11 fun Christmas markets in Belgium you can’t miss in 2020

In this post, I want to give you an overview of the Christmas markets in Belgium and more specifically those in Belgium’s 10 province capitals and Brussels. We have Christmas markets starting in mid-November already, so you can take your pick and plan accordingly.

Not only will you find general information about each Christmas market, as well as when and where to find them, but also tips on how to travel to them and where to stay. After all, Christmas markets look their best in the evenings and you don't want to worry about catching a train when you're sipping something warm underneath the Christmas lights, now do you? :-)

DUE TO COVID, ALL THE CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN BELGIUM HAVE BEEN CANCELED. I will update this post with information about the 2021 Belgium Christmas markets once it's available.

 

Christmas markets in Belgium 2020

1. Brussels Christmas market: CANCELED

General information about the Christmas fair Brussels

Please note that the 2020 Brussels Christmas market is canceled because of COVID.

With a large part of the center of Brussels that is car-free, the Brussels Christmas market expands from the Grand Place until Place St. Catherine, also including the Vismarkt, de streets around the Beurs and the Muntplein. It has an ice-skating rink, a Ferris wheel, a light show, a huge Christmas tree and, of course, the Christmas market with over 200 stands.

Where?
Center of Brussels: Grand Place, Place St. Catherine, Vismarkt, Bourse, Muntplein

Christmas market Brussels opening hours
Monday – Sunday: 12 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Exceptions: December 24 and December 31 the Christmas market closes at 6 p.m.

Read more about the Brussels Christmas market.
 

How to get to the Brussels Christmas market

The easiest way to get to Brussels to visit the Christmas market is by train. Brussels has three train station – North, Central, and Midi. Central is the one closest to the Brussels Christmas market, as it's only a short walk down to the Grand Place.

You can take the train to Brussels regardless of if you're coming from elsewhere in Belgium, from another European city or if you're flying into Brussels Airport first. There's a direct connection between Brussels Airport and Brussels Central train station.

Click here for train timetables and prices, including those for fast trains like Thalys and Eurostar.

If you're coming from London, keep your eye out for Brussels Christmas market Eurostar deals. They usually launch them a few weeks to months ahead.

And if you still need to book your flight to Belgium, I suggest checking Skyscanner for a good overview of your options.
 

Where to stay during the Brussels Christmas market

The below are all hotels close to Brussels Christmas market that get great reviews.
 

Luxury option: Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo

The 5-star Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo lies right at the corner of the Grand Place, boasting modernly-designed rooms in a historical setting. All of those rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with a flat screen tv, a minibar, a seating area, and a luxurious en-suite bathroom with mosaic details.

Guests can use the gym before they have dinner at the award-winning on-site Ristorante Bocconi. There's also a bar and WiFi is free throughout the property.

Want to stay at the Rocco Forte Hotel Amigo? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

B&B option: Art de Sejour – B&B

Art de Sejour – B&B is located in a 19th-century townhouse with terrace in the historic center of Brussels. All of its rooms have air conditioning, wooden floors, a flat screen tv, a work desk, and a coffee/tea maker. They also all have an en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower.

Guests can enjoy free WiFi and a delicious included breakfast.

Want to stay at Art de Sejour – B&B? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Apartment option: Grand Place The Looks Apartment

Grand Place The Looks Apartment is located just 100 meters from the Grand Place, in a car-free street. It has a living room with a flat screen tv, a dining area, a fully-equipped kitchen and a bathroom with shower. There's also a little balcony and free WiFi throughout the apartment. Private parking is available nearby at €15/day.

Want to stay at Grand Place The Looks Apartment? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

If you're looking for more apartment options, check out Airbnb. While I use Booking for hotels, I always check Airbnb for apartments as they have such a large selection.

If you found this post helpful, please consider booking your next Airbnb through my link. I'll earn a small commission while the price for you stays exactly the same. Income like this helps me travel independently and create new content.

Chain option: Motel One Brussels

Motel One Brussels is located just a 10-minute walk from the Grand Place and Brussels Central Station. It has air-conditioned, soundproof rooms with a flat screen tv and an en-suite bathroom. WiFi is free throughout the property while breakfast comes at a small extra cost.

Pets are welcome at this hotel.

Want to stay at Motel One Brussels? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Budget option: 2GO4 Quality Hostel Brussels Grand Place

2GO4 Quality Hostel Brussels Grand Place is a fully-air-conditioned hostel located just a few steps from Brussels' famous Grand Place. It offers beds in mixed or all-female dormitories which are all equipped with a private bathroom. WiFi is free throughout the property and guests can use the shared kitchen and living room.

