Embrace the festive spirit this holiday season with an enchanting tour of Ostend and Belgian Christmas Markets. This magical trip, priced from just £349, promises a blend of luxury, culture, and seasonal cheer, creating memories to cherish forever.
What's Included:
- Coach travel with reserved seating: Enjoy a comfortable journey with reserved seating, ensuring you travel in style.
- Two overnight sailings from Newcastle to IJmuiden return with DFDS: Relax in comfort with cabin-only accommodation. An on-board meal package (dinner & breakfast both ways) is available for purchase at £65 per person.
- Two nights half board at the Royal Astrid Hotel, Ostend: Stay in the heart of Ostend, enjoying top-notch amenities and festive surroundings.
- Visit to Brussels Christmas Markets: Explore one of Europe's most celebrated holiday markets.
- Free time to enjoy Ostend: Wander through this coastal gem at your leisure.
- Evening excursion to Bruges Christmas Markets: Experience the fairy-tale charm of Bruges by night.
- Visit to Antwerp: Discover the cultural and historical delights of this vibrant city.
Available Dates
Departing Days Price Per PersonMon 25 Nov, 2024 5 £349
Mon 2 Dec, 2024 5 £349
DFDS: A Seamless Journey to IJmuiden
Traveling with DFDS from Newcastle to IJmuiden is an experience in itself. The state-of-the-art vessels offer a luxurious blend of comfort and convenience. Enjoy spacious cabins with modern amenities, ensuring a restful journey after a day of exploration.
Onboard, indulge in a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants, all offering exquisite meals prepared with the freshest ingredients. The panoramic sea views provide a perfect backdrop as you savor your meal. Entertainment options abound, including duty-free shopping, cinemas, live music, and a vibrant bar scene. For families, dedicated play areas and interactive activities ensure fun for all ages.
Royal Astrid Hotel, Ostend
Your stay at the Royal Astrid Hotel in Ostend is sure to be a highlight. Located in the city's heart, this contemporary hotel offers elegant rooms, spa facilities, and exceptional dining options. The hotel's cozy ambiance and sophisticated style make it an ideal base for exploring Ostend.
During the festive season, Ostend transforms into a winter wonderland with its famous Christmas Markets. The air is filled with the aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts as you stroll through charming stalls offering handcrafted gifts and festive treats. The markets feature live entertainment, ice skating, and a beautifully illuminated Christmas tree, creating a magical atmosphere.
Brussels Christmas Markets
Immerse yourself in the festive charm of the Brussels Christmas Markets, a must-visit during the holiday season. The Grand Place, adorned with sparkling lights and a towering Christmas tree, sets the scene for an unforgettable experience.
Explore vibrant stalls offering a delightful array of handcrafted gifts, seasonal delicacies, and unique holiday decorations. Savor traditional Belgian treats like waffles, chocolates, and mulled wine as you wander through the bustling market. The enchanting atmosphere is enhanced by live music, festive performances, and a spectacular light and sound show at the Grand Place.
Families will enjoy the ice rink and the magical Christmas parade, while the giant Ferris wheel offers panoramic views of the twinkling city below. The Brussels Christmas Markets promise a festive and memorable holiday experience for all.
Bruges Christmas Markets
Discover the enchanting Bruges Christmas Markets on an evening excursion that transforms the medieval city into a festive fairy tale. The markets at Grote Markt and Simon Stevinplein are renowned for their picturesque charm and magical ambiance.
Stroll through quaint wooden chalets adorned with twinkling lights, offering an array of handcrafted gifts, festive decorations, and delicious treats. Savor local delights like Belgian waffles, hot chocolate, and mulled wine, perfect for warming up in the crisp winter air. The centerpiece of the Grote Markt is the ice skating rink, set against the backdrop of the iconic Belfry tower, creating a truly enchanting scene.
As you explore, enjoy the sounds of carolers and live performances that fill the air with holiday cheer. Bruges' historic architecture combined with its festive markets creates an unforgettable experience. A visit to the Bruges Christmas Markets promises a magical and memorable escape into the heart of the holiday season.
Antwerp
Explore the vibrant city of Antwerp, known for its rich history and stunning architecture. Antwerp is home to some of Belgium's most beautiful landmarks, including the Cathedral of Our Lady, which boasts impressive Gothic architecture and houses works by the famous painter Rubens.
Stroll through the historic city center, where you can admire the beautiful Grote Markt, lined with ornate guildhalls and the striking Brabo Fountain. For art lovers, a visit to the Royal Museum of Fine Arts is a must, featuring an extensive collection of masterpieces from the Flemish and Dutch Golden Ages.
Antwerp is also a hub for fashion and design, with numerous boutiques and galleries showcasing the latest trends. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the city's vibrant shopping districts, where you can find unique gifts and souvenirs.
The city’s culinary scene is equally impressive, offering a wide range of dining options from cozy cafes to Michelin-starred restaurants. Sample traditional Belgian dishes, fresh seafood, and exquisite chocolates as you explore the gastronomic delights of Antwerp.
Embrace the Festive Spirit
This carefully curated trip offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the festive charm of Belgium's most renowned Christmas markets. From the luxurious travel with DFDS to the enchanting stays at the Royal Astrid Hotel, every detail has been designed to provide a memorable holiday experience.
Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Bruges, marveling at the lights in Brussels, or enjoying the cozy ambiance of Ostend, this trip promises to be a magical journey into the heart of the holiday season. Book your adventure now and make this Christmas unforgettable.