Traveling to Belgium this December and wondering which Christmas market is best to visit? If so, you are in the right place.
There are quite a lot of Christmas markets around Belgium, and each of them has its own charm and unique atmosphere.
Some are relatively big, while others are smaller and more intimate. Also, not all of them offer the same items; you might find more arts and handicrafts in one market and more food options in another.
So, before you travel, it’s important to know what each Christmas market offers to help you choose the one that best suits your preferences.
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Table of Contents [hide]
- 1) Brussels Christmas market
- 2) Liège Christmas Market
- 3) Antwerp Christmas market
- 4) Ghent Christmas market
- 5) Bruges Christmas Market
- 6) Leuven Christmas market
- 7) Namur Christmas Market
- 8) Dinant Christmas Market
- What Makes Belgian Christmas Markets Unique?
- Which Belgium’s Christmas Market is Best to Visit?
- Best Way to Get to Belgium
- What to Wear
- Tips to Visit Christmas Markets in Belgium
- Questions About Belgium’s Christmas Markets?
- Final Words!
1) Brussels Christmas market
The Brussels Christmas market is a must-visit winter wonderland. It’s the biggest and busiest festive market in Belgium, spreading across the city center.
You’ll find over 240 charming chalets lining a 2.5 km route. These wooden stalls offer an array of delicious Brussels specialty food and handcrafted items such as jewelry, ceramics, leather goods, clothing, perfumes, soaps, and much more.
The market usually kicks off in late November and runs until early January. In 2024, it’s set to open on November 29 and close on January 5, 2025.
As you stroll through the market, you’ll be surrounded by garlands, beautiful Christmas balls, lights, and festive cheer. You’ll smell the scent of mulled wine and warm waffles.
You can browse handmade crafts, sip Belgian beers, and sample local delicacies.
Try traditional Christmas foods such as fruit bread with candied fruits and marzipan, bread of Jesus, hot chestnuts, waffles, chocolates, and many others.
The market stretches across several key locations in Brussels. You’ll find stalls at Grand Place, Place Sainte-Catherine, Bourse, and Place De Brouckère.
Bets place to stay in Brussels: Novotel, Hibis, Warwick, Hubert and Aris.
Information
- How to get to Brussels Christmas Market: Take a train to Brussels-Central Station (Gare Centrale), from the station, it’s about 5 to 10 minutes walk. Alternatively, you can take a tram or a bus or metro. All of them go to De Brouckère and Sainte-Catherine station, which is right at the Christmas Market.
- Location: Grand Place, Place Sainte-Catherine, Bourse, De Broukere.
- Features: Over 200 stalls, Ferris wheel, ice skating rink, sound and light show, Christmas tree, festive decorations.
- Dates: 29 November to 5 January.
- Hours: Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Friday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM, Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM, New Year’s Eve (December 31) 11 AM – 6 PM.
2) Liège Christmas Market
Liège is the second largest Belgium Christmas market after Brussels, known as the “Village de Noël. You’ll find it in the heart of the city from late November to December 30th.
The market runs along the banks of the Meuse River, a tradition dating back to the 14th century.
This beautiful Christmas market has about 200 wooden chalets selling a variety of gifts, decorations, and tasty foods like Liege waffles filled with pearled sugar, croustillons, which are small donuts dusted with powdered sugar, and the famous raclette, warm potatoes with melted cheese. A real delight!
Don’t miss the ice skating rink – it’s perfect for a fun evening out. There’s also a big wheel that gives you amazing views of the city lights.
The market is open daily, but hours vary. On weekdays, you can visit from 11 am to 10 pm. Weekends are busier, with the market staying open until midnight. So be prepared for crowds.
Best Places to Stay in Liege: Pentha Hotel, Radisson Hotel, Yust Hotel, Neuvice Hotel.
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- How to Get to Liege Christmas Market: From Liège-Guillemins train station, take one of the frequent buses to the city center. Buses like lines 1, 4, 48, and others will take you to Place Saint-Lambert, which is close to the Christmas market.
- Location: City Center (Place Saint-Lambert and Place du Marché)
- Features: Around 200 chalets, Ferris wheel, ice skating rink, festive events, and regional specialties.
- Dates: 29 November to 30 December.
- Hours: Weekdays from 11 AM to 10 PM and on the weekend from 11 AM to 11 PM.
3) Antwerp Christmas market
Antwerp is the third largest Christmas market after Liege. You’ll find it spread across several squares in the city center from early December to early January.
