The Best Christmas Markets in and around the Netherlands in 2024

08.11.2024

Top Christmas Markets in and around the Netherlands for 2024

With festive lights, cosy stalls, and warm treats, the Netherlands and nearby cities are home to some of Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets. From Dutch classics to a few iconic markets just across the border, here’s your guide to the must-visit holiday destinations this season.

The Hague, Netherlands

Dates: 5 – 23 December 2024

Located on the tree-lined Lange Voorhout, The Hague’s Royal Christmas Fair is one of the Netherlands’ most magical holiday markets. With over 100 stalls filled with festive gifts, crafts, and seasonal treats, this fair captures the Christmas spirit for locals and visitors alike. After exploring the market, take a stroll down nearby Noordeinde for some upmarket shopping, or unwind at a bar while enjoying live festive music. Just a short walk from Centraal Station, it’s an easy and delightful day trip.

Visit the Official Website of the Royal Christmas Fair

Maastricht, Netherlands

Dates: 28 November – 30 December 2024

Held in Vrijthof Square, Maastricht’s Christmas market offers an enchanting mix of festive activities. With over 100 stalls, an ice rink, and a towering Ferris wheel, this market creates a winter wonderland perfect for families and holiday lovers. The little ones can enjoy a carousel and giant slide, while the adults indulge in traditional Dutch treats like oliebollen and mulled wine. The cosy ambience makes Maastricht a quintessential holiday outing.

Visit the Official Website of Magical Maastricht

Ice Village – Amsterdam, Netherlands

Dates: 12 – 26 December 2024

In the heart of Amsterdam at Museumplein, the Ice Village is one of the city’s most popular holiday markets. Featuring over 45 stalls offering unique gifts, holiday snacks, and warm drinks, it’s an excellent spot for holiday shopping. The large ice-skating rink adds to the festive atmosphere, making this market ideal for both locals and tourists. For an alternative experience, visit the Funky Xmas Market at Westergasfabriek on 15 December, which highlights artisanal crafts and gourmet bites in a vibrant setting.

Visit the Official Website of Ice Village Amsterdam

Winter Village – Amstelveen, Netherlands

Dates: 30 November 2024 – 5 January 2025

Just south of Amsterdam, Winter Village Amstelveen offers a relaxed holiday escape. With an ice rink, glühwein, and holiday stalls, this Christmas market is perfect for a family-friendly outing away from the city’s busier attractions. For those seeking a quieter holiday experience, this is an excellent choice.

Visit the Official Website of Winter Village Amstelveen

Christmas Town – Valkenburg, Netherlands

Dates: 16 November 2024 – 5 January 2025 (Various events)

Valkenburg, located in South Limburg, is known for its unique underground Christmas market experience. Held in the Velvet and Municipal Caves, this market combines festive stalls, seasonal treats, and enchanting holiday decor in an unforgettable setting. Wilhelmina Cave also features figures from the Christmas story. Don’t miss the Winter Wonderland at Kabelbaan theme park for extra holiday excitement.

Visit the Official Website of Christmas Town Valkenburg

Winter Wonder Weeks – Leiden, Netherlands

Dates: 7 December 2024 – 5 January 2025 (Various events)

Leiden’s Winter Wonder Weeks bring festive cheer to the city, with a floating ice rink, nostalgic fair, and the arrival of Sinterklaas. The highlight is the five-day Christmas market at Hooglandse Kerkgracht, where wooden chalets sell crafts, decorations, and seasonal foods. With a small-town feel and inviting ambiance, Leiden’s market is perfect for a holiday outing.

Visit the Official Website of Winter Wonder Weeks Leiden

Cologne Christmas Markets – Cologne, Germany

Dates: 18 November – 23 December 2024

Set beneath the stunning Cologne Cathedral at Roncalliplatz, Cologne’s Christmas market is a holiday must-see. With over 150 festively decorated stalls, this iconic market offers holiday crafts, seasonal treats, and a magical atmosphere unique to the region. The beautiful cathedral backdrop adds to the charm, making it one of Europe’s most famous Christmas markets.

Visit the Official Website of Cologne Christmas Markets

Düsseldorf Christmas Markets – Düsseldorf, Germany

Dates: 21 November – 30 December 2024

Düsseldorf’s Christmas markets create a chic and festive atmosphere across the city, with markets in the Old Town, Schadowplatz, and at Benrath Palace. From artisanal crafts to traditional holiday treats, each location offers something special. Don’t miss the open-air ice rink at Corneliusplatz for an extra touch of holiday magic, and stroll through the elegantly decorated streets for the complete Christmas experience.

Visit the Official Website of Düsseldorf Christmas Markets

Bruges Christmas Markets – Bruges, Belgium

Dates: 22 November 2024 – 5 January 2025

The Bruges Christmas Markets light up the city’s historic centre, with festive stalls at both the Markt (Market Square) and Simon Stevinplein. While the Markt offers a traditional Christmas market atmosphere complete with an ice-skating rink, Simon Stevinplein showcases local, artisanal crafts for unique gifts. Illuminated in Winter Glow style, both locations capture the cosy, fairy-tale ambiance Bruges is known for.

Visit the Official Website of Bruges Christmas Markets

Other Christmas Markets in the Netherlands

Looking for even more festive options? Here are some additional Christmas markets across the Netherlands:

Arnhem: Christmas Market – 15 December 2024
Deventer: Dickens Festijn – 14–15 December 2024
Drunen: Dickens Festijn – 21–22 December 2024
Gouda: Winter Fair – 14 December 2024
Groningen: Winter Gold – 6 December 2024 – 5 January 2025
Vianen: Christmas Parade – 14 December 2024