It’s that exciting time of year when the festive period begins and many look for fun seasonal activities to get into the Christmas spirit. And while many head to their local Christmas stalls, some people head abroad in their search for seasonal magic.

Europe is home to the world’s best Christmas markets and one of the very best is in Antwerp, Belgium.

From the UK, it takes just an hour on a plane to fly into Brussels from London and then Antwerp is a short 40 minute train ride away.

It’s a very doable weekend away from the UK and you won’t even need to take extra annual leave from work to visit this incredible festive market – a real blessing considering most of us have run out by this time of the year.

Antwerp is known for being Belgium’s second city, and there’s no shortage of things to do and see while you’re there.

This being said, it is relatively easy to see most places in the city over one weekend as it is relatively small and walkable.

It has long been a powerful magnet for everyone from fashion moguls and club queens to art lovers and diamond dealers, says Lonely Planet.

Antwerp has a rich medieval history and makes a fascinating place to explore, its cobbled lanes and impressive cathedral are sure to capture your attention.

The city’s Christmas market will not disappoint. Underneath the festive lights, you can try a range of festive food and drink while browsing the handmade trinkets on sale.

Featuring over 100 wooden chalet stalls, the market is spread out across several squares, including Groenplaats, Grote Markt, Handschoenmarkt and Steenplein. 

Popular food and drinks include Belgian waffles, fries, sausages, mulled wine, hot chocolate and local treats like doughnuts.

Another place to visit in the city outside of the Christmas market is Antwerpen-Centraal. This train station has become a popular spot for tourists due to its beautiful architecture. 

A visitor on Tripadvisor said: “Absolutely beautiful architecture. It was chosen as one of the most beautiful stations in the world several times by prominent international newspapers. The station was opened in 1905. 

“In 1975, it became a protected monument. It consists of a steel platform and a stone station building. You can simply enter it for free as it is a railway station which is still in use. On the side, from the outside you can also see a metal structure beautifully attached to the building.”