As well as being a great weekend city break, Brussels at Christmas is magical. The city is full of Christmas Markets, plus the light show in Grand Place is unmissable. Check out my guide to Christmas in Brussels.
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Looking for other things to do in Brussels in between the Christmas markets? Read my guide to the top 10 things to do in Brussels. Or for more European Christmas magic, check out my blogs on Christmas in Vienna and Christmas in Prague.
If you’re planning a trip to Brussels and would like a useful guide and map to take with you, I’d recommend getting this guide to help plan your trip (affiliate).
Grand Place
The huge Christmas tree in the centre of the Grand Place is great, as well as the nativity scene which some years has real animals. But this sight really comes alive in the evenings at Christmas with the light and music show. Every hour, the stunning buildings are lit up with dancing lights in time to music. Check out the website for the most up to date schedule for the light show.
Place Sainte-Catherine
This area of Brussels is one of the main centres of festive activities. Christmas markets crowd the square, where you can buy unique gifts for all your friends and family as well as enjoy the vast variety of food and drink available. There are other attractions here too – a huge Ferris wheel and ice skating rink. There’s easily enough here for a whole evening of fun.
Stock Exchange
Christmas markets also line the streets around the Brussels stock exchange. There are always cute gifts to browse, and also lots of options for food and drink.
Christmas market food, drink and gifts
One of the highlights of any trip to Christmas markets for me is the food and drink on offer, as well as the chance to browse the markets for unique gifts. As you’d expect in Belgium, it’s difficult to be too far away from a stall selling Belgian waffles, with a variety of sweet toppings. Once you’ve had your fill of waffles, warm up with a mug of mulled wine as you browse the Christmas decorations on sale.