The Most Magical Christmas Markets of 2023 In and Around the Netherlands
Updated: May 12
This post includes affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you!
Are Christmas markets all just a merry-go-round of Gluhwein and twinkling lights? Hot dogs and handmade treasures, carousels and Christmas candies—sounds like the same old yuletide routine, right? But wait, my festive friend, don't be too hasty in dismissing the season's cheer! Contrary to the predictable, there are delightful surprises waiting. Santa, being no novice, has bestowed upon me the task of guiding you to the most spectacular Christmas markets in town. While I may not have my own personal sleigh and Rudolph to visit the delightful christmas markets all over Europe, I can certainly list out the most magical Christmas Markets of 2023 In and Around the Netherlands. Fair enough? Shall we embark on this sleigh ride of discovery?
Agenda: Christmas Markets of 2023 In and Around the Netherlands CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN NETHERLANDS CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN BELGIUM CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN GERMANY CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN FRANCE |
CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN NETHERLANDS
When Christmas markets come to mind, we envision the allure of German markets, the Prague architectural spectacle, Vienna's ice-skating charm, Budapest's chimney cakes, and Strasbourg's festive baubles. Rarely does the conversation touch on the Netherlands. Are their markets enchanting enough, or are they simply overlooked? My firsthand experience of exploring Dutch markets over the past four years convinces me they are not only distinctive and spectacular but also gaining popularity among tourists, thanks to glowing recommendations spreading through delighted market enthusiasts. Now, let's dive into the best ones in the Netherlands.
🎄1 Valkenburg Christmas Market
Located in the province of Limburg in the south of Netherlands, This one takes the cake—literally, inside a cave! I've seen my fair share of stalactites and stalagmites in caves across different destinations, but a Christmas market in a cave? That was a first for me! Brace yourself for the enchanting experience of wandering through the festively lit marlstone corridors of Valkenburg's Municipal Cave (Gemeentegrot). Hosting the largest underground Christmas market in Europe, it's proudly hailed as the 'Best Christmas Destination in the Netherlands!'
What's Unqiue: Explore a cave adorned with Christmas lights and festive decor, featuring 30 meters of miniature villages and charming stalls offering a variety of items. The charm of Valkenburg's Christmas market will knock you off your feet. Picture a Christmas procession on the Main Street, cozy restaurants lining the way, and an overall atmosphere that's nothing short of enchanting.
Careful and early planning is essential due to the abundance of activities available. Ensure to purchase your tickets exclusively online through this LINK. Options include the Velvet Cave Christmas Market, Christmas Market Municipal Cave, Christmas Show in MergelRijk, Winter Wonderland - Christmas at Valkenburg amusement park, and Christmas Shadow Lights (Note: this activity commences from December 1 onwards).
Alternatively you may also choose one of the day trips from one of the major cities of Netherlands such as the below higlighted to save you the trouble of planning the logitiscs, transportation and planning of it all.
Dates: 17 November 2023 until 7 January 2024
Address: Daalhemerweg 27, 6301 BJ Valkenburg aan de Geul, Netherlands.
🎄2 Maastricht Christmas Market
Where does the Maastricht Christmas market choose to dazzle visitors? It's strutting its festive charm in the city of Maastricht, nestled within the chic province of Limburg in the Netherlands.
What's Unqiue: Right in the heart of the lively Vrijthof Square, the Maastricht market flaunts a towering Ferris wheel 45 meters high, a covered ice skating rink at a minimum size of 1000 square meters, and a cozy snow play zone for the tiny tots. This bustling hub is a delightful blend of winter chalets offering a mix of Belgian 'Waffles', German 'Bratwurst', Austrian 'Almhütte' and Dutch 'Oliebollen' treats and many more delights, featuring an adventure-packed playhouse and live music echoing beneath the romantic ambiance of Place d'Amour.
To skip the hassle of waiting in lengthy queues for attractions like the skating rink, skate rental, Ferris wheel, and carousel, it's advisable to plan ahead and secure your tickets through this LINK.
Dates: 30 November 2023 until 31 December 2023
Address: Magisch Maastricht Vrijthof, Vrijthof, 6211 LC Maastricht, Limburg, Netherlands.
🎄3 Leiden Christmas Market
I love this city for its vibrant student atmosphere, always brimming with youthful energy and excitement. Plus, it's conveniently just half an hour from Amsterdam and a short 15-minute drive from The Hague. With Christmas approaching, brace yourself for a uniquely twisted Christmas market!
