Traditional Fishing Villages on the IJsselmeer
Volendam and Marken are two former fishing villages on the shores of the IJsselmeer (formerly the Zuiderzee) approximately 20 kilometres north of Amsterdam — about 30 minutes by road. The villages preserve the traditional architecture, costumes, and character of the old Zuiderzee fishing communities, and together they form one of the most popular half-day excursions from Amsterdam for visitors wanting to see the Netherlands beyond the capital.
Volendam is a harbour village with a colourful waterfront — painted wooden houses, fish-smoking houses (the smoked eel is a local specialty), souvenir shops, and a bustling harbour promenade. The traditional Volendam costume (elaborate lace caps for women, wide trousers for men) is still worn by some residents on special occasions and is available for tourist dress-up photographs. The village is lively, commercial, and photogenic.
Marken is a former island (now connected to the mainland by a causeway, built in 1957) with a distinctly different character — green-painted wooden houses on stilts (built to survive flooding before the Zuiderzee was enclosed), a quieter atmosphere, a wooden-shoe workshop, and the Marker Museum documenting the island’s isolated history. Marken is less commercial than Volendam and more atmospheric.
The ferry between Volendam and Marken (the Marken Express) crosses the IJsselmeer in approximately 30 minutes, and the boat ride between the two villages — across open water with views of the historical landscape — is part of the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far are Volendam and Marken from Amsterdam?
Approximately 20 kilometres, about 30 minutes by road. Bus 316 from Amsterdam Centraal connects to Volendam. The Marken Express ferry connects Volendam to Marken.
Can I visit both Volendam and Marken in a half day?
Yes. A half-day tour (4–5 hours) covers both villages and the ferry crossing. Many tours combine Volendam and Marken with Zaanse Schans for a full day of Dutch countryside highlights.
Are Volendam and Marken genuine villages?
Yes — people live and work in both. Volendam has a more tourist-commercial character (the harbour promenade is largely shops and restaurants). Marken is quieter and more residential. Both are real communities with tourist overlays.