Europe tops many people’s ultimate bucket list of vacation destinations!
And it’s no surprise that upwards of 20 Million people visit the capital city of the
Netherlands each year!
But how many tourists also experience the charm and beauty of the outlying areas?
Traveling around Europe often centers around major metropolitan areas like London, Paris,
Rome, and Amsterdam because they are convenient and full of adventure.
But city life isn’t for everyone!
Some of us prefer a more peaceful and laid-back approach to a vacation.
For those of you who’d rather wake up slow, wander through idyllic old-world streets with
a coffee in hand, and forget about the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we always recommend
checking out areas off the beaten path.
Today, we’ll take you on a tour of the Best Things to do in Volendam, the Netherlands,
a picturesque village only 21km from the capital.
We’ll discuss what Volendam is known for and why it’s definitely worth the day trip
from Amsterdam!
Private day tours are available to book right from Amsterdam; for more information on our
favorite, follow the link in our description.
Hey everyone, my name is James, speaking to you through the internet behalf of ViaTraveler’s
YouTube channel.
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CHUNK1 So, what is Volendam known for?
Well, there is a hint right in its name, silly!
Volendam actually translates directly to filled or full dam.
This lakeside town was once a fishing mecca until a neighboring town built a quicker route
to the North Sea, and its primary industry quietly diminished.
It is still home to a fleet of beautiful boats along the harbor, and walking along the water’s
edge is still the most popular tourist experience!
De Dijk, (or the dyke), is the heart of the sightseeing area in this town.
This area is known for its cafes, restaurants, and plenty of beautiful old buildings that
any architecture lover will appreciate.
Though there is heavy competition for your attention here, one can observe the beauty
in the colorful floral displays and small details.
If you’re an early riser, you can often find solace on this street before it fills
with crowds!
Known as kwaks, the fishing boats that fill the harbor are a physical reminder of Volendam’s
former glorious fishing industry.
CHUNK2 Although a shadow of its former self plenty
of fishing still takes place here, so you know you’ll have fresh catch served wherever
you decide to catch a bite!
Best known for cod, eel, and herring, there are plenty of traditional and exciting ways
to enjoy the best Lake Markermeer offers.
You can find everything from fish and chips to pickled herring and smoked eel sandwiches
to tempt your tastebuds!
Of course, these all wash down well with an excellent local microbrew.
If fish isn’t your thing, there are other unique and delicious opportunities to enjoy
here in Volendam!
Into cheese?
The Cheese Factory gives you a quick 10-minute demonstration of the process of making local
cheeses, including the famed Dutch Gouda (or “goo-dah” if you will!)
Sure, it’s cheesy, but you’ll get some great samples and enjoy wandering through
the shopping options at the end!
In the mood for a sweet treat?
Well, look no further than Woltjes Stroopwafels & Museum.
These tasty stuffed waffle-like delicacies are beloved worldwide, and one trip through
the museum and shop will show you why!
The smell alone is intoxicating.
A couple of euros buys your way into the demonstration and tasting, a bargain, and an excellent way
to spend a little bit of your day!
CHUNK3 If you really want to immerse yourself in
that old-world feeling, you should take the opportunity to dress in ancient Dutch clothing!
Now that fishing isn’t the top industry here, Volendam serves as a leading resource
for traditional clothing.
Locations like Fotograaf Volendam give you the souvenir of a lifetime by transporting
you back in time for staged photos with multiple backdrops.
Walk a mile, ok, more like a few meters, in another’s clogs and enjoy the fun!
You could also stop by the Volendams museum to see a more extensive collection of authentic
costumes, art, and even a full-sized ship!
For those of you who’d like to pair new technology with history, you should take some
time to explore Experience Volendam.
This 30-minute virtual reality tour transports visitors all the way back to 1916!
You’ll get a first-hand, 360-degree look at what life looked like back then.
You’ll learn more about the history of this village and even “meet” a fisherman who
sails you on his ship!
All these small, easy-to-wander-through museums may only take 30 minutes to an hour to enjoy.
Still, they help paint the picture of what makes Volendam unique and charming.
CHUNK4 While this area is known more as a fishing
village, you can’t go far in this country without finding a windmill!
Just off Achterdichting Road, you’ll see “De Kathammer,” the local mill.
While only available during certain times of the year and by reservation, you’re always
free to walk by a take a snapshot!
Photographers and artists can find inspiration throughout this beautiful town, much as Renoir
and Picasso did in the early 20th century.
With so many waterways and lovely lighting, an unspoiled and tranquil atmosphere inspires
creativity.
Boat tours are a great way to enjoy the area and see some sites that may be further off
the beaten path.
CHUNK5 Artistic pursuits are celebrated in style
here in Volendam!
Right next to the Volendam museum, you can find a completely unique mosaic!
The cigar band house project began back in 1947 when an artist, Nicolaas Molenaar, took
his hobby of collecting cigar bands to a whole new level.
What started in an attic quickly grew and took over the walls of the entire home.
Molenaar took great care in recreating historic and iconic locations from all over Europe.
Eagle-eyed visitors will also find other sites from around the world.
From religious references to sports teams and maps, observing this remarkable collection
of mosaics is like a scavenger hunt!
CHUNK6 Laid-back vacations mean taking a slower pace.
There are a variety of walking and biking tours to help you experience this village
to its fullest.
You’ll want to check out the area known as Het Doolhof-Oude Kom.
This area was built without any specific planning.
So, you’ll find the streets here are full of tucked away, colorful alleys and bright
and inviting homes, perfect for any photographer’s portfolio.
While many treat Volendam as a simple day trip from Amsterdam, there are beautiful accommodations
here, from 4-star hotels to 19th-century throwback locations and even houseboats to rent.
Regardless of your budget or desires, Volendam has something to offer everyone.
It also serves as a great launching point to enjoy other smaller towns in the area.
There’s a ferry that runs to nearby Marken, a small island off the coast, every 30-45
minutes.
If you happen to purchase an I Amsterdam City Card during your stay in the Netherlands,
many of the main attractions we listed are included, so be sure not to overpay!
FINALE While Amsterdam certainly has so much to offer,
there are plenty of relaxing and fun things to do in Volendam as well.
This town makes a great little getaway from Amsterdam’s busier city streets, from leisurely
walks along the dike and enjoying the surrounding scenic roads to the charming appeal of the
tourist quarter.
We hope you’ve enjoyed getting to know this village with us and why we feel Volendam is
worth visiting!
Be sure to follow the link below if you want to book a day trip while staying in Amsterdam!
And remember to like this video and subscribe to the channel to keep up with our latest
travel adventures!
This is James thanking you so much for watching, and I’ll see you in the next one!