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There’s something magical about Amsterdam at Christmas – canal lights reflecting on the water, cozy cafés glowing with warmth, and the scent of stroopwafels drifting through festive squares. While the Dutch capital doesn’t have one single massive market like Vienna or Cologne, it more than makes up for it with multiple charming Christmas markets scattered across the city, each with its own personality.
If you’ve been wondering “does Amsterdam have Christmas markets?” absolutely. The Amsterdam Christmas Markets 2025 season promises twinkling lights, handcrafted gifts, skating rinks, and a joyful mix of traditional and creative Dutch holiday spirit.
When Do Amsterdam Christmas Markets Start in 2025?
Most Amsterdam Christmas markets open in late November 2025 and run until early January 2026, perfectly timed for winter holidays and New Year’s celebrations. Peak festivities usually begin after Sinterklaas Day (December 5), one of the Netherlands’ most beloved traditions, when the whole city lights up for the season.
Best Christmas Markets in Amsterdam 2025
Museumplein Ice Village (Amsterdam Christmas Village)
The Museumplein Christmas Market is the city’s centerpiece. Set against the backdrop of the Rijksmuseum, it transforms into a festive village with ice skating, food stalls, and a cozy alpine-style market. Here, you can sip hot chocolate, browse Dutch crafts, and skate beneath twinkling fairy lights.
Funky Xmas Market – Westergas
Creative, lively, and unmistakably Amsterdam. The Funky Xmas Market at Westergas showcases local artists, handmade jewelry, quirky gifts, and sustainable crafts. It’s perfect for those seeking something unique and offbeat rather than mass-produced souvenirs.
Ice*Amsterdam at Museumplein
Alongside the market, Ice*Amsterdam offers one of Europe’s most scenic ice rinks, right under the Rijksmuseum archway. Warm up afterward with Dutch pancakes or glühwein from the nearby pop-ups.
Rembrandtplein Winter Festival
This smaller but atmospheric market features festive lights, a compact ice rink, and plenty of street food. Its central location makes it a great stop during an evening walk through the canal district.
Amsterdam Winter Paradise (RAI Amsterdam)
Held indoors and outdoors at the RAI Convention Centre, this is one of the biggest festive events in the Netherlands. Expect live music, snow tubing, a Ferris wheel, and a massive Christmas village atmosphere, ideal for families.
Where Are the Christmas Markets in Amsterdam?
Most markets are within the city centre and museum district.
- Museumplein: The main market and ice rink
- Westergas: Funky Xmas Market and creative stalls
- Rembrandtplein: Winter festival with lights and local food
- RAI Amsterdam: Large indoor winter event
Public transport makes it easy to reach all these spots, and you can explore several in one weekend.
What to Expect: Food, Fun & Festivities
From freshly baked oliebollen (Dutch doughnuts) to warm cheese fondue, Amsterdam’s markets are a foodie’s dream. Pair that with hot mulled wine or jenever (Dutch gin) and you’ve got the perfect winter day out. Expect live carol performances, pop-up light installations, and a friendly local crowd, Amsterdam’s holiday spirit is relaxed, inclusive, and endlessly photogenic.
Where to Stay for Amsterdam Christmas Markets
Stay near the Museumplein or Canal Belt for easy access to most markets and festive lights. Areas like Jordaan and De Pijp offer boutique hotels, cozy cafés, and easy tram connections. If you’re planning a short Christmas break in Amsterdam, booking early is essential as December is one of the city’s busiest months.
Store Your Bags with Radical Storage
Arriving early before your check-in or planning to visit multiple Christmas markets in one day? Radical Storage offers convenient, secure luggage storage at trusted partner locations across the city. Simply drop off your bags and enjoy a carefree festive experience, exploring the markets and holiday attractions hands-free.
FAQs About Amsterdam Christmas Markets
They typically open in late November 2025 and continue until early January 2026, with the busiest period between December 5 and New Year’s Day.
Most markets are around Museumplein, Westergas, and Rembrandtplein, all easy to reach by tram or bike.
Yes, the famous Ice*Amsterdam rink at Museumplein is one of the highlights of the season.
Yes, though smaller than in Germany, Amsterdam’s markets blend traditional chalets with creative Dutch design and local crafts.
Experience Christmas in Amsterdam
Christmas in Amsterdam is less about grandeur and more about charm, flickering canal lights, local artistry, and a relaxed festive mood that captures the Dutch spirit. Whether you’re skating under the Rijksmuseum or sipping glühwein by the canals, the Amsterdam Christmas Markets 2025 promise a heartwarming, picture-perfect winter escape.