Planning a Christmas city break this year? My advice: go in the weeks leading up to Christmas and make sure you're back home for the holidays. own Christmas tree sit. Best of both worlds!
This is the time to Christmas city trip to plan, because in most cities the Christmas markets often open in November and then they are open until Christmas Eve.
I still find it magical to see how cities around the world transform in December. The festive season is just around the corner, so it's time for an overview of tips for the best Christmas city breaks. These are all cities that we know are one big party in the lead-up to Christmas. christmas markets, lights and beautiful Christmas displays.
That's why you'll find the best city breaks to take around Christmas in this new list. From European classics (the Christmas market in Strasbourg is still on my Christmas bucket list) to celebrating Christmas in New York of Paris Now that it's possible again, read on for the best city breaks during Christmas so you can enjoy the holiday season abroad again this year!
| TIP: Many lovely Christmas cities are easily accessible by train! You can book tickets via NS International from just €19 >>
The most beautiful Christmas displays at garden centers throughout the Netherlands are now open! 🎄
Only seven more weekends until Christmas... and this cozy and free Christmas outing is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. Trust me, I've been there myself ;-).
Do you have a favorite that's not in this video? Let me know in the comments! You can also find the complete list of 30 tips via the link in my bio ✨.
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#Christmasshows #Christmasshow2025 #Christmasdecoration #Christmasinspiration #gardencenter #weekendtip #thingstodo #discovertheNetherlands #winterouting #cozyoutings #Christmasholiday #Christmasfeeling #Christmasmarkets #Decembertips

𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗧𝗼 𝗗𝗼 (𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟲, 𝟳, 𝟴 & 𝟵)
Another cozy fall weekend in the city is coming up — and there's so much to do again.
Think: vintage markets, wine bars, free entrance at ARTIS, and a new ravioli bar that just started doing lunch.
From flea market finds to silk flower bouquets and Marseille-style bouillabaisse Sundays… this weekend's got it all and I got 45 tips listed on Your Little Black Book.
Here's your WEEKEND shortlist:
𝗠𝗔𝗥𝗞𝗘𝗧𝗦 & 𝗦𝗛𝗢𝗣𝗣𝗜𝗡𝗚
– The last QRU Flea Market of the year (70+ sellers under the tracks)
– Indoor treasure hunting at De Hallen Market on Saturday
– Build your own silk flower bouquet at the Atelier Verden Pop-up on Prinsengracht
𝗙𝗔𝗠𝗜𝗟𝗬 𝗙𝗨𝗡
– Free entry for kids (up to 12) at ARTIS Zoo on Nov 8 & 9
𝗙𝗢𝗢𝗗 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦
– Café Vita Lente just opened in West — from the former Coulisse team
– Leonardo's Ravioli Bar now open for lunch on weekends
– Café Modern's Sunday Special in Noord: vintage tableware, vinyl & bouillabaisse
Want all 45 tips?
Comment 'WEEKEND' and I'll send the full Amsterdam Weekend Guide straight to your DM — or check the link in bio.
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#yourlittleblackbook #AmsterdamWeekendGuide #AmsterdamTips #AmsterdamMarkets #WeekendInAmsterdam #ThingstoDoAmsterdam #AmsterdamRestaurants #VintageAmsterdam #CityGuide #FallInAmsterdam

