The former island of Marken, now connected to the mainland by a causeway, lies about 7 km east of Monnickendam across the Gouwzee. It is one of the most distinctive villages in North Holland — the houses are painted in black and green, many are built on wooden piles as protection against flooding, and the local population maintained its own dialect and traditional dress well into the 20th century.
A boat service runs between Monnickendam and Marken in summer (around 30 minutes), making it a natural combination with a visit to the town. The Marker Museum on the island tells the story of life on the old island community. The village is popular but manages its tourist flow better than Volendam — it retains more of its original character.