Brussels shines brightest during the Christmas season, when its medieval squares transform into winter wonderlands. The highlights are concentrated in the historic center, anchored by two must-sees: the artistic Mount of the Arts and the Gothic Black Tower.
The best walking tours stick to the old town, where expert guides share local holiday traditions while leading you through twinkling market stalls. I’m particularly fond of the small-group walks – they’re intimate and allow time for sampling Belgian treats along the way.
For those wanting to explore beyond Brussels, excellent day trips combine the capital’s festivities with Christmas markets in historic Ghent and Leuven. The eco-bus tours offer a comfortable alternative, with informative commentary and seasonal music setting the mood.
Check out these tested-and-approved Christmas experiences in Brussels:
Good To Know
- Immersive “Christmas Gems of Brussels” walking tour showcasing iconic sights like Mount of the Arts and Black Tower for $257.72 per person.
- Private tours to Ghent and Leuven Christmas markets, with prices ranging from $262.03 to $562.36 per person, featuring professional guides and accessible transportation.
- Private Brussels Christmas Market tours providing air-conditioned transport, bottled water, and lunch for $562.36 per person, with wheelchair accessibility and flexible booking options.
- Comprehensive “Brussels Christmas Markets: Private All-Day Tour” exploring iconic sites like Manneken Pis and Grand Place Christmas tree, priced from $355.84 per person.
- Eco-friendly “Brussels Tootbus Christmas Lights Tour” offering a 1-hour bus ride with live-guided commentary and free hot chocolate for $31.27 per person.
Christmas Gems of Brussels – Walking Tour
During the “Christmas Gems of Brussels – Walking Tour,” you’ll embark on a captivating exploration of Brussels’ enchanting holiday scenery.
This private tour, operated by Opatrip.com Belgium, takes you on a journey through the city’s most festive sights. Led by a certified guide, you’ll discover the city’s Christmas gems, from the iconic Mount of the Arts to the charming Black Tower.
Priced from $257.72 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, making it a budget-friendly and flexible choice.
With easy access via public transportation, this walking tour is an excellent way to learn about Brussels’ magical Christmas atmosphere.
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Private Tour From Brussels : Christmas Market in Ghent
This private tour transports you from Brussels to the enchanting Christmas Market in Ghent.
At a price starting from $562.36 per person, the tour includes a professional guide, air-conditioned transportation, and all the essentials – lunch, bottled water, and even WiFi on board.
The tour is accessible, with wheelchair and stroller access, as well as infant seats and service animals allowed.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, this private tour offers a budget-friendly and convenient way to explore Ghent’s Christmas festivities from Brussels.
Whether you’re a solo traveler or in a group, this tour provides a seamless and memorable holiday experience.
Read our full review: Private Tour From Brussels : Christmas Market in Ghent Review
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Private Tour : Christmas Market in Brussels
Explore the enchanting Christmas market in Brussels on a private tour.
Starting from $562.36 per person, this experience provides a professional guide, air-conditioned transportation, and all the essentials for a hassle-free day.
Enjoy bottled water and Wi-Fi on board as you’re whisked away to the heart of Brussels, where you’ll learn about the festive atmosphere.
Lunch is included, and the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most travelers.
With a lowest price guarantee and flexible booking, this private tour is an excellent way to discover the magic of the Brussels Christmas market.
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Special Christmas Journey in Leuven – Walking Tour
Though the Brussels Christmas market is a beloved tradition, travelers seeking a unique holiday experience can venture to the historic city of Leuven for a special Christmas journey.
The “Special Christmas Journey in Leuven – Walking Tour” offers a private guided exploration of the city’s festive sights, with a local professional leading the way. Priced from $262.03 per person, the tour departs from Saint Peters Church and concludes at Leuven’s Oude Markt, both easily accessible by public transport.
Highlighting Leuven’s charm during the Christmas season, the experience includes free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, ensuring a hassle-free excursion for small groups.
Read our full review: Special Christmas Journey in Leuven – Walking Tour Review
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Private Tour: Experience the Christmas Magic in Brussels
Travelers seeking to enjoy Brussels’ enchanting Christmas ambiance can embark on a private tour that promises a truly magical experience.
For £132 per person, the bespoke 3-hour walking tour offers insider tips on the city’s dazzling holiday lights, festive market stalls, and local culinary delights.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, visitors will explore numerous UNESCO-listed monuments, enjoying a complimentary mulled wine, hot chocolate, or soft drink along the way.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with a meeting point at the iconic Brussels Town Hall.
With overwhelmingly positive reviews, this personalized Christmas experience is a must for those wanting to discover Brussels’ yuletide charm firsthand.
Read our full review: Private Tour: Experience the Christmas Magic in Brussels Review
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Brussels Christmas Markets: Private All-Day Tour
The Brussels Christmas Markets: Private All-Day Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s festive highlights.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this private tour allows you to experience Brussels through the eyes of a resident, beating the crowds and gaining insider insights.
Discover iconic sites like the Manneken Pis and the Grand Place Christmas tree, while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the Christmas markets.
With comfortable air-conditioned transportation and inclusive pricing from $355.84 per person, this tour promises a memorable and budget-friendly experience.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible option for your Brussels Christmas adventure.
Read our full review: Brussels Christmas Markets: Private All-Day Tour Review
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Brussels Christmas Market Magic Walking Tour With a Local
For those seeking a more intimate Brussels Christmas experience, the Brussels Christmas Market Magic Walking Tour with a Local offers an enchanting alternative to the private all-day tour.
This small-group walking tour, limited to 8 travelers, showcases the city’s festive markets and hidden gems led by a knowledgeable local. Priced from €84 per person, the tour includes a hot beverage and local treat, with an adaptable itinerary catered to the group’s interests and pace.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and near public transportation. With a perfect 5-star review based on one assessment, this Brussels market tour provides a budget-friendly and personalized way to take in the city’s Christmas magic.
Read our full review: Brussels: Christmas Market Magic Walking Tour With a Local Review
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Brussels Tootbus Christmas Lights Tour
What better way to experience the enchanting Christmas spirit of Brussels than by embarking on the Brussels Tootbus Christmas Lights Tour?
This 1-hour journey takes you through the city’s most dazzling holiday displays, all from the comfort of an eco-friendly electric bus. For just $31.27 per person, you’ll enjoy live-guided commentary in English and French, a festive playlist, and a special offer for free hot chocolate.
The tour departs at 7 pm, with a maximum of 55 travelers, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Don’t miss this chance to learn about Brussels’ magical Christmas ambiance and create unforgettable memories.
Read our full review: Brussels Tootbus Christmas Lights Tour Review
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Christmas Gems of Brussels Walking Tour
Explore Brussels’ captivating Christmas ambiance on the Christmas Gems of Brussels Walking Tour. This private guided walk takes you through the city’s historic streets, where you’ll discover its festive gems.
For €206 per person, you’ll stroll from the iconic Mont des Arts to the charming Black Tower, led by a knowledgeable local guide. Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is conveniently located near public transportation.
With Opatrip.com Belgium’s lowest price guarantee and flexible booking options, this walking tour is an accessible and budget-friendly way to learn about Brussels’ enchanting Christmas spirit.
Read our full review: Christmas Gems of Brussels – Walking Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Brussels is a winter wonderland during the holiday season. From the magical Christmas markets to the dazzling light displays, there’s no shortage of festive experiences to enjoy. Whether you opt for a walking tour or a private excursion, you’ll find plenty of budget-friendly ways to learn about the city’s yuletide charm. Brussels’ Christmas gems won’t disappoint – they’re sure to leave you feeling merry and bright.