Hamburg in December is magical: the Christmas markets in the city are famous for their abundance and every snowy walk around the Alster makes up for the gray skies. But if you are drawn to faraway places instead, you should take a look at the most beautiful Christmas markets abroad. One of the best addresses, however, is the Christmas market in Brussels. It is regularly listed as one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe and even the world.
It’s not too far from Hamburg to the Belgian capital. It takes around six hours by train if you change directly to the Eurostar in Cologne or Aachen. It’s quicker by plane – you can reach Brussels in just around an hour.
A winter wonderland in the Belgian capital
Every year in winter, Brussels transforms into a winter paradise – literally. The “Plaisirs d’Hiver ” translates as “Winter Wonderland”. In 2024, it attracted 4.2 million visitors. Now it is returning and offering “even more surprises and unforgettable experiences” from November 28 to January 4, 2026, according to the official website.
The Christmas market in Brussels offers a total of 238 market stalls. As every year, there is a huge Christmas tree on the famous “Grand-Place”. Every hour from 5 pm, the historic façade of the square is illuminated with a huge light show. Starting from the main square, the “winter wonder” stretches through the entire city. Here you will find arts and crafts, homemade gift ideas, decorative items and, of course, plenty of mulled wine and traditional food.
What you shouldn’t miss at the Christmas market in Brussels
This year’s edition of the Christmas market in Brussels has a theme that highlights the creativity and solidarity of the city and puts local craftspeople, artists and associations in the spotlight. This interactive map shows you exactly where you can discover what in Brussels. Here is a selection of the highlights:
- Place De Brouckère: home to a large ice rink and curling slopes
- Le Vismet: A 55-metre-high Ferris wheel takes you high above Brussels
- Rue de la Madeleine: Discover market stalls from a Ukrainian association
- Place Poelaert: Here lies a miniature Christmas village
- Stadthalle: The “View Tower Experience” offers a view from the roof of the Stadthalle
- De Brouckère square: A reindeer carousel lifts you 10 meters into the air