In the run up to Christmas the medieval city of Bruges enjoys a new lease of life when the Christmas Market fills the city with an enchanting and inviting festive atmosphere.

If you’ve ever been to Bruges before, returning at Christmas is a special time to visit.

There’s a real Christmas card feel to the city when the magnificent architecture of the city‘s timber buildings is accentuated by twinkling lights galore and the UNESCO World Heritage Grote Markt is brimming with countless stalls surrounding an ice rink.

Stroll through the arts and craft stalls and snap up unique presents for family and friends, or treat yourself to a souvenir of your coach break. You will find all sorts of handmade products to take home with you, including scented candles, leather goods, jewellery decorations, hand-carved ornaments and wooden toys.

The main attraction of the market is the ice rink. Whether you’re a freestyle skater or stumbling Bambi, it’s great fun for all the family and a great way to work up an appetite so you can indulge in some famous Belgian foody treats.

Warm up with a luxury Belgian hot chocolate, tasty fries and fresh honey waffles or quench your thirst with a cold crisp beer outside in the fresh air.

The festivities also include an ice sculpture festival, where you can see chiselled works of art made from over 300 tons of ice and 400,000 kilos of snow. Meanwhile, a nativity scene, live music and street performers add to the festive atmosphere.

A horse drawn carriage is a great way to relax and take time to appreciate the fairytale beauty of Bruges at this time of year, whilst you can climb the 366 steps to the top of the Belfort for unrivalled views of the action below.