Five authentic Christmas markets in the Netherlands that you can't miss. From Dordrecht to Maastricht, winter and Christmas are in Holland, read how to get there and which Christmas markets are not to be missed, outside the usual centers.
One of the most beautiful European cities to see and the Christmas markets is certainly a great option to see in Holland. With its ice skating rinks, markets, canals and snow, when it comes, it is a favorite destination for Italians looking for the Christmas atmosphere on their vacations.
Holland has always offered its visitors many reasons to visit, not only for its Christmas markets, but also for the services it offers to families, living in Holland or coming for a weekend or longer vacation. Outside the usual centers there are several markets that are good to know also to visit another Holland, perhaps more authentic. Here are 5 Christmas markets in the Netherlands that you should not miss if you decide to undertake this trip between December and January.
1.- Maastricht Market
In Maastricht, winter is a real game. Here, from the end of November until the end of December, illuminated lights connect all the squares in the historic city center. On the Vrijthof square, a fantastic Christmas atmosphere is created for the occasion with a large ice skating rink, the Christmas market and the Ferris wheel.
2.- Dordrecht Market
The Dordrecht Christmas market usually takes place in the first half of December, if you arrive earlier or later you will not find anything unfortunately, be careful! The long Christmas market stretches over 2.5 km in the historic center of Dordrecht and is the largest Christmas market in the Netherlands. The stands, numbering more than 250, offer handcrafted Christmas products, while choirs, bands, orchestras and an ice-skating rink ensure the magical and cozy Christmas atmosphere. The market stretches throughout the historic and residential areas of Dordrecht, and this year it reaches all the way to the city's picturesque harbor. Every Friday and Saturday, everyone can join in the caroling on the town square.
3.- Den Bosch Market
One of the most modern Christmas markets in Holland with its own winter paradise. In addition to the Christmas tree in Den Bosch, the stalls and Christmas music, there is also an ice skating rink here that enlivens and entertains the visit of the city at this particular time of the year. For those who come to Den Bosch (rightly) without ice skates, there is the possibility to rent them from the side awning.
4.- Valkenburg market
In Valkenburg, the city located in the middle of sweet and fairytale hills, at Christmas time we find ourselves in the caves. Here, among lights and decorations, Christmas becomes magical. Valkenburg can be defined as the Christmas town par excellence, and this thanks to its own subway markets now known all over the world.
5.- Keukenhof Market at Keukenhof Castle in Lisse
A Christmas market inside a castle, nothing more beautiful for those who want to experience a magical Christmas atmosphere. The Christmas market that takes place in Lisse is incredible and only those who have seen it with their own eyes can attest to its beauty and also the possibility of finding unique and incomparable handicrafts.
For those who are wondering, yes, Keukenhof is also the place where every spring the gates of a wonderful park where you can find hundreds of types of tulips. Here you find all the information to reach it, both in summer and winter.
