Do you wonder if a day trip to Volendam and Marken is a good idea?
I loved my recent day in Volendam and Marken, and today I’ll tell you exactly where to go to have a more authentic experience, even if you’re on a tour.
But first, I must confess: as a local, I found Volendam and Marken overly touristy, synonymous with rushed bus tours and tourist traps.
Typically, I recommend more authentic fishing towns like Spakenburg. However, a private tour client asked about these villages, prompting me to revisit my ideas.
Tour companies and travel guides heavily promote visiting Volendam, Marken, Edam, or the Zaanse Schans due to their proximity to Amsterdam. Hence their popularity.
So recently, I went for an extensive new visit. A great benefit of living here and being a local is that I can go, explore, and fact-check whenever I want.
And was it touristy?
Oh yes. It still was. Full tour buses, umbrellas, big name tags, and headsets were all present.
But…
I also had fun. A lot of fun. And sometimes doing a touristy thing is just what you need. We don’t always have to be “local.” And it was just as popular with Dutch tourists as with foreigners.
It’s easy to get to, and it’s a great way to see something of the Dutch countryside. Now, especially in Volendam, you do need to be able to filter through the tourist marketing, but it is a picturesque village near Amsterdam.
If you’re after windmills, the Zaanse Schans is a better choice.
Getting here by public transport or on a guided tour is super easy. I’ll cover both options in this extended article on how to get from Amsterdam to Volendam, with all the necessary links for a successful day.
Are you short on time? Here are my two recommendations for getting there.
Get there on your own: Take metro 52/bus 316 between Amsterdam and Volendam. And Metro 52/bus 315 to and from Marken. I recommend the Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket as your travel ticket. But I talk more about different ticket options later.
The best all-in guided group tour: I recommend this small group all-in-day tour that covers many different places. Including the highlights and a good lunch!
Or travel with me personally, and book a Windmills and Countryside Private Tour.
Table of Contents
Why go?
When you explore Volendam and Marken (in the Broek in Waterland region), you’ll catch a glimpse of the old Dutch world, like how it was 100 years ago when the Zuiderzee was still an open sea and not a lake (The Markermeer), and Marken was an island still.
You’ll learn about a time when people still made a living off the water and when life was rough, with nature often being brute force.
Enjoy enchanting wooden houses, traditional attire, cheese, fish, and freshly baked stroopwafels. Just a ferry ride away is Marken, a distinctly different place worth a stroll. It’s smaller than Volendam but a place I counted as a highlight of my day. Let’s dive into it.
My 15 Favorite Things To Do in Volendam and Marken
1. A Traditional Volendam Costume Photos
A traditional clothing photo of you is one of the top things to do when visiting Volendam. I would go as far as to say a must.
I am ashamed to admit that I have never done this. So it was time to do it. You’ll find many photographers on the boulevard offering this service. I chose Fotograaf de Boer.
I have a few good reasons for that. 1. They’re the best known. All celebrities, local and international, have their photo taken here. Just look in the window display and all around the store. You’ll see social proof 🙋♂️ 2. Another benefit are their different backgrounds for the photo (fireplace, at the harbor, or in front of local green-colored houses).
The living room setting in front of the fireplace is the most popular one and the one I choose. But you can pick another one. Something the others don’t offer, many do the harbor only, and I find that one boring.
The experience might – let me rephrase that: will – feel a bit touristy, but trust me, it’s all good fun, and you’ll end up with a unique keepsake. Just embrace the moment, strike a pose, voila!
After the photoshoot, you’re offered different photo sizes (of course, at different prices). But I advise the basic package of two small photos (5″x7″ or 13x18cm) that is always included and take the USB stick offer for just a few euro more.
If you go for the photo only, they will pick the best photo for you, and that’s it. But with the USB stick offer, you get all photos and have them digitized. It was excellent, and I’m happy I took the USB stick.
Curious about my photo with Herman? This is the result (I wish we had done it sooner):
TIP: prices at the counter are higher than when you book your session with my link below. For two persons, you’re saving over €7 compared to the at-the-door price. Quick win, right?
