Christmas holidays 2026 in the Netherlands

Make this season unforgettable. Whether you're visiting or already live here, a Christmas midweek or weekend trip is the perfect way to explore the Netherlands' prettiest spots.

People ice skating on Museumplein in Amsterdam

Christmas holiday outings and destinations

Looking for inspiration for days out, destinations or complete holiday packages this Christmas? We are happy to help. Enjoy a relaxing winter break as a couple or with the children, and stay at a hotel close to the best winter activities.

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When are the Christmas holidays in 2026?

In the Netherlands, school holidays are usually staggered across three regions (north, central and south). Over Christmas 2026, however, the whole country is off at the same time:

• North: 19 December 2026 to 3 January 2027
• Central: 19 December 2026 to 3 January 2027
• South: 19 December 2026 to 3 January 2027

Christmas package

During the Christmas holidays and over the Christmas days themselves, you can also enjoy our Christmas package. Choose anything from a single night to four carefree nights. Enjoy delicious Christmas dinners and a comfortable stay with your partner, children or friends in some of the most beautiful places in the Netherlands: our hotels range from the forests of the Veluwe to the North Sea coast. Sit back and let us take care of everything.

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Family with sparklers in a wintry setting

New Year's Eve package

Celebrate New Year's in style with a special stay at Fletcher. Whether you're looking for a cozy local celebration or a peaceful fireworks-free getaway, we're ready to count down together with bubbles and traditional Dutch oliebollen.

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Christmas High Tea at Fletcher Hotels

In addition to a Christmas brunch, a Christmas high tea is a festive way to get together. Starting November 13, you can enjoy the Christmas High Tea at Fletcher Hotels, featuring sweet and savory treats in a true Christmas atmosphere. Think seasonal soup, festive sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, Christmas pastries, and chocolate—all served with unlimited Fletcher tea.
Please note: the Christmas High Tea is not available on December 25 and 26.

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Friends enjoying a festive Christmas table

Festive Christmas dinners

Treat yourself to a festive Christmas dinner on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or Boxing Day and let us pamper you. With more than 115 restaurants open over the holidays, there is always a place that suits you, whether you are visiting from abroad or looking for a relaxed Christmas meal close to home. Please note: do not wait too long, as availability is limited.

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Atmospheric Christmas market with lights

Christmas markets in the Netherlands and Germany

Curious about the most popular Christmas markets in the Netherlands and Germany, the home of the Christmas market tradition? Where can you find the biggest, most charming or most affordable market, and when do they open? Many of our hotels are close to Christmas markets, and we also offer Christmas market packages.

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Winter activities and Christmas outings

Looking for fun and original winter activities for adults or children? Take a look at our tips! Discover the special winter editions of Dutch theme parks, or visit the Christmas market in Valkenburg, partly held in underground caves. There is something for everyone this winter.

Days out by province

Looking for a great destination for the Christmas holidays? The Netherlands has twelve provinces, each with its own character, and we have listed the best days out in each of them. Will it be Winter Efteling, the country's beloved fairy-tale theme park in North Brabant, Winter Toverland in Limburg, or the evening event WILDnights at Wildlands zoo in Drenthe?

Frequently asked questions

When do the Christmas holidays start in 2026?

The Dutch Christmas school holidays run from Saturday 19 December 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027. The dates are the same for the north, central and south regions.

How long do the Christmas holidays last?

The Dutch Christmas school holidays always last two weeks.

What is there to do during the Christmas holidays?

Many attractions and hotels stay open over the Christmas holidays. Theme parks and zoos often have special winter themes and opening hours. A few tips: Winter Efteling, Wildlands WILDnights, Disney On Ice, the many Christmas markets and a Christmas circus, a much-loved Dutch winter tradition.

Can I book a hotel last minute during the Christmas holidays?

Yes, you can book a hotel last minute over the Christmas holidays, but room availability is often limited. To avoid disappointment, we recommend booking your room or package well in advance.

What is included in a Christmas holiday package?

A Christmas holiday package always includes an overnight stay, breakfast and dinner. You can see the full contents of the package when booking your hotel.
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Are the hotels suitable for families with children during the Christmas holidays?

Yes, the whole family is welcome at our hotels and restaurants. Many of our hotels are also close to family attractions, making it easy to plan days out together.

Why spend the Christmas holidays at Fletcher Hotels?

At Fletcher Hotels, we take care of everything for you, your partner and your family during the Christmas holidays. We are also happy to share tips on the best outings and activities nearby.