The Best Dutch Christmas Markets
The Best Dutch Christmas Markets
Holland is a beautiful country to visit year-round, but Christmas time adds a unique charm. Christmas markets are a treasure trove of handmade souvenirs, local delicacies, and fantastic entertainment, and they are the perfect way to spend a Christmas break in Holland.
The glittering pavilions sell traditional Dutch savoury and sweet treats, from oliebollen (doughnuts) and pannenkoeken (pancakes) to Bratwurst sausages. Take in the festive magic and browse the stalls with a glass of mulled wine.
Some of the best Christmas markets in the Netherlands include:
- Amsterdam Christmas Market
- Rotterdam Christmas Market
- Valkenburg Christmas Market
- Dordrecht Christmas Market
- Haarlem Christmas Market
- Maastricht Christmas Market
- The Hague Christmas Market
How to get to Holland from the UK
Travelling to the Netherlands from the UK? Our ferries to Holland offer maximum comfort, modern cabins and excellent facilities, including daily entertainment and duty free shopping.
Our overnight Newcastle to Amsterdam route takes you to the Netherlands in no time. Bring your vehicle and as much luggage as you like for a stress-free trip.
Our ferries to France provide a great alternative if you fancy a road trip around Europe. Sail on our Dover to Dunkirk, Dover to Calais or Newhaven to Dieppe crossing and explore France and Belgium before reaching Holland.
Discover our mini cruises for an unforgettable experience. If you're visiting Amsterdam over the winter, our mini cruise to Amsterdam is the best way to make the most of the wonderful scenery.
Amsterdam Christmas Market
When: 15th November 2024 – 5th January 2025
If you visit Amsterdam at Christmas, you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to festive activities. Holland's capital has beautiful Christmas markets brimming with traditional culinary treats, arts and crafts and exciting activities.
Amsterdam Winter Paradise is the city's biggest market, with the RAI Convention Centre turning into a winter wonderland. Enjoy seasonal parties, indoor and outdoor ice rinks and a Ferris wheel offering breathtaking city views. You’ll also find several other markets, such as the Funky Xmas Market, Pure Markt Wintermarkt and Ice* Amsterdam. For a unique experience, consider taking a guided Winter Walk that shows you the city centre, the Nine Streets, and the Jordaan District during the most cosy months of the year.
Rotterdam Christmas Market
When: Typically during December
With a prime location and rich cultural heritage, Rotterdam is a must-visit city, and its Winter Fair is sure to get you in the festive spirit. Held at the Ahoy Convention Centre, it showcases local sellers' goods and culinary treats, including a Rotterdam staple, kapsalon (a layer of French fries topped with gyro meat and covered in cheese).
Valkenburg Christmas Market
When: 16th November – 29th December 2024
Enjoy a unique experience at Valkenburg Christmas Market. This charming village in the southern province of Limburg hosts some of the country's best markets. Explore the underground Christmas wonders in the Velvet and Municipal caves, adorned with twinkling lights and shimmering decorations. The Wilhelmina Caves are home to spectacular sand sculptures depicting the nativity scene. If you want to sample Valkenburg's local specialities, try the Christmas culinary walk!
Dordrecht Christmas Market
When: 13th – 31st December 2024
Dordrecht Christmas Market is the country's biggest festive market, with over 300 stands stretching for two miles. The stalls sell everything from handmade souvenirs, clothing and accessories to culinary delights. Whether you want to try your skills at ice skating or keep warm with a glass of mulled wine, Dordrecht turns into a fairy tale at Christmas.
Haarlem Christmas Market
When: 13th – 15th December 2024
Quintessentially European, Haarlem Christmas Market is a must if you're visiting Holland at Christmas. The Swiss-style wooden chalets take over the main square, selling local goods. The imposing Christmas tree dominates the scene while lighting up Haarlem's impressive Grote Kerk – a spectacular church. There is no better place to soak up the Christmas atmosphere and enjoy a sing-along than Haarlem. Remember, the market is only held over one weekend in December, so you need to be quick if you want to taste the action!
Maastricht Christmas Market
When: 28th November – 30th December 2024
Sitting at the border with Belgium, Maastricht is a picturesque city in southern Holland. Its Christmas markets are held at Vrijthof square and are nothing short of spectacular. Beautiful decorations adorn every building, while the main square is filled with Alpine-inspired chalets. There's also an ice rink and a Ferris wheel offering picture-perfect views of the Meuse River.
Den Haag Christmas Market
When: 5th December – 23rd December 2024
The Royal Christmas Fair in The Hague is one of the best Christmas markets in Holland, and it's easy to see why. The fair is located in the historic city centre, a stone's throw from Binnenhof and Noordeinde Palace. It offers an exciting activity schedule, including Christmas actors, children's choirs and other cultural activities.
Winter activities in Holland
Winter is a magical time to visit Holland. Streets and shop windows come alive with beautiful lights, and the whole country embraces the whimsy and wonder of the festive season. Visit Holland to enjoy a huge array of wintery activities, from strolling around festive markets to gliding across outdoor ice rinks.
If the weather isn't on your side or you're looking for a place to warm up, Holland is home to plenty of spectacular museums. From the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam to the Mauritshuis in The Hague, you can enjoy beautiful art and culture anywhere in Holland throughout winter.
Our routes
Newcastle to Amsterdam
If you're travelling to Holland from the north of England, our Newcastle to Amsterdam ferry crossing is your best option. Sail overnight and enjoy maximum comfort, duty free shopping and fantastic entertainment throughout the day.
20%
discount
Dover to Dunkirk
Hop aboard our Dover to Dunkirk ferry crossing, taking you to France in 2 hours. The drive to Amsterdam takes around 4 hours from Dunkirk Port, passing through Belgium.
From
£83
car + 4 one way
Dover to Calais
Travel to France on our Dover to Calais ferry crossing and enjoy a scenic drive through Belgium as you approach Holland. You can visit Ghent and Antwerp on the way, making the most of your journey.
From
£83
car + 4 one way
Newhaven to Dieppe
Sail on our Newhaven to Dieppe ferry crossing and enjoy fantastic onboard facilities, including entertainment and duty free shopping. Holland is a few hours’ drive from Dieppe Port.
From
£49
car + 2 people one way
Self-Drive Dutch Holiday
Experience the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation with our DFDS Hotel and Cruise package to the Netherlands. Enjoy comfortable onboard amenities, stunning sea views, and the vibrant culture of our select Dutch cities.
Travel guides
Eindhoven
Known as the design capital of the Netherlands, Eindhoven is a creative and innovative city. Whether you’re heading to the annual Dutch Design Week or want to explore Eindhoven’s art galleries, regenerative architecture and green spaces, there’s plenty to see here.
Utrecht
Utrecht is one of Holland’s oldest and most beautiful cities but is often overlooked in favour of the country’s better-known destinations. Explore the canals by boat or bike, wander the cobbled streets and admire the medieval architecture.
IJmuiden
Beautiful sandy beaches surround this quaint port city, perfect for nature and water sports lovers. It also enjoys proximity to other natural wonders like Zuid-Kennemerland National Park.
Prices are subject to availability. Telephone booking fees apply. Terms and conditions apply.