Magical Valkenburg & Christmas Markets In The Ardennes

Itinerary

Day 1

Join your coach at your convenient local pick-up point, and get comfortable as we head to Kent to join our ferry at Dover for the crossing to France. We then continue to our hotel in central Namur for our three night stay. Check in, relax and then head out for dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants in this pretty town.

Days 2 to 3

Enjoy breakfast every morning to set you for whatever each day has in store. You'll have time to enjoy Namur but we hope you'll also join us on our INCLUDED excursions to the pretty Christmas Markets in the Ardennes region plus our wonderful excursion to Valkenburg, one of the most popular markets in Europe.

Day 4

After breakfast, say farewell to Namur and sit back and relax as we head back towards Calais for the crossing back to the UK and the onward journey home. Arrive back mid to late evening, usually between around 8.30pm and 11.30pm, subject to traffic and travel.

Tour includes

• Return short sea crossings
• 3 nights hotel with continental buffet breakfast
• Free time to explore Namur
• Excursion to Christmas Markets in Roche-en-Ardenne & Durbury
• Visit to Valkenburg Christmas Market with entry to the Velvet Caves
• Direct Coach Travel
• Net Zero

Roche-en-Ardenne & Durbury Christmas Markets

A visit to the Christmas markets in Roche-en-Ardenne and Durbuy offers a wonderfully traditional and atmospheric festive experience set against the stunning scenery of the Ardennes.

Roche-en-Ardenne feels especially magical at Christmas, with its riverside setting, historic buildings and castle ruins providing a dramatic backdrop to the festive celebrations. During the Christmas market, the town comes alive with charming wooden chalets, twinkling lights and seasonal music. Browse stalls selling handmade crafts, local produce and festive decorations, or warm up with a glass of mulled wine while enjoying the cosy, welcoming atmosphere.

Just a short distance away, Durbuy – often described as one of the smallest and prettiest towns in the world – is transformed into a true Christmas postcard. Its narrow cobbled streets and stone houses are beautifully illuminated, creating an intimate and romantic festive setting. The Christmas market here is full of character, offering artisan gifts, regional treats and plenty of seasonal cheer.

Both towns are perfect for a relaxed festive visit, allowing you to wander at your own pace, enjoy local flavours and soak up the warmth of Christmas in a scenic, storybook setting. Together, Roche-en-Ardenne and Durbuy deliver a charming and memorable Christmas market experience.

Namur at Christmas

At Christmas time, Namur takes on a warm and welcoming festive glow, blending historic charm with seasonal cheer. Set at the meeting point of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, the city provides a picturesque backdrop for a relaxed and atmospheric Christmas experience.

The historic centre is beautifully decorated with twinkling lights and festive displays, creating an inviting atmosphere as you wander through its streets and squares. Christmas markets add to the seasonal spirit, with wooden chalets offering handcrafted gifts, local specialities and warming winter treats. The scent of mulled wine and seasonal foods drifts through the air, encouraging visitors to slow down and enjoy the moment.

Namur’s rich history adds to its festive appeal. The impressive citadel overlooking the city creates a striking winter skyline, while the old town’s mix of shops, cafés and restaurants provides plenty of cosy spots to pause and relax. Compared to larger cities, Namur’s Christmas celebrations feel intimate and easy to explore, making it ideal for a gentle festive stroll.

Whether you’re browsing the markets or simply enjoying the softly lit streets, Namur at Christmas offers a charming and unhurried way to experience the season.

Valkenburg Christmas Markets

Valkenburg is a magical destination during the Christmas market period, offering a truly enchanting festive experience. Renowned for its unique underground markets, the town transforms its ancient caves into cosy, twinkling wonderlands filled with handcrafted gifts, decorations, and local delicacies. Explore the Municipal Cave and Velvet Cave, both beautifully adorned with festive lights and displays. Outside, the streets of Valkenburg come alive with charming stalls, festive parades, and an inviting holiday atmosphere. Don’t miss the Christmas Village on the Wilhelminagrot and enjoy traditional treats like Dutch poffertjes and mulled wine. Valkenburg’s Christmas charm promises unforgettable memories for every visitor.

Back to top

Accommodation

Ibis Namur Centre

Drop your bags and relax! This comfortable budget hotel is set in the heart of Namur and within easy walking distance of many of the city's most popular attractions. The comfortable rooms are well appointed, have a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV and comfortable SweetBeds. There is Wifi throughout the hotel and air-conditioning. Please note that in keeping with many European hotels, there are no tea or coffee making facilities in the bedrooms - but there is a cosy bar.

To find out more, please visit the hotel's website via this LINK

Hotel location

Back to top