5 Christmas markets in the Netherlands recommended by Learn-Dutch-Online

The temperature starts to drop, the heating turns on,and the days get shorter, as the Dutch winter settles in. It is dark and cold outside making candle- and firelight extra cozy. Can you feel the Christmas magic approaching? All the more reason to plan some awesome outings, like a nice day at a Dutch Christmas market. Here are 5 Christmas markets recommended by Learn Dutch Online. 

1. Caves of Valkenburg

The most interesting location. 

Valkenburg is an excellent venue to start with. This nostalgic Christmas market is held in the local cave system, also known as the gemeentegrot, at the bottom of the famous Cauberg. Due to the picturesque setting, it is now one of the most visited Christmas markets in Europe.

When exploring the underground corridors, your imagination is transported to magical world of lights, music and surprises around every corner. You will find beautiful Christmas stalls and decorations where and you can find the nicest items to gift to on the 25th.

You can get more details here: https://www.kerststadvalkenburg.nl/#

2. Christmas market in Maastricht 

The cosiest one

At the Vrijthof Christmas market you can ice skate on the 1000m2 ice rink and ride the 45-meter-high Ferris wheel between the stalls. There is usually a merry-go-round for and other smaller rides to enjoy. The children can also have fun with a great covered giant slide or go visit Santa in his chalet.  

See more here: https://www.kerstmarktinmaastricht.nl/ 

3. Floating Christmas market Leiden 

The market on the water

This unique Christmas market is located on pontoons in the Nieuwe Rijn. The only floating market in the Netherlands and is located in the centre of Leiden. Here you can visit the average number of 86 winter chalets for Christmas gifts & decorations, seasonal snacks and drinks. There are stage performances for extra entertainment. While enjoying the market, make sure to say hi to Santa without whom a Christmas market just isn't the same. Attending the market is free of charge and you can find more details about it on the link below

 https://www.visitleiden.nl/nl/uitagenda/drijvende-kerstmarkt

4. Dickens Christmas fair in Deventer 

It's all about Christmas with Dickens 

A Charles Dickens themed Christmas market is a must-see if you are a fan of his classic works. Here you can find Christmas decorations, unique gifts, clothing, food and even music reminiscent of a Dickens masterpiece. Even the stalls themed with a Dickens style appearance. You can even find actors dressed in "Dickens clothing" or attend in similar fashion to enhance your experience.

More information: https://dickensfestijn.nl/

5. Christmas market in Haarlem 

The largest of them all

At year-end, the centre of Haarlem will once again be transformed into one of the largest and most enjoyable Christmas markets in the Benelux region.

Shop for Christmas gifts at one of the up to 300 stalls and enjoy delicious mulled wine or fresh Dutch pea soup. There is Christmas music on the speakers around the market or go listen to the various choirs performing in beautiful monumental locations. Perfect for a day you want to jingle all the way! 

More information: https://www.visithaarlem.com/nl/kerstmarkt 

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