Exploring the Best Christmas Markets in Belgium: A festive Guide

Belgium is a wonderful country where you can learn a great amount of history by visiting the important landmarks, get amazed by the stunning architecture and taste the delicious chocolates. As the season of winter arrives, the country changes into a mini magical wonderland sprawling with lots of Christmas Markets in Belgium. If you visit these markets, you can feel the holiday cheer and immerse yourself in the local traditions and lively atmosphere. Right from the decorative dazzling lights to having delightful treats, the Christmas markets in Belgium always offer something for everyone. Hence, if you are planning to visit Belgium during the holiday season, we have got a complete guide on where you should visit the best Christmas markets.

Also if you have any queries regarding the Belgium Visa, we will get that section covered before the end of this blog.

Brussels: Winter Wonders or Plaisirs d’Hiver

This market is located at the Grand Place, Brussels and stays from the starting of late November to early January. One of the famous Christmas markets in Belgium, that too in Brussels is the Winter Wonders marker. It is located right at the centre of the city occupying the place of the iconic Grand Place to Sainte-Catherine Square. Here, there will be around 200 wooden chalets that sell everything from handmade crafts to gourmet food.

During this time the entire Grand Place will be illuminated with amazing light and music, which makes the atmosphere feel very magical. You can even glide over the ice on the large ice skating rink right next to Place de la Monnaie. Hop on the Giant Ferris wheel so that you can enjoy the great views of the city from top. You should absolutely try the tasty Belgian waffles, speculoos cookies paired with mulled wine.

Bruges: A Fairy Tale Christmas Market

This Christmas market is located at the Market Square or Markt and Simon Stevin Square. It also stays from the start of late November to early January. This is one of the picturesque Christmas markets in Belgium. Bruges, as we know it, is the Venice of the North that turns absolutely into a winter wonderland during Christmas. The medieval architecture of the buildings, paths with cobblestone streets and the ultimate romantic canal provides the perfect background for this festive market.

While you walk around, browse through the stalls that offer unique handicrafts, ornaments and local souvenirs. You can even roam around the city’s streets on cosy Horse-drawn Carriage rides. And finish your day by eating the world-famous chocolates and some hot cocoa.

Antwerp: A Festive Extravaganza

The markets are mainly located at the Grote Markt, Handschoenmarkt and Groenplaats. It stays from the middle of December to early January. The city of Antwerp which is also known for the fashion and diamond industry is also renowned for Christmas markets in Belgium. There are squares in the city where the markets are open right at the centre of the city. The entire city will surely give you a great festive experience.

When you come to Antwerp you will see a majestic Cathedral of our Lady is in the background. Plenty of food stalls will be available serving Belgian fries, sausages and traditional oliebollen or fried dough balls. Experience the great Christmas Parade which has the main highlight of showcasing a Santa Claus and his reindeer. Don't be shy in checking out the jewelry, fashion accessories and artisanal products.

Ghent: Cozy and Charming

The markets are Sint-Baafsplein, Korenmarkt and Botermarkt. It stays from the month of mid December to early January. Though it's small compared to the markets in Brussels or Bruges, in Ghent you will find the coziest Christmas markets in Belgium. As the markets are smaller, you will feel more intimate in checking out the stalls. During this time, the medieval buildings of the city and canals are nicely decorated with lights and ornaments.

Wander around and experience the local crafts, handmade jewelry and the amazing holiday decorations.There will also be an ice rink on Emile Braunplein, where you can skate. Try a traditional Belgian gin or a cup of hot mulled wine to keep yourself warm. If you love entertainment, then you are in for a treat and there will be lots of love music and performance by local artists to enjoy.

Leuven: A Hidden Gem

The main markets are located in Monseigneur Ladeuzeplein and Herbert Hooverplein. It stays from the month of middle December to Christmas eve. One of the most charming Christmas in Belgium is found in Leuven. Leuven is mostly a lively university city which has fewer crowds than in the big cities. For travellers who are looking for some relaxed holiday experience, this place is excellent to visit.

You can get here a lot of handmade candles, ceramics and other unique gifts. Few places, there will be festive concerts and choir performances to enjoy. Some stalls will even offer you to taste the traditional Belgian dishes like stoofvlees or beef stew and frites. As the majority of the population in Leuven is youth, it adds an extra essence to the festive spirit.

Liege: The oldest Christmas Market in Belgium

The markets are located in Place Saint-Lambert and Place du Marche. It says from the month of late November to late December. Also known as Village de Noel is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Belgium. You will find a distinct French influence in this market making it absolutely unique compared to other markets in the country.

There will be around 200 chalets, which will be designed in such a way as to resemble a traditional Christmas Village. Witness the grand parade that will feature illuminated floats and characters. Do visit Santa Claus in its cosy house to take some memorable photos. You should try the Liege waffles, tartiflette and raclette.

Mons: A Festive Delight

The main market is located at the Grand Place. It stays from the early month of December to the early month of January. This is one of the most delightful Christmas Markets in Belgium in its historic Grand Place. Mons is also known as the European Capital Culture in 2015. You will feel that the market offers you a blend of traditional and modern holiday elements.

You will have a lot of handcrafted gifts, decorations and clothing. The experience of the festive ambiance is filled with twinkling lights and holiday music. Enjoy some fun skating sessions with friends and family. There will be workshops to attend along with storytelling sessions and live performances.

Tips for visiting Christmas Markets in Belgium

Most winters in Belgium are full of cold and damp. So it's better to wear a lot of warm coats, gloves and a hat to stay comfortable.

The crowds increase at the Christmas markets in Evening. So it's best to arrive early which will give ample time to explore.

Well, most of the vendors will accept cash but few take only cash. So keep some Euros in hand.

You should absolutely try the Belgian waffles, fries, chocolates and mulled wine.

Do not forget to take your camera or smartphone to capture photos of the magical atmosphere and beautiful decorations.

Get some professional help in availing the Belgium Visa Appointment from UK

Are you facing any difficulty getting an Online Belgium Visa to visit the Christmas markets in Belgium? If yes, then worry not. You can use our professional expertise at BELGIUM VISA UK. Just click on the apply online tab. A list of forms will appear, continue then to fill in your details. Make the payment before submission. You will be contacted by our executives immediately to discuss everything to book your Visa appointment date. Your satisfaction with our service will be considered the top priority.

Conclusion

Hence to conclude the Christmas Markets in Belgium is actually a kind of celebration to enjoy the holiday spirit. Whether you are just looking for gifts, tasty food or just come to enjoy the festive experience, you will get everything in the markets. Each market in different places of Belgium has its own charm and traditions, which is truly captivating. So, what are you waiting for, pack your bags, grab a cup of cocoa and lose yourself in the Christmas markets in Belgium.