Want to stay at 2GO4 Quality Hostel Brussels Grand Place? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

2. Antwerp Christmas market: CANCELED

General information about the Christmas market in Antwerp

PLEASE NOTE THAT BECAUSE OF COVID, THE 2020 ANTWERP CHRISTMAS MARKET IS CANCELED.

It’s always fun to attend the Antwerp Christmas market as there’s something new every year. One year there are dancers, the year after there’s a choir… but the huge Christmas tree, the ice rink, the Ferris wheel and the stalls on different squares are guaranteed.

Read more about the Antwerp Christmas market.

Where?
Steenplein, Suikerrui, Grote Markt, Handschoenmarkt and Groenplaats

Antwerp Christmas market opening hours
Monday – Thursday: 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Friday: 12 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Saturday: 11.00 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Sunday: 11.00 a.m. 9 p.m.
Exceptions: December 24 and 31: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
 

How to get to the Antwerp Christmas market

If you're visiting the Antwerp Christmas market, I highly recommend visiting by train. That way, you'll also get to see the beautiful Central Station. It is a bit of a walk from the train station to the start of the Christmas Market at the Groenplaats (about 20 minutes) but you can always take the tram or make a day out of it and slowly make your way through the center so that you arrive at the Christmas market by the time it gets dark to enjoy the lights :-)

Click here for train timetables and prices, including those for fast trains like Thalys and Eurostar.

And if you still need to book your flight to Belgium, I suggest checking Skyscanner for a good overview of your options.
 

Where to stay during the Antwerp Christmas market

Luxury option: Cabosse, Suites & Spa

Cabosse, Suites & Spa is a 5-star luxury guesthouse located in a renovated mansion from 1864 and a 15-minute walk from the heart of Antwerp-s historic center. It features a garden, a Bamboo Spa with hammam and sauna, a and natural outside swimming pool. There's also a wine bar that does afternoon tea in the afternoon.

Guests can enjoy free WiFi throughout the property and an exceptional breakfast at an extra cost. All rooms come equipped with a flat screen tv, a fridge, a coffee machine, a work desk, and a private bathroom.

Want to stay at Cabosse, Suites & Spa? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

B&B option: B&B [email protected]

B&B [email protected] features modern design suites in a historic building close to the famous MAS Museum. All rooms have design furniture, a Nespresso machine, private spa baths, and flat screen tv's. WiFi is free throughout the property and a complimentary breakfast can be enjoyed in your suite.

Want to stay at B&B [email protected]? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Apartment option: Alesia AT Friday

Alesia AT Friday is an apartment right in the historic center of Antwerp. It offers free WiFi, a flat screen tv, a bathroom with free toiletries, a fully-equipped kitchen, and two bedrooms with double beds. The apartment is soundproof, has a high chair for kids and welcomes pets.

Want to stay at Alesia AT Friday? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Chain option: Hampton By Hilton Antwerp Central Station

The Hampton By Hilton Antwerp Central Station is located right next to Antwerp Central Station and provides both free WiFi and a complimentary breakfast including vegan and gluten-free options.

All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, a flat screen tv, a work desk, and a private bathroom. There's also a lounge, a gym, a business center, a bar, and a restaurant.

Want to stay at the Hampton By Hilton Antwerp Central Station? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Budget option: Antwerp Central Youth Hostel

Antwerp Central Youth Hostel is located in Antwerp's fashion district. It has twin and quadruple rooms as well as all-male and all-female dormitories. All rooms and dorms have private bathrooms and guests can use the free WiFi. Breakfast is included in the price, making this a good value stay.

Want to stay at Antwerp Central Youth Hostel? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

3. Ghent Christmas market: CANCELED

General information about the Ghent Christmas markets

PLEASE NOTE THAT BECAUSE OF COVID, THE 2020 GHENT CHRISTMAS MARKET IS CANCELED.

At the Ghent Christmas market, you can go ice skating, ride the Ferris wheel, watch street performances and wander along the more than 150 stands. There’s even a special Moose bar and a Children's Village.

