Winter Wonders and Christmas Markets in Brussels 2024

Brussels transforms into a magical winter wonderland as the holiday season approaches. The Belgian capital embraces the chilly weather with characteristic warmth, offering a perfect blend of tradition and contemporary celebration.   

From late November through early January, Brussels comes alive with locals and tourists alike taking part in winter activities. In fact, over 2.5 million visitors attend the city’s Christmas markets and winter celebrations each year.  

Here’s what you need to know so you don’t miss out on the best Brussels has to offer as the festive season hits.   

The Charm of Brussels in Winter  

When winter descends upon Brussels, the city begins to glow with Christmas lights, creating an enchanting ambience throughout the cobbled streets.  

The centrepiece of this transformation is Grand Place. This UNESCO World Heritage site becomes the canvas for a spectacular sound and light show, with its ornate Gothic architecture serving as the backdrop.  

The winter charm extends beyond the city centre, with light installations creating magical walking routes through various neighbourhoods. The Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries, already stunning in their Victorian splendour, become even more magnificent when adorned with elegant holiday decorations.  

Visitors can find warming winter terraces scattered throughout the city, where traditional Belgian hot chocolate and spiced glühwein offer comfort against the crisp winter air.  

Special winter events punctuate the season, from ice skating at Place de la Monnaie to the Winter Pop festival. The Plaisirs d'Hiver (Winter Wonders) festival serves as the crown jewel of Belgian winter celebrations.  

Top Christmas Markets in Brussels  

Winter Wonders at Place Sainte-Catherine  

The heart of Brussels' winter festivities beats strongest at Place Sainte-Catherine, where over 200 charming chalets create a festive labyrinth of delights.  

This bustling market transforms the historic fish market square into a winter paradise, combining traditional charm with modern entertainment. The centrepiece is an impressive ice-skating rink for both novice and experienced skaters.  

An iconic 55-metre-high Ferris wheel offers breathtaking views of the city, making it a must-visit attraction. Market stalls display everything from handcrafted ornaments and winter wear to artisanal chocolates and traditional toys, creating a perfect shopping experience for unique holiday gifts.  

Marché de Noël at Grand Place  

Set against the backdrop of one of Europe's most beautiful squares, the Grand Place Christmas market is a feast for the senses. The 15th-century Gothic town hall and ornate guild houses provide a magnificent setting for festive celebrations.  

This year's market focuses on authentic Belgian craftsmanship, featuring local artisans highlighting their finest work, from hand-blown glass ornaments to intricate lace creations. The sound and light show projected onto the Town Hall occurs every evening, transforming the square into an enchanted spectacle of colour and music, celebrating Belgian cultural heritage through state-of-the-art technology.  

Must-Try Seasonal Delicacies  

Winter in Brussels is a gastronomic adventure. The air is filled with the irresistible aroma of fresh Speculoos cookies, while steaming pots of Belgian hot chocolate, made with real chocolate shavings, offer the perfect antidote to chilly weather. Don't miss the seasonal waffles, served with speculoos spread and whipped cream — a winter-only speciality that locals eagerly anticipate.  

For heartier fare, the markets offer traditional Belgian winter dishes like carbonnade flamande (beef stew cooked in beer) and boulets à la liégeoise (meatballs in a rich sauce).  

Street food favourites include fresh pomme frites with traditional sauces, grilled sausages, and tartiflette — a warming Alpine dish that has become a Brussels Christmas market staple. Local food artisans also prepare seasonal specialties like warming jenever (Belgian gin) in various flavours and traditional glühwein made with Belgian spices.  

Activities Beyond the Markets  

Brussels offers a wealth of winter activities beyond its markets. The Royal Ice-Skating Rink at Place de la Monnaie provides a magical setting for winter sports, with special sessions for families and beginners. This year introduces a new synthetic ice rink at Montgomery, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional ice skating.  

Cultural events abound during the winter season. The BOZAR hosts its annual Winter Concert Series, featuring both classical and contemporary performances. The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) presents special holiday-themed exhibitions, while the Comic Strip Centre celebrates winter through the lens of famous Belgian comics.  

Families with children will find plenty to enjoy, from the enchanted forest installation at Park Cinquantenaire to the special winter workshops at the Museum of Natural Sciences. The Royal Galleries Saint-Hubert hosts daily puppet shows telling traditional Belgian winter tales, while the Mini-Europe Park offers a special winter illumination tour.  

This year also introduces new immersive experiences, including a virtual reality winter wonderland at Tour & Taxis and a series of interactive light installations throughout the city centre. There is a perfect photo opportunity for visitors of all ages around every corner.  

Tips for Visiting Brussels in Winter  

Best Times to Visit

To make the most of your experience at Brussels' Christmas markets, timing is key. The markets typically open in late November and run through the first week of January. The weekends tend to be the busiest, so if you prefer a quieter experience, aim to visit on weekdays. Early evenings are particularly magical, as the markets are beautifully lit, and the festive atmosphere is at its peak. For families, try to visit in the late afternoon, when there are often special activities for kids.  

Transportation Options and Accessibility  

Brussels boasts an excellent public transportation system, making it easy to navigate the city in winter. The STIB-MIVB metro, tram, and bus services provide convenient access to the Christmas markets. Consider buying a multi-day pass if you plan to explore extensively. Many markets are also within walking distance of each other in the city centre. For those with mobility issues, most public transport options are accessible, and the city streets are well-maintained, though it is wise to wear sturdy footwear due to potential winter weather conditions.  

Recommendations for Accommodation  

For a cosy winter stay, consider booking accommodations that offer a touch of warmth and charm. Here are a few recommendations:  

• Boutique Hotels: Look for boutique hotels in the city centre often featuring festive decorations and personalised service. Hotel des Galeries or Hotel Amigo offers a delightful blend of luxury and local culture.  

• B&Bs: For a more homely feel, check out charming bed and breakfasts such as B&B La Maison de la Chapelle, where you can enjoy a hearty breakfast and warm hospitality.  

• Apartments: Renting an apartment can be a wonderful choice if you prefer more space. Platforms like Airbnb offer a variety of cosy stays throughout the city, perfect for a winter retreat.  

Whenever possible, choose accommodation that is centrally located. This allows you to easily immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of Brussels' winter wonderland. 

Keep Your Luggage Safe at Storo Groot-Bijgaarden  

Whether you're strolling through the twinkling chalets of Place Sainte-Catherine, marvelling at the sound and light show at the iconic Grand Place or gliding across the ice rink beneath the glow of twinkling lights, Brussels in winter is a feast for the senses. 

Storo is opening a new self storage facility in Groot-Bijgaarden in January 2025. Our ultramodern facility, conveniently found just a short distance from the city centre, provides the perfect solution for securely storing your luggage. 

With round-the-clock security, temperature-controlled units, and hassle-free access, you can enjoy the holiday festivities without worrying about your belongings.