As Christmas is already over a month away, the festive spirit is in full swing with winter markets sprouting up everywhere.

However, if you’re considering a brief escape from the UK, perhaps celebrating the festive season somewhere further away might be on your mind.

One of Europe’s top Christmas markets can be found just an hour’s flight away in the historic city of Bruges, complete with an ice rink and a mesmerising light experience trail.

The city’s Winter Glow event has made a triumphant return for 2024, lighting up Markt Square (Market Square) and Simon Stevinplein (Simon Stevin Square).

This year’s markets will be running from November 22 to January 5, 2025.

The Light Experience Trail guides you through ten unique installations scattered across various parts of the city.

The main Bruges Christmas market is in Grote Markt, with its pretty, wooden chalets surrounding a glittering ice rink.

A must for a visit to Bruges’ Christmas market is a slice of beautifully decorated yule log, or a creamy, cockle-warming hot chocolate.

Unsurprisingly, Bruges is famed for its chocolate, and you can delve into over 5,500 years of cocoa history at the Choco Story. Explore the evolution of cocoa, from the spicy beverage of the Mayans and Aztecs to the indulgent treats we relish today.

Experience chocolate like never before, learn the art of praline-making at a workshop, or uncover the museum’s recommended chocolate-related sights around the city.

When in Bruges, several historical attractions are must-visits. The Centre of Bruges earned its UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2000 due to its standing as one of Europe’s commercial and cultural hubs, and its stunning Gothic architecture.

The Burg, revered as “the soul” of the city, boasts its impressive 14th-century City Hall, Stadhuis.

Venture inside and you’ll be swept into a visual recount of Bruges’ past with 20th-century murals, significant documents and paintings that narrate the city’s governance, complemented by majestic life-size portraits of its rulers.

One of Bruges’ most illustrious symbols, undoubtedly, is the Belfry of Bruges. This medieval bell tower from the 13th century was once the guardian of the city’s treasury and archives.

Its historic walls also provided a vantage point for vigilant lookouts to warn of fires and other perils.

Those daring to conquer the winding staircase of 366 steps are rewarded at the summit with panoramic vistas that cascade over the cityscape – certainly worth the climb.

Don’t leave without capturing the moment at Rozenhoedkaai, an idyllic spot frequently crowned as one of the city’s most enchanting scenes.

For those seeking solace from city life, immerse yourself in the tranquil embrace of Minnewaterpark, affectionately dubbed the Lake of Love Park; its scattered intimate gardens ensure a peaceful retreat.

Beer aficionados take noteBruges’ passion for brewing is on full display. Renowned establishments like De Halve Maan, Bourgogne de Flandres, and the Bruges Beer Experience invite you to savor a spectrum of brews, from crisp pilsners to traditional Flemish red ales.

And for the gourmands, the Frietmuseum celebrates Belgium’s beloved fries, an homage to the humble spud, complete with an exploration into a myriad of sauces and seasonings that accentuate this national treasure.

Skirt through the annals of fry history and uncover how a simple potato can transform into an iconic Belgian indulgence. So, if you’re up for a spontaneous festive getaway, consider Bruges for its Christmas charm and chocolate decadence.