Brussels and Bruges Christmas Markets 2025: Your Winter Travel Guide and Itinerary

Discover the magic of Brussels and Bruges Christmas Markets 2025, from Eurostar travel tips to festive food, gifts, and winter experiences.

Brussels and Bruges Christmas Markets 2025: Your Winter Travel Guide and Itinerary

If you’re looking for a festive European getaway, then Belgium’s Christmas markets are hard to beat. Each winter the country becomes a showcase of traditional food and craftsmanship, and can be reached in under two hours on the Eurostar from London. 

Departing from St Pancras International, you’ll be in the heart of Brussels before you know it, with easy onward trains to Bruges. It’s the simplest and most stylish way to experience two of Europe’s best Christmas markets in one trip.

This guide covers everything you need to plan your visit, including what to eat and where to stay in 2025, so you can make the most of your festive Belgian break.

Here’s what you’ll find inside:

Brussels Christmas Market page

How to get to the Belgium Christmas markets 2025

Start your journey at St Pancras International, London’s gateway to Europe and the easiest route to Belgium’s Christmas markets. Take a moment to admire our famous Christmas Tree, pick up some treats for the train from Fortnum and Mason, before leisurely boarding the Eurostar direct to Brussels.

How to get to Brussels from London

The Eurostar from London St Pancras to Brussels-Midi takes just 1 hour 53 minutes. From there, hop on a quick local train to Brussels Central, which is one stop away from the Grand Place Christmas Market.

How to get to Bruges from London

If you’re continuing your journey from Brussels to Bruges, you can board a direct Intercity (IC) train from Brussels-Midi. Services run up to four times an hour and take about one hour, bringing you within minutes of Bruges’ market square. For the smoothest journey, book your onward ticket through SNCB, Belgium’s national rail service. With an early Eurostar from London, you could be browsing Bruges’ market chalets by lunchtime.

Highspeed tip: Ahead of your Eurostar journey, arrive at St. Pancras early to enjoy a pre-departure toast at St. Pancras Bar & Brasserie. Who says your Christmas holiday can’t begin before you board?

Best Christmas markets in Brussels 2025

There’s nothing quite like Brussels at Christmas. Every winter, the capital transforms into a maze of markets, all part of Winter Wonders Brussels, one of Europe’s biggest and best Christmas events. Running from 28 November 2025 to 4 January 2026, this five-week celebration stretches for over 2 km through the city, uniting Grand Place, Place Sainte-Catherine, Marché aux Poissons, Place de la Bourse, and Place de la Monnaie into one seamless Christmas experience.

You’ll find over 250 wooden chalets selling everything from handmade gifts to gourmet Belgian chocolate, as well as pop-up bars serving glühwein, waffles, and raclette beneath canopies of Christmas lights. Families love the merry-go-rounds at Place Sainte-Catherine, while the Ferris wheel at Marché aux Poissons offers a panoramic view of the entire market below.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Brussels Christmas markets in 2025:

Winter Wonders 2025, Brussels

Dates: 28 November 2025 – 4 January 2026

Opening hours:
Monday to Sunday: 12pm – 10pm
Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve: 12pm – 6pm

Admission: Free

Website: Be sure to explore the official Winter Wonders website before your trip.

Grand Place Christmas Market and Light Show

Location: Grand Place, 1000 Brussels

Why we love it: The city’s showpiece square features a life-size Nativity scene, towering Christmas tree, and its famous light show projected onto the UNESCO-listed guildhalls. A must-see moment that captures Brussels at its most magical.

Highspeed tip: The show is performed every 30 minutes on weekends and hourly during the week.

Marché aux Poissons and Place Sainte-Catherine

Location: Quai aux Briques and Place Sainte-Catherine, 1000 Brussels

Why we love it: This is the largest and liveliest section of the Brussels Christmas Market 2025, with more than 200 chalet stalls and the city’s Ferris wheel rising above it all. The food offering here is unmatched, including classics like tartiflette, waffles topped with whipped cream, or a cone of frites with truffle mayo. For something different, Sainte-Catherine’s Canadian stalls serve maple syrup, ice wine and poutine.

Highspeed tip: Don’t miss the small bar just beside the Ferris wheel. They serve steaming mugs of Belgian hot chocolate with amaretto.

Place de la Bourse, Brussels

Location: In front of the former Brussels Stock Exchange

Why we love it: A favourite among locals, Place de la Bourse combines artisanal stalls with the smell of raclette and mulled wine. It’s also one of the most photogenic stops, framed by the newly restored Bourse building and surrounded by independent bars and cafés.

