Things To Do In Brussels At Christmas

Brussels is a great city to visit during the holiday season! With its festive decorations, rich culture, and plenty of activities to do, it’s a great place to spend the Christmas period. Whether you’re looking for something to do with the family, a romantic getaway, or just a fun time with friends, this guide will show you the top things to do in Brussels during the holiday season.

Introduction to Brussels

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and the largest city in the country. It is the headquarters of many European institutions and is known as the political capital of Europe. It is also a great tourist destination, with its many attractions and monuments, including the iconic Grand Place, the Manneken Pis, and the Atomium. In addition, it also has a great selection of restaurants, bars, and clubs, making it a great destination for all kinds of travelers.

During the Christmas period, Brussels is transformed into a winter wonderland. The streets are decorated with festive lights, shops and restaurants offer special holiday menus, and the city center is filled with Christmas markets and events. Here is a list of some of the best things to do in Brussels at Christmas.

Visit the Christmas Markets

The Christmas markets are a big part of the festive season in Brussels. The markets are held in the city center, with vendors selling handmade crafts, traditional food, and festive decorations. The biggest and most popular market is the Winter Wonders Market, which takes place in the Grand Place. This is the perfect place to get into the spirit of the holiday season, with its Christmas carousel, ice rink, and food stands.

Visit the Local Attractions

In addition to the Christmas markets, there are plenty of other attractions to visit in Brussels. The Grand Place is a must-see during the holiday season, as it is decorated with festive lights and decorations. The Manneken Pis is another iconic attraction, while the Atomium is a great place to get a panoramic view of the city. For those looking for something different, there are plenty of museums and galleries to visit, such as the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, the Magritte Museum, and the Musical Instruments Museum.

See a Performance

During the holiday season, many of the city’s theaters and concert halls host special performances. These include classical concerts, ballets, operas, and plays. Some of the most popular performances include the Brussels Opera’s production of “The Nutcracker,” the Royal Ballet’s performance of “Cinderella,” and the Royal Theatre of Brussels’s production of “A Christmas Carol.”

Take a Tour

If you’re looking for a more immersive way to explore Brussels, there are plenty of guided tours available. These include walking tours of the city’s most iconic attractions, food tours, and even bike tours. Some of the more popular tours include the Brussels City Tour, the Brussels Beer Tasting Tour, and the Brussels Chocolate Tour.

Shop for Christmas Gifts

Christmas shopping is also a big part of the festive season in Brussels. There are plenty of shops in the city center, from big department stores to small independent boutiques. The biggest and most famous shopping district is the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, which is filled with luxury shops, cafes, and restaurants. In addition, there are also plenty of Christmas markets where you can find unique gifts and souvenirs.

Go Ice Skating

One of the best things to do in Brussels at Christmas is to go ice skating. There are several rinks in the city, including the rink in the Grand Place, the rink in La Bourse, and the one in Place de Brouckère. These rinks are open throughout the holiday season, making them a great place to spend an afternoon.

Dine Out

Brussels is also home to a variety of restaurants serving up traditional Belgian cuisine. Some of the most popular restaurants include the Michelin-starred Comme Chez Soi, the seafood restaurant Sea Grill, and the Belgian beer hall Delirium Café. During the holiday season, many restaurants offer special menus and discounts, making them a great place to experience the city’s unique culinary culture.

Conclusion

Brussels is a great city to visit during the holiday season. With its festive decorations, rich culture, and plenty of activities to do, it’s a great place to spend the Christmas period. From Christmas markets to ice-skating and from traditional Belgian cuisine to performances, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Brussels during the holiday season. So, if you’re looking for a festive getaway, then Brussels is the perfect destination.