It has over 100 cozy wooden chalets selling festive treats and gifts. Like in many Belgium Christmas markets, you’ll find glühwein (mulled wine), hot chocolate, and beers as you stroll around.
There is also a giant ice rink in front of the stunning cathedral where you can enjoy skating and gliding across the ice under twinkling lights.
Want to enjoy breathtaking views of Antwerp city? Simply take a ride on the towering Ferris wheel. You’ll see the entire market and Antwerp’s historic skyline lit up at night.
If you travel with kids, they will love the merry-go-round and Santa’s village. There’s also a packed program of live music and entertainment to enjoy.
Make sure to try some local specialties like warm waffles, spiced speculoos cookies, and Belgian chocolates. You can even watch chocolatiers at work crafting sweet masterpieces.
Best Places to Stay Near Antwerp Christmas Market: NH Collection Hotel, Indigo Hotel, Holiday Inn, Jamingo Hotel.
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- How to get to Antwerpen Christmas Market: Take a train to Antwerpen Central Station. From the station, it’s about 15 to 20 minutes on foot. Alternatively, you can take the tram 3, 5, 9, or 15 or the pre-metro and get off at Groenplaats or Meir, both are just a short walk to the Christmas market.
- Location: Grote Markt, and the Groenplaats.
- Features: Over 100 stalls, ice skating rink, Ferris wheel, light displays, and festive events.
- Dates: 24 December to 7 January.
- Hours: Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM, Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
4) Ghent Christmas market
While Liège boasts around 200 chalets, Ghent’s market is a little smaller, with a curated selection of vendors. This festive event takes place in the heart of the historic city center from December 5 to 31, 2024.
You’ll find over 150 wooden stalls spread across central squares and along the picturesque Graslei Harbor. At the Ghent Christmas Market, you’ll find unique gifts, ornaments, and local handicrafts as you soak in the cheerful atmosphere.
Like in many other Belgium Christmas markets, Ghent also features a Ferris wheel and an ice skating rink as part of its festive attractions
There are plenty of local foods to treat yourself to, such as tasty Belgian snacks and warm drinks as you explore the market.
The market stays open late, so you can enjoy the festive glow well into the evening.
On weekends, the market opens earlier and closes later. This gives you more time to shop and soak up the holiday spirit. Just note that hours are shorter on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve.
Best Places to Stay in Ghent: Residence Inn, B&B Hotel, Van Der Valk, Orion.
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- How to get to Ghent Christmas Market: Take a train to Gent-Sint-Pieters, which is the main train station in Ghent. From the station, you can either take the tram line 1 or 2 or the bus and get off to Korenmarkt or Gravensteen. If you go on foot, it will take you about 30 minutes from the train station to get to the Christmas Market.
- Location: Sint-Baafsplein, Korenmarkt, and Emile Braunplein.
- Features: Over 150 stalls, ice skating rink, Ferris wheel, light displays, and festive events.
- Dates: 6 December to 5 January.
- Hours: Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Friday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM, Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
5) Bruges Christmas Market
You’ll fall in love with the magical Bruges Christmas market. It runs from November 22, 2024, to January 5, 2025, giving you plenty of time to visit. The market fills the historic city center with beautiful light decorations and festive cheer.
Bruges Christmas market has around 50-100 charming wooden chalets selling unique gifts and tasty treats. As it’s freezing in December, you’ll definitely want to warm up with a steaming cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate.
Although Bruges Christmas market is smaller than the others mentioned above, there is a great ice skating rink in the main square where you can enjoy – it’s perfect for some winter fun.
You can also explore the Winter Glow Light Festival. It brings the city’s stunning architecture to life with dazzling light displays. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time as you wander the cobblestone streets.
For a cozy place to stay, check out Hotel De Orangerie. It’s right in the heart of the action, perfect for easy market visits.
Best Places to Stay in Bruges: Aragon Hotel, Navarra Hotel, Crowne Plaza, Boutique Hotel Sablon.
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- How to Get to Bruges Christmas Market: To reach Bruges Christmas Market, take a train to Bruges Station, then walk about 15 minutes to the Market Square in the city center. Alternatively, you can take Bus 1 or 13 to get to the city center near Market Square where the Christmas market is located.
- Location: City center around Markt and Simon Stevinplein.
- Features: Between 50 – 100 stalls, ice skating rink, Ferris wheel, light displays, and festive events.