Where?
Groentenmarkt, Korenmarkt, Emille Braunplein, St.-Baafsplein

Ghent Christmas market opening hours
Monday – Thursday: 12 a.m. – between 9 p.m. and midnight
Friday: 12 p.m. – between 10 p.m. and 1 a.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m. – between 10 p.m. and 1 a.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. – between 9 p.m. and midnight
Exceptions:
December 24 and 31: 12 a.m. – 5 p.m.
December 25 and January 1: 2 p.m. – midnight
 

How to get to the Ghent Christmas market

Ghent has two train station: Gent-Sint-Pieters and Gent-Dampoort. Gent-Sint-Pieters lies outside of the historical city center and you'll need to take public transportation to get to the Christmas markets or walk for half an hour at a decent pace. Gent-Dampoort lies at the edge of the center, a 20-minute walk away.

Click here for train timetables and prices, including those for fast trains like Thalys and Eurostar.

And if you still need to book your flight to Belgium, I suggest checking Skyscanner for a good overview of your options.
 

Where to stay during the Ghent Christmas market?

Luxury option: Hotel Harmony

Hotel Harmony is a luxurious 4-star family-run hotel right in Ghent's quaint Patershol District. All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, a work desk, a minibar, a television, a coffee/tea maker, and a private bathroom. They also have views of the city.

Guests can enjoy a drink in the lounge or grab a meal on the terrace. The hotel also has a swimming pool and paid on-site private parking. WiFi is free throughout the property.

Want to stay at Hotel Harmony? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Boutique option: Hotel The Boatel

Hotel The Boatel is a boat hotel just 700 meters from the Christmas market featuring a terrace, free WiFi, and rooms with river views and a private bathroom. A fabulous breakfast is included and public parking is available nearby for just €6/day.

Want to stay at Hotel The Boatel? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Chain option: Ghent Marriott Hotel

The 4-star Ghent Marriott Hotel offers great value for money. It overlooks the famous Korenlei and boasts a trendy lobby, fitness center, and bar. All rooms have air-conditioning, a seating area, and a flat screen tv as well as a private bathroom.

WiFi is free throughout the property while private parking is available at an extra cost.

Want to stay at the Ghent Marriott Hotel? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Apartment option: Chocolou

Chocolou lies just 3-minutes walking from the Ghent Christmas market, making it ideal if you'd rather stay in an apartment during your visit. It has one bedroom, a living room with a sofa bed, a dining area, and a fully-equipped kitchen. WiFi is free and guests can also use the lovely terrace.

The best part? Chocolou is located above a chocolate store :-)

Want to stay at Chocolou? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Budget option: KaBa Hostel

KaBa Hostel has a garden with a terrace, a shared kitchen, and a dining area. There's the choice between booking a 6-person family room or a bed in a 3-, 4- or 6-bed dorm. WiFi free and breakfast is included in the room/bed price. Nerby public parking is available for just €7/day.

Want to stay at KaBa Hostel? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

4. Bruges Christmas market: CANCELED?/h2>

General information about the Bruges Christmas fair

While there will be a route with light installations in the center of Bruges from November 27, 2020 until January 10, 2021, it seems that there won't be a Christmas market this year.

The Bruges Christmas Market takes place at both the Market Square (one of thelocations in the movie “In Bruges”!) and the Simon Stevin Square. At the Market Square, you can usually find the food and drink stands, as well as Christmas decorations. At the Simon Stevin Square, you can find a bit of everything, including some fun souvenirs.

Where?
Market square and Simon Stevin Square

Bruges Christmas market opening times
Sunday – Thursday: 10.30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Friday – Saturday: 10.30 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Exception:
On Christmas day and New Year's Day, stand keepers are free to decide whether they open or not.
 

How to get to the Bruges Christmas market

The Bruges train station lies right outside the historical old town, a pleasant 20-minute walk from the Christmas markets. Right next to the train station, there's also a big parking lot where you can park for just €3.5/day.

Click here for train timetables and prices, including those for fast trains like Thalys and Eurostar.

If you still need to book your flight to Belgium, I suggest checking Skyscanner for a good overview of your options.
 

Where to stay during the Bruges Christmas market?

Bruges is home to a lot of exquisite hotels and B&B's at varying price points, with most rooms costing between €100 and €200/night. The below is a very limited selection of what's available. For more options, you can always check Booking.com and filter according to your budget and needs.
 

Luxury option: Hotel Dukes' Palace Brugge

Hotel Dukes' Palace Brugge is a 5-star hotel housed in a 15th-century former ducal residence right in the historic center of Bruges. It has a spa, a terrace, a garden, and an on-site restaurant serving refined Belgian cuisine. There's also a wellness area, a gym, and a bar that serves both cocktails and high tea.

All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, a minibar, a work desk and an en-suite marble bathroom.

There's free WiFi throughout the property and the option to reserve a parking spot at the private on-site parking for an additional fee.