Highspeed tip: A good rule of thumb while exploring the Brussels Christmas market is to carry cash, as not all vendors accept bank cards.

Place de la Monnaie, Brussels

Location: Outside the Royal Theatre of La Monnaie, home to the National Opera

Why we love it: Compact but atmospheric, Place de la Monnaie is the quieter counterpart to the main market squares. It hosts pop-up bars in heated domes and a cosy chalet run by the La Monnaie opera house, which sells gift vouchers and show information. Throughout the season, the opera’s choirs perform live in the square.

Highspeed tip: Visit early evening to catch the choir performances and enjoy a drink in one of the domes.

Place de Brouckère, Brussels

Location: Boulevard Anspach, 1000 Brussels

Why we love it: The Place de Brouckère has become the market’s new focal point in recent years, home to a large ice rink and a curling track surrounded by alpine-style bars. The atmosphere is lively but family-friendly, with live music and street performers.

Highspeed tip: The skating rink is completely covered by a transparent roof, making it a perfect activity whatever the weather.

Best Christmas markets in Bruges 2025

Bruges has quickly earned its reputation as a rival to the Christmas markets of Brussels, offering all the festive atmosphere with a slower, more intimate feel. Thanks to its canals, the city is affectionately referred to as the “Venice of the North”, and its cobblestone streets are taken over by local makers every winter. Known as Winter Glow, the city-wide event runs from 21 November 2025 to 4 January 2026, bringing two central market hubs, an ice rink, a light trail and plenty of festive stalls.

Winter Glow 2025, Bruges

Dates: 21 November 2025 – 4 January 2026

Opening hours:
Sunday to Thursday: 11am – 8pm (some stalls until 10pm)
Friday and Saturday: 11am – 9pm (some stalls until 11pm)
Christmas Eve: until 5pm (some stalls until 11pm)
New Year’s Eve: stalls open until 3am in places

Admission: Free

Website: For more information, check out the official Winter Glow website.

Grote Markt (main market square), Bruges

Location: Simon Stevinplein, 8000 Bruges

Why we love it: Set beneath the towering Belfry in Bruges’ historic heart, the market at Grote Markt captures everything people love about a European Christmas market. Over 150 wooden chalets line the square, offering Belgian classics such as beer, chocolates, waffles, and mulled wine. You’ll also find an outdoor ice rink and skating area near the square, and the entire area is lit with Christmas lights from late afternoon.

Highspeed tip: Back for the seventh year in a row, the Winter Glow light trail is 3.5km long and guides you through the best Christmas lights in Bruges. Featuring 10 unique light installations, this year’s edition, Machina Lumina, is fantasy-themed and immersive. Book tickets on the Winter Glow website.

Simon Stevinplein (Craft Market), Bruges

Location: Simon Stevinplein, 8000 Bruges

Why we love it: Just a five-minute stroll from Grote Markt lies Simon Stevinplein, a smaller market with distinct character and classic Flemish architecture. Part local artisan fair, part festive pop-up, here you’ll find wood-carved toys, traditional Belgian lace, craft items and gourmet regional foods. It’s a refreshing contrast to the busier main market. The atmosphere is notably calmer, and the square’s tree-lined edges and nearby cafés make it perfect for a slower browse.

Highspeed tip: Be sure to stop and chat with stallholders, many of whom live locally and make their products by hand.

Brussels Christmas Market page (1)

Where to stay near the Brussels Christmas markets 2025

Budget accommodation in Brussels

Hotel Campanile Brussels: Rooms start around €70 per night.

Why we love it: Reliable and comfortable, although worth noting that it’s situated a 15-minute drive from the Grand Place.

Highspeed tip: The hotel offers a bike rental service, if you fancy giving your feet a rest and cycling around the city instead.

Mid-range accommodation in Brussels

Novotel Brussels City Centre: From €120 on certain dates.

Why we love it: A stylish, family-friendly stay between the Bourse and Sainte-Catherine markets, with an indoor pool and breakfast options.

Highspeed tip: If you’re into art, walk across the Manneken Pis to the Magritte Museum where you can admire its iconic collections.

Luxury accommodation in Brussels

Hotel Amigo Brussels: From €420 per night.

Why we love it: Perfectly placed between Grand Place and Manneken Pis, Hotel Amigo is a landmark in its own right, and serves up live jazz and late-night cocktails each evening.

