Each winter, travelers from around the world flock to Europe to experience its iconic Christmas markets. Charming wooden stalls, festive music, and seasonal treats make for a cozy and joyful atmosphere. But did you know the Netherlands has its own unique take on this tradition? In the southern town of Valkenburg, the country’s oldest and largest Christmas market takes place inside a cave. Yes—underground! It’s one of the most surprising and magical ways to celebrate the season.
Cave Christmas markets: Valkenburg
The Netherland’s oldest and largest underground Christmas market can be found in a city in the southern part of the country called Valkenburg. Yes—you read that right. Underground! Valkenburg hosts two cave markets, a larger one at Gemeentegrot (“Municipal Cave,” pictured below, credits to the market’s website) and one at Fluweelengrot (“Velvet Cave”).
At the Velvet Cave, the series of yellow marlstone corridors and rooms were once mined for their stone, and then were part of the now-ruinous Valkenburg Castle. Over the years, these caves were used for hiding places for castle knights, shelter for town residents during World War II, and, now, the annual Christmas market.
At the markets, you can find a host of Christmas decorations for purchase, delicious Dutch food and drink (including cheese!), and plenty of holiday activities to entertain all ages. They are held annually from mid-November until early January.
For those not keen to go underground, a Christmas parade lights up the streets. Both above and below ground in Valkenburg and across the Netherlands, there are many cozy, fun-filled activities to celebrate togetherness this holiday season.
Gift your loved ones a unique, memorable experience with a single or multi-day trip that highlights the joys of the holiday season. Reach out to us at travel@dutch-tours.com!