12 Best Christmas markets in the Netherlands

The festive period in the Netherlands is a magical time, with the best Christmas markets transforming city centres into enchanting winter wonderlands.

From twinkling lights to cosy chalets, each Christmas market in the Netherlands offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

If you’re planning your Christmas break, these markets are must-visits for their festive spirit, unique gifts, and plenty of festive food and drink.

From the charm of small towns to bustling city centres, there’s something for everyone looking to experience the magic of the festive season.

1. Christmas Town Valkenburg

In Zuid-Limburg, Valkenburg transforms into Christmas Town, featuring the famous caves of Valkenburg. This magical Christmas market offers a truly unique experience with underground stalls selling handmade crafts, cosy candles, and festive decorations.

The Velvet Cave and Gemeentegrot host stunning displays of Christmas lights and decorations, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy festive treats like hot chocolate and glühwein while browsing the charming stalls.

Don’t miss the Christmas parade, a highlight of this special Christmas town that draws visitors from across Europe.

✈️ Also read: Paris Christmas Markets

2. Magical Maastricht

Maastricht’s Vrijthof Square turns into a winter village during November and December. The market features a Ferris wheel, an ice rink, and market stalls brimming with unique gifts and festive food.

The city’s enchanting Christmas lights and cosy streets add to the festive atmosphere. Visitors can skate under the sparkling lights, enjoy warm festive food, and shop for handmade crafts and decorations.

The blend of history, culture, and festive cheer makes Maastricht’s Christmas market one of the best in the Netherlands.

✈️ Also read: 10 Foods You Need to Try on the Paris Christmas Markets

3. Royal Christmas Fair The Hague

Held along Lange Voorhout, the Royal Christmas Fair in The Hague is one of the best Christmas fairs in the Netherlands. You’ll find charming chalets, twinkling lights, and plenty of opportunities to go shopping for handmade jewellery and unique gifts.

Mulled wine and hot chocolate add to the cosy vibe of this market.

The Hague’s market is also a great spot for live entertainment, including Christmas choirs and performances that capture the festive spirit.

✈️ Also read: The 10 Best Gifts to Buy at the Paris Christmas Markets

4. Christmas Market Haarlem

Haarlem’s city centre hosts one of the country’s largest Christmas markets. Market stalls line the streets with festive decorations, nostalgic treats, and gifts.

Visitors can enjoy the festive food stalls offering everything from traditional Dutch oliebollen to international holiday delicacies.

Haarlem’s winter wonderland is perfect for strolling with a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine while enjoying live music and festive cheer.

The charming cobblestone streets and historic buildings add to the market’s cosy and magical feel.

✈️ Also read: What to Expect When Visiting Christmas Markets in Paris

5. Ice*Amsterdam

At Museumplein, Ice*Amsterdam transforms into a winter paradise, complete with a skating rink and chalets selling festive food.

This market is one of the top attractions during the festive period in Amsterdam. Visitors can skate with the stunning Rijksmuseum as a backdrop and shop for unique Christmas gifts.

The market also features delicious festive treats like poffertjes and hot chocolate, making it an ideal spot for families and couples alike. The Amsterdam Light Festival nearby adds another layer of enchantment to your visit.

6. Dordrecht Christmas Market

The largest Christmas market in the Netherlands, Dordrecht’s market features hundreds of stalls spread across the city centre. From festive food to handmade crafts, this market has everything you’d want during a Christmas shopping spree.

The atmosphere is cosy and filled with Christmas spirit, making it a real experience for visitors. Don’t miss the live performances and light displays that transform Dordrecht into a festive wonderland.

This market is ideal for anyone seeking a mix of tradition and festive cheer.

7. Leiden Nostalgic Christmas Market

Leiden’s winter wonderland includes a floating skating rink and a Christmas market that’s both cozy and enchanting.

The market features plenty of festive stalls offering handmade crafts, candles, and festive decorations. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque canals and historic streets illuminated by Christmas lights.

Leiden’s market is perfect for those looking for a nostalgic and magical holiday experience, complete with festive treats and warm drinks to keep the Christmas spirit alive.

8. WinterWelVaart Groningen

This unique Christmas market is held on historic ships docked in Groningen’s canals. The combination of maritime charm and festive lights creates a fairytale setting.

Discover crafts, cosy drinks like glühwein, and live entertainment that makes this market truly special.

The market also features guided tours of the historic ships, adding a cultural twist to the festive celebrations.

Groningen’s vibrant city centre offers plenty of other attractions to complement your Christmas market visit.

9. Amstelveen Winter Village

South of Amsterdam, Amstelveen’s Winter Village offers a cozy setting for Christmas shopping and festive food.

The market features a skating rink and twinkling lights, making it an ideal spot for a family-friendly outing during the festive period. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of stalls selling handmade crafts, decorations, and festive treats.

The relaxed atmosphere and beautiful Christmas tree make Amstelveen a perfect destination for a charming Christmas experience.

10. Castle Christmas Fair Heemskerk

The gardens surrounding Heemskerk’s castle transform into a Christmas paradise with beautifully lit stalls selling crafts, festive gifts, and decorations.

The romantic setting makes it a great choice for couples looking to enjoy the Christmas spirit. Visitors can also explore the castle itself, adding a historical and enchanting element to their visit.

The fair offers plenty of festive food options, including Dutch pancakes and warm drinks, ensuring a memorable holiday outing.

11. Funky Xmas Market Amsterdam

Held at Westergasfabriek, the Funky Xmas Market offers a trendy twist on the traditional Christmas market. Stalls selling funky gifts, trendy decorations, and unique crafts make this a must-visit for those seeking something different.

The market also features live performances and a festive vibe that’s perfect for younger crowds or anyone looking for a modern Christmas experience.

The industrial backdrop of Westergasfabriek adds a unique charm to this festive event.

12. Deventer Dickens Festival

In Deventer, the Charles Dickens Festival brings the author’s stories to life, with characters like Scrooge and Oliver Twist roaming the market.

The stalls and decorations create a nostalgic atmosphere, perfect for enjoying mulled wine and festive treats. Visitors can immerse themselves in the 19th-century setting, complete with carol singers and traditional costumes.

This market is a perfect blend of theatre and festivity, offering a one-of-a-kind Christmas experience.