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The town of Volendam is located in North Holland, about 11 miles away from Amsterdam. Volendam is now a tourist town filled with souvenir shops, little boutiques, restaurants and gift shops. The residents wear their flamboyant costumes during high season to recreate the traditional Dutch atmosphere for the tourists, while craftsmen demonstrate their work for the public.
ROL Cruise recommends…
During your Volendam river cruise, we highly recommend a visit to the quirky Volendams Museum. Here you will gain a unique glimpse into some of the most unique elements of Dutch culture; from mosaics made by a local monk from millions of cigar bands to life-sized dioramas depicting Volendam life in the 19th Century. For a true taste of Volendam culture, a visit to the Palingsound is a must. Translating to ‘eel sound’, this music is characteristic of the village and the past 100 years of its development is captured in its unique exhibits. The museum is also an eel smokehouse, so make sure to take a tour of this too and discover the 6-generations-kept secret of the Volendam eel industry!
You’ve already heard of the delicious smoked eels, and naturally fresh fish is at the top of the menu of every eatery in Volendam, the most famous fishing village in Holland. Fisherman still work daily to make their catch from the North Sea and the freshwater Ijsselmeer Lake. If you’re feeling particularly brave and are looking for an authentic taste of Volendam, make sure to try the soused herring with onions, or opt for some kibbeling, an appetising delicacy of deep-fried cod. These dishes and more are available from almost every café and harbourside resultant in Volendam, and there are also stalls and street food vendors open during the summer months too.
Another charming attraction to visit during your Volendam river cruise is its tribute to famous former residents at Uniek Volendam. Relive the golden career highlights of Volendam FC’s Arnold Mühren and international referee Jan Keizer in the Kras Stadium; or learn about the fascinating career of musician Jan Smit and fellow local singers at the Wall of Fame.
This charming village is a popular tourist attraction to Netherland natives and those visiting on a river cruise. Just a short distance from Amsterdam, the village is easy to explore on foot and taking a troll around the pretty harbour lined with colourful houses is how we recommend you spend at least some of your time in Volendam during your river cruise.