Volendam(Netherlands) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For a unique stay in Volendam, consider De Gouden Koe (Golden Cow Hotel), a centuries-old Dutch-style inn with original wooden beams and vibrant façades. Located right on the harbor, it offers easy access to fishing docks and local markets. Another excellent choice is Huisje aan de Water, a charming canal-side boutique guesthouse with private water views and cozy, art-filled rooms. Both properties are within walking distance of Volendam’s historic center, ideal for exploring colorful houses and street art. They also reflect authentic Dutch coastal culture.

The historic center of Volendam, particularly around Pier 14 and Sint-Jansplein Square, is the top choice for lodging. This area is packed with local cafes, souvenir shops, and galleries, and is just a 5-minute walk from the waterfront. The narrow streets, painted facades, and traditional boats create a picturesque setting. Staying here allows you to experience daily life in this well-preserved fishing village, with morning light reflecting off canals and evening lanterns glowing along the quays—perfect for photography and quiet relaxation.

Don’t miss the annual Vissersfeest (Fishermen’s Festival) held each summer, where locals dress in traditional fishing attire, parade through the harbor, and showcase fresh seafood. Visit the Fries Museum’s Volendam exhibit to learn about wooden clog craftsmanship and the region’s maritime history. You can also join a windmill painting workshop led by local artists, where you’ll create your own miniature windmill souvenir—great for taking home a piece of Dutch heritage.

Head to De Vismarkt Café, a cozy local café tucked in the old market district, known for its fresh pastries and homemade jams. Try their classic Dutch breakfast: warm stroopwafels paired with creamy cheese and seasonal fruit. For something more authentic, visit Bakkerij De Oude Molen for freshly baked rye bread and duck egg pancakes, served with a steaming cup of coffee or tea—ideal for starting your day in a tranquil seaside setting.

Beyond the colorful houses of Volendam itself, visit the Molen van de Kromme Waard windmill complex, offering panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding hills. Take a short boat ride to Oostereiland Island, a wild dune landscape perfect for nature walks and photography. For a deeper dive into Dutch history, head to Zaanse Schans—just a 20-minute drive away—where you’ll find working clog workshops, traditional windmills, and open-air museums showcasing 17th-century industry.

Absolutely! Volendam is family-friendly with spacious seafront promenades and child-oriented parks like Jonge Riet Park, featuring playgrounds and sand pits. Many guesthouses offer family rooms and provide baby cots upon request. Don’t miss the Kids’ Maritime Centre, where children can learn navigation skills through interactive games involving compasses and rope knots. Seasonal events like summer concerts and lantern parades make it a joyful destination for all ages.

Volendam has a peaceful, low-key nightlife—ideal for those seeking calm evenings. Enjoy a drink at De Punt or Het Zand, local pubs serving regional beers like Grolsch and Jenever (Dutch gin), often accompanied by live acoustic music. Some restaurants host folk music nights on weekends, featuring traditional Dutch ballads sung by local musicians. Evening strolls along the harbor, watching lights ripple across the water, create a romantic and serene atmosphere—perfect for couples or travelers who appreciate quiet charm.

Take an NS train from Amsterdam Centraal to Lisse, then transfer to Bus 93 (about 20 minutes) to reach Volendam. The journey takes roughly 45 minutes and costs around €10. Alternatively, take the Amsterdam Airport Express Bus to Zaandam, then catch a short tram to Volendam. For a scenic option, rent a bicycle and ride along the Zaanse Schans route—a beautiful 1-hour ride through countryside and coastal paths with stunning views.

Try fried cod with fries (Frietjes met haring), served fresh at harbor stalls. A local favorite is the kroket (meat croquette) from Snack 't Vissertje, crispy outside and rich inside. Don’t miss rookvis (smoked fish), often enjoyed with sauerkraut and buttered rye bread. For dessert, sample stroopwafels—warm, syrup-filled waffles—available from street vendors. These treats capture the essence of Volendam’s coastal culinary tradition.

Capture the iconic red-and-white house alleys (Winkelstraat) during early morning mist, when reflections shimmer on the canals. The Pier 14 harbor offers dramatic shots of fishing boats against a backdrop of windmills. For dreamy light, visit Zuiderzee Sea Dyke at sunset, where golden rays illuminate the windmills and sky. Also try the Fries Museum fountain square, surrounded by colorful buildings and sculptures—ideal for candid, lively photos of local life.