8 most beautiful Christmas Markets in Belgium
Belgium, with its historic cities, enchanting canals, and festive atmosphere, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. From Brussels to Bruges, the country hosts some of Europe’s best Christmas markets, offering everything from mulled wine and buttery waffles to hand-crafted ornaments and cozy chalets. Whether you’re planning a trip to Belgium’s Christmas markets in 2024 or 2025, this guide will help you discover the must-visit spots to soak in the Christmas spirit.
Here are the 8 best Christmas markets in Belgium, complete with insider tips, highlights, and practical advice to make your visit magical.
1. Brussels Christmas Market
The Brussels Christmas Market, officially known as Winter Wonders, is a showstopper and one of Europe’s most famous festive destinations. It stretches throughout the city’s historic center, featuring unique themed areas like a magical Christmas village and an international food court. Known for its enchanting atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a brisk winter evening while savoring mulled wine and traditional Belgian delicacies.
- Location: Grand-Place and surrounding streets
- Dates: Late November to early January
Highlights of the Brussels Christmas Market
- Grand-Place Light Show: Watch the square come alive with dazzling Christmas lights synchronized to music.
- Ice Skating Rink: Lace up your skates and glide across the open-air rink in the heart of the city.
- Market Stalls: Over 200 wooden chalets selling Belgian specialties like waffles, chocolates, and mulled wine.
- Ferris Wheel: Enjoy stunning views of Brussels from the top of the illuminated wheel.
Insider Tip: Visit the market in the evening for the most magical atmosphere, but arrive early to avoid crowds at the Christmas tree in Grand-Place.
2. Bruges Christmas Market
Step into a real-life fairytale at the Bruges Christmas Market, set against the backdrop of medieval architecture and canals. With its charming cobblestone streets and festive stalls, the whole city transforms into a magical Christmas village. Visitors can enjoy the aroma of freshly baked buttery waffles and warm themselves with spiced mulled wine while exploring the beautiful Christmas markets.
- Location: Grote Markt and Simon Stevinplein
- Dates: Late November to early January
Highlights of the Bruges Christmas Market
- Cosy Market Stalls: Browse for unique gifts and traditional Belgian treats.
- Winter Glow Light Experience: Wander through the city’s enchanting light show displays.
- Ice Skating Rink: A picturesque rink set near the iconic belfry tower.
- Canal Tours: Take a festive canal ride for a different perspective of Bruges.
Insider Tip: Head to Minnewater (Lake of Love) for a romantic stroll before immersing yourself in the Christmas market.
3. Ghent Christmas Market
Ghent’s Christmas market offers a mix of tradition and innovation, making it one of the coziest Christmas markets in Belgium. Visitors will find an abundance of gourmet treats, including freshly baked Belgian waffles and fragrant mulled wine. The market also features a unique local touch with handmade crafts and a chance to explore Ghent’s historic city center, which is illuminated by breathtaking light displays throughout the festive season.
- Location: Sint-Baafsplein, Korenmarkt, and surrounding streets
- Dates: Mid-December to early January
Highlights of the Ghent Christmas Market
- Wooden Chalets: Over 150 stalls selling handcrafted ornaments, local delicacies, and festive drinks.
- Light Displays: The entire city center is decorated with twinkling lights.
- Historic Backdrop: The market is set amidst Ghent’s medieval architecture, including the stunning Sint-Baafs Cathedral.
- Winter Fun: Enjoy live performances, carolers, and a pop-up ice skating rink.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss trying cuberdons, a specialty candy unique to Ghent.
4. Antwerp Christmas Market
Antwerp blends modernity with tradition, making its Christmas market a vibrant and bustling experience. The market stays open late, allowing visitors to enjoy festive shopping under a canopy of sparkling lights. Stalls throughout the city center offer seasonal specialties, from handcrafted ornaments to steaming cups of jenever punch, creating an intoxicating holiday aroma.