Highspeed tip: The hotel is home to Belgium’s best Italian restaurant, Ristorante Bocconi.

Where to stay near the Bruges Christmas markets 2025

We’ve gathered the best hotels near the Brussels and Bruges Christmas markets, from budget-friendly options to luxury stays. Each one puts you within easy reach of the main market squares, making it simple to enjoy the festivities without the stress of long commutes.

Budget accommodation in Bruges

ibis budget Brugge Centrum Station: Rooms start around €60 – €80 per night.

Why we love it: Simple and close to everything, this reliable option is just a short walk from the main market square in Bruges. Ideal for travellers who want convenience without the price tag.

Highspeed tip: Opt for a room overlooking a canal if available.

Affordable accommodation in Bruges

Hotel Augustyn Brugge: From €87 for a double room.

Why we love it: Located near the main market square, this canalside hotel also offers family rooms.

Highspeed tip: If you’re hoping to self-cater throughout your trip, choose one of their rooms with a kitchenette.

Luxury accommodation in Bruges

Hotel Dukes’ Palace: From €232 for a superior room.

Why we love it: This 5-star hotel was the former residence of Burgundian aristocracy, and has a spa with a sauna and gym.

Highspeed tip: Check out the spa’s “salt wall”, built with 10,000-year-old stone from the Himalayas.

Top 3 things to consider when booking a hotel in Belgium

Finding the right base can make your Belgian Christmas trip much smoother. Both cities’ markets are compact and easy to explore on foot, so staying close to the main squares means you don’t need to use public transport.

Here are the most important things to keep in mind when booking accommodation at the Belgium Christmas markets:

  • Walkability: Choose accommodation within a 10-minute walk of the main markets. You’re already spending all day on your feet, so cutting down the commute time helps to preserve energy levels, especially if you’re travelling with children.
  • Book early for Christmas 2025: Market season fills hotels fast. Book accommodation as soon as you can to secure the best rates before demand increases.
  • Consider luggage storage: Arriving via Eurostar? Pick a hotel with luggage storage so you can start exploring the markets straight away without worrying about check-in time.

Best things to do near the Belgium Christmas markets 2025

There’s more to Brussels and Bruges than the markets themselves. Whether it’s ice skating or historic galleries, immersive light trails or seasonal food experiences, both cities offer a rich mix of activities to take your trip to the next level.

Here’s our curated list of festive highlights in Brussels and Bruges:

What to do near the Brussels Christmas markets

Ice skating at Place de la Brouckère

The rink is at the heart of the Winter Wonders market zone, and has a dedicated area for toddlers.

Tickets: There is no way of booking in advance, simply turn up on the day.

Prices (including skate rental):
Over 16 years old: €10
Under 16 years old: €5
Family (2 adults + 2 children): €25
Free for those accompanying people with reduced mobility

Highspeed tip: Remember to bring socks and gloves!

Light and sound show at Grand Place

When the sun sets, Brussels’ main square comes alive with a vibrant projection show set to festive music.

Tickets: Free, no booking required.

Highspeed tip: For an exclusive 360 panoramic view of the show, book an evening City Hall Tower experience where you can admire the festivities from above.

Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

Just a short walk from the markets, this historic glass-roofed arcade is beautifully decorated for Christmas and features cafés and boutique shops.

Tickets: Free to enter, with more information available on the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert website.

Highspeed tip: Keep your eyes peeled for a commemorative plaque on the walls, which marks the first showing of the Lumière brothers’ motion picture camera on 1 March 1896.

Santa’s workshop and family zone

Located behind the St. Catherine’s Church at the Black Tower, children can enjoy story-time sessions, craft workshops, and visits with Father Christmas in his grotto.

Tickets: There is no way of booking in advance, simply turn up on the day.

Highspeed tip: Swing by on Wednesdays, when there are live shows between 3pm – 7pm.

Winter Pop for kids

For families and younger visitors, Winter Pop brings festive fun to three Brussels neighbourhoods: Marolles, Square Ambiorix, and Laeken. Over three weekends, the streets are filled with Christmas activities and performances by local artists.

Tickets: There is no way of booking in advance, simply turn up on the day.

Highspeed tip: Events run daily from 12pm – 10pm (closing early on Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, and 5 January).

What to do near the Bruges Christmas markets

Horse-drawn carriage rides through the medieval centre

Let the clip-clop of hooves guide you past gothic façades and Christmas lights. The ride gives a perspective you can’t get on foot.

