10 best Christmas markets in Belgium

Cozy squares surrounded by historic buildings, twinkling lights brightening the dark winter evenings, and the scent of warm waffles and mulled wine in the air: Christmas markets in Belgium are an experience in themselves. From the fairytale streets of Bruges to the lively winter villages in Brussels and Antwerp, you’ll find a unique mix of tradition and warmth everywhere. As you stroll past stalls filled with handmade gifts and seasonal treats, the magic of the holidays truly comes to life. Recently, I decided to discover the charm of these markets for myself. From iconic squares to hidden gems, Belgium has a Christmas market for every type of visitor. In this guide, I’ll share the 10 best Christmas markets in Belgium you simply can’t miss..

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Christmas markets in Belgium

Christmas markets in Belgium have a rich history. They originated centuries ago as places where craftsmen sold their goods during Advent. What began as a practical market has grown into a cherished tradition that has become an essential part of the holiday season.

Today, a Christmas market is about much more than shopping for gifts. You can enjoy twinkling lights brightening up the winter evenings, music echoing through the streets, and mouthwatering aromas in the air. Think waffles, hot chocolate, and mulled wine. Every stall and every square adds to the special atmosphere.

Why are they so popular in Belgium? Because Christmas markets perfectly match our need for coziness and togetherness. They’re places where you meet friends, make memories with family, and discover local specialties at the same time. It’s where tradition and joy come together.

Moreover, Christmas markets bring light to the darkest days. They offer a moment to pause, to enjoy, and to immerse yourself in the magic of winter. For tourists, they’re a major attraction. For locals, they’re above all an invitation to step away from the rush of daily life and experience the warmth of being together.

The 10 Best Christmas Markets in Belgium

Winter glow in Bruges

Winter Glow in Bruges is the perfect way to experience the city in full Christmas spirit. All around, you’ll find twinkling lights, festive stalls, and wintry surprises. On the Markt, you can stroll between charming wooden chalets filled with Christmas decorations, handcrafted gifts, and delicious treats. The scent of waffles, Belgian chocolate, and hot mulled wine completes the magical atmosphere. For a quieter alternative, head to Simon Stevin Square, where you’ll discover a more intimate Christmas market with local products and authentic crafts. Perfect for picking up unique gifts.

One of the highlights is the Light Experience Trail. This five-kilometer route leads you every evening past dazzling installations. Bruges transforms into a magical open-air museum that continues to surprise you at every turn.

Ice skating is also part of the fun. In King Albert I Park, with the fairytale Minnewater Lake as a backdrop, you can glide across a beautiful ice rink. Afterwards, warm up in the cozy winter bar next door, where you can enjoy seasonal drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.

Winter Glow runs from 21 November 2025 to 4 January 2026. From Sunday to Thursday, the market is open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. On Fridays and Saturdays, it stays open until 11:00 PM. On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve the market closes earlier, and special hours also apply on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. This way, every day of Winter Glow feels just a little different.

Where to stay in Bruges

After a day full of lights and festive cheer at Winter Glow, it’s wonderful to stay overnight in Bruges. In my blog 10 hidden gems for authentic and luxurious stays in Bruges, I share my favorite places. Personally, I have three absolute top recommendations. For those who love elegance and a touch of grandeur, Hotel De Castillion is a truly enchanting choice. If you prefer a comfortable and stylish stay in the heart of the city, Hotel Dukes’ Academie is ideal. For something more intimate with a romantic flair, B&B Canal Deluxe is a great option, with rooms overlooking the water.

Ghent winter Festival

The Ghent Winter Festival makes the city center of Ghent even cozier than it already is. More than 150 wooden chalets fill the squares and streets. You can wander from Sint-Baafs Square through Botermarkt and Klein Turkije all the way to Korenmarkt. Everywhere you’ll find garlands of greenery, twinkling lights, and festive decorations. Stalls offer food, drinks, crafts, and original gifts. Towering above it all is a Ferris wheel, giving you a breathtaking view over the festive city.

