Immerse yourself in the enchanting Christmas spirit at the Netherlands' premier holiday markets. As experienced travel enthusiasts, we've curated this top 8 list for 2016 to help you find the perfect festive outing with family or friends.
The Christmas market in Valkenburg's Municipal Cave is among the largest and most beloved in the country. Drawing 100,000 visitors each year, it offers tens of kilometers of festively lit cave passages, decorated stalls, warm snacks, drinks, and lively entertainment from Friday, December 18 to Friday, December 23, 2016.
When: Friday, December 18 to Friday, December 23, 2016
Where: Municipal Cave, Valkenburg
Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Friday and Saturday 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Admission: €7.00
€5.00 (children up to 12 years)
Free (children 5 years)
Maastricht's Christmas Market is a highlight of Magical Maastricht, transforming the city into a holiday wonderland from December 2, 2016, to January 1, 2017. Enjoy multiple markets across the city, live music, dazzling decorations, and festive cheer for all ages.
When: December 2, 2016 to January 1, 2017
Where: Maastricht (including Vrijthof, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Plein)
Time: all day
Admission: free
Amsterdam in December buzzes with holiday magic beyond a single market. Expect stalls on various squares, an ice rink, a grand Christmas tree on Dam Square, traditional Dutch winter treats, and a vibrant winter market from late November 2016 to early January 2017.
When: late November 2016 to early January 2017
Where: Amsterdam (see website)
Time: see website
Entrance: free
Fans of Keukenhof's spring blooms will love its Christmas Fair. From December 8 to 11, 2016, the estate hosts three days of holiday festivities, including special afternoon programs for children.
When: December 8 to December 11, 2016
Where: Keukenhof, Lisse
Time: see website
Access: see website
From November 30 to December 4, 2016, Rotterdam Ahoy transforms into a vast indoor Christmas market packed with family fun. Enjoy live music, workshops, a merry-go-round, and children's activities.
When: November 30 to December 4, 2016
Where: Ahoy, Ahoyweg 10, Rotterdam
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission: €13.50
€7.50 (children from 3 to 12 years)
Free (children up to 3 years)
The royal city of The Hague shines with its Royal Christmas Fair from December 15 to 23, 2016. Stroll the city center amid twinkling lights, holiday stalls, warm glühwein, snacks, and seasonal delights.
When: December 15 to 23, 2016
Where: Lange Voorhout, The Hague
Time: all day
Entrance: free
Leiden boasts the Netherlands' only floating Christmas market—a true highlight. From December 16 to 28, 2016, boats line the Nieuwe Rijn in the historic city center. Landlubbers can enjoy an ice rink on the quay and nostalgic fair entertainment.
When: December 16 to 28, 2016
Where: Leiden city center
Time: 12:00 – 21:00
Entrance: free
Dordrecht's Christmas market from December 16 to 18, 2016, features hundreds of stalls, gospel choirs, an ice rink, carol sing-alongs, street theater, and performances across city-center stages—perfect family fun.
When: December 16 to 18, 2016
Where: Dordrecht (center)
Time: all day
Entrance: free
These top Christmas markets in the Netherlands for 2016 promise unforgettable holiday memories. Plan your visit today!