Girls trip loading…
Barcelona is the ultimate autumn escape. When it's wet and cold here, you can simply sit on a terrace in the sun. Long lunches, beach walks in October, good coffee on every corner, and wine and tapas until late.
Last year I was there several times for Your Little Black Book, and I continue to be amazed at how this city really has it all: beach, culture, markets, (vintage) shops and so many good food spots that I could fill ten more lists with them.
📍 In this Barcelona Mini Guide you will find 26 of my personal favorites.
Save this guide so you can easily refer to it when planning your trip.
𝗕𝗔𝗥𝗖𝗘𝗟𝗢𝗡𝗔 𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗧𝗟𝗘 𝗕𝗟𝗔𝗖𝗞 𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞
**
• Bar del Pla – tapas must in El Born (📷)
• Mosquito – dim sum heaven for when you're tired of tapas
• Compa – Italian sandwiches on the beach
• Perikete – my go-to for cava sangria
• Bar Cañete – the place for a fancy girls' night out
**Illegible**
• Nobu Barcelona – rooftop sushi & city views (📷)
• Praktik Rambla – boutique hotel with a vintage touch
• Miiro Borneta – new & stylish in El Born
• Grand Hotel Central – luxury + rooftop pool
• The Hoxton, Poblenou – creative vibes & swimming pool
𝗗𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗞
• La Vinya Del Senyor – tiny bar, huge wine list (📷)
• PetNat – orange wine for your dinner in Born
• Pimpla Vins – cheese, wine & cozy vibes
• Monk – hidden cocktail bar, next-level mixology
I
• Salts Montjuïc – sunset drinks with a view (📷)
• Casa Vincens – Gaudí without the crowds
• Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya – top for architecture & art
• Bunkers del Carmel – for the most beautiful golden hour
• Mercat de Sant Antoni – food market with breathing space
**Illegible**
• Vila Viniteca – edible souvenirs (📷)
• Dubblefilm – old school film & photo booth
• Carolina Blue – home & ceramics boutique
• The Favorite Vintage – carefully curated finds
• Sarria Market – local market without tourists
𝗖𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗘𝗘
• Right Side Coffee Bar – best pit stop while shopping (📷)
• Casa Taos – everything homemade, slightly outside the center
• Onis Coffee – good playlists & croissants
• La Roseta – with your feet almost in the sand
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

Heading out of town? 🍂 These are my favorite walking and drinking spots in the Netherlands.
To be honest... I don't see myself living outside the city anytime soon, but on weekends I do enjoy getting out into nature. That's why I've created a YLBB shortlist of the most beautiful hiking areas, complete with a great spot for drinks nearby.
My perfect Sunday? First, a walk, then plopping down somewhere with a treat or a hot chocolate (or, of course, a glass of wine and bitterballen!).
📍From Lage Vuursche to the Waterleidingduinen and the Amsterdamse Bos, in this video I share my favorites.
But... there are, of course, many more great places in the Netherlands where you can enjoy a drink after a walk. Which tip do you think shouldn't be missed? 👇
Save this post to enjoy nature this season, or forward it to your hiking date. 🍁
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#yourlittleblackbook #hikinginthenetherlands #drinksspot #discoveringthenetherlands #natureinthenetherlands #autumnroutes #hikingtips #dutchautumn #walks #naturewalk #weekendtips #netherlandsholiday #drinks #outdoorlife #amsterdamweekend #thingstodonetherlands #yourlbb

Forget the classic omakase experience in Amsterdam, this is something else.
Hidden inside burger spot @paindemie_amsterdam and inspired by the Tokyo subway, you'll find @moyo_amsterdam. A new hotspot redefining the omakase concept.
Chef @guillaumedebeer is behind this next-level concept, and it shows in every creative detail. But here O-toro and Wagyu take the stage 🥩.
It's intimate, creative, and seriously one of the most exciting new openings in Amsterdam right now.
Save this for your next special dinner night 🔥
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#amsterdam #amsterdamcity #amsterdamfoodguide #amsterdamfood #amsterdamtravel

