Christmas markets are very popular in Belgium. But which one do you choose? They all have something similar and something unique.
Antwerp offers one of the most spectacular settings for the annual Christmas Market
The Grote Markt Antwerp
Christmas Market on the Grote Markt in Antwerp
The market is spread over different squares in the historic city centre which makes it very cozy. Everything is within short walking distance: The Grote Markt, Suikerrui, Handschoenmarkt, the Groenplaats, and Steenplein at the foot of Antwerp Steen castle.
Het Steen Castle in Antwerp
The Christmas market in Antwerp is an annual event, and it’s usually open from the first weekend of December till just after Christmas, but this year it will stay open till after New Year, just as most other Christmas markets in Belgium. In 2016, Antwerp Christmas market will be open daily from the 10th of December till the 8th of January.
Belgian Waffles for sale at a Christmas market
You can check out some of the 100+ market stalls, enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or a glass of glühwein, taste some Belgian waffles and smoutebollen, or go ice skating.
Ice skating rink in Groenplaats Antwerp
You can easily visit with children as there is plenty to do for everyone. A fair with a Ferris Wheel and some children’s rides is located at the Schelde river next to the castle. The ice skating rink can be found on the Groenplaats this year. There are plenty of other family friendly activities in the city to keep you entertained during the day as well (zoo, aquarium, museums,..).
Antwerp Ferris Wheel and Christmas market
If you are looking for a short winter getaway in Europe, Antwerp is a great choice. It has plenty to offer for young and old, it’s the home base of Rubens, the world diamond centre, it also provides some of the best shopping in Belgium, lots of wining and dining options for any budget, all in a beautiful historical setting. Add the warm Christmas atmosphere, and you cannot go wrong with visiting Antwerp in December.
Read also: Best of Antwerp – What to See and Do in 1 or 2 Days
If you can, plan on spending a weekend in Antwerp and stay for at least one or two nights. That way you can experience more this great city has to offer. Click here for the best hotel deals for Antwerp.
Greetings from Antwerp
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Comments
Wonderful!
Thanks!
Very tempted to jump on a plane now! After visiting Brussels last month, I can’t get enough of Belgium!
Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment, Tilly. It’s at the moments like this that I realise that we take so many things for granted. Like the fact that we have such beautiful places like Antwerp, Brussels or Bruges nearby, or that we can go to Amsterdam or Paris for a weekend whenever we feel like… It’s good to be reminded how special it actually is and what a privilege it is to live here in Europe.