Tickets: You pay on location with the carriage driver, with a bank card or cash.

Highspeed tip: The carriages can be found on the western side of the Market Square. You get on near Sint-Amandsstraat. On Wednesday mornings, the carriages depart from Burg Square.

Ice-skating at King Albert I Park or Minnewater Lake

Skate in one of Bruges’ most picturesque locations, with historic buildings and softly lit canals around you. A quieter, more romantic alternative to the main market.

Tickets: There is no way of booking in advance, simply turn up on the day.

Prices:
Individual rate: €8.00 (both children and adults, with children under 4 skating for free).
Group rate: €7.50 (for 10 or more people).

Canal boat tour through Bruges

A slow boat ride offers a unique view of Bruges’ Christmas décor and some peace and quiet away from the main market squares.

Tickets: Prices and booking information can be found on the Visit Bruges website.

Highspeed tip: The boat companies all take the same route on the canals (and have the same prices) so you can board from any one of the five embarkation points in the centre of Bruges.

Belfry climb at Markt

For spectacular winter city views, climb the 366-step tower of Bruges’ Belfort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tickets: Prices and booking information can be found on the Visit Bruges website.

Highspeed tip: The Belfry tower is a municipal museum. During your climb up, you will pass four historic rooms: the bell room, the drum room, the tower room, and the treasury room.

Light experience trail at Winter Glow

Walk the mapped Machina Lumina route through Bruges’ streets and squares. Each installation is interactive, so you help shape the light as you move through the city.

Tickets: There is no way of booking in advance, simply turn up on the day.

Highspeed tip: The trail is 3.5km long and best experienced after dark, so be sure to wrap up warm and wear comfy footwear.

Brussels Christmas Market page (2)

Top 10 Belgian treats you have to try at the markets this Christmas

Traditional Belgian food is the highlight of Belgium’s Christmas markets. In Brussels and Bruges, festive stalls brim with seasonal specialties that are perfect for gifting or just enjoying on the spot. Below is a list of the top 10 classic Belgian treats to seek out during your trip.

1. Artisan chocolate and pralines

Belgium’s chocolate tradition dates back centuries, and its pralines and truffles are world-renowned. Market stalls often feature small-batch creations and inventive fillings.

Highspeed tip: Opt for a “flight” of four mini truffles to sample multiple flavours before committing to a larger box.

2. Belgian beer and jenever

Belgium has hundreds of unique beers, each with its own local history. Many market stalls sell seasonal brews and flavoured jenever, a juniper-based spirit considered the country’s precursor to gin.

Highspeed tip: Serve jenever neat over ice cubes for the most authentic Belgian taste.

3. Gaufres de Liège (Belgian waffles)

Warm, chewy, and caramelised at the edges, the Liège waffle is a Christmas-market staple. Traditionally made with pearl sugar and topped with chocolate or fruit, it’s a must-try snack as you wander the stalls.

Highspeed tip: Look for freshly pressed waffles on cast-iron grids. The smell of caramel signals the best ones.

4. Marzipan and nougat

Marzipan, often shaped and coloured for the season, and nougat are traditional Belgian sweets enjoyed at Christmas. Pistachio, orange, or rose flavours are common.

Highspeed tip: Look out for the unique Christmas creations, such as marzipan baubles and reindeer.

5. Belgian hot chocolate

Belgians elevate hot chocolate into a rich, luxurious treat, often blended with milk and whipped cream.

Highspeed tip: Ask for “moitié-moitié” (half milk, half cream): the locals’ favourite ratio for a rich but drinkable cup.

6. Warming winter soups

Belgian winter markets often feature soups like chicory (witloof), pumpkin potage, or Flemish stew served in bread bowls. These hearty options have roots in local cuisine and are ideal for warming up.

Highspeed tip: Some vendors sell vegetarian versions of Flemish stew, so don’t be afraid to ask.

7. Frites and festive sauces

Belgian fries are a national staple, and market vendors serve them with seasonal sauces like truffle mayo or mustard-beer dip.

Highspeed tip: Follow the queues of locals. They usually mark the best, crispiest fries.

8. Festive crêpes and apple beignets

Thin crêpes and deep-fried apple fritters dusted with sugar are a classic Belgian street treat during the holidays.

Highspeed tip: Pair with hot cider for a traditional winter combination.

9. Smoutebollen

Also called “lard balls,” these deep-fried dough fritters are a seasonal favourite in Belgium, crisp on the outside and pillowy inside.

