Volendam & Marken

Volendam — The Classic Dutch Harbour Town

Volendam is one of the most photographed towns in the Netherlands — a working harbour town where the old Dutch fishing culture is still very much alive. Its colourful wooden houses, painted boats, smoked eel stalls and the famous traditional costumes still worn by locals make it unlike anywhere else in the country.

The harbour front (the Dijk) is the heart of Volendam — a lively strip of restaurants, souvenir shops and fish stalls overlooking the Markermeer. Try smoked eel, raw herring, or a classic Dutch pancake at one of the harbourside restaurants.

What to Do in Volendam

• Walk the Dijk (harbour front): The most atmospheric part of Volendam — colourful houses, working boats and fish stalls.
• Volendam Museum: Learn about the history, fishing culture and traditional costumes of the Volendam community.
• Traditional costume photo: Have your photo taken in traditional Volendam dress — a kitsch but fun tourist experience.
• Eat smoked eel: Freshly smoked eel from the harbour stalls is a Volendam speciality not to miss.
• Explore the old streets behind the harbour: The quiet residential streets behind the Dijk reveal the real, unchanged Volendam.

Marken — The Former Island Village

Just across the Markermeer from Volendam, Marken is a former island only connected to the mainland by a causeway in 1957. Its unique architecture — distinctive green and black wooden houses raised on poles — is unlike anywhere else in the Netherlands. Marken has retained an extraordinary authentic character.

Marken is quieter and less touristy than Volendam. The Marker Museum gives a fascinating insight into the isolated island community that developed its own distinct culture, costumes and language over centuries.

Visiting Both Villages

Volendam and Marken are just 3 km apart across the water — the best way to move between them is by ferry (the Marken Express runs from April to October, approx. €10 one-way). Outside summer, you'll need to drive or take a bus via the causeway.

Getting to Volendam from Amsterdam

Private Tour (Recommended)

Mike Green Tours includes Volendam in their private countryside day tours, combined with Zaanse Schans windmills and/or Kasteel de Haar castle. Hotel pickup, luxury Tesla, certified local guide.

By Bus

Bus 316 runs from Amsterdam Centraal to Volendam (approximately 35 minutes, runs hourly). Very affordable and straightforward.

Tips for Visiting Volendam & Marken

• Combine both villages: Volendam and Marken are a natural pair. Use the Marken Express ferry to move between them in summer.
• Arrive by mid-morning: The harbour front gets busy by noon. Arriving around 9:30–10am gives a calmer experience.
• Try the local food: Smoked eel and fresh herring are Volendam specialities. Don't leave without trying both.
• Combined Zaanse Schans day: A half-day at Zaanse Schans windmills in the morning followed by Volendam in the afternoon is a popular and excellent combination.