Brussels Christmas Markets 2023-2024: 🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

Brussels is gearing up to host yet another Christmas Market, building on the success of its previous editions. It runs from Friday, November 24, 2023, to Saturday, December 31, 2023. It is open from 12:00 noon to 10:00 pm daily except on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve when it closes at 06:00 pm. and remains a key element of the Winter Wonders in Brussels. The Brussels Christmas Markets covers two kilometers (1.2 miles) and features over 200 festive stalls. It extends from the Grand Place to the Place de la Monnaie, the Bourse and Place Sainte-Catherine and even the Marché aux Poissons. Visitors can experience the joy of the season atop a Ferris wheel and enjoy other fairground attractions in the Place Sainte-Catherine, while for those seeking a magical ice-skating experience, the covered Brussels ice rink awaits at Place de la Monnaie. The Grand Place emerges as a central spot for Christmas cheer, filled with a large Christmas tree and hosting a captivating light show, complemented by video mapping on the splendid city hall. The culinary delights are a cornerstone of the Brussels Christmas Markets experience, from Belgian cheese, waffles and chocolate to traditional favorites like fries, mulled wine, hot chocolate and fondue sandwiches.

Listed below are the Brussels Christmas Markets for 2023:

• Grand Place Christmas Market: The Grand Place Christmas Market is part of Brussels’s Winter Wonders Festival, held annually from Friday, November 24, 2023, to Saturday, December 31, 2023. It is open daily from 12:00 noon to 10:00 pm except on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve when it closes at 06:00 pm. It is located in the city’s historic central square and features Brussels’s largest Christmas tree and nativity scene with live animals. The market is atmosphere-focused without vendors and offers a festive backdrop enhanced by the surrounding medieval buildings. Visitors can admire the architecture and nativity scene during the day, then return in the evening for a magical sound and light show on the façade of the historic Town Hall. It is easily accessed via public transport like the nearby Central Station.
• Marché aux Poissons Christmas Market: The lively Marché aux Poissons is part of Brussels’ Winter Wonders festival located along Quai aux Briques in the heart of the city. It features the iconic Grand Roue Ferris wheel and numerous festively decorated wooden chalets selling gifts and treats. Visitors can soak in the festive atmosphere for free, explore party pavilions, see a giant monster attraction and participate in seasonal fun. The market’s central location makes attractions like the historic Grand Place, Manneken Pis statue and Brussels City Hall all easily accessible. 
• La Bourse de Bruxelles Christmas Market: La Bourse de Bruxelles is a 19th-century former stock exchange building that now hosts markets and events. From Friday, November 24, 2023, to Saturday, December 31, 2023, it is open daily from 12:00 noon to 10:00 pm except on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, when it closes at 06:00 pm. 
• Place Sainte-Catherine Christmas Market: The lively Place Sainte-Catherine Christmas Market surrounds the Sainte-Catherine Church and La Tour Noire in Brussels. It showcases diverse cultures and cuisines from around the world and it offers a Ferris wheel, fairground attractions and a magical light show at the church every half an hour at night. Visitors can soak up the holiday atmosphere for free with vintage roundabouts and festive light displays while exploring international traditions.
• Place de la Monnaie Christmas Market: The Place de la Monnaie Christmas Market is located in the square near the Bourse and Tour Noire. It features stalls selling festive foods and decorations. The highlight is the Dome, a 360° high-tech installation hosting shows like a Saint-Nicolas party and art-house movies while being near Grand Place and Manneken Pis.

1. Grand Place Christmas Market

The Grand Place is part of the Winter Wonders Festival in Brussels, which is located on its city square. It features Brussels’s largest Christmas tree and a nativity scene with live animals. It is not a traditional market with vendors, but it offers a festive atmosphere with a must-see sound and light show every evening. The square’s historic buildings enhance the beauty, making it worthwhile to visit both during the day for the architecture and nativity scene and in the evening for the sound and light show. The Brussels Christmas Market in Grand Place is open from Friday, November 24, 2023, to Saturday, December 31, 2023. It is open daily from 12:00 noon to 10:00 pm except on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve when it closes at 06:00 pm. Visitors can easily find the market by heading towards the central square, Grote Markt. The exact coordinates are 50.8467° N and 4.3525° E. 

