Delightful Christmas cheer in Holland and Germany
Immerse yourself in the magical wintry atmosphere of a Christmas market in Holland and Germany this December. Here are the top Christmas markets just waiting for you to explore this festive season:
Winterland Maastricht
This fantastic Dutch Christmas market runs from 20 November 2011 through to 8 January 2012 and features a 100 metre squared ice rink, a 60 metre big wheel and a host of fantastic local stalls. Find out more about Winterland Maastricht.
Christmas Market Fluweelengrot in Valkenburg
Held between 18 Nov - 23 Dec 2011 The international Christmas Market Fluweelengrot (Velvet Cave) in Valkenburg is Constructed around a distinctly fairy-tale like theme and is Holland's most anticipated annual Christmas event. Learn more about Christmas Market Fluweelengrot by watching the Christmas markets video.
Hamburg Christmas Market
From 21 November to 31 December 2011, Hamburg lights up with its superb Christmas market. Outstanding local gift and decoration designs, coupled with delicious local food and the delightful “Nordic Lane” exhibition makes for a memorable Christmas experience for the whole family. Find out more about Hamburg's Christmas Market.
Cologne Christmas Market
Held between 21 November and the 23 December 2011, the market outside the Cologne Cathedral is beautiful, featuring the biggest Christmas tree in the Rhineland, along with a host of shops selling sweets, mulled wine and Christmas-themed mugs. You can also choose from 3 other Christmas markets in Cologne.
Dortmund Christmas Market
From 18 November to 23 December 2011, Dortmund celebrates Christmas with gusto – this market features the biggest collection of 300 stalls and a massive 45 metre high Christmas tree, made from 1,700 individual fir trees and decorated with 13,000 sparkling lights. Kids will love the puppet shows of the Alter Markt Theatre, while mum and dad can relax with a hot mulled wine.
Dusseldorf Christmas Market
When the gingerbread houses open on 17 November near Königsalle, this market festival begins! With an ice rink, gorgeous shopping streets, merry go-rounds and santa huts on Schadowstrasse, this is wonderful German Christmas fun for the whole family. Dusseldorf Christmas Market is open until 23 December 2011.