Brussels in Winter: your guide to the festive magic

As winter settles over Brussels, the city reveals a gentler rhythm. Lights trace the cobbled streets and highlight the elegance of its historic façades, while cafés offer an easy refuge from the cold. Markets, museums and neighbourhood boutiques give the season its character, inviting you to explore the city at your own pace.

Signature seasonal moments

Start the morning at the Magritte Museum, then continue to the Royal Galleries, where the architecture provides a striking backdrop to the season. Pause at Dandoy to enjoy its celebrated biscuits and thoughtful window displays.

Brussels’ Christmas markets bring together artisanal chocolates, flavoured jenever and warming drinks. Wander through the Sablon, where antique dealers, galleries such as Herwig Simons and Costermans, and small speciality shops reflect the area’s enduring charm. As daylight fades, head to Mont des Arts for a wide view of rooftops and spires touched by the winter light.

A season for giving

Browse the boutiques of the Louise neighbourhood, home to maisons including Delvaux, Chopard, Chanel and Hermès. For contemporary design and fashion, explore Mayfair and KURE.

Dansaert offers a more local approach, with Café Costume, Stijl, Dries Van Noten and LA FABRIKA showcasing the creativity of the district. Seasonal pop-ups such as New De Wolf and Le Popup de Noël by Brussels’ Kitchen add a sense of discovery.

Savour seasonal delights

Brussels’ restaurants and brasseries feel especially welcoming at this time of year. Aux Vieux Saint Martin serves classic Belgian dishes, while Kartouche offers a lighter, modern interpretation. For a special evening, take a seat at Menssa or at La Paix, where the open kitchen and sculptural design set the tone.

As the night settles in, enjoy a glühwein on the terrace at Chez Richard or order a tripel at À La Mort Subite, a celebrated Brussels institution.

Winter sweets and where to find them

For those drawn to the city’s sweeter side, Pierre Marcolini and Laurent Gerbaud prepare rich hot chocolates, and Neuhaus presents a dedicated mousse bar. La Maison des Gaufres serves freshly made waffles to share on the go, while Mary’s mellow cake makes a thoughtful seasonal treat.

Our Christmas bucket list

Brussels in December is defined by its variety. Glide across the ice rink at Place de Brouckère, explore the installations at The Secret Kingdom or follow the scent of roasted chestnuts through the markets. Each district offers its own atmosphere, from the refined Sablon to lively St Catherine and the landscaped calm of Abbaye de la Cambre.

As evening arrives, Grand-Place becomes a focal point of light and performance, while the carousel at Place Sainte Catherine adds a playful finishing touch to the night.

Stay with us

Corinthia Brussels offers an inviting base for the season. Enjoy the Astoria Tea Time or settle into Palm Court for seasonal dishes. Le Petit bon bon welcomes guests throughout the day and Palais Royal provides a more elaborate dining experience. Later, take a seat at Under The Stairs and explore the ‘Queens’ menu for a distinctive end to the evening.

Stay close to the city’s winter events and enjoy thoughtful dining, calming spa rituals and curated experiences that bring the season in Brussels to life.