Grand Place in Brussels offers any visitor a unique and enjoyable experience. Visitors can enjoy the market’s Christmas tree and the nativity scene without any entry. During the day, explore the historic buildings surrounding the square, such as the Manneken Pis, which is a famous bronze statue of a little boy. The Atomium, a unique structure representing an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times, is accessible by public transport. The Royal Palace of Brussels, the official residence of the Belgian royal family, is another nearby landmark and the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, which is a historic shopping arcade, also offers a great place to explore and witness the nativity scene with real animals contribute to a culturally enriching visit, while in the evening, returning to enjoy the mesmerizing sound and light show gives an enjoyable experience.

Visitors can head towards the central square known as Grote Markt to reach the Grand Place in Brussels. If arriving by public transport, the Central Station is conveniently located and from there, it’s a short walk to the Grand Place. Subway users can take lines 1 and 5 to Central Station, while those coming from Brussels Midi/Zuid Station can easily transfer to the subway or take a short taxi ride to reach the destination.

2. Marché aux Poissons Christmas Market

The Marché aux Poissons is a lively part of Brussels’ Christmas celebrations, which is open from Friday, November 24, 2023, to Saturday, December 31, 2023. It is open from 12:00 noon to 10:00 pm daily except on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve when it closes at 06:00 pm. It is located at Quai aux Briques, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium. and features the iconic Grand Roue, a giant Ferris wheel symbolizing the Winter Wonders festival. The market, with its numerous wooden chalets, offers a variety of gifts and treats. Visitors can explore party pavilions, encounter a giant monster attraction and participate in the festive atmosphere. It is easily accessible in the heart of Brussels and visitors can find it at 50.8464° N and 4.3509° E coordinates. 

Marché aux Poissons offers visitors a lively and festive experience free of charge. The market provides an opportunity to soak in the holiday spirit with attractions like the Grand Roue, a giant Ferris wheel and the unique giant monster exhibit. The numerous wooden chalets offer diverse gifts and treats, making it an ideal place for holiday shopping, along with the presence of the Leffe beer brand pavilion, which gives it a touch of local flavor. The market’s central location in Brussels allows for easy access to numerous attractions in the area, such as the Grand Place, a central square surrounded by historic buildings and opulent guild halls. The  Manneken Pis,  which is a famous bronze statue depicting a little boy urinating and the Mont des Arts that offers panoramic views of the city, along with the Brussels City Hall and the Museum of the City of Brussels, which are nearby, providing insights into the city’s rich history and culture.

To reach the Marché aux Poissons, visitors can follow the central streets in Brussels toward the Marché aux Poissons address. The Grand Place serves as the starting point and then southeast through Rue du Midi, continuing until reaching the market area. Visitors arriving by public transport can use the nearby Bourse metro station to the west of the market. It is just a short walk eastward along Rue de la Fourche, which will lead them to Marché aux Poissons, making the market easily accessible for those exploring the city center.

3. La Bourse de Bruxelles Christmas Market

La Bourse de Bruxelles is a historic 19th-century Place de la Bourse building. It was originally designed as a stock exchange but now hosts various events and markets. The Christmas market in front of La Bourse features wooden chalets offering a range of gifts and delicacies, creating a festive atmosphere around the beautifully illuminated neo-renaissance structure. La Bourse de Bruxelles Christmas Market operates from Friday, November 24, 2023, to Saturday, December 31, 2023. It is open daily from 12:00 noon to 10:00 pm except on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, when it closes at 06:00 pm., allowing visitors to explore and enjoy the holiday spirit around the Brussels landmark. It is conveniently found right in front of the former stock exchange building, with the exact coordinates at 50.8503° N and 4.3506° E. 

