Seasonal 6 hoursVolendam & Marken Fishing Villages
- Traditional Costumes
- Ferry Crossing
- Herring Tasting
- Two Fishing Villages
At a glance
About This Tour
Two former fishing villages on the old Zuiderzee coast, both still working harbors, both still proudly traditional. Volendam is lively and colourful, with fresh herring stalls along the water. Marken is quieter — a genuine time capsule of wooden houses on stilts.
A ferry ride across the IJsselmeer connects the two, which is half the fun.
The two villages make a good pair precisely because they're so different in character — Volendam's harbor is busy with restaurants, souvenir shops and the smell of smoked eel, while Marken feels almost untouched, with cats sunning themselves on doorsteps and laundry hanging between houses. Most visitors find themselves preferring one over the other, and it's worth asking your guide which they think suits your pace.

Your local guide
Emma 


Giethoorn & waterways
Emma grew up in Overijssel and steers the whisper boat through Giethoorn's canals as if it were her own garden.
Guide pageItinerary
Departure & Volendam Harbor
We start in Volendam, exploring the harbor and its famous eel and herring stalls.
Traditional Costume Photo Stop
An optional (and popular) stop to try on traditional Volendam dress for photos.
Ferry to Marken
A short scenic ferry crossing over the IJsselmeer to the former island of Marken.
Marken Village Walk
A quiet walk through Marken's wooden houses on stilts, ending at the harbor before returning to Amsterdam.
Route map
Open route in Google MapsAvailability
Tap a date to request it. Prices are per person; you pay nothing today.
What's Included
- Return transport from Amsterdam
- Ferry crossing between Volendam and Marken
- Fresh herring tasting
- Local guide
Not included
- Lunch
- Costume photo prints
- Pickup outside the city center
Good to Know
- Great option for families — the ferry ride and harbors are an easy pace for kids.
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.
- Bring a light jacket — it can be breezy on the ferry even in summer.
What to pack for autumn
- A waterproof jacket with a hood
- A warm sweater
- Shoes that can handle puddles
- A small umbrella
Part of this tour is on the water — bring an extra layer, it's always cooler on a boat.
Meeting Point
Amsterdam city center (pickup point confirmed after booking)
Questions about this tour
Yes, tours run in light rain — we keep spare ponchos on hand. If the weather is truly bad, we'll offer you another date or a full refund.
Yes, children are very welcome and our guides love keeping them involved. Let us know their ages when you book. The route includes steps, boats or narrow paths, so a baby carrier works better than a stroller.
Not fully — parts of the route include steps, boats or uneven paths. Contact us and we'll look for a solution together.
The tour takes 5 hours. The pace is relaxed, with regular breaks.
Yes. You pay nothing today and can cancel for free — the exact deadline is listed under “Good to know” and in your confirmation.
Meeting point: Amsterdam city center (pickup point confirmed after booking). You'll receive exact directions and your guide's phone number in your confirmation.
Tours are guided in English, Dutch, German, French. Choose your preferred language when you book.
Yes. For private tours and groups of 6 or more, write to us and we'll put together an offer.
https://dutchwanderer.work.gd/tours/volendam-marken/
Questions? dutchwanderer@outlook.com

