Cosy Christmas Markets in Amsterdam for 2019
Spending Christmas in Amsterdam is simply magical. Festive Dutch foods, Christmas markets and glorious festive cheer that takes over the whole city throughout December. If you’re thinking of spending the festive season in Amsterdam, there are some incredible Christmas markets and winter events that you simply must visit. Sip on mulled wine at the Ice Village, wander the festive stalls, go ice skating on Museumplein, gaze at the Christmas tree on Dam Square, eat a hot dog, or pick up a few gifts for loved ones on Rembrandtplein. There’s nothing more heartwarming than wrapping up warm in scarves and hats and heading out to soak up the magical Christmas market atmosphere. These are the best Christmas Markets in Amsterdam…
Need a hostel in Amsterdam for Christmas? Check out the Flying Pig
Museumplein Ice Village
Every year Museumplein plays host to a massive ice rink and Christmas market in front of the Rijksmuseum, known as Ice Village. After a skate on the ice, indulge in festive Dutch sweet treats such as oliebollen (fried donuts) and waffles, drink gluhwein and treat yourself to some hot cheese fondue. Opening on the 16th of November, the eco-friendly ice rink will be up and running until 2nd February 2020 so you have plenty of time to skate over the winter period. And if you don’t want to ice skate, then you can shop at the Christmas Market (13th - 26th December) next to the rink where you’ll find festive trinkets, clothes, accessories, gifts and live entertainment.
Dam Square
Next we’re including Christmas on Dam Square because it’s home to the largest Christmas tree in the city (which is the centerpiece for the Dam Square festivities). The Christmas tree is 20 metres high decorated with 40,000 LED lights. Pretty spectacular. There will be Christmas stalls, carol singers, music and festive food and drinks to make the atmosphere even more magical. While this isn’t necessarily classed as a Christmas market, it’s sure worth a visit to see the tree! Our hostel is just a short walk from Dam Square
Rembrandtplein
One for the foodies! Soak up the Christmas atmosphere at Rembrandtplein, a square in the heart of Amsterdam that transforms to a Christmas market and ice rink through December. Enjoy festive Dutch food, then browse for Christmas gifts inside the wooden chalet-style lodges. From nutella pancakes, waffles, sausages (wurst), fried fish to gluhwein and hot chocolate, locals come together in Rembrandtplein to get their festive feels and to try traditional Dutch Christmas dishes. Keep an eye out for the famous statues of the night watchmen on Rembrandtplein Square. The whole square is surrounded by restaurants and bars so you can continue your night elsewhere afterwards.
Amsterdam Winter Paradise
A new, more modern take on a Christmas market. In recent years, the RAI venue in Amsterdam’s business district has put on its very own Christmas extravaganza for the festive season. This year from December 21st to January 5th, the whole place (indoors and outdoors) will be transformed into an epic winter wonderland with rides, entertainment, live music, christmas market stands, tubing, a winter cinema, ice skating, indoor skiing and apres-ski activities (plus more). If that doesn’t sound like a Christmas party, we don’t know what does. Entry to the event costs €14.50 which will give you access to the skiing, silent disco, karaoke and more!
Article by Shereen Sagoo
Leidseplein Christmas Market
In Amsterdam’s bustling Leidseplein square (in the city’s nightlife district), you’ll find one of the cities most enchanting Christmas markets. This traditional market usually opens in November and runs through December, putting smiles on peoples faces and filling their hearts with Christmas spirit. The sweet smells of oliebollen fill the air, stalls sell Christmas trinkets and an ice rink opens up for people to glide around under the stars.
Funky Xmas Market
Taking place on the first Sunday of every month the Funky Xmas Market in Westergras returns to Amsterdam on 15th December. This isn’t your typical Christmas market but more of an artsy Christmas market that sells quirky designs, fashion and art by some of the coolest designers. From 12pm - 6pm head on down and you might find a new statement fashion piece. This market is a great place to feel the community spirit during the festive season, plus entry is free!
