Guides

Guide: Must-Taste, Must-Do in Brussels this December

Dreaming of a winter city mood? Make it Brussels. Whether you spend your days exploring the festive streets or discovering hidden corners of downtown, the city never stops giving. And if you feel like wandering beyond our home base at The Standard Brussels, we have a few ideas. From winter markets under glowing lights to dinners above the skyline, these Brussels picks come straight from our team who live and breathe the city in December.

Plaisirs d’Hiver — Brussels Christmas Market

Dates: November 28 to January 4
Where: Grand Place, Bourse, Sainte Catherine, De Brouckère

The city goes full winter wonderland. Lights everywhere, warm drinks, sweet treats, live moments, and that cozy December glow that makes even locals fall back in love with Brussels.

Lobby Bar at The Standard, Brussels

Dates: December 8 to December 31
Where: The Standard Brussels

Belvedere is taking over the Lobby Bar all December with not one, not two, but three limited signature cocktails. Think smooth, elegant, a little unexpected. Perfect for that first drink before heading out into the Brussels night, or a little pre dinner warm up

Christmas Makers Market

Dates: From December 11 to 14 and December 18 to January 4
Where: Tour and Taxis

Tour and Taxis transforms the Gare Maritime into a true winter wonderland this season. In collaboration with the Brussels Makers Market, the indoor Christmas market highlights authenticity and creativity, with 40 independent makers offering unique handcrafted gifts under the iconic glass roof — all in a warm and festive atmosphere.

Galerie Bortier

Dates: Anytime in December
Where: Near Rue de la Madeleine

A quiet escape from the holiday crowds. Vintage books, old prints, historic charm, and a slower pace. A beautiful little detour in the heart of the city.

New Year's Eve Dinner at Lila29

Date: December 31
Where: Lila29 at The Standard Brussels

A decadent five-course menu crafted for the occasion, including wine pairing throughout the dinner.

The evening unfolds with a DJ set and the best views of the midnight fireworks.

Cultural Escape: Baldessari at Bozar

Date: December to January
Where: Bozar Brussels
This season is all about pairing winter exploration with cultural discovery. Parables Fables and Other Tall Tales is Bozar’s unmissable exhibition dedicated to John Baldessari, the irreverent master of conceptual art. A bold visual journey running all December and through late January.

MAD Brussels — Fashion and Design Hub

Dates: December to January
Where: Place du Nouveau Marche aux Grains
A landmark for contemporary fashion and design. Curated exhibitions spotlight Belgian creators bold aesthetics and emerging talent. A perfect stop for fresh style inspiration and a dose of creative energy between winter explorations.

December in Brussels hits different; A little festive chaos, a little design, a little intimacy, and a lot of atmosphere.


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