or by bike. If you're travelling with two or more people, renting a "freemover", a Segway, is a good alternative.
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