Visiting La Bourse de Bruxelles offers a unique experience with no entrance fee, making it an accessible attraction for all. The market in front of this historic building provides a delightful opportunity to explore wooden chalets stocked with gifts and delicacies, creating a festive atmosphere. Beyond the market, visitors benefit from the historical significance of La Bourse, a 19th-century neo-renaissance masterpiece. The central location of Place de la Bourse also allows easy access to other attractions, such as the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its architecture and atmosphere.

Visitors can easily follow the directions to Place de la Bourse to reach La Bourse de Bruxelles. The market and festivities surround this landmark in front of the former stock exchange building. The nearest metro station is Bourse, providing convenient access for those arriving by public transport and it’s a short walk to the square, where the wooden chalets and festive atmosphere await. If visitors are exploring the city on foot, La Bourse is centrally positioned, making it easily accessible from various points in Brussels.

4. Place Sainte-Catherine Christmas Market

Place Sainte-Catherine is a lively Christmas market happening from Friday, November 24, 2023, to Saturday, December 31, 2023. It is open daily from 12:00 noon to 10:00 pm except on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, when it closes at 06:00 pm., around the Sainte-Catherine Church and La Tour Noire. It features diverse cultures and food from different countries. The market features vintage roundabouts, light displays and a light show at the Sainte Catherine Church every half-hour during the night. Visitors can enjoy a Ferris wheel and various fairground attractions. The coordinates are 50.8494° N latitude and 4.3494° E longitude. 

Visiting Place Sainte-Catherine offers a delightful holiday experience with no entrance fee. The market showcases diverse cultures, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to explore international traditions and savor various cuisines. The captivating light show at the Sainte Catherine Church creates a magical touch to the atmosphere. The adjacent Ferris wheel and fairground attractions enhance the festive fun, creating an enjoyable environment for all. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as La Tour Noire, enhancing their overall experience. 

Visitors using public transportation to reach Place Sainte-Catherine can take a bus or tram to Bourse and head eastward towards the lively atmosphere and festive lights, following the signs. The market is centered around Sainte-Catherine Church and La Tour Noire, which is easily accessible on foot from Bourse.

5. Place de la Monnaie Christmas Market

Place de la Monnaie is a square in Brussels, Belgium, that hosts a Christmas market from Friday, November 24, 2023, to Saturday, December 31, 2023. It is open daily from 12:00 noon to 10:00 pm except on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, when it closes at 06:00 pm. every year. The market features stalls selling delicious foods and Christmas decorations and a 360° high-tech installation called the Dome that stages various shows, including a Saint-Nicolas party. Visitors can watch art-house movies, documentaries and funny cartoons at the Dome. The market is located near the Bourse and Tour Noire squares, which also have unique offerings. Place de la Monnaie’s coordinates are 50.8479° N and 4.3526° E.

Visitors can explore Place de la Monnaie in Brussels for its lively Christmas market, offering delicious foods and festive decorations. The entry to the market is generally free, allowing everyone to enjoy the holiday atmosphere. The Dome, a 360° high-tech installation, hosts entertaining shows and screenings, while the surrounding attractions in the area include the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its historic architecture and the Manneken Pis statue, a famous Brussels landmark.

Visitors to Place de la Monnaie can head to the city center and find the square to reach Place de la Monnaie in Brussels. If arriving by train, the Central Station is a convenient starting point. Visitors can walk southeast towards the city center, passing through streets and following signs to Place de la Monnaie. If arriving by subway, the Bourse station is nearby and visitors can head northeast from the station to reach the square.

What food can visitors eat at Brussels Christmas Market?

