Christmas Markets
The main focus of our trip was to experience the Christmas Markets. Our itinerary progressed from small, quaint markets to large, incredible markets.
Netherlands
Amsterdam
As we left the Van Gogh Museum in Museumplein, we encountered our first Christmas market. The skating rink was open, but the vendors were still setting up for the day.
By early evening, the Christmas lights and decorations began to shine. We took a leisurely stroll by several small neighborhood markets.
Although we intended to visit the markets later in the evening, the cold and rainy weather prompted us to return to Haarlem instead.
The Hague
After enjoying our visits to the Mauritshuis and Peace Palace museums, we headed over to the Royal Christmas Fair.
This cozy neighborhood market featured delightful local entertainment, charming handmade items, and a delicious assortment of food and drinks.
The chilly weather inspired us to indulge in some comforting hot drinks – namely, Glühwein. The Glühwein served at the Royal Christmas Fair market was red wine base heated with orange and spices (cinnamon, cloves, anise). It was very sweet but definitely warmed us. It was such a fun way to soak up the festive spirit!
Haarlem
We were fortunate to visit Haarlem during the weekend of its annual Christmas market. The town was beautifully transformed, featuring over 350 stalls that offered a variety of food, drinks, and crafts.
The Grote Markt was just a short walk from our hotel, and the stunning St. Bavo Cathedral served as a perfect backdrop for the main stage. I’ve included a short video of Haarlem’s very own De Muggenblazers, a 15-piece orchestra that has been performing since 1978. It’s clear that Mariah Carey is a universal Christmas favorite!
The market provided an extensive selection of food and drink options, including oysters, cheese, meats, waffles, champagne, hot apple gin, hot chocolate, and, of course, hot Glühwein. Although some vendors closed early due to the weather, we still enjoyed a wonderful evening.

Belgium
Brussels
Write about the different Brussels markets here…
Winter Wonders/Marché aux Poissons – near St. Catherine
Place de la Bourse – stock exchange
Grand Place
We spent two days in Brussels. The first day, we walked the city and visited Grand Place. The second day, we had more time to explore the Winter Wonders/Marché aux Poissons Market near St. Catherine and the Place de la Bourse Market near the stock exchange.
First, daytime Christmas decorations…
Grand Place
Write about the square and about the Christmas light show.
Lots of people
Big Christmas tree
Nativity Scene
Blah blah blah
Blah Blah Blah

Marché aux Poissons
Winter Wonders/Marché aux Poissons – near St. Catherine
Place de la Bourse – stock exchange
Place de la Bourse – stock exchange
Christmas decorations on Brussel’s streets
Any last words here…
Ghent
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France
Strasbourg
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Paris
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