Highspeed tip: Some smoutebollen contain raisins, while others are pure dough. Be sure to specify your preference with the vendor.

10. Speculoos (spiced shortcrust cookies)

Speculoos has been a staple of Belgian baking for centuries. Its signature spiced flavour of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves embodies the taste of Christmas.

Highspeed tip: Try a speculoos latte or a speculoos spread on a freshly baked waffle for a festive combination.

Your perfect Belgium Christmas itinerary 2025

If you’ve only got a long weekend to explore Belgium, and can’t decide between the Brussels or Bruges Christmas markets, the good news is: you don’t have to choose! Here’s a realistic itinerary to see both in one trip, travelling from St Pancras International via Eurostar.

Day 1: London → Brussels

Morning: Board the Eurostar from St. Pancras International to Brussels Midi, journey time around 2 hours.

Midday: Check in at your hotel near the markets. Grab lunch at one of the food chalets: perhaps Belgian waffles or a tartiflette for an indulgent festive start.

Afternoon: Start at Grand Place for the light and sound show. Continue to Marché aux Poissons and Place Sainte-Catherine to enjoy the Ferris wheel, pop-up bars, and artisanal stalls.

Evening: Warm up with mulled wine or Belgian hot chocolate, and if you’re visiting with children, stop by Santa’s grotto. Catch a horse-drawn carriage ride back to your hotel.

Day 2: Brussels → Bruges

Morning: Take a direct IC train from Brussels Midi to Bruges, around 1 hour. From the station, it’s a 20-minute walk to the city centre and Christmas markets.

Midday: Check in at your Bruges hotel. Start your exploration at the Grote Markt, sampling Liège waffles and artisan chocolates. Don’t miss the new Machina Lumina light trail, which will help you get your bearings of the city.

Afternoon: Head to Simon Stevinplein to browse the craft stalls, then enjoy ice-skating at King Albert I Park or Minnewater Lake.

Evening: Wrap up with a relaxed dinner of Flemish stew, and walk back to your hotel along the canals.

Day 3: Bruges → Brussels → London

Morning: Climb the Belfry of Bruges for panoramic city views, or take a canal boat tour for one last look at the city.

Midday: Return to Brussels via IC train from Bruges, then connect to Eurostar and make your way home to St. Pancras International.

Afternoon: Arrive back at St. Pancras International, and stop by the Christmas tree for a final dose of festive spirit.

St Pancras x GOSH Christmas Tree_005

Family-friendly travel tips from the Highspeed team

If you’re visiting the Brussels and Bruges Christmas markets with children, a little planning goes a long way. Below are our top family-friendly travel tips to help make your visit as smooth as possible.

What should I pack to visit the Christmas markets?

Belgium’s winters can be chilly, especially in the evenings. Pack warm layers, waterproof jackets, gloves, hats, and scarves for everyone. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the cobbled streets can get slippery. Don’t forget reusable water bottles, snacks for little ones, and a power bank for your phone or camera.

How can I make travel easier with kids?

Take advantage of the family-friendly facilities at St Pancras International and onboard Eurostar. The station offers step-free access, wide platforms, baby-changing areas, and plenty of family dining options for pre-travel meals. On Eurostar trains, you can book seats together in advance and find dedicated spots for prams. Pack small games or colouring books to keep little travellers entertained along the way.

Are the Christmas markets buggy-friendly?

Yes, but with a few caveats. The main paths in Brussels’ and Bruges’ markets are generally buggy-accessible, though weekends and evenings can get crowded. A lightweight or foldable buggy is ideal for navigating busy areas, or you could consider a baby carrier for maximum flexibility.

Any tips for keeping kids entertained?

Make it a game! Let them pick their favourite Christmas decoration or count how many reindeer they spot. Once you arrive, there’s plenty to keep kids occupied, including Santa grottos, ice skating, light trails and sweet treats.

What’s the best time to visit the markets with children?

Weekday mornings or early afternoons are the most relaxed times to visit. Crowds tend to build in the evenings, especially on Fridays and weekends. Visiting during daylight also makes it easier to keep an eye on little ones while still enjoying the festive atmosphere.

The journey home

We hope this guide has helped you make the most of your Belgian Christmas market adventure. When it’s time to return to London, your high-speed train journey will feel like an extension of your holiday, giving you a final chance to savour the festive memories. Before you know it, you’ll be back at St. Pancras International, carrying the magic of the season with you.