Volendam is one of those charming Dutch villages where stepping off the tourist trail feels almost impossible—and that’s a good thing. Known for its iconic clog-making, cheese farms, and colorful fisherman’s houses, Volendam offers a variety of hands-on experiences that go beyond just sightseeing. Whether you’re eager to dress up in traditional Dutch costumes, explore scenic landscapes by bike, or learn about local crafts, this list has a lot to offer. A few favorites include the immersive cheesemaking workshops and the lively boat cruises to Marken, which let you soak up the area’s authentic charm.
What makes these tours stand out? They’re practical, fun, and packed with local flavor, all at reasonable prices. For example, the Traditional Costume Photo tour lets you dress up like a Dutch local and bring home a memorable photo, while the bike rentals offer flexibility and freedom to explore at your own pace. If you want a taste of history, the Volendams Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into village life through the years. Read on to find the perfect Volendam experience for your trip.
Quick Overview
Our list showcases 11 of the best tours in Volendam, spanning cultural activities, scenic rides, boat trips, and hands-on workshops. Highlights include the costume and cheese tours (perfect for memorable photos and tastings), bike and E-scooter rentals for exploring Dutch landscapes, and unique experiences like the clog making and stroopwafel tastings. Each offers a different way to dive into local life and scenery, with options suitable for all budgets and interests. For a comprehensive view, see the full list below.
1. Volendam: Traditional Costume Photo with Cheese & Clog Tour
Becoming a Dutch model for a day is an experience in itself. This tour combines dressing in traditional Volendam costumes with a guided tour explaining clog making and local traditions. After snapping your picture in authentic Dutch attire, you’ll taste some of the finest Gouda and Edam cheeses, along with biscuits and wine. The friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere make it a top-rated choice—rated 4.5/5 from over 125 reviews—and it’s an affordable way to capture a fun souvenir of your trip for just $11.
What sets this tour apart is the chance to learn about clog making and sample regional cheeses in a lively, family-friendly setting. Visitors rave about the authentic atmosphere and the great value for money. It’s perfect if you want a quick, memorable activity that promises plenty of laughs and adorable photos.
Bottom line: Fun, affordable, and culturally immersive, this tour offers a great introduction to Dutch traditions with a photo to remember it by.
2. Volendam: Bike Rental including Highlights-Routes
For about $22, you can rent a bike and explore the surrounding Dutch countryside at your own pace. Starting from Volendam, this bike rental offers access to windmills, cheese farms, dikes, and nearby villages like Marken, Edam, and Broek in Waterland. The self-guided route allows you to set your own pace, choosing where to stop and what to see—making it ideal for independent travelers or active families.
The scenic ride along a 10km-long dike with views of a beautiful lake is a highlight, as are visits to local cheese farms where you can cuddle cows and taste cheeses. The reviews mention the well-maintained bikes and helpful staff who will assist with route suggestions. This tour is perfect for those wanting a flexible day of cycling immersed in classic Dutch scenery.
Bottom line: An excellent value for the freedom to customize your day, especially appealing if you like cycling and outdoor exploration.
3. Volendam: Express Boat Cruise to Marken Island
This boat cruise offers a quick, scenic trip between two iconic fishing villages—Volendam and Marken. Operating for over 80 years, the ferry provides a comfortable way to soak up the coastline’s colorful houses and learn about the area’s maritime history through an audioguide.
The cruise is a great way to visit both villages in one day, with enough free time to explore at your own pace. Reviews are solid, noting the stunning views of the coastline and the authentic charm of both spots. For around an hour, you’ll glide past fishermen’s houses, docks, and lakes, capturing some of the most picturesque scenes in North Holland.
Bottom line: An easy, enjoyable way to see two staples of Dutch fishing culture without fuss or fussiness, perfect for a relaxed half-day trip.
4. Volendam: E-Scooter Rental
If you want to cover a lot of ground efficiently, renting an E-scooter for about $49 grants you three hours of freedom to explore Dutch landscapes. This customizable tour takes you through windmills, cheese farms, and charming villages, with the flexibility to stop and take photos whenever you like.
The friendly staff will advise on routes, so whether you want to glide along lakeside dikes or visit working windmills and cheese farms, you control the pace. The reviews praise the easy handling and fun ride—”Geweldige dag gehad! Leuke route”—which translates to “Great day! Nice route.” This is ideal for travelers who want to see without the effort of walking or cycling.
Bottom line: A fun, eco-friendly way to explore the Dutch countryside with full control over your itinerary.
5. Volendam: Photo Opportunity in Traditional Dutch Costume
In just 25 minutes, you can try on traditional Dutch costumes and have your photo taken—an activity suitable for friends, couples, and families. It’s a lively, lighthearted experience that offers a perfect souvenir photo from your trip. The tour costs nothing extra beyond the time, and the staff make sure your photos turn out well.
Reviews indicate that this activity is fun and well-organized, with some noting it’s “super leuk” (very fun). Others mention it’s a bit of a ‘production line’, but overall, it’s a delightful way to engage with Dutch culture in a playful setting. The photos are great keepsakes and make for lively social media posts.