- Dates: 22 November to 7 January.
- Hours: During the week from 10 AM to 10 PM and on the weekend from 10 AM to 11 PM. On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, from 11 AM to 5:00 PM
6) Leuven Christmas market
Leuven’s Christmas market brings holiday cheer to this charming Belgian city. You’ll find it open for two weeks in December, typically from the 11th to the 22nd.
The market features about 140 stalls spread across the city center. You can shop for unique souvenirs, crafts, and tasty treats as you stroll through the festive streets.
As you explore, you’ll smell the sweet aroma of mulled wine and Belgian waffles. The lights and decorations create a magical atmosphere that’ll make you feel in another world.
Yes, Leuven’s Christmas Market also has an ice skating rink to have fun on the ice and a Ferris wheel for great views of the city. With over 800,000 visitors each year, Leuven’s Christmas market has become a beloved tradition.
Remember to bundle up as you enjoy this winter wonderland. The crisp air and jolly atmosphere will make your visit to Leuven’s Christmas market truly unforgettable.
Best Places to Stay in Leuven: Pentha Hotel, Martin’s Klooster, The Shepherd, Park Inn, Novotel, Sheraton Hotel.
Information
- How to Get to Leuven Christmas Market: Take the train to Leuven station. From the station, take a bus and get off to Grote Markt, which is close to the center where the Christmas market is held.
- Location: Grote Markt and Ladeuzeplein areas.
- Features: Around 140 stalls, ice skating rink, Ferris wheel, light displays, and festive events.
- Dates: 24 November to 7 January.
- Hours: Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PMFriday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PMSaturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PMSunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
7) Namur Christmas Market
Although the Namur Christmas Market is significantly smaller than the Christmas Markets listed above, it is beautiful. This charming event takes place in the heart of Wallonia’s capital city.
The market runs from early December to New Year’s Eve. You can explore over 80 wooden chalets filled with unique gifts, decorations, and tasty treats.
As you stroll through the stalls, you’ll find mulled wine, Belgian waffles, and some tasty local specialties like Flamiche, a savory cheese tart.
Kids will love the festive attractions. There’s a merry-go-round, an ice skating rink, and even visits from Santa Claus.
Live music adds to the cheerful atmosphere. You might catch performances by local choirs or folk groups as you explore.
The market is especially beautiful in the evening when they display stunning light strings and decorations that create a cozy glow throughout the area.
Additionally, on New Year’s Eve, the market ends with a bang. A dazzling fireworks display lights up the sky over the Meuse River.
Best Places to Stay in Namur: The Royal Snail, Ibis, B&B Hotel, Mercure, Chateau De Namur.
Information
- How to Get to Leuven Christmas Market: Take the train to Namur station. From the station, take a bus and get off to Place d’Armes, which is close to the center where the Christmas market is held.
- Location: Place d’Armes and Place du Palais.
- Features: Over 80 stalls, ice skating rink, Ferris wheel, light displays, and festive events.
- Dates: 29 November to 7 January.
- Hours: Monday to Thursday: Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 08:00 PM, Friday: 11:00 AM – 09:00 PM. Saturday 10:00 AM – 09:00 PM, Sunday 10:00 AM – 08:00 PM.
8) Dinant Christmas Market
Dinant’s Christmas Market is one of the smallest, but it’s undoubtedly one of the most charming Belgian towns. You’ll find it nestled along the Meuse River from late November through late December.
The market features over 100 stalls filled with local artisans and their wares. You can find handmade gifts, festive decorations, and tasty treats as you wander the streets near the Collegiate Church of Our Lady.
Like in most Belgium Christmas markets, you’ll find local food such as warm mulled wine, waffles, frites, escargots, and cinnamon-roasted chestnuts.
If you have the chance, try some local specialties like Couques de Dinant, the town’s famous hard cookies. They make great gifts to take home too.
Kids will love the merry-go-round and other fun activities set up just for them. You might even spot Santa Claus sitting in a beautifully decorated tent that welcomes children and even gives them a nice gift!
With around 250,000 visitors each year, Dinant’s market is smaller than some others in Belgium. But that just adds to its cozy, intimate feel. You’ll enjoy exploring this magical winter Christmas Market without huge crowds.
Best Places to Stay in Dinant: Castel De Pont A Lesse Hotel, Les Jardins De La Molignee, Les Reflets Jaune.
