If you’ve already scoped out the Manchester Christmas Markets and want to take your festive spirit overseas, there’s one destination that truly sparkles – and it’s only a £15 flight away.
This charming city has been named one of Europe’s best Christmas markets according to Condé Nast Traveller, and it’s not hard to see why.
From late November, the city transforms into a glittering winter wonderland, filling its elegant squares with more than 200 wooden chalets, a giant Ferris wheel, and a spectacular light-and-sound show that dances across the cobblestones of the Grand-Place.
Plaisirs d’Hiver is one of Europe’s best Christmas market
Running from November 28, the Brussels Christmas Market (known locally as Plaisirs d’Hiver) spreads across the Place de la Monnaie, Place Sainte-Catherine, and Marché aux Poissons, wrapping the city centre in twinkling lights and festive scents.
Skaters can glide across the covered ice rink, families can warm up with mugs of mulled wine, and food lovers can indulge in some of Belgium’s finest seasonal delicacies – think crisp fries dripping in mayonnaise, gooey raclette, golden waffles dusted with sugar pearls, and decadent Belgian chocolate crafted before your eyes.
A £15 winter escape from Manchester
According to Skyscanner, return flights from Manchester Airport to Brussels can be found in December from as little as £15 each way, making it one of the most affordable European Christmas getaways this season. While budget fares don’t include seat selection or luggage, it’s the perfect excuse for a spontaneous weekend escape filled with festive cheer and European charm.
When you’re done browsing handcrafted ornaments or sipping on glühwein, Brussels has plenty more to explore. Wander through its maze of cobbled streets, visit the striking Atomium, or step into one of the city’s grand museums to warm up. The cosy cafés and brasseries dotted across town offer ideal winter hideaways – whether you’re after a steaming bowl of stoofvlees (Belgian beef stew) or a pint of the local beer.
And after dark, the market takes on an extra dose of magic. Street performers and twinkling lights fill the air with a festive buzz that rivals even the biggest markets in Germany or Austria.
So, if you’re looking to go beyond Manchester’s stalls this year, Brussels might just be the perfect festive flight away – an easy European Christmas escape that’s charming, affordable, and guaranteed to get you into the holiday mood.