Three Countries Christmas Markets – Belgium, Germany & Holland
Festive Break
Three Countries Christmas Markets: Hasselt in Belgium, Valkenburg in Holland and Aachen in Germany
During this festive tour, enjoy the delights of three different Christmas Markets. Spread across three different countries, each one of them has something different to offer. Soak up the festive atmosphere in all three countries. Not only do we visit three different Christmas Markets, being based in Liège or Valkenburg also allows you to enjoy Europe’s oldest market.
Start by heading to Hasselt in Belgium to visit Winterland – the town’s delightful Christmas market village. Over the years, this has grown from a handful of stalls to an entire Christmas village. It offers a range of stalls and local produce, but also fun activities! There’s a carousel, and furthermore, a large rink for ice skating.
Situated in the heart of Valkenburg, 100 metres from the shops and restaurants, smell and hear what Valkenburg is about. During your stay, enjoy a city walk offered by the hotel discover the best of Valkenburg, you will be surprised by the nature and surrounding beauty. Relax from a day exploring Valkenburg and enjoy some fantastic local food in the hotel restaurant in the hotel. In the evening make the most of the homely bar, where you will have a drinks package included between 17:00 – 00:00. With entertainment during your stay at this wonderful hotel, you’ll have an incredible time! Spend some quality time with your group enjoying dinners, music and dancing together.. After all the great entertainment, head back to the Hotel Riche comfy rooms with each room offering a special ode to Valkenburg.
Valkenburg’s Christmas markets are especially interesting, located deep within the town’s underground cave system. The caves are simply stunning, featuring wonderful murals and holding many secrets. In these magical caves, you’ll discover a huge variety of Christmas gifts and treats. The town is also famous for its fascinating castle, which is well worth a visit!
The Christmas Village in Aachen exudes festive cheer! Hundreds of little lights illuminate the square, lined with historic buildings. With a glorious Cathedral backdrop, potter amongst the stands in search of the delicious Aachen Printen gingerbread.
This is a fantastic festive tour. Not only is it packed with Christmas markets, but it also takes you to three different countries. Explore the differences in the markets from country to country as well as the different towns. While on this trip, you’ll have the chance to see lots of sights as you absorb festive cheer!
Dates
November/December 2024
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1
Travel to Valkenburg
Depart your local area and travel to through France to Belgium to visit the first markets, visit Hasselt in Belgium before continuing to the hotel in Valkenburg.
Day 2
Discover Valkenburg
Visit Holland and the famous markets in the caves of Valkenburg. Spend the full day exploring Valkenburg and the magnificent markets held in the underground caves. Drink hot chocolate whilst browsing the stalls and take in the magical location and atmosphere. It is unlike any Christmas Market you have ever seen!
Visitors can easily spend hours exploring the nooks and hidden corners of the caves while browsing winter clothing and accessories, jewellery, antiques, desserts, cooking utensils and more. Some of the most popular items found at Valkenburg include hand-blown glass ornaments and Belgian chocolates. However, it is the impressive structures of the caves rather than the merchandise that make the event as popular as it is.
The Valkenburg Christmas Markets have an entrance charge, payable locally.
Day 3
Amazing Aachen
Head over the border into Germany to discover the charming town of Aachen. Enjoy free time exploring the great old town and its cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Still often referred to as Aix-la-Chapelle, after Charlemagne’s great Palatine Chapel, it is a ‘must’ for any art-lover. Aachen’s brightly lit Christmas market is set around the cathedral and town hall. This lovingly decorated “Christmas village” on the market square has something for everyone. One local speciality you really must try is the Aachen Printen, a kind of gingerbread.
Day 4
Return to the UK
After breakfast, check out of the hotel before continuing your journey back to the UK by coach, air or train.
Stay another day?
Why not explore more the area or perhaps spend some more time at the famous Markets
Suggested Hotels:
Hotel Riche ***
Located in the centre of Valkenburg with the Kabelbaan Valkenburg cable car is a 1-minute walk away. Rooms feature Wi-Fi and TVs. Upgraded rooms add minibars. Room service is available. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, relaxed bar has a fireplace, and a terrace. All inclusive package available.
Hotel Walram ***
Located only two minutes walk to the town centre, on the banks of the River Geul this highly recommended hotel has coach parking close by. The hotel has a lift, restaurant, bar, swimming pool, sauna and solarium. Rooms have en-suite facilities, TV, hairdryer and telephone.
Ibis Liège Centre Opera***
Situated in the city centre, next to the opera house, in the Opéra shopping centre, the ibis-hotel Liège Centre Opéra is within walking distance of the Archéoforum. Take a journey through time thanks to the archaeological remains on hand. St Paul’s Cathedral, framed by beautiful gardens, is also very close by. Parking is available nearby for a fee.
Mercure Liège City Centre ***
Located next to the river La Meuse and offers guests comfort and modern conveniences in a historic setting in town. The 17th-century restaurant and bar, a former “Recollectines” convent, creates a stunning environment to enjoy a gourmet meal. When the evening falls, relax and sip a drink on the outdoor terrace in the beautiful gardens. The hotel is easily accessible by coach and 10 minutes away from the modern Liège-Guillemins train station . There is secure parking available on-site.
Dates | Board Basis | Half Twin | Single Supplement |
November – December 2024 | Bed & breakfast | From £189.00 per person | Price on request |
*Price includes All Inclusive Package – For more details