Information
- How to Get to Dinant Christmas Market: Take the train to Dinant station. From the station, take a bus and get off to Place Albert or Place Du Marche, which is close to the center where the Christmas market is held.
- Location: Place Albert and Place du Marche.
- Features: About 100 stalls, ice skating rink, Ferris wheel, light displays, and festive events.
- Dates: 29 November to 31 December.
- Hours: Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 08:00 PMFriday: 11:00 AM – 09:00 PMSaturday: 10:00 AM – 09:00 PMSunday: 10:00 AM – 08:00 PM
What Makes Belgian Christmas Markets Unique?
Many things make the Belgium Christmas markets special. The only way to find out is to stroll around these Christmas markets, feel the atmosphere, taste all their local foods, and see the beautiful items showcased on the wooden stalls.
Cultural Influences
Belgian Christmas markets reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage. You’ll see influences from French, Dutch, and German traditions all around you. The markets often feature local specialties like Belgian waffles, chocolates, and craft beers.
You can warm up with a cup of glühwein, a spiced mulled wine popular in many European countries. Look for stands selling speculoos, and spiced shortbread cookies that are a Belgian favorite during the holidays.
Many markets have ice-skating rinks where you can glide under twinkling lights. You’ll also find beautiful nativity scenes and carol singers adding to the festive mood.
Handmade crafts are a big draw. You can buy unique ornaments, toys, and gifts made by local artisans. It’s a great way to support small businesses and take home a special souvenir.
Which Belgium’s Christmas Market is Best to Visit?
When you’re trying to decide which Belgian Christmas market is best to visit, keep in mind that it really depends on what you’re looking for.
You might prefer a cozy, intimate atmosphere, or maybe you’re after a bustling, lively experience.
Some people love traditional crafts, while others are more interested in modern attractions or local food specialties. That said, if you’re asking around, you’ll often hear Brussels and Bruges mentioned as top picks.
Brussels offers a big, impressive market with lots to see and do, while Bruges gives you that magical, fairytale-like setting with its medieval architecture.
Both have plenty of variety in terms of stalls, food, and activities. If you have the time, why not try to visit more than one market?
This way, you’ll get a better feel for what Belgian Christmas markets are all about, and you can decide for yourself which one you like best.
Remember, the best market for you depends on what you’re looking for. Each one offers a unique slice of Belgian Christmas cheer!
Best Way to Get to Belgium
Belgium is easy to reach from many places in Europe. You can get there by plane, train, or car.
Flying is, of course, the quickest way to travel. Brussels Airport welcomes flights from all over the world. It’s close to the city center, making it simple to start your Christmas market trip.
Trains are a great choice if you’re coming from nearby countries. The Eurostar connects London to Brussels in just over 2 hours. You can also take high-speed trains from Paris, Amsterdam, and other big cities.
Driving to Belgium can be fun if you like road trips. Renting a car there is simple. The country has good highways linking it to France, Germany, and the Netherlands. Just remember to check parking options at your hotel or near the markets.
Once you’re in Belgium, getting around is a breeze. Cities have good public transport, and trains connect major towns. This makes it easy to visit multiple Christmas markets during your stay.
Pro tip: Book your travel early, especially for December. Prices go up as the holiday season gets closer.
What to Wear
Belgium’s get really chilly at Christmas time, so you’ll want to bundle up! Pack a warm, waterproof jacket to keep you cozy and dry. Don’t forget a scarf, hat, and gloves to protect your face, neck, and hands from the cold.
Comfortable, waterproof shoes are a must. You’ll be doing lots of walking on potentially slippery surfaces. Choose boots or sneakers with good traction to avoid any spills.
Layering is key. Wear a warm sweater or fleece under your jacket. This way, you can adjust if you step into a heated shop or tent.
An umbrella is handy for unexpected showers. Opt for a small, collapsible one that’s easy to carry.
Remember, it’s better to be over-prepared than underdressed in Belgium in the winter. You can always remove layers if you get too warm while sipping hot cocoa or mulled wine at the market stalls.
Tips to Visit Christmas Markets in Belgium
Before planning your trip to Belgium, there are several important things you might want to know. Here are some handy tips to make your visit magical and stress-free.
- Bring a comfortable pair of shoes and make sure they are waterproof. There are lots of cobblestone streets.
- Bring cash. While many stalls take cards, some are cash-only. ATMs can have long lines, so come prepared.
