Bruges Christmas Markets
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Horse and carriage ride in Bruges ©Visit Bruges, Toerisme Brugge, Jan D'Hondt
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Shopping in Bruges ©Visit Bruges, Toerisme Brugge, Jan D'Hondt
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Christmas Market on Markt and Simon Stevin Square ©Visit Bruges, Toerisme Brugge, Jan Darthet
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Bruges Canal ©Emma Beard
Tried and Tested - Book now for 2023
Looking for a festive break? Bruges Christmas Markets are one of, if not the best in Europe.
This medieval city turns into a fairy-tale city during the festive period. Bruges is thought of as one of the best preserved cities in Europe and is extremely popular throughout the year. However, during this period, visitors can experience the true Belgian lifestyle. Indulge in their famous food and beers along with all the merriment of the Christmas season. Christmas music fills the air along with the aromas of mulled wine and winter spices. Trees are strung with fairy lights and piles of Christmas trees for sale add to the Christmas atmosphere.
The main square, Grote Markt is where the main market takes place. With its pretty, wooden chalets surrounding a glittering ice rink, skaters swish and stumble in the shadow of the 83m-high belfry. If you can face the 366 steps to the bells at the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the chocolate-box city below. There’s another market in smaller, tree-lined Simon Stevinplein but, with no shortage of tempting chocolatiers and cosy cafés en route, the short walk might take longer than you’d expect.
Furthermore, fans of art will also find numerous fine examples of Flemish Art in the city’s many museums that are open during this time. Beautiful the year round, what better location than Bruges for a festive Christmas market? Based at our favourite hotel in Bruges, the Academie Hotel, everything is on your doorstep for a fantastic festive break. Why not also enjoy a day in Brussels to experience their fantastic markets as well. Visit two of Belgium’s most iconic destinations!
Dates
November - December 2023
Suggested Excursions
Bruges Sightseeing
Why not visit Historium Brugge and look back at the history of Bruges from 1435 in 5S, a new concept that stimulates the five senses. From a cinematic panorama to breathing in different aromas you will have a magical experience (prices on request). The afternoon is free to explore Bruges further and sample the delights of the Christmas Market. Why not take a relaxing canal cruise (subject to canals not being frozen!) and see the town from a different angle or visit one of the many museums housing some of the finest examples of Flemish Art. Enjoy the many tourist attractions including the brewery, chocolate museum, Picasso Museum or just wander the cobbled streets filled with tempting shops, bars and restaurants.
Brussels Sightseeing
Make an excursion to the capital of Belgium and a city of many contrasts. An optional guided tour will highlight all the places of interest including the Atomium and the Mannekin Pis. Stroll around the Grand Place, one of the most famous squares in Europe, or visit many of the designer shops in the Quartier Louise. The famous Christmas Markets are spread throughout the city with the largest being on Place St Catherine along with its ice rink and ferris wheel. The market is bursting with continental atmosphere and quaint wooden chalets offering an array of festive delights.
Featured Hotel – Inspected by Greatdays Staff October 2019
Academie Hotel, Bruges
The Academie Hotel is less than 100 metres from the famous Minnewater in a scenic and peaceful area of Bruges. The hotel includes a cosy bar, underground parking and a terrace garden with a fish pond. Air conditioning, a TV and refrigerator are provided as standard in the rooms at Academie. Each room also has a private bathroom with a shower and a bath. The Beguinage and De Halve Maan Brewery are less than 150 metres away. Academie is a 10-minute walk from the Grote Markt. A daily buffet breakfast is served in the cellar of the hotel and includes pastries, breads and fresh coffee. There is also a lounge with tourist information and computers with free internet access. Bruges’ coach drop-off area is just a few minutes walk from the hotel, and the main coach parking is a 10 minute walk from the Academie.
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- Academie Hotel reception
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- Academie Hotel bedroom
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- Academie Hotel breakfast room
Le Bois De Bruges (formerly Parkhotel, Bruges)
Inspected by Greatdays staff in October 2019
The Le Bois de Bruges is located in the centre of medieval Bruges, a 10-minute walk from the Market Square with the Belfry of Bruges, the Basilica of the Holy Blood and the shopping district. Guests can benefit from free WiFi and bicycle rental services are available. The air-conditioned rooms feature a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a minibar and a safety deposit box. The en-suite bathroom is fitted with a bath or shower and free toiletries. Guests of the hotel can enjoy a refreshing drink at the bar. A wide choice of eating facilities can be found in the immediate surroundings of the hotel.
Looking for more Festive Breaks?
| 4 days by Land and Sea | Half Twin/Double | Single Supplement |
| December 2023 | From £135.00 per person | From £75.00 per person |
