With the festive season fast approaching and Brussels’ Plaisirs d’Hiver Christmas market set to open on November 28, another Belgian Christmas market is already the talk of the town. According to Time Out, the Bruges Christmas market is making dreams come true far beyond our borders: it has just been ranked 16th in the top 20 most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. Easily accessible from Brussels, and open from November 21, it’s the perfect getaway for families, couples or friends.
Bruges Christmas Market: one of the top 20 in Europe
Nicknamed the Venice of the North, Bruges is splendid all year round, with its enchanting medieval decor. But when Christmas arrives, the city is adorned with lights and a unique atmosphere that make it even more enchanting. From November 21, as part of Winter Glow, Bruges’ equivalent of Winter Fun, not one, but two Christmas markets will come to life in the Flemish city.
The main Market Square will host a traditional Christmas market, while Simon Stevin Square will showcase artisanal and short-circuit products. Both sites are within easy walking distance of each other. Along the way, any excuse is good for a glass of mulled wine or peket.
Winter Glow also offers a wide range of activities, including an ice rink in the Parc Roi Albert Ier, and a spectacular 3.5 km immersive light trail featuring ten unique artistic installations. By the way, if you like light experiences but don’t feel like leaving Brussels, we also recommend Ballet of Lights.
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A magical Christmas market less than an hour by train from Brussels
A week before Brussels, Bruges’ Christmas markets welcome you from November 21, 2025 to January 4, 2026. Stalls are open from 11am to 8pm Sunday to Thursday, and until 9pm on Fridays and Saturdays (some even extend until 11pm). And good news for Bruxellois: Bruges is super-easy to get to, whether by train (the fastest links the two cities in 53 minutes) or by car.
📍 Address: Place du Marché + place Simon Stevin, Bruges
🗓️ Dates: November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026
🎟️ Price: free admission