Bottom line: Perfect for a quick, lighthearted cultural experience that provides fun photos and memorable moments.
6. Volendam: E-Bike Rental including Highlights-Routes
For those seeking a more comfortable yet active exploration, the E-bike rental at approximately $41 offers an accessible way to see the Dutch countryside. The self-guided route includes windmills, farms, and villages such as Monnickendam and Edam, with the chance to cuddle cows and taste local cheeses.
The 10 km-long dike ride provides stunning views over the lake, and with the helpful staff’s advice, you’ll find your way with ease. Reviewers highlight the good condition of bikes and the freedom to explore at your own pace. This is an excellent choice for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with light exercise.
Bottom line: A practical, relaxing way to enjoy the scenic Dutch landscape while maintaining control over your day.
7. Volendam: 2.5-Hour Cheesemaking Workshop & Clog Making Tour
This hands-on workshop is a hit for those eager to learn how Gouda cheese is made. For $135, you get a guided tour, a cheese tasting, and a chance to make your own cheese under expert supervision. It also includes a clog-making experience, allowing you to craft your own wooden shoes while learning about Dutch traditions.
The tour lasts 2.5 hours and is highly rated, with visitors praising the knowledgeable guides and interactive nature of the activities. One reviewer called it “awesome,” highlighting how “Luke and Linda were great fun and so knowledgeable.” It’s ideal for foodies, craft enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a deep dive into Dutch artisan skills.
Bottom line: An immersive experience blending culinary and craft traditions, offering excellent value for those wanting a more involved activity.
8. Volendam: E-Fatbike Rental
For a more robust ride, the E-fatbike rental at about $49 is perfect for off-road adventures. You’ll cruise over Dutch plains, farms, and picturesque villages like Marken and Monnickendam. With full control over your route, you can stop to visit windmills or enjoy a cheese tasting.
The fat tires make it easier to handle uneven terrain, and reviews mention that the circuit offers a fun and accessible experience. The multiple old-harbor villages in the circuit make for a varied and colorful day out. It’s suited for adventurers and those looking for a more rugged cycling experience.
Bottom line: A great option if you prefer a more intense, off-the-beaten-path adventure with plenty of scenic stops.
9. Volendam: 2-Hour Clogmaking Workshop and Cheese Tour
This concise 2-hour activity offers a focused look at clog making combined with cheese tasting. For $83, you’ll learn how Dutch wooden shoes are crafted, taste Gouda and Edam cheeses, and enjoy biscuits and wine. The guided experience is ideal for travelers wanting a quick but authentic craft and food session.
Reviews note how helpful and friendly the staff are, and many enjoy taking home their own homemade clog. It’s perfect for those pressed for time but eager to engage with Dutch artisanal crafts.
Bottom line: A short, engaging experience ideal for families and craft lovers seeking a taste of local traditions.
10. Volendam: Stroopwafel Experience with Tasting
If you’re a sweet tooth, this strawowafel tasting tour is a delightful peek into the Dutch cookie’s secrets. For just $9, you watch a baker craft warm stroopwafels, smell the sweet caramel filling, and taste a variety of flavors. The demonstration is traditional, and you get to bring home your favorite flavor.
The reviews reflect how fun and tasty this experience is, though some mention waiting times. It’s a fantastic option for families or anyone wanting to indulge in a popular Dutch treat.
Bottom line: Simple, inexpensive, and delicious—perfect for a sweet break during your day.
$9 per person
11. Volendam: Volendams Museum Entry Ticket
This museum visit offers a comprehensive look at village life from the fishing days to modern times. For only $9, you can explore exhibits covering local music, traditional underwear, and a unique cigar band room with over 10 million cigar bands. It’s a quiet, informative way to learn about Volendam’s cultural evolution.
Rated 4.4/5, visitors appreciate the interesting displays and easy access. It’s ideal for history buffs or families wanting a relaxed, indoor activity. Plus, the museum remains open year-round, making it a flexible option.
Bottom line: An affordable, engaging way to understand local history and see quirky exhibits.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your ideal Volendam experience, consider your budget, time constraints, and personal interests. For a quick but memorable photo, the costume photo tour is perfect. To explore the landscape at your own pace, rent a bike or e-scooter and check the highlight routes. If you love hands-on activities, the cheese and clog making workshops offer authentic, craft-based fun. For a relaxing scenic trip, the boat cruise to Marken provides stunning views with minimal effort.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred times. Also, think about combining activities—for example, pair a cheesemaking workshop with a museum visit or a bike ride for a full day of engaging experiences.
Final thoughts
Volendam offers a delightful mix of culture, hands-on crafts, and scenic exploration. Whether you want to snap a photo in traditional dress, peddle along windmills and farms, or sail between iconic villages, there’s something for every kind of traveler. For those seeking authenticity and fun, the cheesemaking and clog workshops stand out. Meanwhile, the boat cruises and bike rentals make it easy to see more of the region’s beauty at your own pace.
No matter which tour you pick, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences. So, plan ahead, pick your favorites, and enjoy the best of Volendam’s unique charm.