The most beautiful Christmas markets in the Netherlands ;-)

Although we associate the Netherlands mainly with tulips, bicycles and canals, in December it turns into a real Christmas land. In many cities there are fairs, ice rinks, but we can also try roasted ceilings and other Dutch delicacies. So if you don’t have plans for the weekend, make sure you book your time and set off on a journey through the most beautiful Christmas markets in the Netherlands. Each of them has a completely different climate and charm.

Valkenburg

In the south of the country, in the Limburg region, there is Valkenburg, a town that turns from November to the end of December into the most magical place in the whole Netherlands. It is the only underground Christmas market in Europe that is organized in the old limestone caves.

In the corridors, the Fluweelengrot and Gemeentegrot caves smell of cinnamon and mulled wine. At the stands we can find wooden ornaments, handmade candles, traditional nativity scenes and local delicacies from Limburg.

A walk underground is a unique experience. On the surface, the town is not slowing down either. Every year there is a Christmas parade and the ruins of Valkenburg Castle offer a panoramic view of the whole city.

Maastricht

Just a few kilometers away, among numerous streets and cafes, Maastricht, one of the most atmospheric cities in the Netherlands, awaits you. In December, the whole center turns into a winter spectacle of lights. Above the Vrijthof square there is the smell of chocolate, churroes and fresh ceilings, and around you can hear Christmas songs.

In the middle of the square there is a huge ice rink, around which there are numerous stands with gifts and local products. Here you will find cheeses, wooden ornaments and jewelry from Dutch designers.

Maastricht combines elegance of the south and a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

Amsterdam

In December Amsterdam becomes the true capital of lights. Around the Museumplein, between the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, the winter village of Ice Village Amsterdam is being built – with a large ice rink, Christmas tree and stands with crafts, food and Christmas fashion.

The Amsterdam Light Festival is also a great attraction, during which the channels are decorated with light creations created by artists from around the world.

In the evening, it is best to take a look at Leidseplein or Rembrandtplein, where cafes and bars have a loose, winter vibe – perfect to warm up with warm chocolate or a cup of glühwein. Amsterdam shows that the fair can be modern, stylish and vibrant.

Haarlem

If you want to feel the true atmosphere of Christmas without crowds, head to Haarlem, located just 20 minutes by train from Amsterdam. This city looks like a postcard in winter. Cobbled streets, brick townhouses and a festive smell floating around the Grote Markt.

The local Christmas market is one of the oldest in the country. Hundreds of stands offer Christmas decorations, pottery, winter clothes and local delicacies, and in the background you can hear gospel music and Christmas carols in various languages.

Haarlem also has something that you won’t find in the capital, peace and authenticity that make you just want to walk with a cup of hot chocolate and admire the decorations. This is the perfect place for a short, romantic holiday trip.

Dordrecht

And finally, Dordrecht, the city that organizes the largest Christmas market in the Netherlands every year. Over 200 stands in the historical center and Christmas carols concerts that create an unforgettable atmosphere.

The local Kerstmarkt Dordrecht is known for its traditional character: it smells of pastries and mulled wine, and you can hear live music in the background. Here you can buy unique decorations, hand-made toys and typical Dutch delicacies.

In the evening, when the lights are on and the old town hall is illuminated, Dordrecht looks like a scene from a movie, calm, warm and magical.

One thing is certain that the Netherlands can also surprise with the Christmas atmosphere in winter. Regardless of which city you choose, you can count on one thing: a Christmas atmosphere full of joy and Christmas tastes that stay with you for a long time…