Do you wan to to know if it’s easy to take a day trip from Amsterdam to Volendam? I’ll share the five best ways to get there.
Both privately and as a tour guide I visit Volendam regularly. The quickest option is bus 316 from Amsterdam Central Station (35 minutes) in the direction Volendam-Edam. Or a day tour if you want somebody else taking care of the logistics.
I’ll also cover cycling, taxi’s, and drivingāincluding where to find free parking and which travel cards actually work for this route.
Table of Contents
Why Visit Volendam?
This is a great question. Volendam offers a traditional fishing village and is known for it’s costume photos, authentic Dutch architecture in the Doolhof neighborhood, and easy ferry connections to Marken island.
Yes, it’s touristy around the harbor, but step behind the main street to find the real village charm.
ā¤· Here is my guide for things to do in Volendam
Book Attractions in Volendam
Bus 316 Amsterdam to Volendam: Direct and Reliable
Bus 316 runs every 15 to 30 minutes from Amsterdam Centraal Station to Volendam Centrum. The journey takes 35 minutes and costs just under ā¬7 each way, per person when you tap in and out with your contactless bank card. (One card per person, you can not share).
Important: Your GVB day pass or I Amsterdam Card won’t work for this route. You need either the Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket or tap your bank card when boarding and exiting for a Amsterdam to Volendam bus ticket.
The Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket is much better value if plan to make the journey from Amsterdam to Volendam, and travel between the airport and the city, plus transportation within Amsterdam. It’s all included in this travel card.
Tour Options: Let Someone Else Take Care of the Logistics
Private Tour: I offer door-to-door service including Volendam, Marken, and countryside gems most tours skip. ā¬999 total for two people, including pre-tour planning call.
Group Tour: A great group tour including Volendam, Marken, Edam, and Zaanse Schans with ferry between Volendam and Marken. This is a very complete tour, and offers value for money.
Cycling: The Local Experience
The 55km (34 miles) round trip becomes easy with an electric bike. Follow the numbered cycling junction system (called Fietsknooppunten): 5, 52, 46, 47, 44, 78, 79, 77, 52, 51, 99, 56, 55, 2, 1, 38, 37, 36, 5.
It’s super simple, you find the first bicycle road sign with number 5 and follow the arrow. Once you get to 5 to follow the sign to 52 et cetera.
High Quality E-Bike
E-Bike Rental Amsterdam
Cycle anywhere without the effort. The motor in an e-bike assists your pedaling so distances feel short, and the wind will not bother you ā arrive fresh and relaxed, not tired and sweaty.
Reserve a Ebike
This route takes you through Volendam, onto the ferry to Marken, then back via scenic Durgerdam.
Take a Taxi: Leave the Driving to Somebody Else
You can take an Uber FROM Amsterdam. The problem is, you can’t order one back. Uber only operates in and from Amsterdam. You can not depart from a location outside of the city, like Volendam. A better option is to take a taxi.
Taxi’s are metered in the Netherland and the trip costs 75-80 euro one-way. However, if you book a taxi in advance you can save quite a bit of money. Plus you know what you pay up front. No extra costs for detours, or waiting in traffic surcharges.
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When you book a taxi in advance you can save up to 70% off the metered priced and enjoy a fixed price. With coverage around the country.
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Driving Yourself: Maximum Flexibility
Take the A10 ring road north, exit at Volendam, then follow N247 straight to the village. You’ll find free parking on the edges of townāwhich is a rare treat in the Netherlands.
Driving yourself can be a great option of you want to explore multiple villages and destinations in the area and you don’t want to rely on public transportation.
Here is a great place to compare car rental prices.
Also make sure you have mobile data in Europe for GPS. I love using Google Maps for navigation. It’s really good in the Netherlands. But if you rely on your home plan it will be expensive. A regional eSIM is your solution for much more affordable rates.
Inexpensive and Flexible SIM
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Skip hunting for WiFi. Get on the go navigation, translations and mobile internet that works everywhere in Europe ā skip expensive international charges from your phone company.
My Phone Abroad Guide
Getting Around Volendam
The village center is tiny and walkable. Visit the harbor for photos, but don’t miss the Doolhof neighborhood behind the main streetāthis maze-like area is great to escape the tourist masses, and enjoy a bit of authentic village life.
Must-do: Get your photo taken in traditional Dutch costume. Every visitor should try this once. Did you saw my own earlier in this article?
Ferry to Marken: A classic is also to take the 30-minute crossing to the former island of Marken. It’s really fun, and Marken is so pretty. Get your tickets in advance, it can get busy at the harbor ticket desk and people miss their departure from waiting in line. So get your tickets now to avoid that stress.
Pro Tips
- Check out if you travel by bus. Do not forget when leaving the bus to tap your card at the door, or you’ll be overcharged.
- Combine with Marken for a full day (bus 316 to Volendam, ferry to Marken, bus 315 back to Amsterdam)
- Avoid buying tickets from machinesātapping your card is cheaper, or use a travel card
- Free parking is available on the edges of Volendam, just follow the P signs
Book Attractions in Volendam
Frequently Asked Questions How to get to Volendam
Is it worth visiting Volendam if I’m already going to Zaanse Schans?
Yes, they offer different experiences. Zaanse Schans focuses on windmills and crafts, while Volendam gives you authentic village life and maritime culture. Many of my guests combine both for a complete countryside experience. Here is a great Volendam and Zaanse Schans tour that includes them both.
How much time should I plan for a Volendam visit?
Allow 2-3 hours for Volendam itself, or a full day if you’re combining it with Marken. This gives you time for photos, a leisurely lunch, and browsing without feeling rushed. Many of my guests appreciate this relaxed pace.
What’s the weather like, and should I bring anything specific?
Dutch weather changes quickly, so bring a light jacket even in summer. The harbor can be windy, and comfortable walking shoes are essential for the cobblestones. I always recommend layers for my tour guests. I love this windproof umbrella , which is great to have with Dutch weather.
Are there good restaurants in Volendam for a proper lunch?
Absolutely. Try Restaurant De Fortuna for traditional Dutch fare or Hotel Spaander for their famous fish dishes. Both have been serving visitors for generations and offer authentic local cuisine in comfortable settings.
Is Volendam suitable for travelers with mobility concerns?
Yes, the main harbor area and shops are flat and accessible. The traditional Doolhof neighborhood has some uneven cobblestones, and stairs but you can easily stick to the smoother harbor walkway and still enjoy the village atmosphere.
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Bottom line: Bus 316 offers the best value for a simple day trip, while a tour gives you the complete countryside experience without any planning stress.
Read More
- All my āHow To Get From Amsterdamā Transportation Guides
- Things to do in Volendam and Marken
- 3 Days Amsterdam Itinerary
- I amsterdam Card Worth It
If this guide helped you plan your trip to Volendam and/or Marken, consider buying me a coffee – that helps me to continue producing these detailed guides!
Last update on 2025-11-12 at 10:04 - Products, Prices, and Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
