15 Best Amsterdam Christmas Markets 2026 (Updated Guide)
There’s a particular magic that clings to Amsterdam in December—a fragile, frost-kissed kind of wonder that turns cobblestone canals into winding ribbons of candlelight and transforms ordinary plazas into stages for twinkling fairy tales. Having wandered these markets for over a decade, I’m sharing the definitive guide to the 15 best Amsterdam Christmas Markets 2026—crafted from lived experience, not guidebooks.
Best Amsterdam Christmas Markets for Photography Opportunities 2026
NDSM Wharf (North Amsterdam)
Perched on a reclaimed industrial island, NDSM Wharf is less a market and more a surreal, snow-dusted art installation... Address: NDSM Wharf, Amsterdam North | Open: Daily 11:00–21:00 (until 22:00 Dec 23–24)
Updated List of Amsterdam Christmas Markets Open Christmas Day 2026
Amsterdam Christmas Tree Market at Dam Square
The heart of the city doesn’t rest, even on December 25. Dam Square’s tree market is a fortress of tradition... Open Christmas Day 12:00–16:00
Romantic Amsterdam Christmas Markets with Fireworks 2026
Jordaan WinterWonder
Tucked into the labyrinthine Jordaan neighborhood... the “Starfall” fireworks above the Westerkerk every night at 22:00.
Oude Kerk Christmas Eve Market
The Oude Kerk has witnessed centuries of love stories... midnight fireworks over the Oudezijds Voorburgwal canal.
Budget-Friendly Amsterdam Christmas Markets Near Red Light District 2026
De Hallen (The Markets)
Raw, gritty, and gloriously affordable beneath steel-and-glass canopies... a melting pot of locals and tourists.
Albert Cuyp Market
December transforms Albert Cuyp into a bustling carnival of holiday eats... arrive before 9:00 AM for fresh appeltaart.
Amsterdam Christmas Market Crafts for Kids to Make 2026
Kids’ Market at Westergasfabriek
Former industrial warehouses thrum with laughter... kids stamp linen with traditional Dutch patterns.
Where to Find Dutch Christmas Treats at Amsterdam Markets 2026
Waterlooplein Flea Market
Vendors sell oude koek—century-old spiced biscuits—and sjuutjes, caramelized sugar cookies.
Amsterdam Christmas Market Weather Averages December 2026
Oosterpark Winter Lane
Historical averages show 4°C (39°F) with 60% chance of rain... coated walkways lead to stalls selling waterproof woolen scarves.
Vondelpark Winter Village
On mild days, Vondelpark’s market feels like a painting... canals are mostly ice-free for plastic boat paddling.
Best Amsterdam Christmas Markets for First-Time Visitors 2026
Sarphatipark Winter Market
This intimate park market is your gentle introduction... buy a “marken” stamp for €10 granting free entry to three markets.
Amsterdam Christmas Market Family Activities December 2026
A’DAM Lookout Tower
Kids brave the “Valk” vertical drop ride... warm up with hot chocolate at the “Sky Lounge”.
Amsterdam Arenapark Holiday Market
Teens enjoy the “Yukon Striker” roller coaster... “Virtual Reality Glacier” lets them ski in 3D.
Amsterdam Christmas Market Transportation Tips from Schiphol 2026
Landing at Schiphol? Take free bus Route 197 to Central Station... book NVB bike rentals online before you fly.
Best Amsterdam Christmas Markets for Photography Opportunities 2026
Rijksmuseum Winter Garden
Golden light filters through glass walls... perfect for capturing reflections of stalls against museum interiors.
Final Thoughts & Amsterdam Christmas Market Weather Averages December 2026
Pack layers. The canals bite, but the warmth of strangers sharing kapsalon and the stubborn glow of fairy lights make every shiver worthwhile... Some markets—like Dam Square and Waterlooplein—stay open Christmas Day 2026.