The Christmas markets in Brussels attract 2.5 million visitors each year. They start at Grand Place and meander for over a mile, the whole area merging into one giant celebration.

READ: Brussels Christmas Market Guide

Brussels is a complex city. Both historic and modern, ornate and sleek, busy and quiet, the city has different personalities in only the span of a few blocks. But despite these contrasts (or maybe because of them), there’s something new and different at every turn. And I loved every bit of it.

READ: 23 Best Things to Do in Brussels

The buttery vanilla scent of waffles, the warmth of velvety hot chocolate, Christmas trees lit up against the night sky—the Bruges Christmas market brings together the best of the holiday season.

READ: Bruges Christmas Market: What to Do, See, and Eat in Belgium’s Coziest City

Decked out in twinkling lights, sprinkled with Christmas trees, and punctuated with delicious food and beverages to keep you warm, visiting the Belgian Christmas markets is a perfect way to celebrate the season.

READ: 8 Best Christmas Markets in Belgium

Brussels is one of the most under-rated European capitals. It's full of fun things to do and has stunning architecture and great food. Here are the best areas and properties to stay at when you visit Brussels.

READ: Where to Stay in Brussels: The Best Areas and Hotels for Your Interests

Ghent may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think about traveling to Europe, and that may be one of the top reasons to go.

READ: 17 Best Things to Do in Ghent

A vibrant port city with a rich history, Antwerp, Belgium is full of interesting attractions and things to

READ: 21 Fun Things to Do in Antwerp, Belgium

There are so many fun things to do in Bruges, Belgium, even with limited time.

READ: What to Do in Bruges in One Day

With amazing architecture, ancient history, and fun attractions, Ghent and Bruges are great choices on a trip to Belgium...but which one is the better fit for you?

READ: Ghent or Bruges — Which Belgian City is Best for You?

Brasserie Cantillon is not your typical brewery. There is no walled-off, sterile brewing area, no stainless steel showpiece tasting room with fancy tap handles spouting pumpkin ale.

READ: Cantillon Brewery in Brussels Offers a Tour Like No Other

It’s not every day you step through the door of an upscale hotel and find a foosball table and bright red cartoons on the wall.

READ: There’s Fun Around Every Corner at the Radisson Red Brussels

Leuven is a small university city about 20 minutes by train from the Belgian capital Brussels. Here are things to do in Leuven on a weekday.

READ: Experience Leuven on a Weekday