Bruges Christmas Market Guide
Your Guide To Bruges Christmas Market
Experience the magic of the Bruges Christmas Market and discover an idyllic winter wonderland in one of Europe's most exciting cities. Bruges, a fairytale-like city nestled in Belgium, comes alive during the holiday season. With its cobbled streets, medieval architecture and one of the best Christmas markets in Belgium, Bruges is a must-visit destination.
Check out our Belgium Travel Guides to find other places nearby that are well worth the visiting. Book a short break in Bruges with our city break package to immerse yourself in the history and culture, and read on to discover our top tips for visiting Bruges at Christmas.
Bruges Christmas Market locations
The Bruges Christmas Market takes place in two locations across the city centre, about a one-minute walk apart.
Head to the Markt to explore a traditional market in the shadow of Bruges's iconic Belfort. Here, wooden market stalls line the perimeter of the square, selling a range of food, drink and Christmas goodies. There's also plenty of festive fun to be had, from following the Winter Glow light trail to skating on the ice rink.
The rest of the markets are just down Steenstraat on the Simon Stevinplein, where you will find artisanal craft products. Simon Stevinplein is a much smaller square, and it's lined with trees that add to its cosy feel. This is a great place to find one-off Christmas gifts for the people you love.
Bruges Christmas Market stalls
The Bruges Christmas Market features stalls selling a range of delicious local food and hand-made crafts. Whether you're shopping for gifts or want to treat yourself to some Christmassy goodies, try one of the market stalls selling unique items, including:
- Christmas decorations
- Clothing
- Candles
- Woodwork
- Local food, including Belgian chocolate
- Souvenirs
Along with the unique shopping opportunities, the picturesque markets are worth a visit simply because of the beautiful setting. The architecture surrounding the Markt adds to the fairytale feel, along with the horse-drawn carriages and twinkling lights.
What to eat and drink at Bruges Christmas Market
There is an abundance of food and drink stalls to visit at the Bruges Christmas Market. Most of the food stalls are in the Markt, where you can work up an appetite by skating at the ice rink. Warm up with a cup of mulled wine and keep an eye out for traditional festive treats as you stroll through the stalls.
Here are some Belgian treats to indulge in during your visit to the Bruges Christmas Market:
- Mulled wine
- Belgian chocolate
- Speculoos (spiced shortbread biscuits)
- Waffles & Baked gingerbread
- Roasted chestnuts
- Belgian fries
- Shrimp coquettes
Bruges Christmas Market dates
Wondering when to visit Bruges for the Christmas markets? In 2024, the Bruges Christmas Market opens on November 22nd and closes on January 5th 2025, so there's plenty of time to enjoy the Christmas festivities in the heart of the city.
The markets are open every day during this time, with limited hours on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve.
Ready to book your Christmas trip to Bruges? Discover packages that make planning the perfect city break easy, from stress-free travel with no luggage restrictions to carefully chosen hotels for any budget.
Christmas gift ideas from Bruges Christmas Market
The range of stalls at the Bruges Christmas Market is truly spectacular. Fill up on tasty festive treats and browse a selection of unique hand-crafted items and decorations that make great gifts.
From personalised baubles to soft, knitted scarves, find gifts for everyone you love this Christmas. If you're looking for something special and easy to pack for your journey home, lace doilies are part of Belgium's rich textile tradition and make a unique present.
