Charming villages, picturesque canals, and windmills probably come to mind when you think of the Netherlands. Fortunately, you don’t have to travel far from Amsterdam to experience the quintessential Dutch countryside.
A day trip to Monnickendam, Marken, Volendam, and Edam is the perfect way to learn Dutch history and enjoy the charm of centuries-old village life.
Monnickendam: A Hidden Gem In The Netherlands
Monnickendam is a true hidden gem just a short drive from Amsterdam.
This 14th-century town’s picturesque streets, historic buildings, and peaceful harbor are often overlooked by tourists.
Most tourist guides and travel blogs skip Monnickendam entirely. Instead, they concentrate more on other towns in the area, such as the overcrowded Volendam.
But suppose you wish to experience typical Dutch village life without the tourist masses and souvenir shops selling Amsterdam merch. In that case, Monnickendam is the place to be.
It’s the perfect place to unwind as boats drift by on the tranquil waters.
Before leaving Monnickendam, grab a bite at one of the charming local cafes. Brasserie De Waegh Monnickendam is a great place to enjoy a tasty meal and watch people walk by.
Things To Do In Monnickendam
- Visit De Zarken Windmill: This picturesque windmill is an iconic symbol of Monnickendam. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about its history and the mechanics of the windmill.
- Visit Museum De Speeltoren: Learn about the history of Monnickendam in this lovely museum near the city harbor.
- Visit St. Nicholas Church: The grand St. Nicholas Church in the heart of Monnickendam dates back to the 14th century. Its stunning interior and historic significance make it a must-visit.
- Take A Walk In The Harbour: Walk along the harbor and enjoy the charming waterfront views and the peaceful atmosphere.
Marken: Timeless Coastal Beauty
From Monnickendam, it’s just a short drive to the enchanting town of Marken.
Marken is a small island town on Markermeer Lake, showing traditional Dutch life. It has charming canals and green wooden houses, making it a unique destination. You can explore the island on foot or by renting a bike. The Paard van Marken lighthouse offers breathtaking views.
For Dutch culture and history, visit the Marker Museum. It highlights the island’s rich maritime heritage and the skills of its local craftsmen.
Marken is lovely. The atmosphere is very welcoming, and people are friendly. It’s a perfect stop on your day trip from Amsterdam.
Things To Do In Marken
- Visit Paard van Marken Lighthouse: This red lighthouse, known as “Horse of Marken,” is an iconic landmark on the island. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Visit The Clogs and Costume Museum: Learn about traditional Dutch wooden clogs and clothing at this museum. You can even try on traditional costumes for a memorable photo opportunity.
- Visit Marken Museum: The museum offers insights into the island’s history, showcasing its maritime heritage and the daily lives of its residents.
- Enjoy The Atmosphere: Marken is charming, and the scenery is absolutely beautiful. Enjoy the atmosphere and a cup of coffee in many of the cozy restaurants along the harbor.
Volendam: A Glimpse of The Fishing Tradition
Volendam is an old fishing village on the shores of the Ijsselmeer. This place is famous for its traditional Dutch costumes, wooden shoes, and bustling harbor.
Take a walk along the waterfront to enjoy the fresh sea breeze. Snap a picture in traditional Dutch attire at one of the local costume shops.
After enjoying the fresh sea air, treat yourself to some delicious Dutch herring at a local seafood stall.
Or better yet, try a true Dutch delicacy, paling! Gerookte paling, smoked eel, is more rare these days, making it a sought-after delicacy. It’s a unique taste of the Netherlands you won’t find everywhere!
Things to do Volendam
- Visit Volendams Museum: This museum provides a comprehensive look into the history of Volendam, including its fishing traditions and clothing.
- Take a Walk in the Harbor and Promenade: The harbor area is filled with seafood restaurants, shops, and a lively atmosphere. Walk along the promenade and enjoy the beautiful waterfront views.
- Have Your Picture Taken In A Traditional Costume Photo Studio: Volendam is famous for its traditional Dutch costumes. Visitors can don the attire and have their photos taken at various studios around the town.
- Enjoy Seafood In the Harbour: Taste local seafood in the many cafes and restaurants along the promenade. Try Dutch herring or gerookte paling, smoked eel.
Edam: Cheese, Canals, and More Cheese!
Edam is a charming town near Volendam known for its cheese and historic canals. As you explore the cobbled streets and picturesque canals, you’ll feel like you’ve returned to the Dutch Golden Age.
Visit the Edams Museum, where you can explore the history of Edam.
You can also visit the cheese market of Edam and the Kaaswaag, a historic cheese-weighing house, to get a taste of Edam’s cheesy heritage. The cheese market was held until 1922. The present building dates from 1778 and it houses a permanent exhibition on cheese making. Visitors can also taste and buy cheese here. Note that the Kaaswaag is closed from November 1st to the beginning of April. But don’t worry, you can still taste the local treat in the many cheese shops around Edam.
If you’re still peckish after your visit to the cheese market, stop for a bite in one of the many lovely restaurants in town.
Things To Do In Edam
- Visit Edams Museum: Learn about the rich history of Edam in one of the oldest museums in North Holland. The museum, housed in two locations, has a diverse collection of paintings, furniture, ceramics, and more.
- Visit Kaaswaag (Cheese Weighing House): Learn about the tradition of cheese weighing in Edam and sample some of the finest Dutch cheeses.
- Edam’s Historic Center: Walk through Edam’s charming streets, featuring beautiful canals, well-preserved 17th-century architecture, and the iconic Speeltoren.
- Taste Local Cheese: No visit to Edam would be complete without tasting Edam cheese. Make sure to take some with you, too, as a souvenir!
A day trip to Volendam, Edam, Marken & Monnickendam is a journey through four charming towns and a voyage through Dutch history, culture, and cuisine.
Whether enchanted by the tranquility of Monnickendam, the timeless beauty of Marken, the bustling charm of Volendam, or the cheesy delights of Edam, you’ll make some unforgettable memories in this slice of the Netherlands.
If you’re visiting Amsterdam, I highly recommend taking a day to explore these four wonderful Dutch towns.
