Volendam

A picturesque fishing village on the Markermeer known for its traditional wooden houses, narrow waterfront streets, and authentic Dutch charm. It is a popular day trip from Amsterdam with excellent seafood restaurants and traditional costume photography opportunities.

Things to do

• Volendam Museum — Explore the history of this fishing village through traditional costumes, paintings, and artifacts documenting centuries of local maritime heritage.
• Traditional Costume Photography — Visit local studios along the harbor to dress in authentic Volendam folk costumes—distinctive black and white outfits with white lace caps—for a memorable photo session.
• Waterfront Harbor Walk — Stroll along the picturesque Havenkade lined with narrow wooden houses painted in traditional colors, watching working fishing boats and enjoying the authentic Dutch waterfront atmosphere.
• Marken Island Visit — Take a short ferry or drive across the causeway to the adjacent island of Marken to see its distinctive green wooden houses and experience another traditional fishing community.
• Edam Cheese Market Day Trip — Travel 15 minutes to nearby Edam to witness the traditional cheese market (summer Wednesdays) with cheese carriers in white costumes stacking and trading wheels of famous Edam cheese.
• Boat Tours on Markermeer — Book a guided tour departing from the harbor to experience the lake that defines Volendam's identity and learn about its fishing traditions from local captains.

Food to try

• Kibbeling — Crispy deep-fried battered fish pieces, typically cod or haddock, served as a casual snack at waterfront stalls and restaurants with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
• Paling (Smoked Eel) — Locally caught eel smoked over wood fire, a traditional delicacy of the region sliced and served with mustard or on dark bread.
• Matje Haring (Raw Herring) — Fresh raw herring prepared in the traditional Dutch style with onions and pickles, eaten in one bite or on a small plate at harbor-side fish stands.
• Paling Paling (Eel Stew) — A hearty traditional soup or stew made with smoked eel, potatoes, and vegetables, reflecting Volendam's fishing heritage and comfort food traditions.
• Mussels and Oysters — Fresh shellfish harvested from nearby waters, served steamed or raw at waterfront restaurants during the seasonal autumn and winter months.
• Volendam Cheese — Sample local aged gouda-style cheeses and the famous yellow cheeses produced in the surrounding region, available at shops and markets throughout the village.

Local customs & good to know

• Traditional Dress Still Matters — While not worn daily, many locals take pride in traditional costume and you may see elderly residents or festival participants wearing the distinctive black clothing, white caps, and silver jewelry of Volendam heritage.
• Fish Market Timing — Visit the harbor early morning or around noon when fishing boats return with the catch to experience the authentic commercial fishing that still drives Volendam's economy and culture.
• Respect Photography Customs — Always ask permission before photographing locals in traditional dress or in intimate harbor scenes, as residents value privacy despite Volendam's popularity with tourists.
• Peak Season Awareness — Summer weekends and school holidays see significant tourist crowds; visit on weekdays or in shoulder seasons (May, September) for a quieter, more authentic experience of daily village life.