From Christmas markets to cosy overnight stays

Although Mariah Carey firmly replied “no” when they recently asked her if it was already time to blast her iconic “All I Want for Christmas” through the speakers, we are of a different opinion. It’s a resounding YES! Bring on the Christmas spirit, pleeeeeaaaaase!

You can see decorated Christmas trees appearing everywhere you look inside. In classic red or in the trendy colours of the moment. Who cares, as long as it’s sparkling in your home! And where does a Christmas tree sparkle more than at a Christmas market? One with all the bells and whistles; you can find the Christmas tree and the market in every major city in Flanders. And where do we also have a hostel where you can stay? That’s right, in those same cities. You probably already get what we’re hinting at?

Going to the Christmas market, of course! Cosy chalets, magical light shows, deliciously fragrant bratwursts, a heart-warming gin or body-warming mulled wine… It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! But where exactly can you go when? We’ve got all the info for you.

Winter glow in Bruges

Another wonderful winter experience will take place in Bruges from 22 November 2024 to 5 January 2025. Winter Glow is a light experience trail that guides you through Bruges. Along the way, you will come across the two Christmas markets, one traditional Christmas market on the Markt itself and the other on the Simon Stevinplein, where you will find mostly craft products. Do a little a dance at Winterbar Vorst or visit Minnewater to do your best figure skating impression. If you want to sleep in, head over to the Europa hostel.

Winter festivities in Ghent

Ghent’s Winterfeesten are held from 5 to 31 December, with a wide range of stalls. Below the city hall, put on your roller skates to skate your way onto the largest mobile roller skating rink in the country. The biggest draw (literally)? The Ferris wheel! You’ll have a magnificent view of the historic city centre from atop it. Spend the night at the De Draecke hostel.

Antwerp

There is no shortage of food, beverages, and entertainment in Antwerp city centre. From 6 December 2024 to 5 January 2025, the City on the Scheldt transforms into a veritable Christmas village, with six Christmas markets spread across the city centre. Start on the Koningin Astridplein and head over to the Operaplein, then continue on to the Groenplaats, the Handschoenmarkt, the Hendrik Concienceplein, and lastly, the Grote Markt. If one day just isn’t enough and you’d like to turn your day into a weekend, book a stay at the Pulcinella hostel.

Leuven

The Leuven Christmas market opens its doors on Wednesday, 11 December, and runs until Sunday, 22 December. Get a drink in Rudolf winterstube (winter bar), discover homemade products in the many Christmas stalls, and spend the night in the De Blauwput hostel.

Winterland Hasselt

Are you foregoing the ski trip this year, but still want to imagine that you’re somewhere worth yodelling about? Then it’s best to head to Winterland Hasselt. Known for its Austrian vibe and skating rink, this Christmas market is open from 15 November 2024 to 5 January 2025. You can stay at Hostel H.

Places aplenty to soak up the Christmas vibes. Where are you heading this year? Or are you planning a big Christmas market crawl? Great idea!