Listed below are the best foods to try at Brussels Christmas Market:

• Tartiflette: Tartiflette is a cheesy potato bake that originated in the French Alps. It is made with sliced potatoes, bacon, onions, cream and reblochon cheese, a soft and nutty cheese from Savoy. It is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for cold weather.
• Gluhwein/Vin Chaud: Gluhwein or Vin Chaud is a spiced mulled wine popular in many European countries during winter. It is made by heating red wine with sugar, citrus fruits and various spices, such as cloves, cinnamon, star anise and nutmeg. It is a warming and festive drink that can be enjoyed at the market or at home.
• Waffles: Waffles are a sweet treat that Belgium is famous for. There are two main types of waffles: the Brussels waffle and the Liege waffle. The Brussels waffle is rectangular, light and crispy, while the Liege waffle is round, dense and chewy. Both waffles can be topped with whipped cream, chocolate, fruits or other ingredients. Belgian waffles is one the most significant food in Belgium that every visitor should try.
• Jenever: Jenever is a traditional liquor that is considered the ancestor of gin. It is made from distilled malted grain, juniper berries and other botanicals. It can be clear, lightly aged or aged in oak for several years. It has a malty, herbal and complex flavor that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks or in cocktails.

What to drink in Brussels Christmas Market?

Listed below are the best drinks in the Brussels Christmas Market:

• Gluhwein: Gluhwein is a hot, spiced wine that is popular in many European countries during winter. It is made with red wine, sugar, cinnamon, cloves and other spices. Gluhwein is a warming and festive drink that can be found at many stalls in the Brussels Christmas Market. It costs 3 € ($3.4, £2.5) per cup.
• Jenever: Jenever is a traditional Belgian spirit that is similar to gin. It is distilled from malted grains and flavored with juniper berries and other botanicals. Jenever is often served in small glasses or shots and can be enjoyed plain or mixed with other ingredients. It is a strong and aromatic drink that can be found at some stalls in the Brussels Christmas Market. It costs 2 € ($2.3, £1.7) per shot.
• Eierpunsch: Eierpunsch is a German drink that is similar to eggnog. It is made with egg yolks, sugar, white wine, rum and vanilla. Eierpunsch is a creamy and sweet drink that is served hot with whipped cream on top. Eierpunsch is a delicious and comforting drink that can be found at some stalls in the Brussels Christmas Market. It costs 4 € ($4.5, £3.3) per cup.
• Belgian beer: Belgian beer is a famous and diverse product that is known for its quality and variety. Belgian beer has many styles and flavors, such as lager, ale, wheat, sour and fruit. It is a refreshing and satisfying drink that can be found at many stalls and bars in the Brussels Christmas Market. It costs 3 € ($3.4, £2.5) per bottle.

What can people buy at the Brussels Christmas Market?

Listed below are the things people can buy in Brussels Christmas Market:

• Handicrafts: Handicrafts like wood carvings, ceramics, knitted items and jewelry are popular purchases at the Brussels Christmas Markets. Markets like Marché aux Poissons offer numerous wooden chalets selling unique handicrafts that make for special holiday gifts or souvenirs.
• Food and drink: Traditional Belgian foods and drinks are available across the Brussels Christmas Market. Visitors can find Belgian specialties like waffles, frites, chocolate and mulled wine. 
• Decorations: Christmas decorations, such as ornaments, lights and nativity figures, are prevalent. Visitors can deck their halls with classic decor or find unique Brussels-inspired pieces at the Brussels Christmas Market.
• Clothing and accessories: Many stalls in the Brussels Christmas Market sell Belgian fashion items, winter accessories and novelties like Christmas hats and scarves. These stalls allow visitors to stay warm while showing their holiday spirit.
• Toys and gifts: Brussels Christmas Market has toys, stuffed animals and miscellaneous gifts for holiday shoppers. Parents can find toys to surprise their children while grabbing knick-knacks for friends.

Where to stay in Brussels during the Brussels Christmas Market?

