Sophie Meiden – First Encounter with the Netherlands in 2008 My introduction to the Netherlands was destined. I came to Amsterdam for just a few days, but this country with its cozy canals, bicycle paths, and amazing balance between tradition and progress captivated me so much that I realized – this is where I belong. For over 15 years, I have been living in the Netherlands, helping travelers discover the real country. I constantly explore small towns and authentic places that rarely appear in standard travel guides. The Netherlands is much more than tulips and windmills. It's a country with multiple layers and contrasts that often remain unseen by tourists. The Dutch are known for their straightforwardness, but they are also incredibly hospitable. Those who truly seek to understand the local culture gain ten times more experiences from their journey. I gladly share my knowledge with everyone who wants to see the real Netherlands – a country I've learned to understand and love with all my heart. Over the years, I have developed hundreds of routes, conducted tours, written travel guides, and I consult local tourism organizations.
Christmas Markets in Amsterdam 2025
In winter, Amsterdam transforms into a living Christmas card. Here, you can ice skate just steps away from Van Gogh masterpieces, purchase handmade gifts at markets reminiscent of medieval times, and marvel at modern light installations that transform historic canals into futuristic art pieces. The Christmas markets in Amsterdam for 2025 offer a unique opportunity to witness how traditions blend with innovations to create a new kind of holiday magic.
Main Christmas Market — Christmas Village at Museum Square
Dates: December 11-26, 2025
Hours: Daily 12:00-21:00
Location: Museum Square (Museumplein), adjacent to the Rijksmuseum
Admission: Free
The Christmas Village at Museum Square is the highlight of Amsterdam’s holiday celebrations. For the eighth consecutive year, over 45 Christmas stalls will transform the square into a magical winter kingdom. Nestled in the heart of the Museum Quarter, the market is surrounded by renowned attractions such as the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum.
At the center of the market is a charming ice rink where visitors can skate beneath twinkling holiday lights. It’s strongly recommended to purchase ice rink tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
The market features an array of traditional Dutch treats, including stroopwafels, hot chocolate, glögg, cheese, and other festive delicacies. Stalls offer unique handmade gifts, Christmas ornaments, jewelry, and warm winter clothing.
Click here to learn more about creating a personal itineraryAmsterdam Winter Paradise
Dates: December 17, 2025 — January 3, 2026
Hours: Daily 9:00-23:00
Location: RAI Amsterdam Exhibition Center
Admission: €22.50-€30.50, which includes entry and most attractions
Amsterdam Winter Paradise lies somewhere between a Christmas market and a holiday fair. Situated in the expansive RAI exhibition center, this winter complex provides a distinct atmosphere compared to traditional city markets.
Visitors can enjoy both indoor and outdoor ice rinks, cross-country skiing, and curling. For those less inclined toward sports, après-ski activities, a Ferris wheel ride, and cinema or theater options are also available. You can even tube down real snow hills, cross-country ski among Christmas trees, or engage in classic snowball fights.
Christmas Market in Haarlem
Dates: December 12-14, 2025
Hours:
- Friday (December 12): 10:30-20:00
- Saturday (December 13): 10:30-20:00
- Sunday (December 14): 10:30-19:00
Location: Grote Markt and surrounding streets, Haarlem
Admission: Free
Each December, Haarlem’s city center transforms into a magical Christmas market over a long weekend. This market is one of the largest in the Netherlands, featuring nearly 350 stalls spread across 12 locations in the city center.
Located just 15 minutes by train from Amsterdam, Haarlem is famous for its charming cobblestone streets and picturesque canals, making it an ideal setting for a Christmas market. The festivities take place across several city squares and streets, including Grote Markt, Botermarkt, Koningstraat, and other historic sites.
A special highlight is “Emma Street” on Schaghelstraat, where visitors can immerse themselves in a 19th-century atmosphere on weekends and enjoy an authentic old-fashioned Christmas celebration.
Click here to create a personal itinerary for NetherlandsFunky Xmas Market
Date: December 21, 2025
Hours: 12:00-18:00
Location: Westergasfabriek
Admission: Free
The Funky Xmas Market is the December edition of the monthly Funky Market, held in the trendy Westergasfabriek area every first Sunday of the month. This one-day event is perfect for those seeking an alternative and unique holiday experience.
As the name suggests, visitors will find unusual and creative items for purchase, alongside live music and theater performances. While the market is held outdoors, the Westergasfabriek complex features various venues where guests can warm up.
Amsterdam Light Festival
Dates: November 27, 2025 — January 18, 2026
Hours: Daily from 17:00
- Sunday-Tuesday: until 22:00
- Wednesday-Saturday: until 23:00
- During the Christmas holidays: daily until 23:00
Location: Central Amsterdam canals
During the dark winter months, the outdoor exhibition “Amsterdam Light Festival” transforms the city’s canals into a unique canvas for light art. The fourteenth edition of the festival will showcase 27 artworks in stunning, photogenic locations.
This year’s theme is “Rituals.” The light spectacle lasts for 53 days, inviting visitors into a world of rituals where ancient customs come alive, connecting the past to our deepest desires for the future.
The festival can be experienced on foot (free) or during special canal cruises. Boat tours last approximately 75 minutes and depart every half hour between 17:45 and 21:30.
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Other Winter Events in Amsterdam
Christmas Tree at Dam Square
From early December, a traditional 20-meter Christmas tree is installed in front of the Royal Palace on Dam Square. Adorned with 40,000 lights, it creates a magical spectacle that is sure to lift your holiday spirits.
Winter Village in Amstelveen
- Dates: November 29, 2025 — January 4, 2026
- Location: Stadshart Shopping Center, Amstelveen
Amstelveen, located south of Amsterdam, hosts a Christmas event that is definitely worth the trip. The city center is transformed into a Winter Village, featuring an ice rink and numerous spots for families and friends to gather.
Practical Tips for Visiting Christmas Markets
Transportation and Getting Around
To Amsterdam: The city is easily accessible by train from all major European cities, with Amsterdam Central Station situated in the heart of the city.
Around the city: Most Christmas markets are located in the center and are easily reached on foot or by public transport. The Amsterdam & Region Travel ticket, priced at €21, allows for unlimited rides on public transport throughout the day.
To Haarlem: Trains leave every 15 minutes from Amsterdam Central Station, with a travel time of just 15 minutes. A round-trip ticket costs about €10.
When to Visit
Best time: Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends. Fridays in Haarlem are quieter than Saturdays and Sundays.
Weather: December weather in the Netherlands can be unpredictable. While snow is rare, rain is always a possibility. It’s advisable to dress in layers and be prepared for varying conditions.
Click here to create a personal itinerary for NetherlandsWhat to Try
Traditional Dutch Christmas treats:
- Oliebollen — Fried donuts, a traditional New Year’s treat.
- Appelbeignets — Fried apple donuts.
- Pepernoten — Spiced cookies flavored with anise, cinnamon, or cloves.
- Speculoos — Spiced cookies traditionally baked during the Christmas season.
- Stroopwafels — Thin waffles filled with syrup.
- Glögg — Hot spiced wine.
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