Bruges is absolutely beautiful all year, but it really outdoes itself at Christmas when Christmas markets appear all over the city. And the truth is, I thought I was in a dream when I stepped foot in this place. Bruges is truly the most magical place to ever exist, so it should come to no surprise Christmas in Bruges is U-N-R-E-A-L!!!! I will be sharing everything you need to know about Bruges Christmas markets and the best things to do here this time of year!
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to the Bruges Christmas markets. From cozy wooden chalets to a dreamy ice skating rink to booking the best accommodations, this Bruges Christmas market Guide has got you covered.
I’ve got some serious fairytale-level content in store for you. Our trip to Bruges in 2017 was one for the books. Brace yourselves for some jaw-dropping Christmas decorations and streets that will leave you starry-eyed. This charming town is straight out of a storybook and we guarantee you won’t want to come back to reality. But don’t just take our word for it – press play and see for yourself. We’ll give you fair warning though – this video might just trigger some serious wanderlust.
@herjoliejourney If I could move somewhere in a heartbeat, Bruges would be at the top of my list! The city feels so cozy and magical, especially during the holidays. I absolutely fell in love with Bruges which is why it is ranked one of the BEST Christmas markets in Europe. Check out the link in my bio for a little travel guide on Bruges! #europechristmasmarkets #europetravel #christmasmarkets #europechristmas #brugesbelgium #photospots ♬ I'll Be Home For Christmas (Amazon Original) - Camila Cabello
Is Bruges on your radar this December? Well, do I have some juicy deets for you! I’m talking must-try holiday snacks, the optimal time to go, and all the secret intel to elevate your trip to epic levels. So put on that ugly Christmas sweater (you know you have one), and get ready to prance through one of Europe’s best Yuletide markets. Mark my words, this vacay is going to make you fa la la la FREAK OUT.
If you’re planning a trip to Bruges, you’re in luck because the closest major airport is Brussels Airport (BRU). But no worries, taking the train into town is easy-peasy. It’ll take you about 90 minutes and tickets start at 21 euros (or around $23)- a small price to pay for the beauty that awaits you in Bruges!
Now, if you’re feeling fancy and want to shell out some cash, by all means, take a taxi from the airport to Bruges…but be prepared to fork over a flat rate of 200 euros (or about $222). On the bright side, with that kind of money, you could probably afford to buy one of those delicious Belgian waffles in Bruges – or two! So hop on that train and enjoy the ride!
We made a rookie move by only spending one night in this gem of a town to catch the Christmas markets. Instant regret hit us like a ton of bricks, we should have booked a longer stay.
It’s so easy to get lost in the charming streets and activities of Bruges, you’ll want to stay forever! But, hey, even if your schedule is jam-packed, a day trip to Bruges is definitely doable and totally worth it. So, don’t make the same mistake we did and give yourself enough time to soak in the magic of this enchanting place.
Looking for a little royal treatment? Check out Castle ten Berghe, where you can finally fulfill your childhood dream of sleeping in a castle (and no, not the inflatable kind). The castle has been the home of one family for a whopping 18 generations, so you know it’s got some history. With three dining rooms to choose from (breakfast is optional, but priced at a princely 20€/pp), a library and even a chapel, you’ll feel like a fancy-pants in no time. So pack your bags and get ready to live like a king (or queen)!
Here is a list of some of the other best hotels in Bruges:
Hotel Dukes’ Palace: An enchanting 5 star hotel that was once used as an actual palace! It’s located just minutes from the town center.
Grand Hotel Casselbergh: Picture this: You, overlooking the stunning Groenerei canal from the comfort of an elegant hotel. Talk about fancy! And just a 4-minute walk from Markt square. The Bruges train station is only a mere 2 km away. So kick back, relax, and let this beautiful hotel be your home away from home.
Hotel Heritage – Relais & Chateaux: Prepare to be swept off your feet by this fancy hotel, situated near Bruge’s main rail terminal. The hotel boasts an elegant 19th-century building that’s sure to make history buffs drool. And let’s not forget about the location! Only a 2-minute walk away from Grote Markt square, and a 3-minute walk from the medieval Belfry of Bruges.
Are you ready to be charmed like never before? Look no further than Bruges, the ridiculously adorable medieval town that is sure to steal your heart. And what better time to visit than December, where swans, horse-drawn carriages, chocolate shops, little lace shops, and Christmas Markets await you at every turn.
Bruges knows how to show off in the winter, and you won’t be disappointed. So get ready to indulge in the best things to do in Bruges this December and experience charm like never before. Oh, and don’t forget to bring your camera, because your Instagram is about to be #Blessed.
Don’t be fooled by the small size of Bruges’ Christmas Market. This pint-sized town packs a punch when it comes to charm! Get ready to be smitten by the fairytale-like canals and the quaint cobbled streets bedecked with fresh Christmas pine trees and flickering lights. The market is SOO adorable! Bruges in the festive season is the epitome of magic.
Sharing everything you need to know about Christmas markets in Bruges.
Christmas Markets in Bruges may be on the smaller end, but this town has SO much to offer! The city does look like something straight out of a fairytale after all. And nothing beats the sweet scent of waffles that fill the air.
I’m going to give you the low down on Bruges Christmas markets, hidden gems, best food to try and more:
Looking to be the main character of your own rom com film?? Christmas in Bruges is made even more magical with a romantic little ice skating rink under twinkling lights. The Minnewater Rink and Winter Bar is home to the best ice skating in Bruges. Tbh, no Christmas market tour would be complete without a visit to the ice-skating rink and this one can be found on an actual pontoon! And don’t forget to warm up with a drink at the winter bar found here.
Originally located at market square, the ice skating rink has now moved locations to provide a more environmentally sustainable artificial ice skating rink. You will even find a cool new winter bar next door!
Book a walking tour and admire the most ADORABLE gingerbread houses decked out in festive decorations and streets lined with shimmering lights. It feels like the setting of a real life Christmas story! We really enjoyed learning all about this charming little town and touring spots that are often overlooked by tourists.
Bruges is like Amsterdam’s little sister, and anyone who is familiar with Amsterdam knows the best way to catch some of the best views is by boat through the canals. The same can be said about Bruges. Christmas in Bruges can be even MORE magical by boat! The canal tours last 30 minutes and most are open air boats, so be prepared to bundle up to stay warm!
Tired of walking around aimlessly in Bruges? Take a ride on one of their thirteen fancy carriages and let the cute horses trot you through beautiful cobblestone streets, ancient bridges, and cozy squares.
Enjoy the gentle clippity-clop of their hooves and the serene views from the city’s famous canals. Departing from the Market Square (or Burg Square on Wednesday mornings), the carriages will give you a half-hour tour of some of Bruges’ most charming spots while your coachman delights you with fascinating information about what you’re seeing. The cost of riding a carriage is 60 euros. You can learn more here.
Ireland in December is a beautiful blend of rolling green hills and charming towns, but…
Of course, Italy is a hotspot all year round, but here’s the deal...most tourists tend…
Europe may be famous for its enchanting Christmas Markets, but many tend to overlook little…
I look forward to the magical transformation that comes as summer gracefully gives way to…
Who says Scotland in November isn't magical? They clearly haven't experienced the enchantment of shoulder…
Everyone knows how cute and colorful Portugal is, but I didn't know it was going…