Discover the magic of Christmas in Brussels with a local guide

Exploring Brussels during the holiday season is a treat, and this guided Christmas tour promises a cozy, festive adventure led by a passionate local. While we haven’t personally taken this exact experience, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and thoughtfully curated stops paint a compelling picture of its charm.

What we love about this tour is how it combines authentic Brussels traditions with the lively atmosphere of its famous markets, all sprinkled with insider stories only a local could share. The inclusion of tastings—like mulled wine and local specialties—adds a tasty, warming touch that makes the experience stand out. Plus, the detailed focus on historic sites ensures you’re not just shopping but also learning about the city’s roots.

One thing to keep in mind is the duration—just 1.5 hours—which makes it a quick yet immersive experience. It’s perfect for travelers short on time or those who want a festive introduction to Brussels without committing to a full day. This tour might be especially great for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights with a personal touch.

If you enjoy lively, story-filled walks with delicious bites and beautiful sights, this tour is likely to suit you well. It’s ideal for small groups who appreciate personalized attention and want an authentic, festive view of Brussels’ Christmas spirit.

Good To Know

• Intimate Small Group: Limited to 6 participants for personalized guidance
• Authentic Brussels Experience: Local guide shares lesser-known stories and traditions
• Festive Highlights: Christmas market, decorated Galeries Royales St Hubert, Grand Place light show
• Tastings Included: Brussels specialty and mulled wine for warming up
• Convenient Location: Starts at the elegant Galeries Royales St Hubert and ends at the Grand Place
• Flexible Booking: Cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with pay later options

You can check if your dates are available here:

A detailed look at the Brussels Christmas tour

Starting point: The Galeries Royales St Hubert

The tour kicks off at the Galeries Royales St Hubert, a stunning covered arcade with a history dating back to 1847. During Christmas, it transforms into a fairy-tale scene, with festive lights and decorations that set a warm, inviting tone. Walking through these elegant arches makes you feel part of a winter wonderland right from the start. Our guide explains how this historic shopping gallery once catered to royalty and continues to be a hub of luxury shopping, now dressed up for the holidays.

Exploring Saint-Hubert Royal Galleries

Next, your guide takes you through the Saint-Hubert Royal Galleries. Here, the atmosphere is bustling but refined, with boutique shops and cafés. The guide shares anecdotes—like how these galleries are Belgium’s first covered shopping arcade—and points out secret spots most travelers overlook. It’s a perfect place to soak in the historic ambiance while getting tips on the best spots for holiday treats.

St Catherine’s Square and Food Tasting

A short walk brings you to St Catherine’s Square, where the lively Christmas market takes center stage. It’s a lively scene filled with stalls selling handcrafted goods, mulled wine, and seasonal snacks. Here, you’ll be offered a tasting of a Belgian speciality, which could be anything from local chocolates to a traditional sweet. The guide emphasizes the importance of supporting local artisans, making the tasting more meaningful.

Many reviewers mention the delicious mulled wine included in the tour—perfect for warming up as you browse the stalls. One reviewer noted, “It was great to stroll through the market with a local, tasting and hearing stories about each booth.” Don’t miss the chance to try some seasonal treats, as they give you a taste of local holiday traditions.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Wine Tasting

Later, the tour takes you to a local spot for a wine tasting. Although Brussels isn’t renowned for wine, the selection often includes Belgian or regional varieties that are well worth exploring. This break allows you to unwind and chat with your guide about Brussels’ culinary scene. It’s a lovely addition, especially when paired with the festive atmosphere.

Bourse and the Historic Heart

Your walk continues to the Bourse (stock exchange area), where your guide shares stories about Brussels’ historic financial district. The architecture here is impressive, especially under Christmas lights, and it offers a different perspective on the city’s blend of history and modern life. The guide’s anecdotes make these landmarks come alive, giving you a deeper appreciation of Brussels’ multifaceted character.

Grand Place and the Grand Finale

The tour concludes at Brussels’ iconic Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site. During the holidays, this square is transformed by a spectacular sound and light show, illuminating the Hôtel de Ville and surrounding historic buildings. Standing here in the evening, with the grand displays and festive music, really captures the magic of Brussels at Christmas.

The guide shares insights about the square’s history and the meaning behind the decorations, making this a fitting end to a cheerful journey. You’ll leave with a camera full of photos and a head full of stories—perfect for reminiscing later.

What’s included and what’s not

Included in the tour are tastings of a Brussels specialty and mulled wine, which add a flavorful, warming element to your walk. These are small but meaningful touches that deepen your appreciation of local holiday traditions. The tour also covers several key sights, offering a balance of cultural insight and festive cheer.

However, personal purchases—like souvenirs or gifts—are not included, so budget accordingly if you plan to shop. The tour’s cost of $85 per person is actually quite reasonable given the intimate group size and the inclusive tastings, especially considering the premium locations visited.

Practical details and tips

The tour departs from rue Marché aux Herbes, at the entrance to Galeries Royales St Hubert, marked by the guide’s sky-blue lanyard. It’s wheelchair accessible, which is a thoughtful touch for those with mobility needs. With a duration of just 1.5 hours, it’s a manageable, delightful overview rather than an exhaustive exploration.

Booking is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later. This flexibility is handy if your travel plans are uncertain, especially during busy holiday periods.

The small group setting—limited to six participants—ensures plenty of personalized attention. The tour is available in multiple languages: French, English, Spanish, and Dutch, making it accessible to many travelers.

Final thoughts: Is this tour worth it?

If you want a personalized, story-filled introduction to Brussels’ Christmas season, this tour delivers. The focus on authentic local anecdotes, combined with tastings and beautiful sights, makes it a well-rounded experience that captures the city’s holiday spirit without feeling rushed. It’s particularly good for first-timers wanting a warm, festive overview and for those who appreciate small, intimate groups.

The price point is justified by the quality of the guide and the exclusive nature of the stops, especially since it includes regional tastings and access to key landmarks decorated for the season. The tour’s flow—starting at a historic shopping arcade, exploring lively markets, and ending with a spectacular light show—creates a memorable, festive rhythm.

While it’s not an exhaustive tour of Brussels, it’s a lovely way to see the city’s holiday highlights in a relaxed, friendly setting. Perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, delicious, and visually stunning introduction to Brussels at Christmas.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour is designed for small groups and offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, the focus on tastings and walking may be better suited for older children or teens who can appreciate the stories and history.

What languages are available for the guided tour?
The tour is offered in French, English, Spanish, and Dutch, allowing travelers to choose a language that’s most comfortable for them.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 1.5 hours, making it ideal for a quick but meaningful holiday activity.

Where do I meet the guide?
You meet at rue Marché aux Herbes, at the entrance to the Galeries Royales St Hubert. The guide will be wearing a sky-blue lanyard with their badge.

Are there options to cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You also have the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

What should I wear or bring?
Since it’s a walking tour during winter, dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes. Bring your camera for photos of the beautifully decorated sites and the light show at Grand Place.

In all, this Brussels Christmas tour offers a cozy, insightful, and tasty glimpse into the city’s holiday traditions, perfect for those who want to experience the season with a local’s touch. It balances sightseeing, storytelling, and treats, making it a delightful addition to any holiday itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: