Looking for the best Christmas markets in Amsterdam over the festive season? Well, you’re in luck. The Dutch city is home to several amazing Christmas markets in December 2019; soak up the festive atmosphere, wander the charming market stalls and indulge in some traditional festive food and hot chocolate in the Dam. We’ve rounded up our favourite markets, which one will you choose?
1. ICE VILLAGE
Visit the Ice Village on Museumplein for one of the best Christmas experiences in Amsterdam. Opening on 13th December until 26th December, this Christmas Market has everything you’re looking for during the festive season. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate next to one of the outdoor fireplaces, wander the wooden market stalls to buy some Christmas gifts and just soak up the magical atmosphere. The market is adorned with decorations and all of the trees are wrapped in beautiful glowing lights.
There’s also delicious comfort food available at Ice Amsterdam including Dutch classics such as melted cheeses, soups, pancakes, bitter ballen and croquettes. If you’re after something hearty go for a big juicy burger. It is free to enter the market. As the name of the market suggests, there’s even an ice rink here. Glide around beneath the stars with the Rijksmuseum as your backdrop. For €11 euros you can rent some skates and gain access to the rink for a total of 2 hours.
2. AMSTERDAM WINTER PARADISE AT THE RAI
The RAI in Amsterdam transforms into a brilliant and electric winter wonderland from 21st December to 5th January. For a real Christmas buzz head here with your friends and you won’t be disappointed. The RAI has gone all out this year - there’s even an area where you can sled down 25 metres of real snow on a toboggan. That’s not all.
There will be a giant ferris wheel with amazing views over Amsterdam, a stage hosting live music and DJ’s plus a beautifully lit up outdoor area filled with fire pits, games, rides and Christmas stalls. Roast some marshmallows, grab some tasty food and enjoy the epic atmosphere. This year there are two huge indoor and outdoor ice rinks to enjoy where you can even hire some skates and get on the ice or play a game of curling.
3. AMSTERDAMSCHE KERSTMARKT
Taking place on the weekend before Christmas (20th - 23rd December), Amsterdamsche Kerstmarkt is the place to go for unique gifts and last minute Christmas shopping. The market located on the Westergras is a unique take on the traditional Christmas market because all of the festive stalls are located in indoors. The perfect place to escape the cold weather and see what beautiful things are on offer in the comfort of an extravagantly decorated hall packed with food trucks, stalls and cosy spots. Selling artisanal goods, homemade trinkets, Christmas decorations and delicious foods such as cheese and wine, you’re in for a real treat. Festive entertainment includes live music and nativities, a winter cinema, DJs, bands, air hockey and much much more. You can even get your presents wrapped here. The market is only running for 2 days so don’t miss out. Entry to the market is €5.
4. FUNKY XMAS MARKET
Selling quirky art, fashion and designs by some of the city’s coolest designers, the Funky Xmas Market isn’t your average Christmas market. Head over to Westergasfabriek from 12pm - 6pm on 15th December to pick up some stylish Christmas presents or marvel at the incredible pieces of artwork on offer. Plus, entry is free!
5. DE LELYSTADSE KERSTMARKT
Dates still to be confirmed
Why not head out of Amsterdam city centre and experience a truly local Christmas market. De Lelystadse Kerstmarkt is a 30 minute train journey out of the city and is only open for two days on 15th and 16th December, however it’s still said to be one of the best Christmas markets in or around Amsterdam. Expect over 60 different stalls selling pretty Dutch trinkets and local Christmas delicacies like speculaas cookies and bischopswijn (the Dutch version of gluhwein). Live music will fill the air and creates a joyfully festive atmosphere. One of the biggest reasons for people to visit this market is for the charity run where every person participating is dressed up as Santa Claus.