The most beautiful l𝗶𝗰𝗵𝘁𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹𝘀 throughout 𝗡𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 for your 𝗯𝘂𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁 this season
The days are getting shorter, the evenings longer…
And honestly? I secretly think that's one of the best things about this season. Because the transition from fall to winter means: light festivals! ✨
All over the Netherlands, cities, parks and castles light up with light art, projections and installations that you'll want to see.
What once started with the Amsterdam Light Festival has grown into one of the most beautiful winter traditions in the country, if you ask me!
At most light festivals they also have nice hot chocolate and food stalls for something tasty to go.
Perfect for a winter evening with your loved one, family or friends.
Can you picture yourself with a hot chocolate or mulled wine in hand, strolling past works of art that transform streets, parks, and canals into a fairytale?
From North Holland to Gelderland, I'm sharing all the tips in a comprehensive article on Your Little Black Book, featuring the best light festivals in almost every province in the Netherlands.
Believe me: this is such a special outing to make the dark days just a little bit brighter.
Ps: I'll also have some exciting news about the @lefoodwalk at the @amsterdamlightfestival on Your Little Black Book soon!
Have fun making plans!
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#lightfestival #netherlandstips #winterouting #yourlittleblackbook #thingstodo #lightart #amsterdamlightfestival #wintervibes #dayout #romanticouting #autumndinings #gluhweinmoment #fallinthenetherlands

𝗔𝗠𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗗𝗔𝗠 𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗞𝗘𝗡𝗗 𝗛
Hello cozy season! From poffertjes Sundays and wine bar pop-ups to Museum Night and vintage markets — this weekend in Amsterdam has everything.
I've rounded up 29 things to do in the city, and here's a little preview from this week's guide:
𝗘𝗔𝗧 & 𝗗𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗞
• There's a new Asian pop-up by @rongastrobaroriental at @soulkitchen_amsterdam you don't want to miss. Most amazing dim sum!
• Spanish wine vibes at the Ribera del Duero pop-up at @vindict.amsterdam 🍷
• Poffertjes Sunday at @hetblauwetheehuis — pancakes, mulled wine & hot chocolate
• 🎃 Halloween plans? The full weekend guide has the best Halloween events at our fave bars & restaurants.
𝗗𝗢 & 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗟𝗢𝗥𝗘
• The @sundaymarket at @westergas is back — vintage finds, art & street food
• 1+1 free tickets at @hetconcertgebouw for concerts by the Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra (code: ORCHESTRAJAARG – booking link in the guide) @nederlandsphilharmonic
• Museum Night is happening Nov 1 — 70+ museums open late. I've shortlisted the best ones to visit if you've got tickets! @museumnacht.amsterdam
**Illegible**
• The legendary @ladress Sample Sale returns — up to 80% off timeless styles (ticket link in the full guide!)
And yes — the Amsterdam Weekend Guide always includes a section with fun things to do with kids too.
💌 Comment 'WEEKEND' and I'll send the full guide straight to your DM. Or hit the link in bio to read all 29 tips.
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#yourlittleblackbook #AmsterdamWeekendGuide #AmsterdamTips #ThingstoDoAmsterdam #Museumnacht #SundayMarket #LaDress #AmsterdamRestaurants #AmsterdamEvents #WhatToDoInAmsterdam #WeekendinAmsterdam

Looking for the hottest new spot for a date night in Amsterdam City Center? Meet @littlebonfire.ams 🔥
With its cozy vibe it's the kind of place that feels like an extension of your living room: but with much better food and wine.
On the ever changing menu you'll find classics to share: from pan con tomate with anchovies, stracciatella with zucchini and peas, to crispy eggplant, vitello and sea bass with clams. Don't skip dessert: the Basque cheesecake is already my favorite.
This spot is perfect for a date night at the bar or dinner with the girls.
I think Little Bonfire Amsterdam is a keeper in the city center!
📍Little Bonfire
Amsterdam City Centre
Who are you taking here first? 🖤
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#LittleBonfireAmsterdam
#AmsterdamRestaurants
#DateNightAmsterdam
#AmsterdamCityCentre
#AmsterdamHotspots
#Amsterdamfoodie
#Amsterdamtravel
#YourLittleBlackBook

