Magical Maastricht & Valkenburg - Weekend Guide to Limburg's Christmas Markets

Explore the festive magic of Limburg with our guide to Maastricht and Valkenburg Christmas markets. Enjoy traditional treats, unique crafts, and holiday cheer in these enchanting cities, where the holiday spirit truly lights up the season.

The holiday season is around the corner, and what better way to embrace the Christmas spirit than by exploring festive markets filled with delicious food and cheerful carols? We've enjoyed this tradition in the past, visiting Antwerp Christmas market in 2022, Frankfurt Christmas market in 2021 and Ghent Christmas market in 2019. Living in The Hague, Netherlands, we wanted to discover Christmas markets closer to home and found that the Limburg region is famous for hosting some of the most beautiful Dutch Christmas markets. Inspired by this, we planned a weekend getaway to experience “Magical Maastricht” and explore nearby Valkenburg. Here’s all the essential information you need for a perfect holiday weekend in these charming towns.

GENERAL INFORMATION

In the eastern part of the Netherlands, particularly in the famous Limburg region, Christmas markets hold a beloved tradition much like in Germany. Maastricht has long been a top winter destination for its lively Christmas market, joined by the nearby Valkenburg market, drawing visitors from across the country. Each year, over a million people visit "Magical Maastricht", where the Vrijthof square becomes a festive wonderland filled with twinkling lights and charming wooden stalls offering seasonal treats and local crafts.

The Maastricht Christmas market is one of the best Christmas markets in The Netherlands, and as such, it will definitely impress any Christmas lover! Starting usually at the end of November until the end of December, it draws visitors from all over the country. Just a short distance away, Valkenburg’s charming markets offer a different experience, with their picturesque cave settings adding to the holiday magic. For more information, check out the websites of Maastricht Tourist Office and Valkenburg Christmas Town. 

Christmas Markets HISTORY

December markets in Europe trace back to the 13th century, created to help people gather meat and essential supplies for the winter months. These markets are distinct from the Christmas markets that emerged later in the German-speaking regions of the Holy Roman Empire. In the 14th century, craftsmen such as toy makers, basket weavers, and candy makers began setting up stalls known as "Saint Nicholas markets", offering small gifts and festive treats like roasted chestnuts and nuts. The Striezelmarkt in Dresden, established in 1434, is recognized as the first true Christmas market. Initially held on Christmas Eve, it provided townspeople with food for their holiday meals after Advent fasting, accompanied by traditional religious performances.

The tradition of Christmas markets expanded beyond Germany and became popular in many countries around the globe. Now held throughout Advent, these markets create a festive atmosphere with traditional foods, drinks, and gifts. Open to all, they provide a welcoming space to gather during the holiday season.

While the Maastricht Christmas market may not have the same long history as some of its German counterparts, it has quickly risen to prominence as a popular holiday destination in the region, particularly alongside the unique offerings in nearby Valkenburg. Established in the early 2000s, this market is located in the city's heart and features vibrant stalls filled with festive food, gifts, and decorations. The cozy atmosphere of Maastricht’s streets, illuminated with lights and festive decor, enhances the city’s rich cultural and historical backdrop.

GETTING THERE

Maastricht is easily accessible as the largest city in the Limburg region. It is easily accessible from other major European cities such as Amsterdam or Brussels whether by train, car or plane:

• By train: This is the most convenient way to reach Maastricht, especially if you're traveling from other Dutch cities. NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen), the Dutch railway company, offers reliable and frequent connections to and from major cities in the Netherlands. For example, if you're coming from Amsterdam, the train ride takes about 2.5 hours and costs approximately 27 EUR for a one-way ticket. From Rotterdam or The Hague, the journey takes a little over 2 hours, with prices ranging from 25 to 30 EUR.
• By car: Maastricht is also accessible by car, however, please note that the city center of Maastricht is car-free. It is possible to park in one of the P+R car parks. We advise you to park at the Maastricht Noord P+R as it is free of charge. You can then go to the city center by bus (Arriva bus number 3 and 10). Buses leave every 15 minutes for only 2.25 EUR per person;
• By plane: It is possible to reach Maastricht by plane as the city has its own airport, but note that it is mainly used for summer flights, which will not be useful in wintertime. The nearest other airports are the low-cost hub of Eindhoven, Schiphol near Amsterdam, Charleroi (Belgium), and Cologne airport (Germany).

DAY 1 - MAGICAL MAASTRICHT 

To kick off our weekend guide, we’ll start in the heart of Maastricht, where the holiday season truly shines at the "Magical Maastricht" Christmas market. Located in the city’s main square, Vrijthof, this event takes place every day throughout the season and transforms the square into a "world of winter fun." Wooden huts line the square, selling holiday goods and Christmas decorations. Twinkling lights illuminate the area, perfectly framed by the stunning Basilica of St. Servatius and St. John’s Church, adding a beautiful, festive backdrop. Visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of the season as they explore the market!