Want to stay at Hotel Dukes' Palace Brugge? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Value B&B option: B&B ‘t Walleke

B&B ‘t Walleke is located in the quiet St. Anne's district, right in the center of Bruges. It features three guest rooms, a kitchen, and a shared living room with adjoining terrace. Guests enjoy free WiFi and a delicious breakfast is included in the room price.

Want to stay at B&B ‘t Walleke? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Special option: Hotel Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce

Stay at the hotel featured in the movie “In Bruges”! The 4-star Hotel Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce was one of the many In Bruges movie locations and for good reason. This historical building lies directly at one of Bruges's canals, featuring a half-timbered exterior and stained-glass windows. Inside, you'll find precious antiques, exclusive art, luxurious fabrics, and beautiful flower bouquets.

The breakfast room overlooks the water and the on-site restaurant serves Flemish and French cuisine. There's also a bar and on-site private parking can be reserved at an extra cost. WiFi is free throughout the property.

Want to stay at Hotel Relais Bourgondisch Cruyce? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Chain option: Crowne Plaza Hotel Brugge

The Crowne Plaza Hotel Brugge lies right on the Burg in Bruges, just 220 meters from the market square. It features an on-site restaurant, swimming pool, fitness, and sauna. All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, a television, a minibar, a coffee/tea maker, and a private bathroom. Guests enjoy free WiFi throughout the property. The breakfast buffet costs extra.

Want to stay at the Crowne Plaza Hotel Brugge? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Budget option: Snuffel Hostel

Snuffel Hostel offers twin rooms and beds in 4-person or 6-person mixed or all-male/all-female dorms. It has a living area, a shared kitchen, and a bar serving various Belgian beers.

Bikes can be rented at the reception and guests can enjoy free WiFi throughout the hostel. With breakfast included in the room/bed price, Snuffel Hostel offers great value.

Want to stay at Snuffel Hostel? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

5. Leuven Christmas market: CANCELED

© Bart Van De Perre

General information about the Christmas market in Leuven

PLEASE NOTE THAT BECAUSE OF COVID, THE 2020 LEUVEN CHRISTMAS MARKET IS CANCELED.

Eating beignets at the stand of “‘t Wit Madammeke” at the Leuven Christmas market, it’s a tradition for many. The 170 stands mostly sell crafts, small interior decoration items, and seasonal products, next to a lot of food and drinks.

Each year, a guest country is present at the Christmas market with traditional products and visitors can enjoy a program of musical acts.

Read more about the Leuven Christmas market

Where?
Hooverplein and Laudeuzeplein

Christmas market Leuven opening hours

• Monday-Wednesday : 12 – 10 pm
• Thursday-Friday: 12 – 11 pm
• Saturday: 11 am – 11 pm
• Sunday: 11 am – 10 pm

Exception: on Sunday December 22, the Christmas market closes at 8 pm.
 

How to get to the Leuven Christmas market

Though Leuven is not that big and busy, you might want to avoid driving there as parking spaces are limited and the city has this traffic circulation plan that forces all the cars to take the same roads toward the underground parking lots.

Take the train to Leuven Station and then walk 10 minutes to the start of the Christmas market. If you're really lazy, you can also get the bus, but it won't be faster.

Click here for train timetables and prices, including those for fast trains like Thalys and Eurostar.

And if you still need to book your flight to Belgium, I suggest checking Skyscanner for a good overview of your options.
 

Where to stay during the Leuven Christmas market

Luxury option: Martin's Klooster

Now, I need to say that Leuven is a pretty laid-back place and there isn't really a very luxurious hotel in town. But if you're looking for class, Martin's Klooster is a good choice. Located in a 16th-century former convent just 280 meters from the Old Market, it has a winter garden, a bar with a fireplace and its own paid underground parking lot.

Breakfast comes at an extra cost too, but WiFi is included. The spacious rooms here are tastefully decorated and equipped with a flatscreen tv, a minibar, and modern bathrooms.

Want to stay at Martin's Klooster? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

B&B option: B&B Alizée

B&B Alizée is located in the historical center of Leuven and offers its guests a home-away-from-home in a room with hardwood floors, mini bar, seating area, television, free WiFi and free toiletries in the en-suite bathroom.

The freshly prepared breakfast including homemade bread and jams is included in the room price.

Want to stay at B&B Alizée? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Chain option: Park Inn by Radisson Leuven

The Park Inn by Radisson is located right by Leuven train station, making your arrival and departure hassle-free. All of its modern rooms come equipped with a flatscreen tv, a work desk, coffee and tea facilities, air conditioning, and a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower.

