Weather-willing, there's something festive and charming about wandering through old city streets decked out for the holiday season, with stalls lining the streets offering food, drink, gifts and more. Although not as big as some of the ones down in Maastricht or across the boarder in Germany, Utrecht has some kerstmarkten that are still a pleasure to visit and aren't so overwhelming and crowded!

The traditional one is held on Twijnstraat, the city's oldest shopping street that runs along the southern end of the Oudegracht. This year, it's combining with the Streekmarkt, a local organic market held regularly on Twijnstraat. Along with organic vegetables, meats, chocolate and more, there will be other items on offer, not just organic groceries. Many stalls feature seasonal decorations, gifts, and antiques, as well as a variety of stands offering homemade soups, oliebollen, hot chocolate and a variety of gluhwein. Grab a cup of something warm and wander along the street or take a walk down one of the narrow side streets that lead down to the wharf level of the Oudegracht and just enjoy the scenery.

Along with the shopping, there are festivities and exhibitions throughout the day, including displays and entertainment at the nearby Nicolaaskerkhof. There will be singers, Morris dancers, glass blowers, a sleigh with reindeer, and a nativity scene with live animals peacefully grazing. The Twijnstraat Kerstmarkt is Sunday, 11 December, from 12:00-18:00. For more information on the festival and its offerings, including a schedule of different events, check the Twijnstraat website.

If you can't make it to the Twijnstraat Christmas market, you can always check out the Zelfgemaaktemarkt (Handmade Market) the following week, 17 December, at Mariaplaats. From 11:00-18:00, you can find a variety of handmade items, as well as food and drink, and even live music performances. The market is a great place to find a special gift for family and friends. For more information, visit the market's Facebook page.