Canal Cruising & Christmas Markets Of Belgium

Itinerary

Canal Cruising & Christmas Markets of Belgium

Belgium, known for its picturesque canals and charming Christmas markets, offers a magical experience during the festive season. The combination of scenic canal cruising and Christmas market visits creates an unforgettable adventure.  We enjoy a Mons Canal Cruise, discover the Ronquières Plane, and explore the enchanting Christmas Markets of Charleroi & Louvain-la-Neuve.

Canal Cruising & Christmas Markets of Belgium

Ferry from Dover to Calais and journey to our hotel in Mons.

Canal Cruising & Christmas Markets of Belgium

Experience the charm of Mons from a unique perspective with a canal cruise. We enjoy a leisurely journey along the Mons Canal and soak in the picturesque scenery, historic architecture, and vibrant local life that lines the waterways. See some of the city's most iconic landmarks and hidden gems while enjoying the serene ambience of the water. Later we visit the Louvain-la-Neuve Christmas Market in the heart of the city. Enjoy the festive atmosphere filled with beautifully decorated stalls offering a variety of handmade crafts, seasonal foods, and unique gifts.

Canal Cruising & Christmas Markets of Belgium

The Ronquières Plane, also known as the Inclined Plane of Ronquières, is one of Belgium's engineering marvels, a unique structure, part of the Brussels-Charleroi Canal and was designed to facilitate the movement of boats between different elevations. Opened in 1968, the plane is approximately 1,432 meters long and overcomes a height difference of 68 meters. Take in the impressive mechanics of this transportation system, and the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside before a visit to the Charleroi Christmas Market, to enjoy traditional Belgian waffles, mulled wine, and other local delicacies while browsing through the beautifully decorated market and listening to carol singers and local musicians.

Canal Cruising & Christmas Markets of Belgium

We check out of our hotel and head back to Calais for our return ferry home.

Canal Cruising & Christmas Markets of Belgium

• Return coach travel & ferry crossings
• 3 nights at the B&B Hotel, Mons Centre (JG3+ rating) with breakfast
• Cruise along the Mons Canal (includes Strépy-Thieu boat lift)
• Excursions to the Charleroi & Louvain-la-Neuve Christmas Markets
• Visit to The Ronquieres Plane

Canal Cruising & Christmas Markets of Belgium

• Cruise along the Mons Canal (includes Strépy-Thieu boat lift)
• Excursions to the Charleroi & Louvain-la-Neuve Christmas Markets
• Visit to The Ronquieres Plane

Canal Cruising & Christmas Markets of Belgium

Accommodation

B&B Hotel Mons Centre, Mons, Belgium JG3+

Well located for our itinerary, the comfortable B&B Hotel Mons Centre is nestled in the heart of Mons, Belgium. This cosy bed and breakfast offers a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional Belgian hospitality, with a bar, fitness room and en-suite bedrooms featuring a TV and free Wi-Fi.

Hotel Rating

JG3+ hotels typically enjoy higher levels of satisfaction on both online hotel rating sites and our own customer satisfaction surveys and may enjoy superior locations close to resort attractions or surrounded by spectacular scenery.