Visit the Christmas markets!
The holiday season is rolling in, bringing with it that wonderful Christmas spirit. If you are travelling to one of our hotels this holiday, you can consider this the official go-to Christmas guide. Whether you’re a gingerbread enthusiast, a gift-shopping guru or just there for the ‘grams, these markets have something to put a jingle in your step!
Brussels, Belgium: The Wonderland of Waffles and Warm Frites
If you think Brussels is all about chocolate and beer, you’re in for a delicious shock. Come Christmastime, the Plaisirs d’Hiver market transforms the city into a festive spectacle of 200+ wooden chalets and a Ferris wheel fit for a snow queen. Grab yourself a “gaufre” (otherwise known as a waffle) and a side of fries – you are in Belgium after all. St. Catherine’s Square and the Grand Place become magical promenades where you can munch, sip, and soak up the holiday cheer. From Citybox Brussels you can easily take the metro, right from the hotel!
PS: Don’t miss the Manneken Pis dressed as Santa!
Tallinn, Estonia: Maybe the oldest Christmas market in the world
Tallinn’s market might be smaller, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm. Imagine cobblestone streets dusted with snow, medieval architecture, and a Christmas tree tradition that is older than your great-great-grandma. Warm up with a cup of Estonian glögi and browse the handcrafted woolen hats, wooden toys and quirky gifts that are more one-of-a-kind than an ugly Christmas sweater. The market is within walking distance from the hotel, so grab your loved one and stroll on over! PS: If you’re lucky, you might spot Santa’s elves huddled in the market corners – they’re tiny, but their enthusiasm is huge.
Antwerp, Belgium – A Diamond in the Christmas Ruff
Not to be outdone by its Belgian cousin, Antwerp hosts a Christmas market that just feels fancy. You’ll find it wrapped around the towering of Cathedral of Our Lady, where fairy lights twinkle off old brick facades. We recommend walking directly from the hotel to take in all the Christmas feels, but you can also take the metro. For those who prefer their festive treats with a little edge, try the Belgian craft beers (served in mugs that you’ll be trying to sneak back to your hotel room as a “souvenir”). When you’re done shopping and sipping, go skating on the market’s ice rink and take in the views of the Grote Markt – or gracefully fall on your bum like the rest of us.
Stockholm, Sweden – “Hygge” in the heart of Gamla Stan
Swedes don’t do Christmas – they nail it. In the picturesque Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s old town (right by the hotel), the Christmas market is everything you’d expect fromt the land of IKEA; perfectly designed, festive and smelling of freshly baked gingerbread. Pick up some Swedish handicrafts or the famous Julmust soda, which tastes like root beer got a cozy, holiday makeover. And if you’re feeling particularly brave, try som lutfisk (dried fish) – a traditional holiday dish best enjoyed when you’ve got something sweet on standby. Just don’t tell the local you’ve never heard of it.
Oslo, Norway: Where Christmas Magic Meet Viking Vibes
Oslo’s “Christmas in Winterland” market combines the classic winter wonderland with a touch of Norse mystique. Located in Spikersuppa square, the market features cozy wooden stalls brimming with traditional crafts, seasonal goodies, and heartwarming treats. The star attraction? The ice skating rink and the julegrøt – a special rice porridge that’s as Norwegian as the fjord and the trolls. For an extra touch of charm, wander around the light displays and don’t miss out on a chance to meet the market’s friendly santas – yes, they’re plural here!
Festive Pro Tips
- Best Market Snack? Try everything once, then find the stall with the longest line and see what you’ve been missing.
- Photo Spots: Every. Single. Square. But make sure to get a night shot when the lights are in full glow.
- Gift Grab: Local trinkets are perfect for giving your loved ones a piece of your trip… or making them extra jealous.
So throw on that ugly Christmas sweater, charge up your phone, and get ready for some serious holiday spirit. Each of these markets brings a bit of magic in its own way. And who knows, maybe you’ll leave with a little too much holiday cheer (and a few extra souvenirs).
