Day 1: We make our way from the UK, through France and into Belgium and onto our hotel in Ypres. Once settled into your room, the rest of the day and evening are free to explore. Located near the border with France, Ypres (Ieper), largely destroyed in the First World War, was faithfully rebuilt and many of its old buildings restored to their former glory. The most beautiful building in the city is the Lakenhalle, which overlooks the equally splendid Grote Markt, the most evocative square in this Flanders town. There is so much history in this city with the famous In Flanders Fields Museum, dedicated to the First World War, and the Menin Gate where the emotional Last Post Ceremony takes place every evening at 8pm sharp!
At Christmas time, the city is transformed with twinkling lights and festive decorations. You will find many independent shops and boutiques around the Grote Markt beautifully decorated, selling unique gifts for your loved ones. Wander around the city centre where you will see the historical buildings festooned with decorations and experience delicious aromas tempting you inside the abundance of cafes and restaurants, it will be hard to choose.
Day 2: This morning we make the short journey into France and onward to Lille. Christmas time in Lille is a feast for the senses. As you explore the city’s charming, cobblestone streets, adorned with lights and festive decorations, you’ll be drawn in by the tantalising scent of local dishes wafting from bustling bistros and cosy cafes. The Christmas market in Lille transforms the heart of the city into a festive spectacle. As you wander through the market, you’re greeted with the irresistible scent of local specialities, the warmth of mulled wine and the sound of Christmas music. The centrepiece of the market, a towering Ferris wheel in the Grand Place, illuminates the winter nights and provides stunning views across the festive cityscape. The numerous stalls offer unique gifts and products, all handcrafted with care. It’s more than a market; it’s an authentic, local experience that immerses you in the warmth and charm of a Lille Christmas.
Day 3: Our excursion today takes us to Bruges, renowned for its stunning beauty; it’s one of the most picturesque small cities in Europe. This enchanting destination draws a multitude of visitors each year. As you explore this magnificent historic city, you’ll be captivated by its incredible Hanseatic architecture, the iconic Rozenhoedkaai (Rosary Quay), the bustling Market Square, the serene canals, and the delightful Bruges Christmas Market. In Bruges, the winter season is celebrated with a charming festival called Winter Glow. As an integral part of this magical experience, the Christmas markets in Bruges offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the city’s festive spirit. Discover an array of unique gifts, indulge in delectable seasonal treats, and revel in the warm, welcoming atmosphere that defines Bruges in this magical season.
Day 4: Today, on the way home we will visit Ostend, the City by the Sea, and its cosy Christmas market. Full of festive cheer and heart-warming illuminations. The entire city will be decorated in Christmas lights, and the city centre streets will be enlivened with Christmas animations. A certain eye-catcher during the ‘Winter in Ostend’ event is an illuminated tunnel in the Adolf Bulystraat shopping street. This tunnel covers the entire street, for a distance of 188 meters with a breath-taking canopy consisting of 232,500 lights! Those who still need inspiration to find the ideal Christmas gift will find it here; there are a myriad of shops in the city centre offering everything you could possibly want for that perfect present.