Guests can enjoy free use of the WiFi and fitness area but breakfast comes at an extra cost.

Want to stay at Park Inn by Radisson? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Budget option: Cube Hostel

Cube hostel lies in the center of historical Leuven and has dorms, private rooms, and family rooms with balconies. Guests can enjoy the games room, use the free WiFi or read a book from the library. There's also a lounge area where you can get drinks. There's no breakfast included, you can buy your own and prepare it in the shared kitchen.

Want to stay at Cube Hostel? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Your-own-place option: Getaway Studios

Getaway Studios is located just 350 meters from Leuven's Grand Place and just 10 minutes walking from the train station. All studios have a fully-equipped kitchen, a seating area with a flat screen tv, a desk and a private bathroom.

Free toiletries are provided, as is free WiFi. If you do come by car, you can park it here for €15/day.

Want to stay at Getaway studios? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

6. Hasselt Christmas market: November 23, 2019 – January 5, 2020

PLEASE NOTE THAT BECAUSE OF COVID, THE 2020 HASSELT CHRISTMAS MARKET IS CANCELED.

General information about the Hasselt Xmas market

The Hasselt Christmas market is part of Hasselt Winterland, where you can also find an ice skating rink, a carousel, a roller coaster and more. There are plenty of food and drink stands, as well as stands selling Christmas decoration and other seasonal products.

Where?
Kolonel Dussartplein

Christmas market Hasselt opening hours
Daily from: 11 a.m. until 10 p.m.
Exceptions:
December 24: closes at 6 p.m.
December 25: opens at 2 p.m.
January 1: Opens at 1 p.m.
 

How to get to the Hasselt Christmas market

If you're coming by car, you can pay at the Dusartparking. Mind you, it costs about €2/hours to leave your car here. Alternatively, the Hasselt train station lies right outside the city center, less than 20 minutes walking from the Christmas market. It's a walk straight through the city, so it gives you the change to see a bit of Hasselt.

Click here for train timetables and prices, including those for fast trains like Thalys and Eurostar.

And if you still need to book your flight to Belgium, I suggest checking Skyscanner for a good overview of your options.
 

Where to stay during the Hasselt Christmas market?

Luxury option: Holiday Inn Hasselt

The 4-star Holiday Inn Hasselt lies at the edge of Hasselt's historical center and offers both free WiFi and free access to its health and leisure club which includes a gym, a swimming pool, and a sauna. Children also dine for free in its on-site restaurant. Breakfast costs extra.

Rooms are equipped with satellite tv, a fridge, air-conditioning, and an en)suite bathroom with free toiletries.

Want to stay at Holiday Inn Hasselt? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Boutique option: Hotel Het Menneke

2-star Hotel Het Menneke is located in a historic townhouse in the center of Hasselt and offers elegant rooms with a flat screen tv, minibar and en-suite bathroom.

The delicious breakfast is included in the room price and WiFi is free throughout the property. There's also a bar and a garden with a terrace where guests can enjoy a drink.

Want to stay at Hotel Het Menneke? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Quirky option: Bo-Ness Hasselt

Bo-Ness Hasselt is a hotel boat located right at the edge of the city center. It offers free WiFi as well as free private parking on-site. All rooms have a seating area, a fridge, and an en-suite bathroom. They're also all provided with air-conditioning.

There's a wellness area which you can enjoy for an extra fee and a bar where you can have a drink. Breakfast is served in your cabin and comes at a small extra cost.

Want to stay at Bo-Ness Hasselt? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Chain option: Park Inn By Radisson Hasselt

The 3-star Park Inn By Radisson Hasselt is located just 200 meters from the market square. Its rooms feature a flat screen tv, air-conditioning and a private bathroom with free toiletries.

There's free WiFi throughout the property and guests can also enjoy the bar with terrace.

Want to stay at Park Inn By Radisson Hasselt? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Budget option: Hotel H

Hotel H is located right by the Hasselt train station and just 800 meters from the city center market square. it has twin rooms, quadruple rooms, and both all-male and all-female dormitories. WiFi is free throughout the property and with a continental breakfast included in the room/bed price, this hostel offers great value.

Want to stay at Hotel H? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

7. Wavre Christmas market: CANCELED

General information about the Wavre Christmas market

The Wavre Christmas market is aimed at those who love to eat and drink, with stands selling waffles, tea, coffee, liquor, warm wine, oysters, cheese, and snails. But there are also craftsmen selling their products and giving demonstrations. If you want to get active yourself, you can always do so at the ice skating rink.

