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Antwerp’s beautiful Christmas market opens each year from the beginning of December.
Antwerp’s beautiful Christmas market opens each year from the beginning of December until the first week of January.
- Stay close to the markets and enjoy a luxurious Christmas Escape at the Gulde Schoen Suite Hotel, rated “Superb” by guests offering high-end designer rooms and world-class service, just 200m from the Groenplaats Christmas markets.
The Markets
- Antwerp’s Christmas Markets are some of the country’s most spectacular and are spread across different squares in the city’s historic district.
- The Christmas markets take over The Grote Market, Suikerrui, Handschoenmarkt, The Groenplaats and Steenplein on the grounds of Antwerp Steen castle.
- Opening hours are from 12 pm till 22.00 Sunday to Thursday and from 12 pm till 0.00 am on Friday and Saturday.
- The markets feature more than 100 different stalls, serving delicious snacks and treats, including hot chocolate, gluhwein, Belgian waffles and smoutebollen (a delightful type of beignet or round doughnut ball)
The Grote Market
- Enjoy the stunning Christmas Tree and lights at The Grote Market and shop for handmade goods and artisanal Belgian foods.
- Stay steps from the Grote Market at Hotel Rubens, our readers’ top pick in Antwerp and rated “Fabulous”, featuring the perfect location, stylish rooms and delicious breakfasts.
- The Grote Market or Town Square is also close to most of the city’s busiest gay bars, which host special festive parties with elaborate decorations and live entertainment.
The Groenplaats
- For the ultimate Antwerp Christmas experience, try ice skating at the rink on the Groenplaats, followed by some delicious food and drink at one of the many stands nearby.
Suikerrui to the Steenplein
- Follow the lines of chalets and festive stalls and browse for authentic gifts as you take in the beautiful lights and decorations along the river.
- Continue, and at the end, take a ride on the Ferris wheel at the Scheldt by the castle, offering beautiful river views of the market.
Lights at Antwerp Zoo
- Another season highlight includes “China Light” a unique nighttime light experience at Antwerp Zoo.
Getting to Antwerp Christmas Markets.
- Antwerp’s Deurne Airport Airport has some direct flights from European Capitals.
- Many visitors arrive via Brussels airport, which is just 30 minutes away. Many Antwerp visitors combine a trip to Brussels and take in the beautiful Brussels Christmas Markets.
- Four trains to Antwerp per hour connect to the Brussels North, Brussels Central and Brussels Midi stations.
- The direct Brussels to Antwerp Airport Express leaves every hour between 5 am (7 am Sundays) and midnight daily.
Where to stay in Antwerp during Christmas?
The following hotels are currently popular with our readers. All are close to the city’s Christmas markets.
Where to stay close to all the gay bars
Our top 4 selections with the best rates.
The Hotel Julien is our editors choice when
in Antwerp with its beautiful rooftop views
For further information and advice on
Antwerp Christmas Markets, Website
Antwerp is small and compact having a beautifully preserved old town in the centre. Having said that bars and clubs (more than 30) are spread out around the city, so its best to find a hotel close to the centre and journey out to your preferred destination. The main club, Red & Blue is located in the harbour. Famous gay monthly parties Studio 54 and Café de Love attract guys from all over Europe so book your accommodation in advance.
Antwerp, Belgium, has a thriving LGBTQ+ community and is known for being a welcoming & hosts several LGBTQ+ events and festivals throughout the year. The most prominent of these is Antwerp Pride, which typically takes place in August. Antwerp Pride includes a colorful and lively parade, parties, cultural events, and a sense of celebration and inclusivity that brings together locals and visitors alike.
Antwerp’s Red Light District is home to several gay bars and clubs. It can be a lively area for nightlife, offering a mix of entertainment options.
This trendy district is home to many bars & clubs, including gay venues. You can find a mix of nightlife options, from stylish cocktail bars to dance clubs.
Highlights of the lights, sights and sounds of Antwerp Christmas Markets
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We have chosen hotels in Antwerp that keep you close to all the shops,restaurants & bars