Book a time slot ahead of time because they do sell out. They’ll always have room to fit you in at the door, but you’ll pay more.
PS: you do not need to book the USB stick in advance. You’re offered it when you collect your photos. So don’t worry if you can find it on the booking page.
2. The Volendam Museum (And The Cigar Bands House)
The Volendam Museum was, without a doubt, and unexpectedly, my favorite stop of the day. I have a national museum pass, so I always make it a point to visit local museums when I go somewhere. But this is worth paying for, and it’s inexpensive.
With smaller museums like this one, it can be hit or miss. They can either take you by surprise or are incredibly dull. This museum took me by surprise.
I was greeted warmly by a local volunteer and handed an information sheet (available in English too). The first section consisted of real-life local life scenes, which were realistic and charmingly arranged. They showed homely life, public life at the cafe, and working settings.
It was a great way to bring the past to life and offered plenty of photo opportunities. One of the displays was marked as a photo spot. You can see the snap I took there below!
There is also a small area of traditional clothing from different villages around the former sea and a ‘movie’ room. I sat there for a while and watched a slideshow of beautiful local paintings on the large TV screens. I wasn’t expecting that.
Adding to the museum’s homely atmosphere is the offer of a free cup of coffee or tea in the movie room.
But the highlight of my visit?
The Sigarenbandjeshuisje or the Cigar Bands House. It’s a museum inside a museum.
What are Cigar bands? They’re those paper wrappers around cigars. Well, somebody built complete mosaics out of them, from the map of the Netherlands to the Empire State Building in New York. The number of hours that must have gone into that. Unbelievable!
First, this was a separate “museum.” Now, the exhibition merged with the Volendam Museum. This was my favorite part. Again how could you find the patience?
P.S: A Little Cigar Band Trivia: The Tale of Elizabeth Bas
One fun tidbit about the Cigar Bands House is the frequent depiction of Elizabeth Bas, one of the Netherlands’ famous cigar brands in its time. She was the face of a cigar brand but had nothing to do with it.
She was a known 17th-century figure because she was a portrait in the Rijksmuseum. For a long time, people thought it was painted by Rembrandt (it wasn’t, but by one of his talented students). You can see the portrait of Elizabeth Bas online or at the real Rijksmuseum, where it still hangs today.
PS II: I’ve seen incorrect information about the opening hours on other blogs. The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. This museum is included in the I amsterdam card.
3. Cheese Factory Volendam: A Quick Stop for Cheese Lovers
Visit the cheese factory is something most visitors do. But do know that it’s more a shop than a production site. However, it does have a nice-looking area dedicated to demonstrating the traditional cheese-making process, and it’s free to enter.
The staff are knowledgeable and give insights into how Dutch cheese is made, making it an interesting, albeit brief, experience. I’ve seen worse.
Another significant benefit is that they sell Reypenaer cheese here, not “fake” Dutch brands. Reypenaer is an authentic Dutch brand available around the country. This is a refreshing change from the more tourist-focused brand Henri Willig that dominates many other similar shops and is available only in tourist areas—making them less the real deal for me.
Want to take home some cheese? Get the triangular blocks of Reypenaer cheese. Those are authentic. This town has many souvenirs, but this is an authentic Traditional Dutch souvenir you can enjoy when you return home.
I love the matured dark yellow version. It’s so flavorful. As for the round cheeses in the nets are unbranded and have flavors that are NOT typically Dutch, contrary to the sign, like pesto or chili. You can pass on those.
4.De Dijk of Volendam: The Most Famous Street of Volendam
This stretch of Volendam offers a scenic view of the harbor. It’s lined with colorful houses and shops.
But let’s not sugarcoat it too much. This is as touristy as it gets. This is not where locals will shop, and authenticity left long ago. Think the Fisherman’s Wharf District, but then Dutch, and maybe a tad less tasteful.
But braving the crowd for the waterfront sights and photo opportunities is still worth it. You will spot a few classic boats in the harbor, like the traditional “Kwaks” and “Botter” boats.
