If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting a charming lighthouse by the sea, then the Paard van Marken Lighthouse near Marken Island should be on your list.

We’re here to guide you through everything you need to know before your visit—from how to get there to the best time to explore, plus tips to make your trip smooth and memorable.

About Paard van Marken Lighthouse

The Paard van Marken Lighthouse, often called the “Horse of Marken,” was built in 1839 and stands gracefully at the end of Marken Island. It’s about 16 meters tall, with a white cylindrical shape that makes it easy to spot from far away. The lighthouse has been a beacon for sailors for nearly two centuries and today is a protected national monument. While it no longer serves as an active navigational light, it remains a popular spot for tourists and photographers.

How to Get There: Transportation Tips

Getting to the Paard van Marken Lighthouse is part of the fun! Marken Island is easily reachable from Amsterdam:

- By Train and Bus: Take a train from Amsterdam Central Station to Hoorn or Edam (about $7-$10 for a one-way ticket), then switch to bus line 315 or 316 to Marken village (about $4). The total journey takes about 1.5 hours.

- By Car: If you drive, parking near Marken village costs around $10 per day. Keep in mind that the lighthouse is a short walk from the parking area since the island limits car traffic.

- By Bike: For the adventurous, biking from Amsterdam along the IJsselmeer coast is scenic and rewarding, taking about 2-3 hours depending on your pace. Renting a bike costs around $15-$20 per day.

From Marken village, the lighthouse is roughly a 20-minute walk along a peaceful waterfront path, making it easy to combine with a stroll through this quaint fishing village.

Opening Hours and Admission

Visiting the Paard van Marken Lighthouse area is free of charge! Since the lighthouse itself is not open inside for public tours, you can freely walk around the exterior and enjoy the views any time of day.

The best times to visit are during daylight hours—roughly from 8:00 AM to sunset—to get the best lighting for photos and safe walking conditions.

Best Time to Visit

The lighthouse looks stunning year-round, but here are some tips for timing your visit:

- Spring and Summer (April to September): Warmer weather, longer daylight, and blooming flowers make this the most popular time. You’ll find more local events and boat tours running.

- Autumn (October to November): Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage provide beautiful scenery, plus fewer crowds.

- Winter (December to March): It can get chilly and windy, but the lighthouse with a backdrop of frost or snow creates a unique, peaceful atmosphere.

Early mornings and late afternoons offer soft light, perfect for photography and a calmer experience.

Things to Do Nearby

When we visit Paard van Marken Lighthouse, we like to explore more than just the lighthouse itself:

- Marken Village: Walk through this historic fishing village with traditional wooden houses and cozy cafés.

- Marker Museum (Traditional Dutch Houses & History): ~$8–$12 per adult, discounts for children.

- Wooden Shoe Workshop (Clog Making Demonstrations): Often free, but souvenirs (like clogs) cost ~$22–$55.

- Cafés & Restaurants: Lunch (Pancakes/Fish): ~$11–$22 per person; Coffee/Tea: ~$3–$4.50; Fresh Fish (Herring/Kibbeling): ~$5.50–$11 per serving.

- Bike Rentals: Standard Bike: ~$11–$17 per day (great for exploring the island).

- Guided Walking Tours: Local guides offer tours (~$11–$22 per person) covering history, architecture, and folklore.

- Boat Trips: Several operators offer boat tours around Marken Island, giving different perspectives of the lighthouse. Prices for boat tours start around $20 per person.

- Nature Walks: The surrounding water and marshlands are perfect for birdwatching and enjoying Dutch nature.

Tips for a Smooth Visit

1. Wear Comfortable Shoes: The walk from Marken village to the lighthouse is about 1.5 km on flat paths but can be muddy after rain.

2. Check the Weather: Windy conditions near the water can be chilly even in summer; bring layers.

3. Bring a Camera: The lighthouse and coastal views are incredibly photogenic, especially at sunrise or sunset.

4. Respect Private Property: Some areas near the lighthouse are privately owned or inhabited, so stick to public paths.

5. Local Food: Try some fresh fish dishes at Marken village restaurants to complete your Dutch coastal experience. Expect to pay around $15-$25 per meal.

Why We Love Paard van Marken

We hope this guide inspires you to visit the Paard van Marken Lighthouse with excitement and confidence. This spot beautifully blends history, nature, and the unique charm of the Dutch coast. If you enjoy photography, love exploring historical places, or simply want a quiet moment by the sea, this lighthouse has something special waiting for you.

Have you discovered a lighthouse that captured your heart by the ocean? We’d love to hear your story and help you plan more unforgettable coastal trips!

Het Paard van Marken Lighthouse, The Netherlands, 4K Drone video

Video by FlyDroniac