- Location: Grote Markt, Suikerrui, and Groenplaats
- Dates: Early December to early January
Highlights of the Antwerp Christmas Market
- Christmas Village: Stroll through streets lined with market stalls offering everything from artisanal goods to gourmet food.
- Ice Rink: A large rink near the cathedral is perfect for some festive fun.
- Panoramic Views: Climb the Ferris wheel for stunning views of the city.
- Culinary Delights: Try Antwerp’s famous chocolate and jenever (Belgian gin).
Insider Tip: Visit the cathedral to see the Rubens paintings, then warm up with a hot chocolate at a nearby café.
5. Leuven Christmas Market
Leuven’s Christmas market is smaller but incredibly charming, perfect for those seeking a more intimate holiday experience. Nestled in the vibrant university city, this market exudes a youthful energy and festive cheer. From sipping on locally brewed beers to savoring holiday treats like speculoos and buttery pastries, it’s an ideal spot for creating warm winter memories.
- Location: Ladeuzeplein and Herbert Hooverplein
- Dates: Mid-December to late December
Highlights of the Leuven Christmas Market
- Artisan Stalls: Shop for unique handmade gifts and traditional Belgian snacks.
- Santa Claus Visits: Perfect for families, Santa makes appearances throughout the market.
- Local Beer: Sample Leuven’s famous beers, including Stella Artois, brewed in the city.
- Festive Atmosphere: The city’s smaller scale creates a cozy Christmas market vibe.
Insider Tip: Combine your visit with a walking tour of Leuven’s historic landmarks, including its university library.
6. Liège Christmas Market
Known as “Village de Noël,” Liège’s Christmas market is the oldest and one of the most festive in Belgium. It hosts one of the coziest Christmas villages in Europe, complete with twinkling lights and lively decorations throughout the city. Visitors will find plenty of opportunities to sightsee and explore, including a brisk walking tour through the historic streets surrounding the market.
- Location: Place Saint-Lambert and Place du Marché
- Dates: Late November to late December
Highlights of the Liege Christmas Market
- Traditional Vibes: Over 200 chalets offering Belgian Christmas market classics.
- Live Entertainment: Regular concerts and performances bring the market to life.
- Cultural Touches: Experience Walloon holiday traditions.
- Gastronomy: Indulge in Liège’s famous waffles and regional delicacies.
Insider Tip: Arrive early to grab a spot at the market’s wine and cheese tastings.
7. Hasselt Winterland
Hasselt’s Winterland is more than just a market; it’s an all-out holiday festival. Visitors can marvel at the enchanting Christmas lights that illuminate the entire square and enjoy the warm aroma of festive treats like speculoos and hot chocolate. Known for its family-friendly vibe, it’s the perfect place for a winter weekend getaway to experience authentic Belgian charm.
- Location: Kolonel Dusartplein
- Dates: Mid-November to early January
Highlights of the Hasselt Christmas Market
- Christmas Village: Enjoy carnival rides, an ice skating rink, and market chalets.
- Ferris Wheel: Take in the festive atmosphere from above.
- Indoor Activities: A cozy indoor market offers shelter and unique gift ideas.
- Santa’s House: Perfect for kids, with themed rooms and photo opportunities.
Insider Tip: Pair your visit with a tasting tour of Hasselt’s famous speculoos cookies.
8. Mons Christmas Market
The Mons Christmas Market is a hidden gem that combines a festive atmosphere with cultural charm. This quaint market features twinkling Christmas lights that create a fairytale setting across the Grand-Place. With its smaller scale, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy a relaxed holiday experience while indulging in local delicacies and traditional Belgian treats.
- Location: Grand-Place
- Dates: Early December to early January
Highlights of the Mons Christmas Market
- Cultural Festivities: Enjoy a mix of Walloon and Flemish holiday traditions.
- Skating Rink: A small yet charming rink set near the heart of the city.
- Artisan Gifts: Discover unique souvenirs crafted by local artists.
- Fairytale Atmosphere: The market’s intimate setting adds a magical touch.
Insider Tip: Don’t leave without trying a glass of mulled wine paired with local cheeses.
