As the festive season approaches, historic sites across Europe provide an impressive backdrop for Christmas markets across the continent. Opting to take the train often means arriving in the heart of the action. Plus the holiday starts the second you board, it's often quicker than flying when you account for the end-to-end journey time, and it's better for the environment.

Omio - Europe's leading travel platform for travel by train, bus and flights - has created an inspirational itinerary in Belgium for this holiday season.

A week of festive fun, food and slow travel in Belgium - 5-6 days

London - Brussels - Leuven - Antwerp - Bruges - Ghent - London

With service to Brussels from London's St Pancras station, European Christmas markets are just a short distance away - approximately two hours to be more precise. Experience charming markets, festive fun, and comfort food while slow travelling in Belgium with stops including Leuvin, Antwerp, Bruges, Ghent and Brussels. 

• Day 1: the train from London's St. Pancras station takes approximately two hours to arrive in Brussels where festive fun and cosy pubs await. Shop for one-of-a-kind finds, admire the glittering lights, and wrap up warm to enjoy the outdoor sound and light show on a Grand-Palace as part of the Plaisirs d'Hiver (Winter Wonders). Lace up your skates for an evening skate under the stars on the outdoor rink before retreating for the evening. 

• Day 2: Journey from Brussels in approximately 30 minutes to Leuven. Home of one of the first Christmas markets in Belgium, stop over here for candle-lit streets, intimate concerts and holiday shopping. 

• Day 3: journey to Antwerp around midday, arriving within an hour. Sparkling lights, carolling choirs and a ferris wheel to admire the market from above, the action takes place in the historic town centre.  

• Day 4: the train journey from Antwerp to Bruges takes just 1.5hrs, but feels like stepping back in time. In addition to meandering through quaint cobbled streets, nibbling on chocolate from the city's famed shops, and admiring medieval buildings, the Winter Glow festival includes a light trail experience, skating rink and a Christmas market.

• Day 5: swap medieval (and slightly touristy) Bruges for its lesser known cousin - Ghent. Reachable in less than 30 minutes by train, the town is aglow as the Christmas market lights up the historic city centre. Cosy up in one of the city's independent cafés for a festive drink and holiday treat before sipping Gluhwein with the scent of pine resin filling the air. 

• Day 6: A quick 30-minute transfer to Brussels for the onward return journey to London St Pancras Station, in approximately two hours

Booking with Omio means all tickets can be booked in one place, online or using the mobile app.  For more information visit www.omio.co.uk 

Note to editors/journalists

Omio is keen support press trips with departure and coverage prior to end December 2023. Please reach out to find out more. 

Media Contact

Mandy Sinclair - mandy.sinclair@whitetigerpr.com  

Kimberley Powles - kimberley.powles@whitetigerpr.com / 07966 867827