What's Unqiue: What sets this market apart is its unconventional location—floating on water. Picture 90 or more stalls drifting on the city's oldest canal! Renowned as one of Europe's best floating markets, this year it's making its land debut in a more compact form. You can still enjoy a boat tour along the historic canal while savoring a warm cup of mulled wine or chocolate milk. But shoot, is this market only for 5 days? Then what are you waiting for? Make your way to the charming Hooglandse Kerkgracht in Leiden.
Dates: 13 December to 17 December
Address: Hooglandse Kerkgracht, Leiden
🎄4 Amsterdam Christmas Markets
Get ready for a winter wonderland in Amsterdam! Museumplein turns into a charming Christmas Village, offering live entertainment, market stalls, and delicious food and drinks. While the ice skating rink won't be there in 2023, there's still plenty of fun with vendors, choirs, and a magical winter landscape. At the RAI, you can experience a winter paradise with indoor and outdoor ice-skating, parties, dining, and a giant Ferris wheel. Don't miss the Funky Xmas Market at Westergasfabriek, showcasing local artists and designers. For sustainable gifts, visit De Ceuvel's pop-up market with ethically-sourced goods and festive atmosphere. And if you're up for a short trip, head to Amstelveen for the Winter Village, complete with an ice skating rink and over 60 market stalls. Embrace the winter spirit and enjoy the festivities!
Clearly, so many UNQIUE things to do!
Museumplein - 1 December 2023 to 26 December 2023
RAI Amsterdam - 14 December 2023 to 30 December 2023
Funky Xmas Market at Westergasfabriek - 17 December 2023
Sustainable Christmas Market - De Ceuvel - 9-10 and 16-17 December 2023
Winter Village - Winkelcentrum Stadshart, Amstelveen - 2 December 2023 to 7 January 2024
🎄5 The Royal Hague Christmas Fair
Living in The Hague is a dream come true for me. The city's unique blend of old and new architecture, perfectly complemented by nature, creates a magical atmosphere. And let's not forget about Lange Voorhout, the stunning heart of the city where the Royal Christmas Fair takes place.
What's Unqiue: As the Dutch government's headquarters and a hub for international organizations, The Hague hosts a Christmas fair that exudes regal charm. It's only fitting that they call it "Royal" — a perfect union of the fair and the city, creating a heavenly match!
Experience the magic of the Royal Christmas Fair in The Hague! With cozy chalets, festive decorations, Christmas actors, choirs, Santa Claus, and cultural activities, this fair has it all. This market stands out with its distinguished programs like dream speeches, World Light Day, Ukrainian programming, an English sing-along, Haagsuh Bingo, and a Uithof Children's Afternoon. It's a truly enchanting event that you wouldn't want to pass up!
Dates: 7 December 2023 to 23 December 2023. Address: Lange Voorhout, The Hague, Netherlands.
You can access the Christmas fair through the entrances located at the Kloosterkerk (Cloister Church – corner Parkstraat/Lange Voorhout), Hotel Des Indes (Denneweg), and the former American embassy (Tournooiveld).
CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN BELGIUM
If I decide to journey from the Netherlands to Belgium, I might consider spending the night and exploring the enchanting Christmas markets of Brussels and Bruges and Ghent, both in one go, since they are just about an hour away from each other. Alternatively, given that they're a manageable 2-3 hours' drive from the Netherlands or a short train ride away, I could opt to return home after a day of festive fun and plan another weekend visit to the next Christmas market. Besides, who in their right mind would pass up the chance to experience UNESCO Heritage Sites so conveniently, especially in the midst of festive fervor! Oh my!
🎄1 Brussels Winter Wonders (Plaisirs d'Hiver)
Unwrap the festive magic at the ultimate Christmas market nearest to The Netherlands! Nestled in the heart of Brussels, the Grand-Place transforms into a spectacular winter wonderland, and mind you, it's already one of the world's most beautiful spots. Brace yourself for an enchanting Christmas market that radiates pure holiday bliss!
What's Unqiue: Don't miss the must-see 360° sound and light show at the Grand-Place, lasting 6 to 8 minutes. A key feature of the Winter Wonders event, this spectacle is inspired by the artistry of Mohawk artist Leilani Shaw this year. Running every hour from Monday to Thursday (5 pm to 10 pm) and every 30 minutes from Friday to Sunday (5 pm to 10 pm), it's a captivating experience in the heart of UNESCO's World Heritage Site, the Grand-Place.
