Christmas markets in the Netherlands: Valkenburg, Maastricht and Amsterdam
The Netherlands is not the first country that comes to mind for Christmas markets – and that is exactly why it surprises. Here you will find one of Europe's most unusual Christmas experiences – markets in caves underground – as well as elegant Maastricht, lights along Amsterdam's canals and cosy Haarlem. For other countries, see our guide to Christmas markets in Europe.
When and how to go
- Season: markets open in mid or late November, and many festive events continue into early January.
- Getting there: there are flights from Sofia to Eindhoven and Amsterdam. Eindhoven is a handy gateway to Maastricht and Valkenburg, which are only about 15 minutes apart by train.
- Documents: the Netherlands is in the EU and Schengen – Bulgarian citizens travel with an ID card.
Valkenburg
This small town in the southern province of Limburg is known for something found almost nowhere else – Christmas markets in natural marl caves.
Christmas markets
- Gemeentegrot – the most famous underground market, in a huge cave with long corridors, murals, sculptures and festive lights.
- Fluweelengrot – in another historic cave beneath the medieval castle ruins.
- Christmas village – an outdoor festive area with stalls and attractions.
In 2026 the cave markets run from 13 November to 30 December (closed on Christmas Day). Entry is paid, and it is best to buy tickets online in advance.
What else to see
The ruins of the only hilltop castle in the Netherlands, the MergelRijk underground attraction, the Wilhelmina Tower with panoramic views and the Thermae 2000 spa.
What to eat
Limburgse vlaai – a traditional fruit tart.
Maastricht
An elegant city near the Belgian and German borders – calmer and more romantic than Amsterdam, with French and Belgian influences.
Christmas markets
- Magical Maastricht on the Vrijthof – the main festive area with a large ice rink, a Ferris wheel, stalls and lots of seasonal food.
- Onze Lieve Vrouweplein – a cosy area around the historic church, with cafés.
What else to see
Dominicanen bookshop in a former Gothic church – one of the most beautiful in the world, the Basilica of St Servatius, the St Pietersberg caves, the Sint Servaasbrug bridge over the Maas and the modern Wyck district.
Amsterdam
In December the lights reflect in the canals and Amsterdam takes on a completely different charm. A great choice if you want to combine the holidays with museums and shopping.
Christmas markets and events
- Museumplein winter village – wooden stalls, sweets and an ice rink in front of the big museums.
- Amsterdam Winter Paradise – a large winter festival with ice attractions and music.
- Amsterdam Light Festival – every winter artists create light installations along the canals. They look best from a boat in the evening.
What else to see
The Rijksmuseum with Rembrandt and Vermeer, the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House, Dam Square, the Jordaan, the Nine Streets with their boutiques and the floating flower market.
What to eat
Stroopwafels, poffertjes – mini pancakes, oliebollen – Christmas doughnuts, and Dutch cheeses.
Haarlem
Just 15 minutes by train from Amsterdam, Haarlem is one of the country's most beautiful and underrated cities – calmer and more authentic.
Christmas markets
- Grote Markt – one of the best-known Christmas markets in the Netherlands, on the historic square around the church and town hall.
- Small shops – Haarlem is known for independent boutiques with designer gifts and decorations.
What else to see
The Gothic St Bavo Church with its huge historic organ, the Frans Hals Museum, Teylers Museum – the oldest in the Netherlands, De Adriaan windmill and the Golden Streets with boutiques and antique shops.
Tip: for the Valkenburg caves, dress lighter than you would outside – the temperature underground is constant and it is not cold. Maastricht and Valkenburg can easily be combined in one day.
Dates are based on information available in November 2026 and may change – check the market's website before you travel.
Need help planning?
The Clio Travel team will help you with flights, hotels and the route between Valkenburg, Maastricht and Amsterdam. For more ideas, see our guide to Christmas markets in Europe.