Listed below are the best hotels to stay in during the Brussels Christmas Market:

• Hilton Brussels Grand Place: Hilton Brussels Grand Place is a four-star hotel located in the historic city center of Brussels, next to Central Station. It offers modern accommodation, an on-site spa center with fitness facilities and 24-hour room service. It is only a 5-minute walk from the Grand Place and the Magritte Museum and a 20-minute drive from Brussels International Airport. Guests can enjoy a variety of chocolate shops and stalls at the market and Christmas beers and special editions brewed for the festive season. The Hilton Brussels Grand Place is a very good place to stay in Brussels.
• Novotel Brussels City Centre: Novotel Brussels City Centre is a four-star hotel situated in the lively Saint Catherine district, 200 meters from De Brouckère Metro Station. It features soundproof rooms, a bar, a breakfast area overlooking the garden and free access to a fitness center and an indoor jet-stream pool. It is a 15-minute walk from the Manneken Pis Statue and the Grand Place and a 20-minute train ride from Brussels-South Train Station. Guests can taste different kinds of waffles, mussels with chips, cuberdons and jenever at the market.
• Novotel Brussels Centre Midi Station: Novotel Brussels Centre Midi Station is a three-star hotel located next to Brussels-South Train Station with Eurostar and Thalys terminals. It offers free WiFi, a snack bar, a 24-hour front desk and a breakfast area. The rooms have an LCD TV, a minibar and air conditioning. It is a 10-minute walk from the Grand Place and the Manneken Pis Statue and a 10-minute drive from the Brussels Expo. Guests can try the praline, a type of chocolate filled with cream, nuts or caramel, invented by Neuhaus in 1912 and oysters and stoemp at the market.
• The President Brussels Hotel: The President Brussels Hotel is a four-star hotel located in the business district of Brussels, 500 meters from Brussels-North Train Station. It offers free WiFi, an à la carte restaurant, a snack bar and free access to a fitness center. The rooms have a flat-screen TV, a minibar and air conditioning. It is a 15-minute walk from the Grand Place and the Magritte Museum and a 10-minute drive from Brussels International Airport. Guests can savor culinary creations inspired by artists and craftsmen who exhibit their work in the hotel and Belgian chocolate, beer, fries and pastries at the market.
• Hotel Le Plaza Brussels: Hotel Le Plaza Brussels is a five-star hotel set in a historic building dating back to 1930. It is located on one of the major roads that runs through the center of Brussels, near the Rue Neuve shopping district. It offers elegant rooms with high ceilings, luxurious tapestries, a bar, a restaurant and a breakfast room. It also features a heritage-listed Moorish-style theatre and a fitness center. It is a 10-minute walk from the Grand Place and the Manneken Pis Statue and a 30-minute drive from Brussels Airport. Guests can enjoy gourmet food and a refined atmosphere at the market at the Brasserie Estére, including tartiflette, gluhwein, snails and jenever.

What are the best restaurants to eat in Brussels during Christmas?

Listed below are the best restaurant to eat in Brussels during Christmas:

• Restaurant Le Rabassier: Restaurant Le Rabassier is a two-star Michelin restaurant that specializes in truffle dishes. The restaurant is located in an elegant Brussels house with a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Guests can choose from a five, six or seven-course menu or order à la carte. Restaurant Le Rabassier is perfect for a sophisticated and memorable dining experience during the Brussels Christmas Market.
• Comme Chez Soi: Comme Chez Soi is a one-star Michelin restaurant that has a rich history of almost a century. The cuisine is based on French and Belgian traditions, with a focus on products, flavors and presentation. The restaurant is in a beautiful Art Nouveau building just near the Brussels Christmas Market with a stained glass window and a wood-carved ceiling. Guests can enjoy a four, five or six-course menu or order à la carte. Comme Chez Soi is a one of the best places to eat in Brussels as a traveler.
• Fin de Siecle: Fin de Siecle is a popular brasserie that serves authentic Belgian food in generous portions. The restaurant has a lively and casual atmosphere, with wooden tables, vintage posters and a long bar. The menu offers a variety of dishes, such as carbonnade flamande, waterzooi, stoemp and vol-au-vent. The restaurant also has a selection of Belgian beers and wines. It does not take reservations, so guests may have to wait in line to get a table or dine early, especially during the Brussels Christmas Market.
• Le Plattesteen: Le Plattesteen is a cozy and traditional bistro that serves classic and regional Belgian dishes. It is located in the gay quarter, near the Bourse and the Grand Place. The bistro has a retro and nostalgic decor, with wood paneling, mirrors and neon signs. The menu features dishes such as vol-au-vent, moules-frites and dame blanche. The food is simple, tasty and comforting. Le Plattesteen is a place to enjoy a casual and friendly dining experience during the Brussels Christmas Market.