Also, gear up for the extra fun at this season's Winter Wonder in Brussels! Kids are in for a treat with special entertainment. Every Wednesday afterschool, brace yourself for storytelling, mascots, street art, and other delightful surprises on stage and at the 'Enchanted House.' And hold on to your hats because Magic Sundays will feature mind-blowing performances by magicians. Wohoo!
Beyond the Nativity scenes, countless stalls tempting taste buds, a towering Ferris wheel, whimsical merry-go-rounds, lively concerts, parades, and various events, it appears that the Christmas Market at Brussels has evolved into the essence of Belgian culture.
Dates : 24 November 2023 to 31 December 2023
Address: Grand-Place, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
🎄2 Bruges Christmas Winter Glow
Bruges' Winter Glow has a cool new trail called 'Aurora,' inspired by the Northern Lights. It's a cozy 2.5 km walk with 10 magical light displays. Picture hopping on water droplets at Sint-Annakerk, experiencing the holographic Circle of Life at Groenerei, or being enchanted by the Story of the Swan at Jan van Eyckplein. And don't miss the underwater world magic at Rijksarchief. It's like a winter wonderland stroll!
Do you want to embark on a magical Christmas tour in Bruges? Book your tour here.
What's Unique: There is something called as 'De Warmste Week'. During 'The Warmest Week' in Bruges, enjoy seven days of live radio at the 'Warmest House' on 't Zand Square. This year's funds support projects for a carefree childhood. Join the atmosphere, request a song, or attend free concerts from December 18 to December 24. What's more? Bruges chefs cook at the Christmas market to support De Warmste Week.' Set up at Simon Stevinplein, a Bruges chef prepares daily dishes under Flavourite Bruges. The city covers the stand fee, and the chef donates the rent to 'De Warmste Week.' The Christmas stall, offers quality street food with local ingredients.With dishes priced at a max of 12 euros, the stall operates from November 24 to January 7. Incredible work isnt it?
Ready to dive into the enchanting world of Bruges with its two Christmas markets? Get ready for a warm finish, winter glow style, filled with Christmas spirit, delicious food, shopping, and more!
Dates: 24 November 2023 to 7 January 2024
Address: Markt, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN GERMANY
While other European countries typically commence their Christmas markets in December, Germany kicks off its festive markets in early November, sometimes even before the commencement of Advent. Germans start celebrating Christmas early because they love to extend the festive season. The markets provide more than just shopping—they're a place for holiday joy, entertainment, and socializing. This early start allows for a longer period of festive cheer throughout the Advent season. And unlocking the gates early guarantees an extra dose of festive bliss for folks like me in Europe, offering a timely escape from the winter blues. Luckily, Germany boasts quite a few Christmas markets conveniently close to the Netherlands.
🎄1 Cologne Christmas Market
First things first, by far it is Germany's most priced Christmas Market and a stone's thorw away from Netherlands. Cologne is playing Santa with Christmas markets sprinkled all around the city.
What's Unqiue: They've wrapped up Cologne's tourist attractions in a festive bow this year. Whether it's the Christmas Ferris wheel at the Chocolate Museum or the enchanting China Lights at Cologne Zoo, serving hot drinks in a 'Nicholas boot mug' at the Village of St. Nicholas or diving into the legend of Cologne's brownies at the Heinzels Winter Fairytale, from the Stadtgarten market, where sparkling fairy lights adorn trees to immerse yourself in the Market of Angels, featuring delectable culinary creations crafted by Maximilian Lorenz, the emerging culinary talent from Cologne—Cologne doesn't need to twiddle its thumbs waiting for Santa Claus.
If you can't decide on which christmas market to focus on, let's throw the spotlight on the Christmas Market at Cologne Cathedral (Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom). The monumental gothic cathedral in the background adds a touch of magic to the experience. The market encompasses everything you'd want to enjoy for a magical night to yourself. From Glühwein (mulled wine) and gingerbread cookies to nativity scenes, roasted chestnuts, handmade crafts, festive music, Christmas lights, and cheer—everything is right there. From Tuesday to Thursday, a special children's program in the 'Sternwarte' invites the little ones to enjoy between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Pro Tip: MAKE SURE TO EXPERIENCE
🌟 Delight in the cabbage and bacon strudel, served with a luscious combination of grated cheese and melted butter at the South Tyrolian ham hut in the Cathedral Christmas Market.
🌟 Relish the zesty melted cheese Raclette available at the Raclette hut in the Christmas market at Stadtgarten.
