Brussels
elegant capital of Belgium is worth a visit even before it dons its Christmas finery. However, the GrandPlace, or Grote Markt, is only enhanced by its position as the centre of Brussels’ annual Winter Wonders festival and Christmas Market (brussels.be/ winterwonders). From 30 November, the square and the streets beyond it are transformed with the addition of over 200 charming wooden chalets, buzzing bars and pop-up restaurants.
Soak up the atmosphere
on a stroll up towards the Marché aux Poissons/Vismarkt – you’ll find a couple of carousels en route then come out onto a vast ice rink with a Ferris wheel behind it. Warm up with a waffle smothered in delicious chocolate sauce. If the weather’s too cold, head for the city’s biggest indoor Christmas market on Place Flagey
– here, you’ll find craft workers from all over Belgium, France, Germany and Hungary. How to do it: Eurostar tickets from London St Pancras to BrusselsSouth cost from £44pp one way; to book, visit eurostar.com. Stay in the centre of the action at
Hilton Brussels Grand-Place; doubles cost from €171/ £152 per night. Book via www3.hilton.com.
For more info, visit: visit.brussels/en/lists/ winter-in-brussels