A Holiday to Remember

Last year, we decided to do something a little different and head to the enchanting city of Bruges during the Christmas season. Known for its cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and cosy charm, Bruges turned out to be the perfect destination for a festive escape. From twinkling lights to mouth-watering Belgian treats, our Christmas in Bruges was nothing short of magical.

Arriving in Bruges: A Fairy-tale Welcome

As soon as we arrived in Bruges, it felt like we had stepped into a winter fairy-tale. The entire city was dressed up for Christmas, with garlands, lights, and decorations adorning every street. We checked into our charming little hotel just a stone’s throw from the Grote Market, Bruges‘ main square, and instantly knew we were in for a special holiday.

Exploring the Christmas Markets

Our first stop had to be the famous Bruges Christmas markets. Set against the backdrop of the medieval Belfry Tower, the Grote Market was buzzing with festive energy. Stalls selling handmade crafts, ornaments, and delicious treats lined the square, and the scent of fresh waffles and mulled wine filled the air.

We spent hours wandering through the market, picking out unique gifts and sampling local delicacies. One of our favourite discoveries was the Belgian hot chocolate—rich, creamy, and absolutely divine. Of course, we couldn’t resist trying the Belgian waffles topped with whipped cream and chocolate sauce. Christmas calories don’t count, right?

A Magical Ice Skating Experience

In the heart of the Grote Market, there was a charming ice skating rink surrounded by holiday lights. Neither of us had ice skated in years, but the festive atmosphere was too irresistible not to give it a go. Gliding (or wobbling, in our case!) under the twinkling lights with the stunning architecture of Bruges as a backdrop was an unforgettable experience. Even if we weren’t the most graceful on the ice, the laughter and joy made it one of the highlights of our trip.

Indulging in Belgian Cuisine

No trip to Belgium is complete without indulging in the local cuisine, and Christmas in Bruges is the perfect excuse to treat yourself. We found cosy little restaurants tucked away in the narrow streets, serving everything from hearty Flemish stew to mussels and frites. The warmth of these intimate spots was the perfect escape from the crisp winter air.

One evening, we decided to splurge on a traditional Christmas dinner at a local bistro. The atmosphere was incredibly festive, with candles, crackling fires, and carols playing softly in the background. The meal was exquisite—a combination of local flavours and holiday classics that left us happily stuffed.

Exploring Bruges’ Historic Charm

During the day, we took time to explore Bruges’ historic sites, which felt even more magical with a dusting of snow. We visited the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a stunning church that houses a revered relic, and marvelled at the Gothic architecture of St. Salvator’s Cathedral. Every corner of the city seemed to hold a piece of history, and wandering through its streets felt like stepping back in time.

We also couldn’t resist taking a romantic boat ride along the canals. Wrapped up in blankets, we glided through the waterways, soaking in the beauty of the city from a different perspective. The reflections of the Christmas lights on the water made it a truly magical experience.

Bruges at Christmas

Bruges gave us the Christmas experience we had always dreamed of, a perfect blend of festive cheer, cosy moments, and unforgettable experiences. From the bustling Christmas markets to the peaceful canals, every part of our trip felt like a scene from a holiday movie.

If you’re looking for a destination that truly captures the magic of Christmas, Bruges is the place to be. We left with full hearts, happy memories, and a promise to return to this beautiful city again someday.