How to visit Bruges Christmas Market
Other Things to do in Bruges at Christmas
Climb the Belfry Tower
For one of the best views of Bruges, make sure you squeeze in a trip to the top of the tower. Whether you’re in Bruges for one day or longer, secure your tickets first thing in the morning. The tower is very popular and it gets booked up quickly. You can purchase your tickets from a kiosk just inside the entrance, where you’ll be able to see ticket availability for the day and pick the time you’d like.
Ticket prices:
- 18 – 65+: €15
- 7 – 17: €13
- Under 7: Free
Opening hours:
Monday – Friday: 10am – 6pm
Saturday: 9am – 8pm
Sunday: 10am – 6pm
Take a boat ride through the city’s canals
A boat ride may not seem like an obvious choice in the winter, but its worth it to experience Bruges’ famous canals first-hand. Seeing the city from the water offers a unique perspective, and it looks even more pretty with all the festive decorations in place.
You will also see horse drawn carriages being advertised in the city centre. We personally don’t condone animal tourism, so please don’t book a horse drawn carriage.
Explore the city’s many cafes and bars
Bruges is filled with cosy little spots to warm up with a hot chocolate, mulled wine or a local beer. There’s nothing like coming in from the cold, fresh faced and rosy cheeked, taking a seat in a cosy corner and watching the world go by. There are too many to list – and to be honest, Bruges is best explored on foot, so see what little hidden gems you come across.
Shop beyond the markets
While the Christmas Market is the star attraction for so many at this time of year, take a wander also up and down the shopping street and side streets. There are many well-known high street stores in Bruges, plus some smaller brands and independent stores, where you can pick up some unique gifts and souvenirs.
A particular favourite is Käthe Wohlfahrt, a two-floor Christmas decoration haven! Be warned this place gets very busy though! So either come very early in the day, or be patient as you slowly shuffle your way around the store.
Enjoy the local delicacies
Belgium knows how to do good food and drink – even more so at Christmas time. Some must-try treats are:
- Belgium Waffles: either from the markets, or there are lots of lovely cafes who pride themselves on serving a variety of delicious waffles.
- Frites: some market stalls also specialise in “dirty frites”. We found one who supplied vegetarian “beef” and loaded on the cheese for us! Delicious!
- Cheese kroketten: speaking of cheese, these little crispy cheese croquettes are so moreish!
- Belgium chocolate: you will be quite literally spoilt for choice! From the chocolatiers which line the streets of bruges, to market stalls. You can’t go too far wrong
- Mulled wine or hot chocolate: it would be a crime at such a festive setting to not indulge in a couple of mugs. If you like mulled wine, be sure to scout out the best mugs at the various stalls. Most will require a small deposit, which you get back when you return the mug, or you can keep your mugs as souvenirs. We came back with a pair of mugs shaped like boots – cute!
- Belgian beer: And of course, if beer is more up your street, then you have come to the right place. From market stalls, to bars and pubs, Belgium beer will be quite literally everywhere you look!
