BRUSSELS, BELGIUM
The namesake sprouts may not be for everyone, but the capital of Belgium is a sure-fire Christmas smash. Start with a stroll to the Unesco-listed La Grandplace, a cobbled square home to baroque guildhalls and the town hall. It’s impressive at any time, but winter brings a 250-stall Christmas market and spectacular light and sound shows.
Next, stop at Maison Dandoy for sugar-topped Liege waffles, before a visit to A La Mort Subite, an atmospheric brasserie serving classic Belgian beers. If you’ve got time, hop on the train to nearby Bruges to wander through a spectacular market and enjoy a canal cruise.
✣ What to buy: It could only be chocolate. Neuhaus (inventor of Belgian praline, no less) has stores the world over, but the original is in Galerie de la Reine. Alternatively, visit Wittamer on Place du Grand Sablon for artisanal treats given a seal of approval by the Belgian royals.