Beyond the pretty scenery, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. The tall Ferris wheel, reaching 45 meters high, offers amazing views of the market, especially at night. Ice skating is another popular attraction, providing a fun way to embrace the winter season. If you're looking for some friendly competition, you can also try your hand at curling! Families will find lots to enjoy as well. Kids will love the giant slide, visiting Santa’s House, and riding the Christmas train. As you walk around the market, take in the magical atmosphere created by the lights, decorations, and music all around. This ensures that Magical Maastricht is an unforgettable holiday experience!

The Maastricht Christmas market is open from 28 November to 30 December, bringing festive cheer throughout the holiday season.

The Christmas market is open every day with the following extended hours:

• Sun. to Thur.: from 10 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.
• Fri. and Sat.: from 10 a.m. to 1:00 a.m.

Admission to the Christmas market is free of charge, allowing you to explore the wooden chalets, enjoy seasonal treats, and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit without any cost.

DAY 2 - VALKENBURG CHRISTMAS TOWN

The Velvet and Municipal Caves offer unique Christmas market experiences in Valkenburg. The Velvet Cave’s historic corridors are lit with Christmas lights and decorations, where over 50 stalls offer handmade crafts, treats, and gifts, along with cave art. The Municipal Cave, home to Europe’s largest underground Christmas market, features more than 100 stalls in a winter wonderland. However, we noticed that some items weren’t very Christmas-related, and depending on the time of day, the caves could get quite busy.

The Valkenburg Christmas markets are open from 15 November to 5 January, offering a festive atmosphere for an extended holiday experience. However, the cave markets are open from 16 November to 29 December.

The Christmas markets in Valkenburg's caves are open daily with the following hours:

• Mon. to Fri.: from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.  
• Sat. & Sun.: from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Visitors can enjoy the magical atmosphere of the caves, with a ticket priced at 10 EUR per person for each cave.

WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK?

The Maastricht and Valkenburg Christmas markets are full of festive decorations and lovely stalls, offering a range of tasty seasonal treats. Here are some delicious foods and drinks to try while you explore the markets:

• Warm waffles: Indulge in freshly baked waffles, often served warm and topped with a variety of delicious toppings such as whipped cream, chocolate sauce, powdered sugar, or fruit. They make for a perfect sweet treat while strolling through the market.
• Poffertjes: These mini Dutch pancakes are a must-try. Served hot and dusted with powdered sugar, poffertjes are a delightful and traditional Dutch snack that you can enjoy as you wander through the market.
• Erwtensoep (Pea soup): Warm up with a bowl of hearty erwtensoep, a traditional Dutch pea soup. This thick and flavorful soup, often made with split peas, pork, and vegetables, is a comforting option on chilly winter days.
• Kroketten (Croquettes): a popular Dutch snack, kroketten are deep-fried croquettes filled with a variety of ingredients such as meat ragout or cheese. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a satisfying savory option.
• Bratwurst (Sausages): enjoy the festive atmosphere with a classic bratwurst or other grilled meats. These savory options are often served in a bun with mustard and onions, providing a hearty and flavorful meal.

• Churros: while not traditionally Dutch, churros are often found at Christmas markets and make for a delicious sweet treat. Enjoy these fried dough pastries coated in sugar and cinnamon.

• Glühwein (Mulled wine): no Christmas market experience is complete without a cup of warm and spiced glühwein. This mulled wine, infused with cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest, is a traditional drink that helps keep you warm during your market exploration.
• Jenever: embrace the Dutch spirit with a glass of jenever, a traditional Dutch gin-like beverage. It comes in various flavors and can be enjoyed neat or in a warming cocktail.

Exploring the foods and drinks at the Maastricht and Valkenburg Christmas markets is a key part of the festive experience. Limburg’s rich cuisine adds to the magic — don’t miss the hearty Flemish beef stew, stoofvlees, a local favorite perfect for a winter day!

FINAL THOUGHTS

Wrapping up our weekend guide, we found that experiencing Maastricht during the festive season truly brought out the charm of its famous Christmas market. Beyond the holiday excitement, the city brims with attractions, from its charming streets to the grand basilicas of St. Servatius and Our Lady. The Limburg region is an ideal holiday destination, and no visit would be complete without exploring Valkenburg — the Netherlands' ultimate Christmas town. Whether you’re enjoying seasonal treats or immersing yourself in the festive ambiance, Maastricht and Valkenburg together promise an unforgettable holiday weekend!

Now it’s your turn to share your thoughts on Maastricht and the festive charm of Valkenburg. Have you visited these Christmas markets during the holiday season? We’d love to hear about your experiences — drop a comment below!

Tags: Netherlands