While you find yourself in Cologne, why not elevate your experience with a delightful and romantic winter cruise along the Rhine River, complete with festive live music? Secure your tour tickets right here.
Dates: 11 December 2023 until 23 December 2023.
Address: Christmas Market at Cologne Cathedral, Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) Domkloster 4 50667 Köln Germany.
🎄2 Düsseldorf Christmas Market
In Düsseldorf, the mayors seem to have declared a Christmas market extravaganza! Every market we entered left us in awe, only to be lured to yet another. With 6 Christmas Markets spanning the entire city, each offering a unique theme, it's a wondrous exploration - Kö-Lichter Markt, Kö-Bogen, Märchen Markt (Fairy Tale Market), Schadow Markt, Altstadt Markt (Old Town Market), and Handwerker Markt (Crafts Market). The travel time between Düsseldorf and The Hague or Amsterdam is 2 to 3 hours approximately, so you can surely make it to add to Germany's festive cheer!
What's Unqiue: Fancing blending Christmas magic with window shopping? Take a leisurely stroll through the Altstadt (Old Town) for the latest fashion trends, the glamorous boulevard along Königsallee with exclusive stores, and the Schadow arcades on Schadow-strasse.
Adding to the festive spirit, from December 16 to 20, WDR 2 hosts its largest charity campaign ever. The radio station, along with its listeners and charitable partner Aktion Deutschland Hilft, is raising funds for mothers in need worldwide.
And here's a culinary Pro tip: 🌟 Don't miss out on the Potato fritters and mushrooms, Crêpes and yeast dumplings, Chestnuts, Bratwurst, Hirtentaschen pies, and seasoned bread. They're a feast for your taste buds!
Dates: 23 November 2023 to 30 December 2023
🎄3 International Christmas Market at Essen
Just a breezy 30-minute drive away lies Essen, Germany's third greenest city and a cultural hub. It's a festive metropolis with a twist. Last year, I explored Essen. We cruised down and parked our car in the city center parking garage. Just a staircase up from the parking, and voila, we found ourselves smack dab in the middle of the lively Christmas market. Many do not know that The Essen International Christmas Market nailed the 6th spot in Europe and proudly snagged 1st place in Germany in the 'European Best Christmas Markets' online showdown. Quite the holiday hotspot and that's why I highy recommend visiting Essen!
What's Unqiue: That it is International! Traders roll out their treasures from around 20 international countries or regions in Germany, just like they did last year. Christmas flair from Israel, bling from the Baltic States, and gourmet delights from Italy, Greece, and France.
I have a vivid memory of strolling from the Market towards the Rathaus Gallery, which was enchantingly adorned with fairy lights. Our destination was a dome illuminated with Christmas lights. Inside, my kids and I enjoyed hot cups of mulled wine and hot chocolate, creating a surreal experience. Later, we passed the Dom, where a colossal Ferris wheel stood on the Burgplatz. Larger-than-life lighting displays featuring animals like dolphins, reindeers, kangaroos, rhinos, and even a unicorn surrounded us as we wandered past numerous chalets and stalls offering Tarte flambée, Crêpes & Waffles, potato noodles, Chocolate skewers, Langos, Mini-Pizzas, and more. might offer!I'm already eagerly anticipating the festive vibes of the 2024 Christmas market in Essen!
Dates: 17 November 2023 to 23 December 2023 Parking Garage Address: Kennedyplatz Parkhaus (Kennedyplatz Parkhaus, Vereinstraße 2, 45127 Essen).
CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN FRANCE
Surely, I'm not alone in being utterly captivated by anything with a hint of French charm. The French possess an innate allure for style, glamour, and glitz – it's practically in their name. Picture the strikingly gorgeous and uniquely charming Christmas atmosphere this country must boast. Today, we'll explore the top three markets in France near the Netherlands. While Colmar Christmas Market may be an 8-hour drive away, its significance is too grand to be overlooked.
🎄1 Strasbourg Christmas Market (Christkindelsmärik)
Known affectionately as the 'Capital of Christmas,' Strasbourg boasts a time-honored tradition with its Christmas market dating back to 1570, making it the oldest in France and a European classic. The true spectacle unfolds with a colossal 30-meter Christmas tree stealing the show at Place Kléber. This majestic symbol of 'Strasbourg, Capital of Christmas' sparkles with colorful ornaments and twinkling lights, proudly standing as the most adorned Christmas tree in all of Europe.
Ready for a magical Christmas market tour in Strasbourg? Secure your spot by clicking on this link. Or craving a Christmas market tour with mulled wine in hand? Click on this link to book your festive adventure now!
