Paris: Bruges and Ghent Christmas Markets 2 Days Tour

Discover the Christmas Charm of Bruges and Ghent in Two Days

For those dreaming of a winter escape filled with twinkling lights, festive stalls, and historic beauty, this 2-day tour from Paris to Bruges and Ghent offers a wonderful taste of Flandre’s holiday spirit. At $626 per person, you’re not just getting transportation—you’re stepping into a cozy, lively Christmas scene, with guided visits, tastings, and plenty of free time to soak it all in.

The tour kicks off with a luxury minivan ride from Paris, giving you a comfortable start to your holiday adventure. We loved how smoothly this setup works—no need to worry about navigating or parking, just sit back and enjoy the scenic drive. Two things that really stood out are the atmospheric lighting in the Winter Glow style, which makes the markets visually stunning, and the chance to sample regional foods, from cheeses to champagnes.

One possible consideration: with a packed itinerary covering two cities in just two days, you might find your schedule tight, especially if you love lingering at markets or exploring more than the highlights. But if you’re eager to see two of Belgium’s most photogenic and festive cities in a short time, this tour is a strong choice.

This experience suits travelers looking for a convenient, guided trip that combines cultural sightseeing with authentic holiday markets. It’s ideal for those who want a balance of organized activity and free time, and for anyone who appreciates a cozy, festive atmosphere combined with historical charm.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: Luxury minivan ensures a smooth, relaxed journey from Paris.
• Festive Atmosphere: Beautifully decorated markets with atmospheric lighting create a magical setting.
• Authentic Local Experience: Focus on regional crafts, short chain products, and local foods with tastings.
• City Highlights: Guided tours of Bruges and Ghent uncover main attractions and unique Christmas decorations.
• All-Inclusive Feel: WiFi, magazines onboard, and guided tours make the experience seamless.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund, and pay later to keep plans flexible.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Journey: From Paris to Flandre’s Christmas Wonderland

Taking this tour means more than just ticking off two cities; it’s about experiencing their holiday spirit in a way that’s both easy and enriching. We loved that the round-trip transfer is included, removing the hassle of driving or parking in unfamiliar places. Instead, we could relax and take in the countryside views as we headed into Flandre’s winter wonderland.

The First Stop: Bruges’ Main Attractions and Markets

Once in Bruges, the magic begins at the Market Square (Markt), where the Christmas market is at its most traditional. You’ll find wooden stalls with twinkling lights, full of regional products, snacks, and crafts. We enjoyed wandering among the cozy, atmospherically lit stalls—the “Winter Glow” style really highlights their charm.

Guided for about an hour, you’ll learn how each market has its own character. The Markt is more about classic Christmas treats—think mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and local cheeses—while the Simon Stevinplein emphasizes craft products and short chain goods. This variety makes the visit interesting, as each square offers a different vibe, yet all share the same festive spirit.

The free time afterward allows us to browse at our own pace, picking up souvenirs, sampling regional snacks, or simply soaking in the sights and sounds of a medieval town transformed for the holidays.

The Second Day: Ghent’s Festive Flair and Historic Charm

Next, Ghent’s Christmas Market is a true highlight—over 150 wooden huts spread across Sint-Baafsplein, Botermarkt, and Klein Turkije. As we strolled among the stalls, the scent of pine and mulled wine filled the air, and the entire neighborhood was decorated with festive lights and ornaments.

Ghent’s compact size makes it easy to see all the main attractions on foot. We appreciated how seamlessly the historical and arts quarters blend together—walking from awe-inspiring medieval buildings to art museums, all decorated for the season, without feeling rushed. The guided tour and free time give a good balance—enough to appreciate the city’s architecture, enjoy local snacks, and perhaps indulge in a bit of wine or cheese tasting.

The Return Journey: Relaxed and Satisfied

After a full day exploring, the bus takes us back to Paris, giving us time to relax and reflect. The onboard amenities like WiFi and magazines meant we could catch up on reading or plan our next adventure. The entire experience is designed to maximize enjoyment while minimizing hassle, making it ideal for those who want a holiday experience without the stress of planning every detail.

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The Practical Details and Value

While $626 per person might seem like a chunk of change, you’re paying for transport, guided tours, market access, tastings, and entry to some of the most picturesque Christmas markets in Flanders. The included services and small group size (limited to 14) ensure a more personalized experience, which many travelers value highly.

The tour’s timing and structure make it a good fit for visitors staying in Paris who want a short but fulfilling winter getaway. If you enjoy exploring Christmas markets, historic cities, and cozy atmospheres, you’ll find this tour offers plenty of authentic charm.

Bear in mind, the pick-up and drop-off from hotels or Paris outskirts are available for an extra fee, making it even more convenient if you’re staying in more suburban locations.

Final Verdict: Is This Tour for You?

This 2-day trip offers a well-organized, festive experience in two of Belgium’s most scenic and Christmasy towns. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking ease and comfort—no worry about transportation or logistics—while still enjoying authentic markets, regional foods, and beautiful cityscapes.

If you’re a history lover, you’ll appreciate how accessible the main sights are, and if you’re a foodie, the tastings and local crafts will meet your expectations. The atmospheric lighting and cozy stalls give you that classic holiday feeling, perfect for creating lasting memories.

However, if you prefer to linger longer, explore less crowded streets, or focus on shopping at your own pace, this tour might feel a little tight on time. Still, for many, it hits the sweet spot between guided convenience and authentic holiday cheer.

In all, it’s a smart choice for a short, scenic, and festive escape that captures the enchantment of Christmas in Flanders, all while based from the comfort of Paris.

FAQ

What is included in this tour?
Guided walking tours of the markets, transportation in a luxury minivan, visits to over 150 market stalls, tastings of regional foods, and the opportunity to purchase crafts and snacks.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, it’s not suitable for children under 3 years or those with mobility issues. The focus on walking and market visits makes it best for older children and adults.

Are there any additional costs?
Extra charges may apply for hotel pickups, drop-offs, or transport from outskirts. Also, purchases at markets are at your own expense.

How long does each city visit last?
The Bruges visit includes about an hour guided tour, with four hours total at the market and free time. Ghent’s schedule is similar—about an hour guided plus four hours free time.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, cash or credit cards, personal medication, and perhaps a power bank for devices.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
It’s not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers, given the walking involved and the tour’s structure.

What language is the tour guided in?
Guides speak French, English, Italian, Romanian, and Moldavian, catering to a diverse group.

When is the Ghent Christmas Market open?
From December 5 to 31, so plan accordingly if you’re aiming for that specific period.

To sum it up, this Bruges and Ghent Christmas Markets tour provides a delightful way to experience Belgium’s holiday charm without the stress of independent travel. It’s perfect for those who want an authentic, cozy, and festive outing, with the added benefit of guided insights and regional tastings. If you love historical cityscapes dressed in holiday finery, this trip promises a memorable winter getaway firsthand.

You can check availability for your dates here: