Misscityhopper

A day trip from Amsterdam to Monnickendam and Marken provides an opportunity to escape the city’s hustle and immerse oneself in the charming essence of the Dutch countryside. The journey usually starts at Amsterdam Centraal Station; however, currently roadworks required an adjustment to the itinerary (this might change in the future). Beginning your journey in Amsterdam Noord, you set off on this scenic adventure, excited to discover the history, culture, and charm of two of North Holland’s most beautiful villages. A day filled with winding canals, traditional wooden houses, rich histories, and the slower pace of rural Dutch life.

Approximately 20 minutes from Amsterdam Noord, Monnickendam is a picturesque Dutch village. The journey took you through the scenic countryside, surrounded by green fields, canals, dikes, and traditional farmhouses. Monnickendam, part of the Edam-Volendam region, was a small yet historically rich village with narrow cobbled streets and gabled houses. The tranquil canals and distinct Dutch architecture transported us back to a different era. The village’s small lanes, gabled cottages, and tranquil canals created a picturesque scene. You will amaze to the well-preserved Middle Ages architecture, particularly the steeply pitched roofs and brick facades. The village’s small size and peaceful surroundings made it an ideal place to immerse oneself in Dutch history and culture.

Monnickendam, a village in North Holland, has a rich history and connection to land reclamation efforts. The village’s name, “Monk’s Dam,” suggests its mediaeval origins and the role of monastic communities in its early development. The village’s agricultural layout reflects this connection, with surrounding fields and polders serving as reminders of Dutch water management. The Netherlands’ struggle against the sea greatly influenced Monnickendam’s evolution, with dikes and polders protecting it from flooding. The village’s canals depict generations of Dutch farmers and tradesmen who built their lives on fertile land. Despite its small size, Monnickendam’s historical significance within the Edam-Volendam region is undeniable. The village’s agricultural heritage is evident today, with fields of traditional crops visible outside the village center. The village’s well-preserved architecture and connection to the land offer visitors a unique glimpse into centuries-old rural Dutch life.

The first destination is the Grote Kerk (St. Nicholas Church), one of the village’s most notable landmarks. It is a 15th-century Gothic-style church, a significant landmark in the village. Its spacious interior, featuring a wooden roof and stained-glass windows, offers a peaceful atmosphere perfect for contemplation. The church has served as the spiritual center of the village for centuries and is not only a religious site but also a place of historical and cultural significance. It hosts concerts and events, and the rich notes of the church organ create a timeless ambiance. Walking through the church and its grounds provides a deeper appreciation of the village’s religious heritage and its significant role in Monnickendam’s history.

Following the visit to the church, you proceed with your exploration of Monnickendam by strolling along the Noordeinde Canal, adorned with exquisitely preserved houses from the 17th century. The village’s canals not only add to its picturesque atmosphere but also reflect its maritime history. Once a bustling port, Monnickendam has preserved many of its canals and shipyards, like the Kaatje bij de Sluis, as reminders of its maritime past. You can also visit the Speeltoren, a centuries-old bell tower that serves as another prominent landmark in Monnickendam. Housed within the tower, the Speeltoren Museum offers fascinating exhibits on the town’s history, including its important role in the Dutch maritime economy. Regularly chiming bells echo throughout the village, contributing to the serene atmosphere that characterizes Monnickendam.

De Waegh, a historic weigh house in Monnickendam, has been transformed into a cozy restaurant offering traditional Dutch dishes in a charming, historic setting. The restaurant’s rustic interior reflects its history as the center of Monnickendam’s trade, where goods from centuries past were weighed and measured. Therefore, you can have lunch in this restaurant. The menu features hearty soups, sandwiches, and traditional main courses like stamppot, made with mashed potatoes and vegetables. The restaurant offers a delicious lunch of locally sourced ingredients, freshly baked bread, and cheese from the nearby Edam region. The cozy atmosphere and central location make it an ideal place to relax before continuing your journey. The views of the town square and surrounding canals provide the perfect backdrop to our meal, blending Monnickendam’s rich history with its peaceful modern-day charm.

After lunch, you take a bus to Marken, which was previously an island in the Zuiderzee before a causeway joined it to the mainland in the mid-twentieth century. Marken’s unique history, influenced by its lengthy isolation, has helped maintain its distinct architectural and cultural traditions, making it an intriguing destination to visit.