Another fun stop is the “Oude Mannen Huisje ” or “The Old Men’s House” speakeasy. It’s just a room on the Dyke, it’s hard to miss, with large windows and some chairs and a table inside. This is where the old men of the village meet and tell their stories. It’s closed to the public, but you can quickly peek inside and take a photo.
5. Have Lunch at Cafe “De Lunch”
When it’s time for something to eat in Volendam, I recommend “Restaurant De Lunch.” Which is a well-known restaurant at “The Dyke” and is often considered a good place for fried fish. Kibbeling is the best known in the Netherlands.
I was hesitant because this place also accepts many different tour group operators. These places are usually mediocre at best.
…But it looked very inviting, the prices were reasonable, and I read good reviews, so I wanted to try it. And I was happily surprised. The Kibbeling was fresh, not overly spiced, and the portion was large. We had an excellent table at the front overlooking the street.
Service was speedy and efficient (don’t expect a leisurely experience, then want to move tables fast), but we were never rushed.
I get no referral fee for this. Still, I would like to recommend them to you.
PS: Remember to have a look inside. The decor is traditional and a lot of fun!
6. Enjoy a Walk in the “Doolhof” – A True Maze of Small Streets
The Doolhof area is the oldest part of the Volendam Centrum (Center of Volendam). A little hard to find if you’re unfamiliar because it’s not well-signposted.
Most likely intended to keep most of the tourists out since it’s a residential area first and foremost.
You’re in for a treat and some great photo opportunities when you visit. But be mindful of the residents, be quiet and respectful so that it can stay an accessible place for a truly authentic local experience.
The Doolhof area is an excellent break from the hustle and bustle of the touristy area on the Dyke.
How to find it?
Just walk along the Dyke until you pass the Cheese store I mentioned above, then take a left where possible on the Dyke and walk down. This is the area. There is no route once inside. Just wander around. You should spend 15-20 minutes here. It’s too small to get lost. But use Google Maps if needed.
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8. Woltjes Stroopwafels & Museum
I don’t know how I feel about recommending this. To me, it’s so touristy, too much so.
The stroopwafels with toppings at the counter might look good on Instagram or TikTok, but they are far from authentic waffles.
And museum… well, that is a big word here. So why did I add it to the list?
For a few euros, you can participate in a “Stroopwafel making demonstration” and taste a fresh, hot one that’s the real deal (without toppings). Now that is worth the price.
Reviews are not always great on this tour, and that is because the tour’s description is a bit suggestive that you get to have a helping hand in the baking process. That is not true. They demonstrate, and you eat.
There is a true story of how the waffle concept was taken from its original place – Gouda – and brought to Volendam, where a local baker gave its twist to the cookie at this bakery. The “museum” part tells that story.
A visit won’t be the highlight of your day, but it will be a fun and tasty break!
PS: they offer a store-wide discount with the tour price but take that one with a grain of salt. You’ll likely be able to buy similar (or better) products at local supermarkets at lower prices.
My local’s tip: The most important thing to look for when buying pre-made stroopwafels here or elsewhere is that they are made with real butter, not margarine. That’s the secret to the good ones. Just look at the ingredients label.
9. Stop at “Praathuisje”
This little room has a huge social function in the local community; this is where the elderly men of the village come together and chat with each other.
10. Take The Marken Express Ferry From Volendam to Marken
After all this fun in Volendam, it’s time to take the 30-minute ferry ride to the former island community of Marken across the water on the Volendam Marken Express from the Volendam harbor. The journey to reach Marken is a treat, with photo-worthy panoramic views of the IJsselmeer Lake.
Once you arrive in Marken, you’ll be greeted by its quaint harbor, the typical historic wooden houses, and a tranquil atmosphere (you’ll see cows grazing behind them).
The story of Marken is one of hardship because of the rough sea and how isolated it once was (hard to imagine that today). Marken used to be an island. Its people shared the same fishing industry with Volendam but were otherwise very opposite.
For one example, Volendam was Catholic, while Marken was Protestant. Traditional clothing was also distinctly different.
Boats run frequently every 30 minutes. The boat description tells you there is live commentary on the boat, but I only heard the radio playing when I traveled on it.