A true showstopper is the Winter Castle of Wonders. The medieval Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen) is bathed in a fairytale atmosphere with enchanting lighting, Christmas decorations, and festive music. In the castle’s old stables, you’ll also find a winter bar, an atmospheric spot to enjoy a drink or snack in a unique historic setting.

For extra winter fun, head to Emile Braun Square. Here you can skate in a magical setting with views of the city pavilion. After skating, warm up at Chez Babette, the après-skate bar right next to the rink.

The Ghent Winter Festival runs from 4 to 31 December 2025. From Sunday to Thursday, everything is open from 12:00 PM until midnight. On Fridays and Saturdays, the festivities continue until 1:00 AM. Special hours apply on holidays such as Christmas Day.

Where to stay in Ghent

Planning to stay a little longer after your visit to the Ghent Winter Festival? In my blogs, you’ll find plenty of tips from 15 charming B&Bs in Ghent to 12 unique hotels for a memorable stay in Ghent. Personally, I have four favorites I’d love to highlight. For a classic and stylish stay, The Post, enchants you with the grandeur of a former post office. Prefer something modern and urban? Yalo Urban Boutique Hotel is a great choice, with a trendy vibe and a rooftop bar. If you’re looking for something smaller and homier, B&B Le Petit Prince feels like a warm retreat in the city. And for those who love luxury and refinement, Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof is a dream address, with stunning interiors and a wonderful spa.

Winter wonders in Brussels

Winter Wonders in Brussels is one of the largest and most popular Christmas markets in the world. The entire city center transforms into a winter wonderland. You can stroll from the Grand Place to the Fish Market, from De Brouckère to Mont des Arts. Along the way, you’ll discover hundreds of chalets filled with delicious treats, gifts, and crafts. At the Fish Market, an impressive Ferris wheel offers breathtaking views over the festive city.

The Grand Place is a highlight, with its magical light and sound show. Around the Stock Exchange, Place de la Monnaie, and Saint Catherine’s Square, you can soak up the lively atmosphere. On De Brouckère Square, you’ll find not only stalls but also an outdoor ice rink and curling lanes. Here you can skate in the open air and then warm up with a hot drink. This square’s market even remains open until 4 January.

Winter Wonders also features a rich cultural program full of music, dance, and street performances. Both children and adults will find something new every day. In addition, there’s Winter Pop: colorful caravans that tour different Brussels neighborhoods over three weekends. At Ambiorix Square, in Laeken, and in the Marolles district, you can enjoy performances, workshops, and local delicacies.

The atmosphere is festive and international, every corner of the city exudes warmth and cheer. From 28 November 2025 to 1 January 2026, the market is open daily from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM. On Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, and 4 January, it closes at 6:00 PM.

Where to stay in Brussels

Looking for the perfect place to stay during your visit? Check out my guide to the 15 stunning boutique hotels in Brussels, where I share my favorite stylish hotels for every type of city trip.

A few of my personal favorites are Hotel 9 Central, combining modern comfort with a trendy vibe, perfect if you love being in the heart of the action. For a more stylish and tranquil atmosphere, Pillows City Hotel Brussels Centre is an excellent choice, just steps away from the Grand Place. And if you’re looking for charm and elegance, Hotel Fleur radiates pure class.

Christmas market in Ostend

The Christmas market in Ostend transforms the Belgian coast into a charming winter village. In Leopold Park, more than fifty wooden chalets await. You can taste seasonal treats, shop for original gifts, and instantly soak up the festive spirit. At the heart of the park lies the ice rink, where you can glide under sparkling lights while the city buzzes around you.

But Ostend has even more surprises in store. On Adolf Buyl Street, the magical light tunnel shines brightly. Stretching over 180 meters, its colorful lights create a dazzling show. Every day you can enjoy a spectacle of light and music in perfect harmony, an experience you simply can’t miss.

Something special also awaits on Mariakerke Beach. During the Christmas holidays, a maze of five hundred Christmas trees offers a fairytale-like adventure. Children and adults alike love wandering through it—it feels as if you’ve stumbled upon a secret forest right by the sea.

