Valkenburg (NL) - Kerstmarkt

Every year, the Valkenburg Christmas Market transforms the picturesque town of Valkenburg aan de Geul in the Netherlands into the ‘Christmas town of the Netherlands’, a title it rightly deserves thanks to its unique and atmospheric concept. What makes this Christmas market so extraordinary is the fact that much of the action takes place underground in the historic marl caves, providing visitors with a truly magical and incomparable experience.

At the heart of this underground wonderland lie the famous Kerstgrotten. The Gemeentegrot, the largest underground Christmas market in Europe, transports visitors into a vast labyrinth of centuries-old marl passages. These are not only atmospherically lit, but also lovingly decorated with countless lights, elaborate decorations and impressive murals. Each passageway is home to a variety of stalls offering handicrafts, gifts and culinary delicacies. Just a stone's throw away, beneath the imposing ruins of Valkenburg Castle, is the Fluweelengrot. Its underground market captivates visitors with its intimate atmosphere, characterised by historical charcoal drawings on the walls and the mystical proximity to the ruins. Another fascinating underworld, the MergelRijk, is transformed into a true wonderland at Christmas time, often complemented by life-size marl and sand sculptures and a detailed miniature village that depicts the Christmas story in a unique way.

But Kerststad Valkenburg also has a lot to offer above ground. An absolute highlight is the Landal Christmas Parade, a fairytale-like light parade. Several times a week, richly decorated floats, accompanied by dancers in glamorous costumes and festive music, parade through the historic streets of the city, enchanting young and old alike. This parade was even named ‘Best Christmas Parade in Europe’ in 2024. In addition, Santa's Village, a cosy above-ground market, usually located on Theodoor Dorrenplein, invites visitors to linger with its traditional wooden huts and a wide range of food and drinks. Not to be forgotten is the Winter Wonderland in the Wilhelminagrot, which can be reached by cable car and delights visitors with attractions such as a life-size nativity scene and a brightly lit Christmas tree. For culinary explorers, the Route d'Amuse offers an appealing opportunity to explore the city while enjoying delicious snacks at various restaurants.

The entire town of Valkenburg is aglow with festive lights during the Christmas season. The unique combination of historic buildings, imposing castle ruins and the incomparable underground world of the marl caves creates a Christmas experience that goes far beyond the ordinary. Visitors should note that there is an admission charge for the markets in the caves and it is advisable to book tickets online in advance, especially for weekends, to avoid waiting times and enjoy the magical atmosphere to the full.

Travel information:

By public transport:

- By train - Valkenburg station (distance 900 m)

- By bus - Wilhelminalaan bus stop (lines 4, 8, 51, 791)

By car:

- Venue: Gemeentegrot (Cauberg)

Parking options:

- PARKING casino Kuurpark (Cauberg 28)

- Centrum car park (Daalhemerweg

- Odapark I car park (Pr. Margrietlaan)

- Aan de Kei car park (Sint Pieterstraat 926)