But still, that’s ok. I loved sitting outside and enjoying the fresh air and the views. On my trip, it started to rain a bit. Thankfully, I could go inside, where there was a small cafe.
If you have a (rental) bike, you can take your bike onboard for a small surcharge. Making it possible to book a one-way ticket and cycle back from Marken via the Dyke. For the rest of us, a discounted return ticket is available.
If you want to save time, you can buy a one-way ticket and take the bus back to Amsterdam from either side.
The boat ride is also included in the “I amsterdam Card“, so that is a quick save if you already have it. When you don’t, you can buy your Ferry ticket below.
11. Marken Church
The Grote Kerk, or Marken Church, is an excellent spot for a quick visit while in the village of Marken.
It was built relatively recently, in the early 1900s. Immediately you feel this is a protestant church and not a catholic one.
What I loved about it was when I visited where the miniature boats hanging from the ceiling in many places. You could tell this was a village that lived with Fishing life.
It’s free to enter and open during the day. Don’t feel hesitant about going in. Often there is a keeper available sitting in the back. Don’t hesitate to ask him or her questions if you have them.
If you enjoyed your visit, leaving a small tip at the exit is much appreciated but optional.
12. Marken Museum
Another great find I want to mention is the Marken Museum. Not as great as the Volendam Museum and much smaller, even though the Volendam Museum was already small. But it is still worth 20-30 minutes of your time.
You’ll be warmly welcomed by local volunteers who have learned to ask you if you want to watch the introduction movie. I said yes, it only takes 8 minutes and does give you a good inside on the island’s history. It’s available in Dutch or English; they’ll play it just for you.
After that, the displays go into much detail about the local traditional clothing and its origin. Because the colorful clothing is what Marken is known for. The museum is not included in the I amsterdam city card, but for the little amount they charge, it’s worth paying for and supporting this tiny museum!
13. Take A Stroll Through The Distinct Marken Neighborhoods
What makes the houses in Marken most characteristic are the wooden houses on stilts. Even older are the so-called “yards,” artificial elevations where people live and protect themselves against the water.
Marken is divided into several tiny hamlets. Originally they were separate from each other. In the 20th century, the hamlets around the harbor and the church merged. These are the Havenbuurt, the Kerkbuurt, and the Kets.
What makes a stroll so worthwhile is that the different areas are still distinctly recognizable, even though it’s just a small area to explore.
I promise there will be plenty of photo spots, and you’ll thank me for venturing just outside the harbor to see all of this. At least, I hope you do.
PS: another trivial piece of information, but did you know the bridges in this town are called after the names of Dutch Queens, like Wilhelmina, Beatrix, Juliana, and Maxima?
Can you find them?
15. Have a Drink At The Marken Harbor
The last thing I recommend on this day is to take a break. Sit down, and relax at one of the few charming restaurants in the harbor before you take the boat back.
When the weather is good, take a seat on one of the cozy outside terraces of restaurant “De Taanketel” or “Café – Restaurant Land en Zeezicht (LEZZ).” They’re right next to each other and offer similar quality. If the weather is not in your favor, both have cozy indoor areas too!
Another place to take a break is Taverne de Visscher, the oldest still operating restaurant on Marken.
My feets thanked me when we let ourselves fall into a chair on the restaurant’s (De Taanketel) outside terrace overlooking the harbor. A great benefit was also we could see our boat coming in, so we knew when we needed to pay and head back to the landing for the ride back to Volendam.
PS: a bonus suggestion would be to see the beautiful old Marken lighthouse in the town of Marken called “Paard van Marken,” which means the Horse of Marken. But it’s a 35-minute walk, or you need a bike. For most visitors, it’s a little bit too much out of the way, but I want to ensure you know it exists.
Gerrit!!! Thank you for making our “Flower Day” so special. We enjoyed our time with you so much! Best wishes to you and Herman during your upcoming move!🌷🌷
– The Miller Family. Austin, Texas
How to Get to Volendam and Marken?
That is easy. You can get there by bus (public transportation), with a guided tour, by bike, or by car.
