A Stroll Through Time: Volendam’s Historic Charm

As the year draws to a close, the quaint fishing village of Volendam in North Holland offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Nestled along the shores of the former Zuiderzee, Volendam is a place where time seems to stand still, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its rich history and vibrant culture. The weather on December 28th is mild and partly cloudy, with temperatures ranging from 40.4°F to 45.9°F, making it an ideal day for exploration.

Begin your journey with the Holland Highlights Tour, a seven-hour adventure that takes you through the heart of Dutch tradition. This private tour, available from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, offers a glimpse into the world-famous Zaanse Schans, where windmills stand as sentinels of the past. As you wander through the countryside to the farmers’ town of Katwoude, you’ll visit a cheese farm and learn about the art of cheese-making. The tour culminates in Volendam, where a typical Dutch lunch awaits, followed by a leisurely stroll along the dike with its old fisherman’s harbor.

“A must-see! Our tour guide took us around windmills, high up in the chamber, and explained everything to us from back in the Viking days. Our lunch was an amazing experience learning about smoked eel. My husband loved that!” - Reviewed on 2024-09-04

Embracing the Sea: A Voyage on the Volendam Marken Express

On December 29th, the weather remains mild, with temperatures ranging from 38.0°F to 44.0°F. The day begins with overcast skies, gradually clearing to reveal the sun’s gentle warmth. This is the perfect day to embark on the Volendam Marken Express, a historic boat cruise that has been delighting travelers for over eight decades. Departing at 11:00 AM, this 30-minute journey takes you from Volendam to the ex-island of Marken, offering breathtaking views of the picturesque shoreline.

As you glide across the water, an English/Dutch audio guide narrates the area’s historical and progressive journey, enriching your understanding of this unique region. The gentle sway of the boat, coupled with the crisp sea air, creates a sense of nostalgia, evoking memories of a bygone era of travel.

“A great experience between two charming towns. Traversing between the two via the ship added a unique and fun experience. The ship itself is very spacious with toilets available. To top it off, the ship captain talked with us about piloting the vessel, gave recommendations in addition to some local history. It was a blast!” - Reviewed on 2024-04-19

New Year’s Eve: A Celebration of Dutch Traditions

As the sun sets on December 29th, Volendam transforms into a festive wonderland, ready to welcome the New Year with open arms. The village’s cobblestone streets come alive with the sound of laughter and music, as locals and visitors alike gather to celebrate. The high humidity of 73.7% adds a touch of warmth to the air, making it a pleasant evening for outdoor festivities.

Join the locals in the heart of Volendam for a night of traditional Dutch celebrations. The village’s historic harbor serves as the backdrop for a spectacular fireworks display, illuminating the night sky in a dazzling array of colors. As the clock strikes midnight, the air is filled with the sound of cheers and the clinking of glasses, as friends and strangers alike come together to toast to the year ahead.

Volendam’s New Year’s Eve celebrations are a testament to the village’s enduring spirit and sense of community. As you bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new, you’ll find yourself swept up in the magic of this enchanting place, where the past and present intertwine to create a truly unforgettable experience.