What are the best things to do in Brussels?

Listed below are the best things to do in Brussels during Christmas.

• Grand Place. Grand Place is a historic square located in the heart of Brussels, during the Christmas season is magnificently decorated with sparkling lights, an enormous Christmas tree and lively festive markets. Visitors can soak in the holiday ambience while exploring the beautiful architecture and enjoying the wonderful Christmas markets selling gifts, food and drink. The square comes alive with holiday spirit.
• Atomium. Atomium is built for the 1958 World’s Fair, is beautifully illuminated at night during the Christmas period, providing a bright and futuristic backdrop to the city. Seeing the Atomium lit up with festive lighting is a memorable Christmas sight.
• Mini-Europe. Mini-Europe is one-of-a-kind miniature park contains over 350 models of famous European monuments and sites, many of which are decorated with Christmas lights and details during the holiday season. Wandering through the park allows visitors to appreciate the Christmas charm across Europe on a small scale.
• Musical Instruments Museum. Musical Instruments Museum is housed in a stunning art nouveau building, this world-renowned museum provides a lovely Christmas setting to explore musical heritage. Special holiday concerts with Christmas music are often held in the museum’s concert hall, letting visitors experience festive melodies.
• Royal Museums of Fine Arts. Royal Museums of Fine Arts showcase special exhibits and displays with Christmas themes and decorations during the holiday season, allowing visitors to appreciate the museums in a festive mood. Christmas trees, lights and other holiday details adorn the galleries.
• Museum of Natural Sciences.  Museum of Natural Sciences incorporates Christmas elements into its extensive collection of fossils, taxidermy and models to entertain visitors. Seeing dinosaurs and other displays donning Santa hats and other Christmas gear adds whimsy.
• Manneken Pis. Manneken Pis is an iconic 55cm bronze fountain sculpture of a urinating boy is dressed up in a Santa Claus costume during Christmas, spreading holiday cheer. Visiting this beloved Brussels symbol in Christmas attire is a quintessential Christmas experience.

How does the Brussels Christmas market impact the Local Economy and Tourism?

The Brussels Christmas market significantly boosts the local economy and tourism. The festive event attracts numerous visitors, leading to increased spending in the area. Local businesses benefit from the surge in sales, with shops and eateries experiencing a rise in demand for their products. The market also creates job opportunities, especially in the hospitality and retail sectors, contributing to decreased unemployment rates. In terms of tourism, the Brussels Christmas market serves as a major draw, enticing people from various parts of Europe and beyond. 

Is the Brussels Christmas Market better than the Ghent Christmas Market?

Yes, the Brussels Christmas Market surpasses the Ghent Christmas Market in terms of scale and offerings. The Brussels market provides a more extensive array of stalls and activities, creating a lively and busy atmosphere. With its central location, visitors can easily explore various attractions and enjoy diverse festive experiences. The market’s larger scale contributes to a more dynamic and lively setting, attracting a greater number of visitors.

The show is a bit hard to film without very professional material, but I at least wanted to give you an idea of what it looks like, so you can see a bit at the end of this video I made of my visit to the Brussels Christmas market.

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