The best Christmas markets in the Ardennes

With the festive season approaching, the forests and hills around Nutchel Les Ardennes become the perfect base from which to explore some truly magical Christmas experiences.

In recent years, some of the very best Christmas markets in Belgium have gained popularity thanks to their unique charm, spectacular illumination and unforgettable atmospheres.

From the end of November, bigger cities and medieval villages alike, from Luxembourg City to Liège and Durbuy, transform into real winter-wonderlands. Think warm glühwein, regional specialties, wooden chalets, twinkling lights and that unmistakable Christmas magic. If you’re staying at Nutchel Les Ardennes, you’re perfectly placed to explore them. We’ve pulled together some of our favourite markets near us with helpful details and a little inspiration on which one suits your mood.

‍

What are the top Christmas markets in the Ardennes to visit?

‍

• Craving elegant, cosmopolitan sparkle? Head to the marché de Noël Luxembourg.
• Looking for something cosy, intimate and fairy-tale-like? Then the marché de Noël Durbuy is your pick.
• Want lively, bustling energy with local flavours and fun for all ages? The marché de Noël Liège will hit the spot.

Winterlights Festival – Luxembourg Christmas Market

‍

Just a short drive from Nutchel Les Ardennes, Luxembourg City offers an easily accessible and sophisticated Christmas market experience. The Christmas market in Luxemburg runs from 21 November to 4 January 2026, daily between 11:00 and 21:00 (depending on location) in the city centre.

Here’s why we love it: wander among elegant wooden chalets under shimmering lights across multiple city-squares (Place d’Armes, Place de la Constitution, Place de Paris) and feel the cosmopolitan yet festive atmosphere of Luxembourg-Ville. Grab a vin chaud on your way, soak in the view over the old town ramparts or ride the Ferris wheel near the market.

‍

Opening dates & hours:

• Distance from Nutchel: approximately 45–50 minutes by car (depending on traffic).
• Days & hours: 21 November to 4 January; standard opening 11:00–21:00 (check individual squares for later times).
• Enjoy: great for couples, for photo-ops, mix of local tradition with international flair.

‍

Durbuy Christmas Market

‍

For something more enchanting and intimate, step into the heart of the Ardennes at the Christmas market in Durbuy. Set in Belgium’s “smallest town in the world”, the historic streets transform into a fairy-tale scene of lights, chalets and seasonal treats.

Opening dates & hours:

• From 21 November to 14 December 2025, open Friday 16:00–23:00, Saturday & Sunday 11:00–23:00.
• From 17 December 2025 to 4 January 2026, open daily 11:00–23:00.
• Note: On 24 & 31 December, closing at 18:00.

Why it stands out:

• The small size and cobbled streets create warm, intimate vibes. Ideal for couples or families seeking charm over crowds.
• You’ll find artisan stalls, storytelling, an ice-rink, and delicious local delicacies (e.g., the famous foie gras-potato dish) for a genuine regional experience.
• Distance from Nutchel: around 35–40 minutes by car, making it very convenient for a half-day trip.

This is the place if you want to step off the beaten track a little, bask in tranquillity and enjoy a cosy winter evening.

‍

Liège Christmas Village

‍

If your mood swings to lively, bustling and full of festive energy, then the Christmas market in Liège is a must-visit. Located in Wallonia, the Liège Christmas Village is one of Belgium’s biggest, and certainly one of the most animated.

Opening dates & hours:

• From 28 November to 30 December 2025.
• Typical hours: Sunday–Wednesday 11:00–22:00; Thursday–Saturday 11:00–24:00.
• Distance from Nutchel: approximately 40–45 min by car, making it accessible for an evening outing.

What makes it special:

• With roughly 200 chalets and the presence of an ice-rink, Ferris wheel and loads of food stands, it offers a full-on market experience.
• From gourmet snacks to family-friendly fun, its energy is infectious: perfect for groups or those wanting more for their Christmas excursion.

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

Why stay at Nutchel Les Ardennes to discover those Christmas markets?

‍

Booking a stay at Nutchel in November or December gives you several advantages when exploring these Christmas markets:

• Proximity: Nutchel is strategically located near Luxembourg, Durbuy and Liège, meaning you can enjoy the market magic without having to change overnight locations.
• Comfort: After a day strolling festive stalls, you can retreat to a cabin in the woods, with a wood-burning stove and even a hot tub in some cabins! Perfect to relax in total comfort and nature.
• Winter atmosphere: The Ardennes winter-landscape adds another dimension: quiet trails, snow-dusted forests, warm fires. It frames the markets and makes your stay feel special beyond the cities.

‍

In 2025, all our weekend cabins are already fully booked. However, we do still have weekday availability! So if you can be spontaneous for a midweek stay, you’ll enjoy:

• fewer crowds
• more tranquility around the markets,
• the full peaceful atmosphere of Nutchel
• a special Nutchel offer* using the code CHRISTMAS

Combine the festive excitement of the markets with the calm of the woods. It’s a win-win! Let your stay become part of the adventure: explore one (or all!) of these markets by day, then come back to your cozy cabin to unwind and soak in the winter magic. Nutchel Les Ardennes is the perfect base for exploring the best Christmas markets in the Ardennes while enjoying a retreat into nature!