What's Unique: Strasbourg doesn't stop at one tree. Venture to Saint-Georges church in Sélestat, and you'll find an array of trees hanging from the ceiling, like nature's ornaments. Oh, and if you're feeling like a literary detective, swing by the Humanist Library. You'll uncover the earliest mention of a Christmas tree, carefully inked in an ancient document.
But wait, there's more! If you have more time, hit Place Grimmeissen in Strasbourg's charming La Petite France district. The OFF Market awaits, flaunting a solidarity and eco-friendly theme. Picture organic tarts flambées, vintage treasures, toy-making workshops, and a whole lot more.
🎄2 Paris Christmas Market
I'd hop over to Paris any day just because, well, it's Paris. A 5-hour drive from Amsterdam to the heart of France? No biggie, especially when I get to soak in the romantic vibes and explore its snug Christmas Markets. Paris sparkles not only its Eiffel Tower but also its various markets, attracting a bustling crowd of 13 million festive enthusiasts. The Tuileries Garden Christmas Market (formerly Champs-Élysées Christmas Market) and Paris Notre-Dame Christmas Market at Square Viviani take the cake. If you fancy a more intimate neighborhood feel, there are several smaller charming markets to explore.
La Magie de Noël at Tuileries Garden Christmas Market isn't just large; it's a winter wonderland with Christmas-themed rides, a giant Ferris wheel, a Champagne igloo, an ice skating rink, a kiddie play zone, bumping cars and colossal Santa Claus and reindeers.
What's Unique: You guessed that right, the theme is a winter wonderland adventure park! Plus, their Swiss-style chalets serve up delectable French-produced specialty food products.
For a touch of magic against the Notre Dame Cathedral, swing by the Christmas Market at Square Viviani, directly across the Seine River from Notre Dame. Beyond the lights, cheer, vin chaud (hot mulled wine), and fancy eats, this market excels in high-quality French-made arts and crafts.
What's Unqiue: Picture cashmere and mohair scarves, silver jewelry with beautiful stones, winter wear, handmade wooden toys, ceramics, candles, and more. It's not just a market; it's a festive treasure trove.
Tuileries Garden Christmas Market: La Magie de Noël Dates - 18 November 2023 - 7 January 2024
Address: Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries) in the 1st Arrondissement
Notre Dame Christmas Market at Square Viviani
Dates: 8 December 2023 to 25 December 2023
Address: Square René-Viviani on Quai Montebello, at the edge of the Latin Quarter in the 5th Arrondissement
🎄3 Colmar Christmas Market
Ladies and gentlemen, let me tell you, Colmar had me at "Bonjour" when I visited this charming French town in the spring. Now, a local whispered in my ear that I absolutely must experience Colmar during the Christmas season, and I can only imagine the sheer magnificence of not one, not two, but six Christmas markets!
What's Unqiue: Picture this: a UNESCO World Heritage old town with half-timbered houses, adorned with dazzling decorations and enchanting illuminations. It's like stepping into a fairytale, where Alsatian traditions and culinary delights await at the Gourmet market.
And don't even get me started on the magical wonderland for children at Petite Venise, where they can drop letters to Father Christmas and enjoy a merry-go-round. If I had the means, I wouldn't miss this opportunity to visit this enchanting French town on time!
Pro Tip: On December 13th, the St. Nicolas chorus will serenade us with Christmas carols on boats in the picturesque district of Little Venice in Colmar.
Dates: 23 November 2023 to 27 December 2023.
Address: Pl. des 6 Montagnes Noires, 68000 Colmar, France
Ready to enjoy wine tastings at vineyards on the way to enchanting, festively adorned Christmas villages like Kaysersberg, Riquewihr, and Eguisheim? Experience the magical Christmas ambiance in the evenings, where beautiful illuminations enhance each town's heritage. Don't wait—secure your tour by booking here through this LINK - Enchanting Christmas Experience From Colmar.
With so many splendid attracrions and delights and every christmas market offering something unique, let's not brush off Christmas markets as just a routine affair—there's a world of festive wonders waiting to be discovered! Sleigh them all I say!
If you found my blog post enjoyable, consider giving it a thumbs-up and subscribing for future updates. Don't hesitate to share it with your friends and family as well. If you have any questions or desire further insights into the Christmas Markets or any other travel-related topics, please don't hesitate to reach out. Wishing you a Merry Christmas! Enjoy the festive spirit and delightful explorations at Christmas markets.