The Ostend Christmas market may be smaller than those in the big cities, but that’s what makes it unique. Its cozy atmosphere, combined with the fresh sea air, creates an experience you won’t find anywhere else.

The opening hours for 2025 will be announced later, but the atmosphere remains the same. Last year, the market was open daily, with extended evening hours on weekends and special schedules for Christmas and New Year. However you plan your visit, Ostend welcomes you with light, music, and winter magic.

Where to stay in Ostend

Want to extend your visit to the Ostend Christmas market with an overnight stay? There are some wonderful places that make your trip even more special. Thermae Palace is a true coastal icon: a historic hotel that radiates grandeur and offers direct access to the beach. If you prefer a modern and playful atmosphere, Upstairs Hotel is a great choice, with creative design and an urban vibe. For a more unique and tranquil experience,Les Cabanes d’Ostende is ideal. Here, you’ll stay in charming wooden cabins surrounded by greenery, yet still within walking distance of the sea.

Winter in Antwerp

During Winter in Antwerp, the city transforms into a magical winter wonderland. From 5 December 2025 to 4 January 2026, the city center sparkles with lights, music, and festive cheer. More than one hundred stalls fill the Grote Markt, Groenplaats, Suikerrui, and Steenplein. As you wander past the chalets, you can taste waffles, discover unique gifts, and enjoy the warm holiday atmosphere.

The Groenplaats is one of the highlights. Here, you can glide across a stunning 1,000 m² covered ice rink. Afterwards, head to the winter bar for a steaming hot chocolate or mulled wine. On Handschoenmarkt, choirs perform around the Singing Christmas Tree. The square may be small, but the atmosphere is huge.

The Suikerrui turns into a sparkling avenue of lights, especially magical at dusk. On the Grote Markt, admire the impressive Christmas tree and listen to live broadcasts at the JOE Christmas House. Hendrik Conscience Square offers cozy stalls and fire pits, perfect for a quiet break.

Beyond the markets, there’s plenty more to experience. On Koningin Astrid Square, you can ride the Ferris wheel and enjoy a fantastic view over Antwerp. At Operaplein, you’ll find a nostalgic carousel and sometimes even spectacular acrobatic shows. On New Year’s Eve, the celebrations end with fireworks over the River Scheldt.

The Christmas market is open from Sunday to Thursday, 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and on Fridays and Saturdays until midnight. On 24 and 31 December, everything closes at 6:00 PM, while on 1 January the market opens at 2:00 PM.

Where to stay in Antwerp

Visiting Winter in Antwerp is even more special when you stay overnight in the city. For those who love exclusivity and tranquility, Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp is a dream destination: a historic monastery where luxury and refinement meet. At Hotel Franq, you’ll enjoy stylish elegance in a beautifully restored bank building, just a short walk from the Grote Markt. Prefer a fresh and contemporary vibe? Then SKPIR Hotel is the perfect choice, with its modern design and relaxed atmosphere.

Winterland in Hasselt

Winterland Hasselt transforms Kolonel Dusart Square into a glowing scene of winter magic. From 14 November 2025 to 4 January 2026, you can immerse yourself in twinkling lights, music, and festive cheer. In the cozy chalets and pavilions, you’ll find original gifts, handmade crafts, and warm treats. The perfect place to shop for presents while soaking up the Christmas spirit.

The absolute highlight is the Ferris wheel. From above, you can admire Hasselt in all its winter glory. On the covered 1,000 m² ice rink, you can glide gracefully across the ice, then warm up in the Grand Café or sip a drink in the charming Spiegeltent. Children will be enchanted by Santa’s House, where the magic of Christmas truly comes to life.

Food lovers are also well catered for. At the Bruno Foodcorner, you can sample Italian dishes, while the Grand Café offers hearty meals and mulled wine, making your visit a true feast for all the senses.

Strolling among the fifty stalls is an experience in itself. You’ll see artisans at work and discover unique Christmas decorations. Everywhere, a warm and festive atmosphere will bring a smile to your face.

