Eurolines - A great way to Brussels' Christmas Market

If you’re thinking the challenge of Christmas shopping needs livening up then it’s time to think of something temptingly different – like shopping in Brussels at its huge festive market. Eurolines, the international coach operator has regular scheduled services direct from central London for ultra low prices, starting at only £33 return.

On a short break weekend you can bag some unusual gifts and enjoy Belgium’s famous beer and chocolates, all in a city that simply loves Christmas. It packs over two hundred traditional candlelit, wooden chalets into the streets running from the stunning Grand Place down to the Place St Catherine (from November 30th to January 1st). They’re laden with Flemish and Wallonian produce and you’ll take in the wonderful aromas of mulled wine and sizzling hot sausages, not to mention the sound of popping sweet chestnuts.

Brussels historic guild houses and boulevards are decked with Christmas trees, mistletoe, lights and decorations. You might find processions, wandering street artists, brass bands and concerts as you wander and can idle time away in the elegant Grand Place with its dramatic sound and light show and classic nativity scene .

Eurolines (the international scheduled coach operator and part of National Express) can get you there in just 8 hours – and with a generous baggage allowance of 30 kilos, you’ll be able to shop without worrying about limits.

Here are some top tips for getting the most from a Christmas Shopping Expedition with Eurolines to Brussels:

1. Take a light weight bag you can fill with presents for your journey back.
2. Plan your trip as a winter treat. Book a nice small hotel at Eurolines.co.uk for a good deal.
3. Think Chocolate! This is Brussels, the centre for Belgian Chocolate, the ultimate indulgence.
4. Visit Brussels on Ice at the Quai Aux Bois a Bruler with displays by professional skaters (open to the public at specified times, and with a special toddler rink. Book ahead.)
5. Take a trip on the 48 meter high ferris wheel with fantastic views of the city (Place St Catherine).
6. And finally …..Beer. Belgium is renowned for having more breweries than Churches and the bars are a revelation (try Strawberry or even Chocolate).

Tickets are available online at Eurolines.co.uk, or from any National Express travel agent.