Volendam is a little fishing village of the Netherlands, located next to Lake Markermeer. This city is next to Edam, and it was formerly part of it as its port, until the construction of the new port came and people settled in this area until creating the population of Volendam.
Visit Volendam It is something that is done if we have a day off when we go to Amsterdam, because it is only 22 kilometers from the city, and can be reached in a short trip. Although this town was a fishermen's place, it has so much charm that today it has become a tourist place where you can discover the small towns around Amsterdam.
What to know about Volendam
Volendam was born as the Edam main port, which was dammed when a new port was created. This area was formed as a land fill that had to be used and communities settled in them that would eventually found Volendam, which means something similar to 'filled dam' due to its origin. Today it is a town close to Amsterdam that is worth visiting in one day. Although initially its economy was centered on the fishing activity on Lake Markermeer, over time tourism became another important economic engine for the town.
How to get to Volendam
The trip to Volendam always passes through Amsterdam. That is, if we have stayed in the city for a vacation we always have the opportunity to visit these picturesque surrounding towns, so you can plan a day or two to see them. Renting a car is a great idea, because it is also only 22 kilometers from the center of Amsterdam and then we can have the freedom to move around other towns like Edam and surroundings. However, if we do not want to be worrying about the rental and arriving with Google Maps, we can take the bus line 316 from Amsterdam central station to go directly to Volendam via Edam.
Volendam Museum
This museum is located in the old part of the town, in a beautiful and decorative building. Inside it is possible to see exhibitions of regional costumes from the area and the Netherlands, as well as some works by international artists who are inspired by local fishing or crafts. We always recommend confirming the times and prices of the places beforehand, since the information may change depending on the season. This museum is usually open from 10 in the morning to 17 in the afternoon and its entrance is cheap, about 2,50 euros, so it is worth visiting and as it is not very large it will not take us long. You can always see something interesting and who knows if you are going to return to that place.
Promenade
El Volendam seafront It is almost the most worthwhile in this town. Being a fishing village, its port is very important and in it we can see the typical houses and beautiful boats. There are a few shops and restaurants to stop at if we want to take it easy. In Volendam they know that this is one of the strong points of their town and that is why it already has a more touristy touch. Another walk that should not be missed is that of the historic area of the town, with beautiful buildings and quiet spaces.
Palingsound Museum
This is another museum that we can see in the city of Volendam, which is dedicated entirely to music. If it is a subject that you like, it can be interesting, since you can see instruments, history and records by important artists. The price is even lower than that of the main museum and it is closed on Mondays.
Sint Vincentius Kerk
The vast majority of the population of Volendam are Catholics and this church is located where the first was built catholic church in 1860. This church was expanded on several occasions until it reached the construction that we see today, with a neo-baroque style.
Marken and Edam
If we go to see Volendam, we can also enjoy quick visits to two other nearby and equally picturesque towns. We refer to Marken, which stands out with its XNUMXth century wooden houses painted with beautiful colors, very typical of Holland. This town is well known for its traditional style and for this reason it is also very visited. Nearby you can see the beautiful Paard Van Marken Lighthouse. On the other hand, we have Edam, next to Volendam, which is famous throughout the world for its round cheeses covered with red wax. In July and August every Wednesday you can enjoy the traditional cheese market, an event that attracts many tourists.