Winterland is open from Friday to Sunday, 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and from Monday to Thursday, 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM. On 24 and 31 December, everything closes at 6:00 PM, while on New Year’s Eve the restaurants and bars stay open until 2:00 AM.

Where to stay in Hasselt

A visit to Winterland Hasselt becomes even more special if you add an overnight stay. In the heart of the city, you’ll find Door 9 Hasselt, an elegant townhouse with stylish rooms and a warm atmosphere. BareFoodGIULIA delights with creative design, a playful touch, and a very personal approach. Perfect for anyone looking for something unique. If you want complete relaxation, Hof van In & Wellness is the ideal choice. Surrounded by countryside, it offers comfort and soothing wellness facilities, adding an extra touch of charm to your winter getaway in Hasselt.

The Leuven Christmas Market

The Leuven Christmas Market bathes the city in a warm winter glow every year. From 9 to 21 December 2025, you can wander past more than one hundred charming chalets. Browse for original gifts, handmade decorations, and festive treats. The scent of waffles, hot chocolate, and mulled wine completes the experience.

The market takes place on Ladeuze Square and Hoover Square. On Ladeuze Square, you’ll find a lively atmosphere with dozens of stalls offering Christmas items and delicacies. Hoover Square has a more intimate vibe, featuring artisanal products and quiet corners. Together, the two squares create the perfect blend of vibrancy and charm.

For children, there’s extra magic. Santa Claus strolls through the market, ready to share hugs and smiles. While the little ones look around in wonder, you can relax with a warm drink or snack. As evening falls, the squares light up and music fills the air—Leuven truly feels like a fairytale city.

The Christmas market opens daily at 12:00 PM. From Tuesday to Saturday, it stays open until 11:00 PM; on Sundays and Mondays, it closes at 10:00 PM. On the final day, 21 December, the market closes earlier at 8:00 PM.

The Leuven Christmas Market may be smaller than Belgium’s big-name markets, but that’s exactly what makes it so charming. Here, you’ll experience an authentic, cozy Christmas spirit you won’t soon forget.

Where to stay in Leuven

If you’d like to extend your visit to the Leuven Christmas Market with an overnight stay, there are plenty of charming options. Martin’s Klooster offers accommodation in a stunning historic building where medieval details meet modern comfort. At the Begijnhof Hotel, you’ll stay in a peaceful setting next to the centuries-old Great Beguinage, perfect for escaping the city bustle. Prefer something livelier? Pentahotel Leuven is a great choice.

The Christmas village of Liège

The Christmas Village of Liège is a celebration that will put you right into the holiday spirit. From late November until 30 December 2025, the city transforms into a magical winter village. Nearly two hundred chalets fill Place Saint-Lambert and Place du Marché. As you stroll along, you’ll discover gifts, artisanal products, and winter treats. The scent of waffles and mulled wine completes the picture.

Beyond the market itself, there’s plenty of entertainment. Glide across the ice rink surrounded by music and lights. For some extra thrill, hop on the Châtel toboggan run. Or take a ride on the Ferris wheel and enjoy a fantastic view of the city in all its winter glory.

The charm of Liège also lies in the details. Narrow streets and squares glow with Christmas lights. As you wander through, you’ll constantly find new corners full of surprises. Music fills the air, and a lively bustle is everywhere. It feels as if the whole city is in a festive mood.

The exact opening hours for 2025 are yet to be confirmed. Last year, the market opened daily from 11:00 AM. From Sunday to Thursday, the festivities lasted until 10:00 PM, and on Fridays and Saturdays until midnight. Chances are this year will be similar.

Did you know that the Christmas Village of Liège is one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Belgium?

Where to stay in Liège

After a visit to the Christmas Village of Liège, it’s a real treat to spend the night in the city. Van der Valk Sélys Liège Hotel & Spa offers pure luxury in a stunning historic building, complete with wellness facilities for total relaxation. At Pentahotel Liège, you’ll stay in a trendy, contemporary hotel with a laid-back vibe—perfect if you like being in the heart of the city. Prefer something smaller-scale? Amosa Liège City Centre Hotel is a charming choice, with a warm atmosphere and central location.