Where? – to be confirmed
Parking lot of the police station.

Wavre Christmas market opening hours
Monday and Tuesday: closed
Wednesdays: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Thursdays: 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Fridays: 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Saturdays: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sundays: 11 p.m. – 8 p.m.
 

How to get to the Wavre Christmas market

To be confirmed

Click here for train timetables and prices, including those for fast trains like Thalys and Eurostar.

And if you still need to book your flight to Belgium, I suggest checking Skyscanner for a good overview of your options.
 

Where to stay during the Wavre Christmas market?

Wavre is a small town and as it's so close to Brussels, I highly recommend staying there for a wider range of hotel options. It's hard to find a place in the center of Wavre and driving there from the surroundings isn't ideal if you plan on drinking at the Christmas market.

Another option is to stay at Le Goupil. At this guesthouse located in the green surroundings of Wavre, you can rent a bike to cycle the little over 3 km to the city center. Le Goupil has modern rooms with a flat screen tv as well as a private bathroom. Guests can relax in the garden or grab a bite at the on-site snack bar.

Want to stay at Le Goupil? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

8. Namur Christmas market: November 29 – December 31, 2019

General information about the Namur Christmas market

You won’t get bored at the Namur Christmas market! There are tons of stands selling seasonal products, artisanal products, Christmas decorations and more. You can go ice skating and during the weekends there are performances by folkloristic groups and bands. Oh, and of course there’s also plenty of food.

Where?
Place de l’Ange, Place du Théatre, Place d’Armes

Christmas market Namur opening hours
Sunday – Thursday: 11 a.m. – 8, at the latest 10.30 p.m.
Friday: 11 a.m. – 9, at the latest 11.30 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. – 9, at the latest 11.30 p.m.
Exceptions:
December 24: closes at 6 p.m.
December 25: opens at 3 p.m.
December 31: closes at 6 p.m.
 

How to get to the Namur Christmas market

The train station of Namur lies close to the PLace de l'Ange and the Place du Théatre but a bit further from the Place d'Armes, which lies across the river, by the Citadel. That shouldn't be an issue, though, as you can walk to the first two Christmas markets first and then you'll already be half on your way to the Place d'Armes.

Click here for train timetables and prices, including those for fast trains like Thalys and Eurostar.

And if you still need to book your flight to Belgium, I suggest checking Skyscanner for a good overview of your options.
 

Where to stay during the Namur Christmas market?

Luxury option: Hotel The Royal Snail

Hotel The Royal Snail is a 4-star hotel located right next to the Citadel of Namur boasting a swimming pool, a wellness area, a gym, and an on-site restaurant. All rooms are soundproof and equipped with air-conditioning, a flat screen tv, a minibar, a coffee maker, and a private bathroom with free toiletries.

WiFi is free throughout the property. Breakfast costs extra.

Want to stay at Hotel The Royal Snail? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Boutique option: Péniche d'hôtes MS Elisabeth

Péniche d'hôtes MS Elisabeth is a B&B located on a barge on the river Meuse just 50 meters from the Citadel de Namur. All rooms are decorated with wooden elements and have a private bathroom. There is free WiFi throughout the boat as well as free public parking right outside and guests can get free bikes to explore the city and its surroundings. Breakfast can be ordered extra.

Want to stay at Péniche d'hôtes MS Elisabeth? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Chain option: ibis Namur Centre

The ibis Namur Centre is located just 600 meters from Namur train station and offers rooms with a hardwood floor, air-conditioning, a work desk, and a private bathroom.

It has an on-site bar and offers a breakfast buffet at an extra cost. WiFi is free throughout the property.

Want to stay at ibis Namur Centre? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Budget option: Auberge de Jeunesse de Namur

Auberge de Jeunesse de Namur is a youth hostel located right by the river Meuse and just a 15-minute walk from the Citadel of Namur. it has twin rooms, quadruple rooms, and 6-bed all-male and all-female dormitories.

WiFi is free throughout the hostel and a bio breakfast is included in the room/bed price.

The hostel also has a garden with a terrace and barbeque facilities.

Want to stay at Auberge de Jeunesse de Namur? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

9. Liège Christmas market – November 29 – December 30, 2019

General information about the Liège Christmas markets

The Liège Christmas market is the oldest Christmas market in Belgium. It has almost 200 chalets that attract more than 1.5 million visitors every year over the course of 5 weeks. The Christmas market of Liège is made like a village with four thematic houses: Le Chalet de la Gruyère (The La Maison ardennaise (The Ardennes House), La Maison du Pèket (The House of the Pèket brandy), and le Chalet “Au pied des pistes” (The Chalet “at the foot of the slopes”).

