Volendam & Marken like a local

Discover Two Iconic Dutch Fishing Villages at Your Own Pace

Explore the picturesque fishing villages of Volendam and Marken and experience their authentic Dutch charm like a local. Wander through the traditional streets, cycle through the scenic surroundings, and enjoy a relaxing boat journey as you create your own itinerary and discover each village at your leisure.

Begin your day in the historic fishing village of Volendam, renowned throughout the Netherlands for its lively harbour, distinctive green wooden houses, traditional eel fishing, and colourful traditional costumes. Take your time exploring these unique local highlights and soaking up the village’s vibrant atmosphere. Be sure to visit The Cheese Factory, a must-see stop where you can discover and shop for delicious Dutch cheeses.

When you are ready to continue, make your way to the second destination of the day, the charming village of Marken. Once an island, Marken has been connected to the mainland by road since 1957. For a scenic change of pace, board the Marken Express and cruise across the Marker Lake, enjoying beautiful views of the water as you travel from one harbour to the other.

After arriving on the picturesque peninsula, follow the signs towards Sijtje Boes, an authentic traditional house where you can discover how the people of Marken lived around 1940. As you stroll through the village and admire its characteristic homes, remember to remain on the designated roads and paths—some of the surrounding areas lead directly into private gardens.

Enjoy the freedom to explore Volendam and Marken independently, combining scenic landscapes, traditional Dutch heritage, local flavours, and a memorable boat journey at your own pace.