Best Places to Visit in Belgium for Christmas Cheer

Belgium, with its charming cobblestone streets and medieval architecture, becomes a winter wonderland during the holiday season. For expats and digital nomads looking to immerse themselves in the festive spirit, Belgium offers a plethora of destinations where Christmas markets, twinkling lights, and holiday cheer are in abundance. From the historic squares of major cities to the quaint alleyways of smaller towns, here are some of the best places to visit in December to experience the magic of Belgian Christmas.

Brussels' Grand Place

The heart of Belgium's capital, the Grand Place, is transformed into a Christmas spectacle with its annual Winter Wonders event. The square is adorned with a massive Christmas tree and a sound-and-light show that illuminates the baroque facades of the surrounding guild houses. Stalls selling handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and an array of Belgian treats like speculoos and waffles fill the air with festive aromas. The event typically runs from late November to early January, offering plenty of time for visitors to enjoy the festivities.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try the famous Belgian hot chocolate, known for its rich and creamy texture, as you wander through the market. It's the perfect way to keep warm while soaking in the holiday atmosphere.

Ghent's Historic Center

Ghent's medieval center, with its picturesque canals and Gothic architecture, hosts a charming Christmas market known as the Ghent Winter Festival. The market sprawls across several squares, including Sint-Baafsplein and Korenmarkt, offering unique gifts, local crafts, and plenty of seasonal food and drink. The highlight is the ice-skating rink set up beneath the city's belfry, providing a unique backdrop for some holiday fun. The festival usually starts in early December and continues until after the New Year.

We Recommend: Be sure to taste the cuberdon, a cone-shaped Belgian candy that's a local favorite, often found at the Ghent Christmas market.

Bruges' Market Square

Bruges, often referred to as the 'Venice of the North,' is especially enchanting during the holidays. The Christmas market in Market Square features quaint wooden chalets selling everything from seasonal decorations to artisanal products. The surrounding medieval buildings, including the famous Belfry, are beautifully lit, adding to the fairytale atmosphere. Ice-skating on the temporary rink adds to the festive fun. The Bruges Christmas market typically runs from late November to early January.

We Recommend: Sample the oliebollen, a traditional Dutch and Belgian treat similar to doughnuts, often dusted with powdered sugar and served warm.

Antwerp's Grote Markt

Antwerp's Grote Markt is the setting for the city's delightful Christmas market, part of the larger Antwerp Winter in the City event. The market extends to the nearby Steenplein, Suikerrui, and Handschoenmarkt, creating a sprawling winter village. Visitors can browse through a wide selection of gifts and enjoy Belgian specialties, while a Ferris wheel offers panoramic views of the city. The festivities usually begin in early December and last until the first week of January.

We Recommend: Try the Antwerpse handjes, chocolate biscuits shaped like hands, which are a symbol of the city and a delicious local delicacy.

Leuven's Old Market Square

Leuven's Christmas market, one of the oldest in Belgium, takes over the Old Market Square and Ladeuzeplein with its cozy atmosphere. Known for its focus on sustainability, the market offers a range of eco-friendly gifts and organic treats. The city's university vibe contributes to the lively atmosphere, with carol singers and live bands performing throughout the season. The market typically opens in early December and continues until just before Christmas.

We Recommend: Indulge in a glass of glühwein, the traditional mulled wine, which is a staple at the Leuven Christmas market and perfect for keeping the chill at bay.

Liège's Place Saint-Lambert

Liège hosts the largest and oldest Christmas market in Belgium, known as the Village de Noël. Place Saint-Lambert and Place du Marché are filled with over 200 chalets offering a wide array of products, from handcrafted goods to seasonal food items. The market is famous for its jovial atmosphere, complete with a Ferris wheel, ice-skating rink, and the much-loved Après-Ski bar. The festivities usually kick off in late November and last until the end of December.

We Recommend: Don't leave without trying the Liège waffle, a richer, denser, sweeter, and chewier waffle native to the region, often served warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream.

Namur's Place d'Armes

Namur's Christmas market brings a warm and inviting atmosphere to the Place d'Armes and surrounding streets. With its illuminated Ferris wheel and a variety of stalls, the market offers a traditional Christmas experience. Local artisans display their crafts, and visitors can enjoy seasonal treats and mulled wine while browsing. The market typically opens in early December and runs until the New Year.

We Recommend: Taste the escargots, a popular savory snack at the Namur Christmas market, which may be a surprising treat for those looking to try something uniquely Belgian.

Mechelen's Grote Markt

The charming city of Mechelen lights up during the holiday season with its Christmas market set in the Grote Markt. The market is smaller and more intimate than some of Belgium's larger city markets, offering a peaceful holiday shopping experience. Visitors can find handcrafted gifts, local delicacies, and enjoy the festive decorations that adorn the city center. The Christmas market in Mechelen usually starts in mid-December and lasts until Christmas Eve.

We Recommend: For a sweet treat, try the speculaas, a spiced shortcrust biscuit that's particularly popular during the Christmas season in Belgium.