Amsterdam is undoubtedly one of Europe’s most vibrant and captivating cities, but there’s so much more to the Netherlands than its capital. Just beyond the city limits lies a treasure trove of charming villages, picturesque landscapes, and rich Dutch culture waiting to be explored. If you’re looking to experience the quintessential beauty of Holland, a day trip to Volendam and Marken is a must. This journey will take you through some of the most scenic and historic parts of the country, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Start Your Journey: Amsterdam to Volendam
Your adventure begins in Amsterdam, where you’ll hop on a bus or join an organized tour to the charming fishing village of Volendam. You can check out my article: Top 5 Travel Apps you need to download before your next trip, which I hope you’ll find helpful for getting around. We used the CityMapper app to navigate our way to Volendam, and it provided us with precise details on which public transport to take from our location, making the journey to Volendam completely stress-free.
Located just 20 kilometers north of Amsterdam, Volendam is easily accessible, with the bus ride taking around 30 minutes. As you leave the city behind, you’ll quickly find yourself surrounded by lush green fields, windmills, and the iconic Dutch countryside.
Volendam is a picture-perfect village known for its colourful wooden houses, traditional costumes, and bustling harbour. The moment you step off the bus, you’ll be transported back in time to a place where Dutch traditions are still very much alive. Wander along the narrow streets, explore local shops selling Dutch cheese and souvenirs, and be sure to visit the Volendam Museum, where you can learn about the village’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Enjoy Fresh Seafood and Stunning Views
Volendam’s harbour is the heart of the village, offering stunning views of the IJsselmeer Lake and a lively atmosphere filled with fishing boats, cafes, and restaurants. This is the perfect place to stop for a bite to eat. Fresh seafood is a must-try here, especially the local specialty, “kibbeling” (battered and fried fish). Pair it with some fries and a cold drink, and you have the perfect Dutch lunch.
As you stroll along the harbour, take in the panoramic views of the lake and the quaint houses that line the waterfront. Don’t forget to snap some photos—Volendam is one of the most photographed spots in the Netherlands for a reason!
During our visit to Volendam, we had an incredible meal at De Lunch Restaurant. The food was absolutely amazing, and it quickly became one of our favourite spots. The restaurant has several tables outside right in front, but they tend to fill up fast. However, if you’re set on setting outside, you might get lucky like we did- we found additional tables just a minute’s walk from the restaurant.
One thing we quickly realised is that fries (frites) in the Netherlands are on a whole different level. They’re unlike any other fries we’ve had elsewhere, so make sure you give them a try when you’re there!
Ferry to Marken: A Step Back in Time
After exploring Volendam, it’s time to embark on the next leg of your journey: a ferry ride across the IJsselmeer to the island village of Marken. The ferry ride itself is a delightful experience, offering beautiful views of the water and surrounding landscape. The ferry operates regularly, and the ride takes about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery.
The Volendam Marken Express ferry is conveniently located just a one-minute walk from De Lunch restaurant. This makes it easy to enjoy a delicious meal before heading off on a scenic ferry ride to Marken.
The ferry ride is included with the I Amsterdam City Card. This makes it an easy and cost-effective way to explore Volendam and Marken.
Marken is a former island that is now connected to the mainland by a causeway, but it still retains its island charm and atmosphere. Known for its well-preserved wooden houses and traditional Dutch culture, Marken feels like a step back in time. The village is small and easily walkable, with narrow streets and bridges that invite you to explore at a leisurely pace.
Discover Marken’s Unique Charm
Once you arrive in Marken, you’ll immediately notice the distinctive green wooden houses that are a hallmark of the village. Many of these homes are built on stilts to protect them from flooding, a reminder of the area’s maritime history. Marken is also famous for its clog-making tradition, and you can visit a local workshop to see how these traditional wooden shoes are made.
Take some time to visit the Marken Museum, which provides insight into the island’s history and the unique lifestyle of its residents. The peaceful atmosphere of Marken, combined with its picturesque setting, makes it a perfect place to unwind and take in the beauty of traditional Dutch life.
Return to Amsterdam: A day well spent
After you’ve soaked in the charm of Marken, it’s time to head back to Amsterdam. You can easily take Bus 111 which departs from Marken Centrum and takes you directly to
Amsterdam, Station Noord. We found this convenient bus route using the CityMapper app, which made navigating our journey back to the city a breeze.
As you return to the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam, you’ll carry with you the memories of a day spent in the heart of Holland’s countryside. This day trip offers a perfect contrast to the urban energy of Amsterdam, showcasing the tranquil beauty and rich traditions of the Netherlands.
A day trip to Volendam and Marken offers a glimpse into the idyllic Dutch way of life that lies just beyond Amsterdam. From the colourful houses and bustling harbour of Volendam to the tranquil, time-worn charm of Marken, this journey is a perfect way to experience the highlights of Holland in a single day. Whether you’re savouring fresh seafood by the water or exploring historic villages, this adventure will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the beauty and culture of the Netherlands. So next time you’re in Amsterdam, be sure to take a day to explore these hidden gems and discover the magic of Netherlands’ countryside.
If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam, make sure you also read my post: Beyond the
Canals: 8 things you absolutely must do in Amsterdam.
Please reach out on Instagram/TikTok if you found this information useful. I would love to hear from you!
Foarte frumos sunt interesat.
E chiar minunat acolo!