Experience the Traditional Dutch Village of Volendam
If you love European history and culture, travel to the charming Dutch village of Volendam. Just a 30-minute bus ride from Amsterdam, Volendam is a former fishing village in North Holland where you can see some residents still wearing the traditional Dutch apparel of high-pointed bonnets, striped clothing and wooden clogs. What’s more, you can experience the heritage and culture yourself when you visit the village’s historic district, harbor and museums.
Historic District
To experience the best of Volendam, a stroll around the historic district is a must-do. Often called the “labyrinth” because of its winding narrow streets and small canals weaving throughout, the charming historic district is where you can see beautiful old Dutch buildings and houses on stilts. You can also visit some of the old churches here such as the Protestant Stolphoevekerk and the St, Vincentius Church as well as significant landmarks like the Visafslag, a wooden building once used by fisherman to sell their fish in the early 1900s.
The Harbor
Another must-do is a walk around the bustling harbor where you can admire colorful boats and check out the lovely cafes, shops and bargain boutiques. Situated nearby hotel accommodation, the harbor is also where you will find various shops offering you the opportunity to be photographed wearing traditional Dutch costumes. These photos make great souvenirs.
Volendam Museum
At the Volendam Museum, you can learn all about the history and culture of this former fishing village. The museum features a wide variety of exhibits showcasing art works and artifacts like vintage clothing, house furnishings, fishing objects, model fishing boats, cigar items and folk art portraying festivals, music, literature and traditional daily life in Volendam.
Also located at the museum is a cigar house decorated with more than 11 million cigar bands and an art deco theater featuring Dutch documentaries and films.
Cheese Factory
Although you may find many cheese factories throughout Holland, the cheese factory in Volendam is unique for its warm hospitality and charm. Here, you can hear traditional Dutch stories while you learn about various cheeses and how they are made as well as taste samples and purchase some for souvenirs.
Eel Sound Museum
Volendam is known for its unique music, which is referred to as Palingsound, or “eel sound.” At the Eel Sound Museum, you can learn about this distinct music and experience the maritime melodies for yourself through the exhibits showcasing some of Volendam’s famous Dutch musicians such as the Cats and Jan Smit. The museum also houses a fish smokehouse and seafood restaurant.
Climate
Like most of the Netherlands, Volendam features a climate of pleasantly cool summers and mild winters. While rain is distributed evenly throughout the year, the months between April and September tend to be the drier season. Fall and winter occasionally experience strong winds and gales.
Are you ready to visit Volendam? You can begin your trip today by checking out the great deals that are available online now for both Amsterdam and Volendam.
