December is winter in Belgium, but the country doesn’t get as cold as some other Northern European countries, so you can still enjoy a city break in generally comfortable conditions. With Christmas markets set up around the country throughout the month (and sometimes as early as November), visitors can enjoy shopping, food and drink, fairground rides, and pretty decorations. Learn more about travel to Belgium in December.
## A Comprehensive Guide to Belgium in December: Weather, Festivities, and More
December in Belgium marks the official beginning of winter, making it one of the chilliest months alongside January. The days are noticeably shorter, with sunrise typically occurring around 8:30 am and sunset around 4:30 pm, the shortest day being at the end of December. While the limited daylight hours may influence outdoor activities, the allure of Belgium in December lies in its vibrant cities and captivating indoor attractions.
The climate across Belgium displays nuances between its coastal regions, inland areas, and the highlands. **Flanders**, the northern, Flemish-speaking part of Belgium that hugs the coast, generally enjoys a milder climate. Its maritime influence moderates temperature extremes, resulting in less severe cold or heat. Conversely, the **Ardennes**, a hilly and forested region in the south, experiences the coldest temperatures, with increased snowfall and fog during the winter months. **Brussels**, situated inland, exhibits a more continental climate compared to coastal cities like **Bruges** or **Antwerp**. While it doesn’t typically experience intensely freezing temperatures, the weather tends to be colder than on the coast. In December, **Brussels** sees average high temperatures around 43°F (6°C) and average lows around 35°F (2°C). The variance in weather across regions means visitors will need to consider this when packing.
The beginning of December is usually considered the off-season for tourism in Belgium. During this period, the number of visitors is generally lower, and prices tend to be more affordable. This makes early December an opportune time for a budget-friendly city getaway. However, the atmosphere transforms dramatically with the emergence of Christmas markets from mid-December onwards. These markets attract a significant influx of visitors, which leads to larger crowds and higher prices, especially for accommodation. Therefore, it is advisable to book accommodations well in advance if you plan to visit a popular city during the Christmas market season, particularly in the days leading up to Christmas and between Christmas and New Year.
Considering the diverse array of destinations, some of the most captivating places to explore in Belgium during December are those cities that host bustling Christmas markets. While perhaps not as internationally renowned as their counterparts in neighboring Germany, Belgian Christmas markets are incredibly charming and offer a delightful experience. They provide a wonderful alternative destination for December travelers seeking festive cheer.
The Christmas markets in **Brussels** are particularly enchanting, enhanced by the incorporation of a large fairground featuring Ferris wheels and spectacular light shows. The French-speaking city of **Liège** boasts the country’s oldest and largest Christmas markets. Sampling the local oysters, often accompanied by a glass of mulled wine or hot chocolate, is a must-do experience. The Christmas markets in **Bruges** are also renowned for their beauty and are thoughtfully organized into distinct sections to facilitate shopping. These markets are centrally located around the iconic **Grote Markt**. For those looking to explore smaller towns in Belgium, **Ypres**, **Namur**, and **Mechelen** all host appealing Christmas markets that offer unique experiences.
For visitors who enjoy outdoor activities and winter sports, December offers opportunities for recreation. Ice skating is a popular pastime, and many towns and cities set up temporary ice rinks during this time. The frozen **Lake of Love** in **Bruges** provides a particularly romantic setting for skating. Further inland, you might discover other frozen lakes and canals suitable for skating, but always check for safety. For those interested in cross-country skiing, the **Ardennes** region offers picturesque trails that wind through the forests.
Belgium is rightfully celebrated for its culinary offerings, and December is an excellent time to embark on a food-focused tour. No matter what the weather is outside, there’s a certain comfort in enjoying classic Belgian dishes like *moules-frites* (mussels and fries) paired with local beer in a cozy gastropub. Consider taking a tour of a Belgian brewery to learn about the beer-making process (there are many!). You could also participate in a hands-on chocolate-making workshop to learn the secrets of creating delectable Belgian chocolates, and warm yourself up with a cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate from a street vendor. These gastronomic attractions are available throughout the country, and you can also indulge in many regional specialties at the Christmas Markets.
December in Belgium is filled with events, including the following:
**Christmas Village, Liège:** This, the oldest Christmas market in Belgium, springs to life in December, showcasing over 200 chalets adorned with festive lights and decorations.
**Antwerp Christmas Market, Antwerp:** This charming old-town festival features fireworks, market stalls offering various goods, and an ice skating rink that operates throughout December.
**Plaisers D’Hiver and Brussels Christmas Market, Brussels:** This “Winter Wonder” encompasses more than 200 market stalls, fairground rides like Ferris wheels, and captivating light displays.
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