You will fall in love with the picturesque Dutch town of Volendam located northeast of Amsterdam. This charming fishing village contains a maze of quaint, beautiful streets full of colourful wooden and brick houses, canals and drawbridges and is best explored on foot.
The picturesque Dutch town of Volendam
Charming Dutch town of Volendam with historic streets and canals. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
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The oldest church in the town is Stolphoevekerk, built in 1658. It is still an operating Protestant church.
The historic streets of the charming town of Volendam in the Dutch countryside. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
In the harbour on the IJsselmeer lake is a variety of old fishing boats.
The historic streets of the charming town of Volendam in the Dutch countryside. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
There are three museums in Volendam to learn more about the history and culture of the area: Volendam Museum, Palingsound Museum and the Cheese Factory.
There are many shops open seven days a week. You can even have your photo taken in traditional Dutch clothing.
The historic streets of the charming town of Volendam in the Dutch countryside. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Discover traditional Dutch food
In the De Dijk area of Volendam, there are agood variety of restaurants offering great harbour views and freshly caught fish.
Dutch Food – The historic streets of the charming town of Volendam in the Dutch countryside. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Delicious waffles (wafels) are very tempting to try. They are loaded with a variety of toppings, including piles of fresh fruits and berries along with whipped cream.
Delicious wafels being made in the charming fishing village of Volendam. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Try some fresh fish from an outdoor stand offering traditional Dutch specialties; smoked eel, herring and kibbling (traditional battered fried fish).
“New Dutch Herring”, called Hollandse Nieuwe, is a bun containing raw herring, pickles and onion. This healthy dish is usually only available in June.
Fish stall in Volendam, Netherlands sells Dutch herring favourites. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr
Food and Drink – Fish stall in Volendam, Netherlands sells Dutch herring favourites. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr
Fast Facts:
- June is the best time of the year for herring.
- Volendam is Holland’s most famous village.
- Palingsound is a unique type of music originating in Volendam. It is a mix of harmony vocals and easy listening Southern European folk and country tunes.
Getting to the Dutch town of Volendam
Volendam is located about 23 km or a 35 minutes drive from Amsterdam.
Consider a great day trip from Amsterdam, to also combine a visit to Volendam (8 kms from Edam) and Zaanse Schans (25 kms further).
Check back for our top things to do guide for Amsterdam and for traditional Dutch foods.
Explore the Dutch town famous for Edam Cheese
Learn about historic Dutch windmills of Zaanse Schans.
Photos: Picturesque 17th century streets and canals of Edam
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Wendy Nordvik-Carr is a highly regarded travel writer who produces quality, well-researched articles with stunning photography and video.
She seeks out authentic experiences showcasing the people, culture and history that make each destination unique. Her focus is on solo, couple and multigenerational travel through cruising, air and road trip adventures.
Wendy is the editor & writer for LifesIncredibleJourney.com, a travel site that encourages exploration of destinations near & far.
She is a TMAC Director, Chair, National Governance Committee and Chair of TMAC's BC & Yukon Chapter, as well as a member of SATW and NATJA.
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