- Visit mid-week if you can. Weekends get super crowded. You’ll have more space to browse on Tuesday or Wednesday.
- Keep all your valuables and cash in a pouch well secured around your waist. Like many crowded places around the world, Christmas Markets can attract pickpockets.
Questions About Belgium’s Christmas Markets?
You certainly have some questions that run through your head about Christmas Markets in Belgium. So, below, you’ll find all the answers to your questions.
Which is the largest Christmas market to visit in Belgium?
Brussels Winter Wonders is the biggest Christmas market in Belgium. It spreads across several squares in the city center. You’ll find over 200 chalets selling gifts and treats.
Can you recommend some Christmas market tours in Belgium?
Many tour companies offer Christmas market trips in Belgium. You can join a guided walk through Brussels‘ Winter Wonders. Some tours combine visits to markets in Brussels and Bruges. For a unique experience, try a river cruise that stops at markets along the way.
Brussels vs Bruges Christmas Market?
Both markets have their charms. Brussels is larger and offers more variety. You’ll find a broader range of food, gifts, and activities. Bruges offers a cozier, more intimate feel. Its medieval backdrop creates a fairytale atmosphere. The city’s canals add extra magic when lit up at night.
What Lesser Know Christmas Markets in Belgium?
Christmas is one of the most celebrated events in Belgium, therefore most of the cities hold a Christmas market. The most popular Christmas Markets are the ones listed above and lesser known are the following: Mons, Tongeren, Kortrijk, Tournai, Spa, Durbuy, Hasselt, Ypres, Ostend, Chimay, Rochfort, Oudernaarde, Malmedy.
Final Words!
As you’ve seen, Belgium offers some truly wonderful Christmas markets for you to enjoy.
Whether you’re in Brussels, Bruges, or any of the other charming cities, you’re sure to find a festive atmosphere that will get you in the holiday spirit.
One thing is certain, you’ll fall in love with the twinkling lights, the smell of warm waffles, and the sound of carolers singing your favorite Christmas songs.
These markets are a great way for you to experience Belgian culture and create lasting memories.
So bundle up, grab a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine, and enjoy the magic of Belgium’s Christmas markets this holiday season!
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This article paints such a vivid picture of the Christmas markets in Belgium; it excites me for the holiday season! The detailed breakdown of each market, from Brussels to Bruges and beyond, offers excellent insight into what makes each unique. I love how you’ve highlighted the cosy, intimate feel of smaller markets like Dinant while giving the nod to the grander experience in places like Brussels.
I’m curious: do any of these markets offer guided tours for first-time visitors? That could be a fun way to explore the different stalls and local specialities without missing any highlights. Thanks for this fantastic guide!
Hi Vlad,
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m thrilled that the article brought the magic of Belgium’s Christmas markets to life for you. Each market truly does have its own charm, from the grandeur of Brussels to the more intimate feel of places like Dinant.
As for guided tours, yes, several markets, particularly in the larger cities like Brussels and Bruges, do offer tours during the holiday season. These tours can provide a deeper dive into the local history, highlight the best stalls, and introduce you to regional specialties like speculoos cookies, and jenever. Some even focus on the architectural beauty and traditions that surround the markets. It’s definitely a fun and informative way to explore, especially if you’re visiting for the first time!
I hope you get the chance to experience them firsthand!
Simone,
I found this article very informative! My wife and I are planning a trip to Belgium, and your guide is a huge help. We were leaning toward visiting the Brussels market, but after reading about Liège, we’re curious—would you say Liège offers a more relaxed experience compared to Brussels, or is it just as lively? We’d love to hear your thoughts on which market might be better for someone who enjoys a bit of both atmosphere and festive activities!
Opa
Hi Opa,
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m thrilled that you found the guide helpful for your trip to Belgium. Both Brussels and Liège have fantastic Christmas markets, but they offer slightly different vibes. Brussels is definitely more lively, with a larger market, more activities, and a grand festive atmosphere that really lights up the city. It’s perfect if you want a bustling, immersive holiday experience.
Liège, on the other hand, feels a bit more relaxed and cozy, with its own charm. The market is still vibrant with festive activities and delicious food, but it’s slightly less crowded, giving you more space to soak in the atmosphere at a slower pace. If you’re looking for a mix of festive cheer with a more laid-back feel, Liège might be the better option for you. Either way, both markets are worth visiting, and you can’t go wrong with either! I hope this helps with your decision—have an amazing trip!