Volendam is a lively fishing village famous for its colorful houses, authentic Dutch culture, and friendly locals. It’s a perfect spot for hands-on workshops and classes, where you can learn real skills and take home unique souvenirs. We particularly love the cheesemaking and clog-making experiences because they offer genuine insight into Dutch traditions—plus, you get to taste delicious cheeses and see how traditional wooden shoes are crafted. These interactive activities are great for travelers seeking authentic, memorable moments beyond sightseeing.
Below, we introduce two top-rated workshops that stand out for their engaging content, friendly guides, and the chance to create something you can keep. Whether your interest is food, craft, or culture, these classes give you a real taste of Dutch life.
The 2 Best Workshops & Classes in Volendam
1. Volendam: 2.5-Hour Cheesemaking Workshop & Clog Making Tour
This tour combines two classic Dutch crafts—cheesemaking and clog making—into one immersive experience. Starting at a traditional cheese farm, visitors learn how Gouda and Edam cheeses are made. The tour is led by guides who share their knowledge with enthusiasm, making the process clear and engaging. After the demonstration, you get to taste an array of Dutch cheeses, paired with biscuits and even some wine, making this a perfect introduction to local flavors.
What makes this experience especially appealing is the chance to make your own cheese and take it home as a souvenir. You’ll also enjoy a demonstration of how traditional wooden shoes are crafted, with plenty of historical context. The entire session lasts about 2.5 hours, which is just enough time to get hands-on without feeling rushed. The reviews are glowing, with visitors praising the guides for their friendliness, humor, and expertise. One reviewer noted, “It was awesome! Luke and Linda were great fun and so knowledgeable.”
The price of $135 per person reflects the quality of the experience, the inclusion of tastings, and the opportunity to create your own souvenirs. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive, interactive look at Dutch craftsmanship, especially if you’re interested in cheese and traditional footwear.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a well-rounded, fun, and educational experience with plenty of tasting and making, perfect for curious travelers wanting a genuine taste of Dutch culture.
2. Volendam: 2-Hour Clogmaking Workshop and Cheese Tour
For a shorter, more budget-friendly option, the 2-hour Clogmaking Workshop and Cheese Tour provides a quick immersion into Dutch traditions. Priced at $83 per person, it’s a great choice if you’re pressed for time but still want to experience both craft skills.
This tour focuses on clog making, guiding you through the steps of crafting your own wooden shoe. In addition, you’ll taste authentic Dutch cheeses, stroopwafels, and spiced speculaas biscuits. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, sharing interesting tidbits about clog history and cheese production. Unlike the longer tour, this experience emphasizes hands-on clog crafting, making it perfect if your main interest is to learn how these iconic shoes are made.
Guests have noted that the tour provides a solid overview of Dutch clog-making, with the added bonus of tasting some of Holland’s most famous treats. While it’s a shorter experience, visitors praise its value and fun approach. One reviewer said, “We loved making our own clog and tasting the cheese. It was a memorable part of our trip.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a quick, engaging introduction to Dutch woodworking and cheese; this tour offers a solid mix of craft and taste at a good price.
How to Choose the Right Workshop in Volendam
When deciding between these two workshops, consider your interests and schedule. If you want a comprehensive experience with longer hands-on cheese and clog making, the 2.5-hour cheesemaking and clog making tour is your best choice. It’s perfect for those who want to learn detailed craft skills and enjoy in-depth tastings.
If you’re looking for a shorter, more budget-friendly activity that still covers both crafts, then the 2-hour clogmaking and cheese tour is ideal. It’s great for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a quicker overview without sacrificing the authentic experience.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, as these workshops tend to fill up quickly. Check availability and start times in advance to fit the experience into your Volendam itinerary.
Final Thoughts
Both workshops offer a genuine taste of Dutch craftsmanship, with the longer cheesemaking tour providing a more detailed and immersive experience. If your main interest is cheese, the 2.5-hour class is a wonderful way to learn and create while enjoying tastings and demonstrations. On the other hand, if you’re short on time but still want to experience both crafts, the 2-hour clog and cheese workshop delivers a quick, engaging session.
No matter which you choose, these workshops are a fantastic way to add a practical, memorable layer to your visit in Volendam. Be sure to book early, especially during busy travel months, and prepare for a fun, hands-on adventure into Dutch culture.
