The nicest Christmas Markets in the Netherlands
Christmas. Many people think it’s the most wonderful time of the year. Fair
enough, this is the only period of the year Christmas Markets take place. In The Netherlands these markets became much more popular the last years. Will you stay in Amsterdam in December? Then don’t forget to visit at least one of the following Christmas Markets. You won’t regret it! If you need more information about how to reach these markets, please get in contact with our helpful staff.
1. Valkenburg aan de Geul
Without a doubt, Valkenburg is the place to be in The Netherlands when it comes to Christmas Markets. During one month and a half this market takes place in the famous and breath taking caves around this town. We must admit it’s quite a long ride from Amsterdam, but you will not regret visiting this market in this absolutely unique setting.
2. Maastricht
Maastricht is situated not far from Valkenburg, so it’s easily possible to combine these two markets. Outside of the holiday season Maastricht is one of the most beautiful cities of the country, but with Christmas it’s even extra spectacular. The Christmas Market at the squares and the streets in between is known as one of the biggest of the country, yet it still has a friendly and cosy atmosphere. Here you can show your ice skating skills in the ice skating rinks, enjoy a panoramic view from the ferris wheel or shop for unique Christmas gifts in the countless nicely decorated stands.
3. Amstelveen
Much closer to Amsterdam is the city of Amstelveen, which is easily reachable by various ways of public transport. Winter Village Amstelveen is one of the biggest Christmas markets of this part of the Netherlands and you can visit if for almost a month. All visitors will be pleased with the stands, the ice skating rink and the restaurant.
4. Haarlem
If you head west from Amsterdam, in no time you will reach the city Haarlem. A nice city to visit through the whole year, but even more worth it in the holiday season. Many of the over 300 stands offer goods of remarkable quality. Plenty of them are handmade crafts and artisan foods. All this is accompanied by choirs singing Christmas songs, bringing even more of the Christmas spirit.
5. Assumburg Castle in Heemskerk
One of the most special Christmas Markets of the Netherlands is in Heemskerk, not far from Amsterdam neither. On the estate belonging to the medieval Assumburg Castle the Castle Christmas Fair takes place. Winter fashion, music performances and Dutch delicacies play big rolls here. Between the 28th of November and the first of December you will have the chance to
6. Rotterdam
In less than an hour by train from Amsterdam you can reach Rotterdam, home of perhaps the best indoor Christmas Market of the country. Winter Fair Ahoy offers more comfortability than average Christmas Markets. Especially when it’s extreme cold, windy or rainy outside this is a big advantage. You could book tickets for Winter Fair Ahoy easily online.
7. Dordrecht
Not far from Rotterdam lies the city Dordrecht. With approximately 300 stands spread over 2.5 kilometers in the historical part of the town, this is one of the biggest Christmas Markets of the Netherlands. In many of these stands you can witness how craftsmen make their products by hand. Furthermore, there are concert stages, a skating rink and many places to enjoy a glass of glühwein (mulled wine). In 2019 the Dordrecht Christmas Market takes place from the 13th until the 15th of December.