I used to think Halloween was stupid 🎃.
But since I became a mother, it has become one of our favorite holidays!
There are so many fun things to do together as a family. 🖤
Last year, my son and I celebrated Halloween in New York, and believe me, we still talk about it every week (see slide 9). Since then, the anticipation has been just as much fun as the celebration itself.
In the comprehensive Halloween Guide on Your Little Black Book, I've collected all our favorite tips for you:
– From not-too-scary movies to Halloween classics for the whole family
– Addresses to quickly score pumpkins
– Fun DIYs for home (perfect for rainy autumn days ☔)
And of course: fun Halloween events throughout the Netherlands (not just for kids, but also a fantastic Halloween concert, for example!)
In this post, I'm sharing some inspiration, but comment HALLOWEEN to receive the link to all the YLBB tips directly in your DMs.
What do you think of the Halloween craze in the Netherlands?
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#HalloweenMetKids #YourLittleBlackBook #HalloweenTips #Halloween2025 #KidsproofHalloween #FallHoliday #HalloweenIdeas #HalloweenInNederland

All of Amsterdam Eats! 🍽️
What better way to celebrate a birthday than with delicious food? To celebrate the 750th anniversary year, you can find great deals at 75 locations throughout the city from October 27th through October 28th.
From breakfast to dinner and from tastings to pop-ups! There's plenty to taste and experience.
I've looked at all the tips and picked out a few favorites for you that you won't want to miss:
📍@baut.amsterdam – October 27 | 12:00 – 14:15
Last chance! BAUT is serving its famous 12,5-hour snack for the very last time. Specially for Heel Amsterdam Eet, you can score this iconic dish for only €12,50.
📍@waldorfamsterdam – until October 27 | 09:00 – 14:00
At the chic Peacock Alley, you can enjoy a luxurious coffee or tea with the exclusive Waldorf Koggetje for just €7,50. A traditional Amsterdam biscuit with caramel, specially reinvented for this occasion.
📍Hotel Jakarta – until October 27 | 11:00 AM – 18:00 PM
This weekend, you can try Broodje 750 at Bakkerij Westers, a satay ayam sandwich for €7,50. I'm already getting hungry just writing this.
📍 @machu.amsterdam – October 26 | 11:30 AM – 19:30 PM
Attention street food lovers: at Café Machu you can enjoy a delicious South American Arepa value menu on Sunday for only €7,50.
From East to West: this weekend and Monday, October 27th, join in the fun with all of Amsterdam. Amsteram750.nl has a handy map showing all the participating locations!
Before you head out, check the websites of participating restaurants to see if you need to make a reservation or can just walk in.
Have fun!
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#HeelAmsterdamEet #Amsterdam750 #YourLittleBlackBook #AmsterdamTips #HotspotsAmsterdam #WeekendInAmsterdam

Girls' night loading! After a few days in the English Cotswolds, I'm totally in the mood for fall movies. So I've compiled a list of the best autumn films for every mood. I'd say: get the blankets ready, stock up on candles and treats, and you're all set for the perfect night. 🍂
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#autumnmovies #autumn #fallmovies #girlsnight #movienight #autumnfeeling

Fall break is coming! 🍂 Are you also looking for fun things to do with the kids?
I've created a mega guide for you with more than 100 tips throughout the Netherlands.
📍 From Amsterdam to the south of the country, from treasure hunts in nature to creative workshops and fun activities in museums (mostly free for kids!).
I've collected all the kid-friendly outings for you, so you can spend less time searching and more time enjoying yourself.
There really is something fun to do in the area every day!
In this post I'll give you a good dose of inspiration.
More tips + all the details can be found in the full article on my website.
💌 Comment 'vacation' and I'll send you the link right in your DM. Completely free! And of course, you can also share it with your friends who are still looking for plans!
Lots of fun!
Enjoy the quality time and the slower pace... Before you know it, you'll be making sandwiches again at 7:00. 😉
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#AutumnHoliday
#Kidsproof
#OutingWithChildren
#WhatToDoToday
#AmsterdamWithChildren
#Kidsactivities
#FamilyTime
#YourLittleBlackBook
#Children's Activities
#TipsWithChildren
#HolidayTips
#ThingsToDoWithKids
#MuseumWithChildren
#WeekendAwayWithKids
#dayoutwithkids
#kidsprooftip