There's an ice skating rink to try and a collection of handmade Christmas balls to admire.

Where?
Saint-Lambert Square and Marché de Liège Square

Liège Christmas market opening times
Sunday – Wednesday: 11 a.m. – between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m.
Thursday – Saturday: 11 a.m. – between 8 p.m. and midnight
Exception:
December 24: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
December 25: 1 p.m. – between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m.
 

How to get to the Liège Christmas market

Liège-Guillemins train station lies on the opposite side of town from the Christmas market, a good 40 minutes of walking away. But you can get the bus from the Liège train station which will take you straight to the city center.

Click here for train timetables and prices, including those for fast trains like Thalys and Eurostar.

And if you still need to book your flight to Belgium, I suggest checking Skyscanner for a good overview of your options.
 

Where to stay during the Liège Christmas market?

Hotel option: Hotel Neuvice

Hotel Neuvice is a 3-start hotel located in Liège's historical city center. Its modernly-decorated rooms all have direct access to the hotel's courtyard. They are also all equipped with air-conditioning, a flat screen tv, a minibar, a coffee/tea maker, and a private bathroom. They're all soundproof and have their own little patio.

WiFi is free throughout the property. Breakfast is extra.

Want to stay at Hotel Neuvice? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

B&B option: B&B N°5

B&B N°5 is located right in the historical center of Liège and has tastefully decorated rooms with a hardwood floor, flat screen tv, and an en-suite bathroom. Guests can enjoy the city garden while using the free WiFi or relax in the free sauna.

Want to stay at B&B N°5? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Apartment option: Les Suites de Nanesse

Les Suites de Nanesse offers entirely air-conditioned apartments in the center of Liège, in a historical neighborhood with many bars and restaurant. There is even an on-site a restaurant serving Belgian and French cuisine as well as a bar serving local specialties.

All the units have fully-equipped, modern kitchens, two bedrooms, and a living room with an HD flat screen tv. WiFi is free throughout the property.

Want to stay at Les Suites de Nanesse? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Chain option: Pentahotel Liège

The Pentahotel Liège is a design hotel in the city center. All of its rooms are soundproof and equipped with a flatscreen tv, a safety deposit box, a seating area, a tea/coffee maker, a minibar, and an en-suite bathroom.

WiFi is free throughout the property and guests can work out at the on-site gym or have a drink at the bar. Breakfast is extra.

Want to stay at Pentahotel Liège? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Budget option: Liège Youth Hostel

The Liège Youth Hostel is a 500-meter walk from the city center and has an à-la-carte restaurant, a bar, a games room, and a shared kitchen. It offers free evening entertainment as well as a bio breakfast included in the room/bed price.

Free WiFi is only available in public areas but at €27 for a bed in a dorm with breakfast included, this place offers good value.

Want to stay at the Liège Youth Hostel? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

10. Arlon Christmas market: December 13 – 15, 2019

General information about the Arlon Christmas market

The Arlon Christmas market is a small but cozy market under a large, heated tent. Santa Claus is there to meet the children and there’s entertainment for all ages. The stands display artisanal products, food, and drinks. There’s also an ice skating rink.

Where?
Place Léopold and the Old Justice Palace

Arlon Christmas market opening hours

• Friday: 4 10 pm
• Saturday: 12 10 pm
• Sunday: 12 – 7 pm

 

How to get to the Arlon Christmas market

Arlon has a small train station and it's less than 10 minutes walking from the Place Léopold.

Click here for train timetables and prices, including those for fast trains like Thalys and Eurostar.

And if you still need to book your flight to Belgium, I suggest checking Skyscanner for a good overview of your options.
 

Where to stay during the Arlon Christmas market?

Arlon is a small town and not frequently visited by tourists so accommodation options are limited. If you want to spend the night, you'll have to do so outside of the city center. There are two hotels nearby which get good reviews.
 

Van der Valk Luxembourg-Arlon

The 4-star Van der Valk Luxembourg-Arlon is a modern conference hotel with two on-site restaurants, a terrace, and a bar. All rooms here are equipped with a flat-screen TV, coffee and tea facilities, air conditioning, a minibar, and an en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower.

Both WiFi and on-site private parking are free but the breakfast buffet comes at an extra cost.

