Known as the ‘Venice of the North’, Bruges is one of Europe’s loveliest and best-preserved mediaeval towns, offering the perfect surroundings for a traditional Christmas Market. In the run up to Christmas, the city becomes transformed by a series of events known as ‘Winter Glow’, including Christmas markets, ice skating, shopping and an interactive light trail spanning 2.5km of the city. Easily accessible by Eurostar via Brussels, Bruges is an excellent choice for a festive escape.

From the last weekend in November to early January, there are daily markets in Simon Stevinplein Square and Market Square. While not the largest in Belgium, Bruges’ intimate markets offer an extensive selection of shopping, traditional food and drink and carols, as well as a specially built ice-skating rink .

One of the most picturesque places in the city, the Market Square is lined with illuminated gothic buildings and the towering silhouette of Bruges’ Belfry tower. Within the market there are wooden stalls offering everything from traditional crafts to food and sweet treats. The smaller of the Bruges’ markets, in Simon Stevinplein Square has a collection of stalls specialising in handmade crafts and artisan goods. Ideal for finding unique and sustainable gifts, the vast selection of handmade crafts is an excellent destination for Christmas shopping.

The sweet smell of waffles and festive spices run throughout the market: Belgian waffles are made fresh along with famous Belgian chocolate that can be eaten or enjoyed in hot drinks. Thin, spiced biscuits (speculoos), shaped as St Nicholas (Sinterklaas) are commonly enjoyed during the festive season- the perfect companion to a velvety hot chocolate.

Light Experience Trail

Bruges’ two Christmas markets are accompanied by an immersive light trail, spanning over 2.5km of the city. Using intricate holographs and light technology, this interactive exhibition brings colour to the dark winter evenings. Open from 5pm to midnight, it is a novel way to explore the city for all ages.