Christmas in London has a timeless appeal for me – think decorated townhouses, lively pubs, beautiful shop windows and a touch of Dickensian charm. Do you want to visit around holidays in London Are you in the mood? Then soak up the Christmas spirit at the various Christmas markets, go ice skating, and shop for Christmas gifts at British department stores. Although it's been a few years since I've been to London around Christmas, it remains one of my favorite European Christmas cities.
Tips for your Christmas City Trip to London:

London
With its otherworldly icy landscapes, brightly lit trees and elaborate ice sculptures, Rovaniemi is in Finland Undoubtedly one of the best European cities for Christmas. And the fact that Santa Claus himself lives just 8 km away only adds to the magical allure.
Besides the postcard-perfect pink mornings and the vibrant Santa Claus Village, which is clearly the city's main draw, Rovaniemi offers visitors an eclectic range of museums and an even wider selection of winter activities – think thrilling reindeer and husky rides, snowmobile safaris, and spectacular Northern Lights tours.
Tips for your Christmas City Trip to Rovaniemi:

Rovaniemi
For a European Christmas vacation with a je ne sais quoi, head to the French capital, where mighty cathedrals resound with lively carols, the air fills with the aroma of freshly baked croissants, and Christmas trees are haute couture. If there's one place that rivals NYC at Christmastime, it's it. Paris With its many Christmas markets, the City of Light shines even brighter in December, when, as night falls, dazzling decorations and millions of sparkling spheres blanket the elegant boulevards and iconic monuments.
Tips for your Christmas City Trip to Paris:

Paris
Historic buildings and sensational Christmas decorations make Antwerp one of Europe's most popular Christmas destinations. The city center buzzes with the seasonal spirit thanks to the lively Christmas market in AntwerpA 60-meter-long ice rink and festive evening concerts. Savor mulled wine and Belgian delicacies while watching the antics of the much-loved street performers.
Tips for your Christmas City Trip to Antwerp:

Antwerp
During the holidays, much happens in Ljubljana. Ljubljana Castle transforms into a fairytale-like setting, and the public squares, churches, and bridges in the historic city center take on a whole new light. The Christmas markets, with numerous stalls offering food and drinks, become the center of the city's social life in December, while the nearby town squares transform into venues for countless free music concerts and other events for all ages.
Tips for your Christmas City Trip to Ljubljana:

Ljubljana
Christmas and Berlin are practically synonymous; the city offers no fewer than fifty Christmas markets a year, spread across various neighborhoods. If the candles and consumerism get a bit much, there are also numerous museums and cultural events to experience. Berlin also boasts a fantastic nightlife, so it's virtually impossible to be bored in this city.
Tips for your Christmas City Trip to Berlin:

Berlin
There are several Christmas markets in Düsseldorf, all located in the Old Town (Altstadt). During the holidays, Düsseldorf will have many festive new features. On the north side of Königsallee, directly adjacent to the Hofgarten and the Kö-Bogen, visitors can enjoy a 1700-square-meter ice rink this year at Corneliusplatz. Nearby, a new Fairy Tale Market invites all visitors, especially families with children, to experience the pre-Christmas magic.
Tips for your Christmas city trip to Düsseldorf:

Düsseldorf
The Croatian capital will once again offer the festive atmosphere for which Zagreb was named Europe's best Christmas market three years running. The festive season in Zagreb offers a mix of traditional and tangible festive cheer. For those looking forward to a romantic stroll through the city's central green squares, from King Tomislav Square to Ban Jelačić Square, the romance will be there again with the traditional stunning display of Christmas lights and decorations. Read more in our guide about Christmas in Zagreb >>
Tips for your Christmas city trip to Zagreb:

Zagreb
Vienna is a fantastic city break during the Christmas season (the lights that cover almost every building certainly don't hurt). The city is known for its markets, with the Vienna Christmas market The town hall and the Christmas tree on Rathausplatz steal the show. Also nearby are the Nativity Path and the Heart Tree.
Tips for your Christmas city trip to Vienna:

Vienna
Warming up with whisky is reason enough to Edinburgh A Christmas city break is a must, but Edinburgh's seasonal offerings extend far beyond the drinks. There's also the expansive Christmas market in East Princes St. Gardens, skiing in Pentland Hills Regional Park, and ice skating in St. Andrew Square. Traditionally, the Christmas season is followed by the Hogmanay festival – a three-day bacchanal celebrating the New Year with open-air concerts, fireworks, and dancing Scots.
Tips for your Christmas city trip to Edinburgh:

Edinburgh
Strasbourg is home to France's oldest Christmas market, dating back almost 450 years. There are 12 in total to check out, which will certainly keep you busy. Pro tip: While the markets will be overflowing with delicious treats, many choose to indulge in the king of Alsatian delicacies, foie gras, which is also a French Christmas tradition.
Tips for your Christmas city trip to Strasbourg:

Strasbourg
More than 100 artisan and gourmet vendors offer their products, from popular dishes to the many delicacies available only here. The spectacularly decorated atmosphere of Budapest's Christmas markets is completed by the highly successful light show projected onto the Basilica in recent years.
Tips for your Christmas city trip to Budapest:

Budapest
According to the World Happiness Report, Denmark is one of the world's happiest countries, making it a great place to spend the holidays. In the Tivoli Gardens of Copenhagen Antique amusement park rides are decorated with lights, surrounded by yet another charming Alpine-village-style Christmas market with gifts and snacks. They're also known to decorate their trees with Swarovski crystals.
Tips for your Christmas city trip to Copenhagen:

Copenhagen
If your idea of Christmas cheer involves an authentic Irish pub crawl), then Dublin Your place. There's no better way to warm up on a cold Christmas night than with some black pudding and a few pints—and believe us, this city has plenty of cozy bars to keep you entertained through New Year's Eve. But the Irish capital isn't just about drinking, of course. The offerings include Christmas markets, decked-out shops on Grafton Street, and tree-lighting ceremonies galore.
Tips for your Christmas city trip to Dublin:

Dublin
Prague's Christmas markets easily make the city one of the world's best places to spend Christmas: they last a whole month, with locals and travelers flocking for mulled wine, sticky pastries, and roasted ham. The main markets are located in the Old Town and Wenceslas Square, just a 10-minute walk from each other. Be sure to sip Svařák, a Czech mulled wine with a hint of citrus, from a market stall – or for a sweeter treat, enjoy a hot chocolate at Cafe Slavia, established in 1881.
Tips for your Christmas city trip to Prague:

Prague
Reykjavík In December, the streets and skies sparkle. Sparkling Christmas lights illuminate the city during the long nights, and on the clearest evenings, the Northern Lights can be seen from the city's dark streets and parks. Also, keep an eye out for the 13 Yule Lads, a group of trolls you'll see around town, who—in local folklore—are the Icelandic equivalent of Santa Claus. Winter is also the best time to spot the Northern Lights in Iceland!
Tips for your Christmas city trip to Reykjavik:

Rekyjavik
There is no shortage of ways to Christmas in New York City Whether it's ice skating at Rockefeller Center, window shopping on Fifth Avenue, or lurking around 34th Street hoping to witness a miracle just like in the movies, there are cozy New York Christmas markets and ice skating rinks throughout the city. And if you really want to see something unique, there's no such thing as too many Christmas decorations in the neighborhood. Dyker Heights in BrooklynJoin a walking tour organized by local residents.
Tips for your Christmas city trip to New York:

New York
TIP: Are you as much of a Christmas market lover as I am? I've compiled a list of unmissable Christmas markets for several destinations! Check out the shortlists here: visit the best Christmas markets in the Netherlands, or go to the Christmas markets in Amsterdam, discover the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany & experience the Christmas atmosphere at the most pleasant Christmas markets in Belgium.
With love,
Anne