Want to stay at the Van der Valk Luxembourg-Arlon? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Relais du Silence Hostellerie du Peiffeschof

The 3-star Relais du Silence Hostellerie du Peiffeschof is located in the green countryside of Arlon and has its own garden terrace as well as free private on-site parking, and a gourmet restaurant.

WiFi is free throughout the property and guests can enjoy the wellness area.

Want to stay at the Relais du Silence Hostellerie du Peiffeschof? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

11. Mons Christmas market: December 14, 2019 – January 5, 2020

General information about the Mons Belgium Christmas market

The Mons Christmas Market is held under the theme “Heart of Snow” (“Coeur de Neige”). There’s a big ice skating rink that’s also accessible for people with reduced mobility, as well as a curling piste. At the Mons Christmas market, you’ll also find a big Christmas tree, street artists, a dance tent and around 40 vendor stands where you can buy craft gifts and seasonal products.

Where?
Grand Place

Christmas market Mons opening hours – to be confirmed
Sunday – Wednesday: 11 a.m.- 9 p.m.
Thursday – Sunday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Exceptions: December 24 and 31: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Closed on December 25 and January 1.
 

How to get to the Mons Christmas market

Take the train to Mons train station. From there, it's just a 10-minute walk to the Grand Place with the Christmas market.

Click here for train timetables and prices, including those for fast trains like Thalys and Eurostar.

And if you still need to book your flight to Belgium, I suggest checking Skyscanner for a good overview of your options.
 

Where to stay during the Mons Christmas market

Luxury option: Hotel Dream

4-star Hotel Dream is located in a former chapel of which beautiful elements, like the arched windows, are combined with modern interior design. Each room is different but all have a minibar, air conditioning, a television, a safety deposit box, and an en-suite bathroom.

WiFi is free throughout the property and guests can enjoy the on-site bar and restaurant as well as free use of the spa (45 minutes and after making a reservation).

Breakfast and booking of the airport shuttle come at an extra cost but on-site parking is free.

Want to stay at Hotel Dream? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

B&B option: Compagnons11

Compagnons11 is located in a historic townhouse in the center of Mons. It's beautifully decorated and has a quiet garden where guests can relax. Both WiFi and an exceptional breakfast are included in the room price. There's even free private parking on-site.

Want to stay at Compagnons11? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Apartment option: Le Hautbois

Apartment Le Hautbois is located just a 5-minute walk from the city center, featuring a seating area, a fully-equpped kitchen, and free WiFi. Free private parking is available as well and people who've stayed here rave about the hospitality of the host.

Want to stay at Le Hautbois? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Chain option: Congress Hotel Mons Van der Valk

The Congress Hotel Mons van der Valk lies right outside the historical center of Mons, just a few steps from the train station. It features modern rooms with a flatscreen tv, a coffee and tea maker, and an en-suite bathroom with free toiletries.

Guests can enjoy a complimentary Leonidas chocolate while using the free WiFi or after a workout at the on-site gym. There's also a wellness area with a sauna and a Hamman as well as an on-site restaurant.

Breakfast and use of the airport shuttle cost extra but on-site private parking is included.

Want to stay at Congress Hotel Mons van der Valk? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Budget option: Auberge de Jeunesse de Mons

The Auberge de Jeunesse de Mons is a youth hostel with rooms for 4 people, 4-bed male dorms, and 4-bed female dorms located in the historical center of Mons. Both the rooms and dorms have a private bathroom and are soundproof.

Guests can enjoy the free WiFi, free evening entertainment, the games room and the communal terrace. There's also an on-site bar and restaurant where you can enjoy a bio breakfast included in the room/bed price.

Want to stay at Auberge de Jeunesse de Mons? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.
 

Stay connected while visiting Belgium

Traveling to Belgium from outside the EU and want to stay connected so you can share photos, call loved ones over WiFi and easily use apps like Google Maps? Then check out Skyroam mobile WiFi.

They offer both day passes and monthly subscriptions providing you with 4G throughout your trips. I've been using their daily passes not just when I travel outside the EU (no roaming charges for me in the EU) but also as a backup for when I think I'll go over my phone's data plan.
 

Don't forget travel insurance

Plan for the best, prepare for the worst. Travel insurance has you covered in case (part of) your trip gets cancelled, you get sick or hurt abroad and even when your electronics break or get stolen. I've had ongoing travel insurance ever since I started traveling to make sure I'm covered for every trip I go on.

Rather be safe than sorry too? Check out World Nomads. They cover a wide range of activities for people from 140 countries.
 

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