Whenever we say we’re from Belgium people often don’t know what or wherever that may be. But when we say it’s the country where tomorrowland takes place, everyone knows.
Of course Belgium has way more to offer than our famous festival. We’ve got the best beers in the world, (no-so-french) fries, waffles and chocolate. And lots of historic cities to visit with fun Christmas markets!
Our country is divided in 2 parts (Flanders and Wallonia) and they both speak another language (Flemish and French). In this top 5 I’ve listed my personal top 5 of Christmas markets in Flanders.
5. Hasselt
Hasselt is the capital of the province of Limburg. They have almost 80k inhabitants and they are famous for their ‘Hasseltse Jevener’; a strong liquor! You’ll definitely find these on the Christmas markets!
Source: winterland.be
4. Bruges
Bruges is the capital and largest city of the province of West Flanders.
Bruges has most of its medieval architecture intact, making it one of the most well-preserved medieval towns in Europe. The historic centre of Bruges has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000.
Most of these medieval buildings are nicely decorated, so be sure to check these out!
Source: brugge.be
3. Ghent
Gent is the capital of the province of East Flanders.
During summer you have to check out the “Gentse feesten”, but during winter they have their Christmas edition of these: “Gentse winter feesten”.
There are over 140 stalls, so don’t try to drink at each and every one of them 😉
Source: gentsewinterfeesten.be
2. Antwerp
In Antwerp the Christmas market starts at the famous Groenplaats, crawls via the Grote Markt (town square) towards the river (Schelde) at ‘t steen.
If you love ice skating you can try it at the Groenplaats. If you’re more into drinking and eating you’ll have to walk towards the town square or ‘t Steen.
Source: kerstmarktantwerpen.be
1. Brussels
Brussels, officially the Brussels-Capital Region is the capital of Belgium. The Brussels-Capital Region is located in the central portion of the country and is a part of both the French and the Flemish Community of Belgium.
There are many parts of this christmas market, so make sure you check them all out!
Source: brussels.be
Where will you be celebrating Christmas?