In my post: 4 Efficient Ways on How to Get from Amsterdam to Volendam 🧭 I explain each of the four options. Including which bus line to take, how often they run, where to get tickets, is it safe? For tours, I make three recommendations and explain the differences. I’ve included a bicycle route and the best way to rent one plus more.
Frequently Asked Questions Volendam And Marken
How much time do you spend in Volendam?
To do everything I recommended in this article, you need 6-7 hours to do them comfortably. But of course, you can pick and choose. As a minimum, allow 3-4 hours for your visit to this area, and be aware that it will be a stretch to include Marken for stays under 5 hours. It’s best to stick to Volendam only when you’re short on time.
What are the key attractions to visit in Volendam and Marken?
The main attractions in Volendam are a traditional photo shoot, the Volendam Museum, eating Fish, and taking the boat to the former island of Marken. At Marken, I would say a visit to the church and a stroll to the town are both essential. To get all 15 tips read the full article.
Is it easy to navigate around Volendam and Marken?
Volendam and Marken are small, making them easy to navigate on foot. Especially in Marken, it’s almost impossible to get lost. And in Volendam, it’s almost impossible, too, as long as you stay in the area of “The Dyke”, the harbor, and the streets behind it. The walking route to the museum (6-7 minutes) is signposted. If you’re in doubt, ask kindly; locals are generally willing to help if you need help. If you arrive by bus exit at the Centrum stop.
When is the best time to visit Volendam and Marken?
Both villages are great to visit year-round. These places are so popular that they’re always open. Of course, the weather is not always great. We’re not in the tropics, which is true all year round. However, some times are better than others.
I would recommend visiting in Spring or Summer if you have the chance. But if you’re here in Winter because you read my article on Netherlands winters (a great time to come), I would not be deterred from taking a day trip to Volendam and Marken. Just dress warmly! Especially if you go on the water.
Where is Volendam, Netherlands?
Volendam is 13 miles or 20 kilometers north of Amsterdam. By road, you take the N247 north. From Amsterdam Central Station, take metro 52 to the “Noord” station (last stop). From there bus 316 takes you directly to Volendam. Do you need the latitude & longitude coordinates of Volendam? They are: 52.49386938479307, 5.075113166733636.
Where is Marken, Netherlands
Marken is 13 miles or 20 kilometers north of Amsterdam—the same distance as Volendam. By road, you first take the N247 north. Then at Monnickendam, the N518 to Marken. By transit from Amsterdam Central Station, take metro 52 to the “Noord” station (last stop) and then bus 315 to Marken. Do you need the latitude & longitude coordinates of Marken? They are: 52.45904520657749, 5.106292740333424
Is Volendam worth visiting?
Many tourist wonder if Volendam is worth visiting and I understand. It’s a popular tourist destination in the Netherlands for a reason. But then it’s also so touristy.
The picturesque village lies on the shores of the IJsselmeer. With its well-preserved wooden houses, and small harbor Volendam exudes an old-world charm that is appealing to both domestic and international tourists.
But it also became very touristy over time, especially now with the many tour buses that come to the village every day. And with the buses the many shops catering to them.
When you decide to come here, you have to take that into account. Personally I still think there is reason enough to come, for the photoshoot, a raw herring, or the boat tour to Marken.
Conclusion: Is Volendam worth your time?
I would now say yes. I had a wonderful day visiting both Volendam and Marken recently. It’s touristy. Would it be better without it? I’m sure. Is it still fun? Absolutely. Volendam is such an easy trip from Amsterdam that I see why it’s such a draw for most visitors.
If you’re looking for a more authentic experience, I would opt for a day tour to Amersfoort. My hometown, and combine it with a visit to Spakenburg in the afternoon. A far less touristy former “Zuiderzee” fishing village with a stunning museum harbor that is much better than the one in Volendam.
A visit to Volendam and Marken is a great way to spend a day. Spending the nights is a good idea if you also want to visit more nearby villages like Edam, sample Edam cheese, explore the cheese market and visit the Edam museum. You can take the bus to get there the next day and take a direct bus all the way back to Amsterdam. (Edam is included in the suggested bus tours.
But no matter what you choose, I always encourage you to travel outside of Amsterdam to see a little more of life in the Netherlands.