The Namur Christmas Market

The Namur Christmas Market fills the entire city with festive spirit. From 28 November to 31 December 2025, Place d’Armes transforms into a cozy winter village. Around seventy chalets invite you to sample artisanal delicacies, shop for original gifts, and warm up with steaming mulled wine. The scent of waffles and chocolate will naturally draw you to the stalls.

But the market is just the beginning. Throughout December, concerts, brass bands, and folkloric groups bring music and life to Namur’s streets. Stilt walkers and street performers add delightful surprises at every corner, making it feel as if the whole city is part of a grand Christmas tale.

The ice rink sparkles with lights and music as skaters glide across the ice. Children beam with joy at the fairground rides and cheerful attractions, while adults can indulge in tasty snacks and warming drinks. A stroll through the market becomes an experience for all ages.

New Year’s Eve is an absolute highlight. At midnight, fireworks burst into the sky from the riverside, showering the city in color and sparks as the celebrations continue. It’s a magical moment you won’t soon forget.

The exact opening hours for 2025 are not yet confirmed. Last year, the market was open daily, with extended evenings on weekends. Chances are, this year will follow a similar schedule.

Where to stay in Namur

If you’d like to combine your visit to the Namur Christmas Market with an overnight stay, there are some wonderful options. Les Tanneurs charms with its historic buildings and cozy rooms, a place where tradition meets comfort. For a touch of elegance and grandeur, Le Château de Namur is an enchanting choice, set atop the citadel and surrounded by greenery. Prefer something modern and playful? Hotel The Royal Snail is the perfect fit, with warm design and contemporary flair that adds a surprising twist to your stay in the city.

The Durbuy Christmas Market

The Christmas market of Durbuy feels like stepping into a fairytale village. From 21 November 2025 to 4 January 2026, the world’s smallest city is transformed into a magical winter wonderland. In the medieval streets, you’ll find stalls filled with gifts, handicrafts, and seasonal treats. Twinkling lights and festive music all around instantly put you in the Christmas spirit.

The market is spread across three locations: Parc Roi Baudouin, Allée Verte, and the Anticline site. Every corner is beautifully decorated, inviting you to stroll at a leisurely pace. Be sure to try the local specialty: Durbuy’s famous patate au foie gras. Nowhere does it taste better than here.

Alongside the chalets, you’ll find a cozy ice rink. Skate beneath the lights, then warm up with mulled wine or hot chocolate. Thanks to Durbuy’s compact size, the experience feels especially intimate. Everything is close together, creating a truly cozy atmosphere.

Opening hours vary depending on the period. From 21 November to 14 December, the market is open on Fridays from 4:00 PM and on weekends from 11:00 AM. From 19 December to 4 January, it opens daily from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM. On 24 and 31 December, everything closes earlier at 6:00 PM.

Where to stay in Durbuy

A visit to the Durbuy Christmas Market becomes even more special if you stay overnight. The hotels of Maison Caerdinael are an excellent choice. This family manages three outstanding addresses in the heart of the city. At Hotel Victoria, you’ll enjoy a warm, homely atmosphere with a cozy interior. Hotel LEA combines style and intimacy, making it ideal for a romantic getaway. And 7 by Juliette offers playful boutique charm that is sure to put a smile on your face.

For those who love luxury and refinement, Hotel Sanglier is a true Durbuy icon, blending high-level gastronomy with exceptional comfort.

With so many atmospheric Christmas markets spread across the country, Belgium becomes one big celebration during the winter months. Whether you choose the grand magic of Brussels, the cozy charm of Durbuy, or the fairytale lights of Bruges, a unique experience awaits you everywhere. I hope this guide helps you plan your perfect Christmas outings. Head out, taste the seasonal treats, admire the lights, and let yourself be immersed in the warmth and festive spirit of Belgium’s Christmas markets.