Volendam Amsterdam
A charming Dutch fishing village near Amsterdam, famous for its colorful harbor, traditional costumes, and delicious fresh seafood.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more authentic feel
Volendam Amsterdam
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more authentic feel

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming Dutch fishing village near Amsterdam, famous for its colorful harbor, traditional costumes, and delicious fresh seafood.
"Volendam is a picturesque fishing village offering a delightful taste of Dutch culture and cuisine."
🚌 Easy Bus Access
Bus 316 from Amsterdam Centraal is the most convenient way to reach Volendam.
📸 Capture the Colors
The picturesque harbor and colorful houses make for stunning photos.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Volendam Harbor
The main waterfront
A vibrant hub with colorful boats, charming houses, and bustling seafood stalls. Perfect for a scenic stroll.

Traditional Dutch Costumes
Various photo studios and shops
Experience local culture by trying on traditional Volendam attire for a memorable photo opportunity.

Fresh Seafood
Restaurants along the harbor
Savor delicious, freshly caught seafood, including the famous smoked eel, a local specialty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Volendam from Amsterdam
Embrace the Local Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚌 Easy Bus Access
Bus 316 from Amsterdam Centraal is the most convenient way to reach Volendam.
📸 Capture the Colors
The picturesque harbor and colorful houses make for stunning photos.
🐟 Taste the Local Catch
Don't miss trying the fresh seafood, especially smoked eel.
👗 Traditional Costume Fun
Rent traditional outfits for a fun and unique photo experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚌 Easy Bus Access
Bus 316 from Amsterdam Centraal is the most convenient way to reach Volendam.
📸 Capture the Colors
The picturesque harbor and colorful houses make for stunning photos.
🐟 Taste the Local Catch
Don't miss trying the fresh seafood, especially smoked eel.
👗 Traditional Costume Fun
Rent traditional outfits for a fun and unique photo experience.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby Villages
Consider combining Volendam with Marken for a fuller experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Volendam is widely praised for its picturesque harbor, colorful houses, and authentic Dutch fishing village atmosphere. Visitors love the fresh seafood, especially smoked eel, and the unique experience of trying on traditional costumes. Some find it a bit touristy, and a few Reddit users mention it can feel like a 'closed community' to outsiders.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to travel from Amsterdam to Volendam is by bus. Bus line 316 departs regularly from Amsterdam Centraal station and takes approximately 30 minutes to reach Volendam.
Some travelers also mention bus 800 as an option.No, Volendam does not have a train station. The primary public transport option is by bus from Amsterdam or other nearby towns.
The bus journey from Amsterdam Centraal to Volendam typically takes around 25-30 minutes.
Absolutely! Volendam is a very popular and easy day trip from Amsterdam, often combined with visits to Marken or Zaanse Schans.
Yes, many tour operators offer day trips from Amsterdam that include Volendam, often combined with other Dutch villages like Marken and Zaanse Schans.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Volendam itself is a village, so there are no entry tickets required to walk around the harbor and streets. However, specific attractions within Volendam, like museums or photo studios, may have admission fees.
Volendam is a living village, so it's accessible at all hours. However, shops, restaurants, and attractions typically operate during daytime hours, generally from around 9 AM to 5 PM or later.
The bus fare from Amsterdam to Volendam is a standard public transport fee. Purchasing a day ticket or using an OV-chipkaart is recommended for cost-effectiveness, especially if you plan multiple journeys.
While there isn't a single pass specifically for Volendam, consider the I Amsterdam City Card if you plan to visit multiple attractions in Amsterdam and its surroundings, though it might not cover all transport to Volendam.
Yes, booking tours to Volendam in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and potentially get better rates.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo spots are along the harbor with its colorful boats and traditional houses. The narrow streets and the Volendam sign are also popular.
Many visitors find it a fun and memorable experience to dress up in traditional Volendam costumes for photos. It's a unique way to capture the local culture.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Weekday mornings can also be good for fewer crowds and softer light.
Drone usage is generally restricted in populated areas and near harbors. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone in Volendam.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the harbor and street scenes. A standard zoom lens is versatile. Don't forget a portable charger for your phone, as you'll be taking many photos!
🍽️ 🐟 Food & Dining
Volendam is renowned for its fresh seafood, particularly herring and smoked eel. You'll find many restaurants and stalls offering these delicacies.
Numerous restaurants line the harbor offering fresh fish. Look for places that specialize in local catches like smoked eel for an authentic taste.
While seafood is dominant, many restaurants offer standard European fare, which may include vegetarian options like salads or pasta. It's advisable to check menus beforehand.
'Volendamse paling' refers to smoked eel from Volendam, a highly prized local specialty. It has a rich, smoky flavor and is a must-try for seafood lovers.
While harbor-front restaurants can be pricier, you can find more affordable options by exploring side streets or opting for quick bites like fried fish from stalls.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🍽️ Foodies
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Getting to Volendam: The Easy Bus Route
While bus 316 is the most direct, some sources mention bus 800 as another option. The convenience of this bus route is frequently highlighted, making it easy for even first-time visitors to navigate. The proximity to Amsterdam means you can easily spend a few hours in Volendam and be back in the city by lunchtime, or dedicate a full day to exploring the surrounding areas.
Experiencing Volendam's Unique Culture
Beyond the visual charm, Volendam is famous for its fresh seafood. Sampling local specialties like herring and, most notably, smoked eel is a must-do. Many restaurants along the harbor serve these delicacies, offering an authentic taste of the region. While the village is a popular tourist spot, some Reddit discussions note that Volendam can be a 'closed community' with a distinct local identity, referring to outsiders as 'jassen'. This adds a layer of authenticity to the experience, reminding visitors they are in a place with deep-rooted traditions.
Combining Volendam with Nearby Gems
Another common combination is with Zaanse Schans, famous for its well-preserved windmills. While Zaanse Schans offers a different kind of Dutch experience, it's geographically close enough to be included in a day trip itinerary. Tours often bundle Volendam, Marken, and Zaanse Schans together, providing a comprehensive taste of Dutch rural life, windmills, and coastal villages. Planning your trip to include these neighboring attractions can maximize your time and provide a richer understanding of the Netherlands' diverse landscapes and heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit