Located in the northwest of the Netherlands on the shores of the Markermeer Lake, Volendam – often called the ‘Pearl of the Zuiderzee’ – is a lively little tourist town that makes an excellent day trip destination from Amsterdam, which lies just 20 kilometres away. Volendam is a self-consciously picturesque place, with brightly coloured wooden houses, traditional fishing boats in the harbour and many souvenir stands selling ‘traditional’ Dutch items, such as clogs, costumes and cheeses. Although many are content to simply wander around quaint Volendam – particularly its historic centre, nicknamed ‘the Labyrinth’ for its narrow, mazy streets – the town does boast a few good sights, including the Volendams Museum, which displays traditional costumes, and the Palingsoundmuseum, a small exhibition showcasing popular music from the area.