Optimal times to explore Belgium: a seasonal overview

With a wealth of art, architecture, and charming towns, you can experience the best of Belgium in any season—just don’t forget your raincoat or umbrella.

Summer brings vibrant music festivals and a sense of community. Spring and fall showcase Belgium’s natural beauty, while winter is perfect for museums and Christmas markets; late winter is ideal for budget travelers. Use this seasonal guide to plan your visit.

Excited to organize your trip? Discover the top destinations in Belgium

Summer is the prime time for festivals, beach bars, and cultural events.

In July and August, temperatures in Belgium can reach a delightful 20°C (around 70°F), attracting both domestic and international visitors to the Belgian North Sea coast.

During summer, the beaches of Knokke and Ostend buzz with sunbathers, kite surfers, and families seeking a fun day out.

Simultaneously, the hottest months in Belgium mark the height of its famous music festival season, featuring major events like Rock Werchter and Tomorrowland, alongside smaller gatherings such as Cactusfestival and Gent Jazz.

Antwerp is especially vibrant in August, featuring open-air summer bars, Antwerp Pride, and the Bollekesfeest food and drink festival, named after the iconic local amber beer, Bolleke.

Summer prices tend to rise, with round-trip tickets starting at over $600 from New York and around $150 from London. A decent hotel room usually starts at about $120 per night.

The best times for hiking with thinner crowds are from April to June and September to October.

In the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, Belgium enjoys mild days and cool nights. City centers are less crowded compared to the bustling summer months, and accommodation prices are more reasonable.

Spring elevates Brussels as not just the legislative but also the cultural heart of Belgium. With an abundance of exhibitions, festivals, and performances, venues like La Madeleine (hosting local and international music), Bozar (featuring classical and modern art), and Plein Publiek (offering DJ sets and live music) have something for everyone.

Spring signals the end of winter's hush, as Hallerbos transforms into a breathtaking sea of bluebells in April, attracting visitors from around the globe.

Restaurant and café terraces, such as Bar Chapel—a charming converted monastery garden in Antwerp—reopen, offering a delightful way to enjoy the city's ambiance without the summer crowds.

In autumn, the brilliant reds, oranges, and browns of local foliage make Belgium, particularly the southern Ardennes, an even more enchanting destination. Crowds lessen while daytime temperatures remain pleasantly mild.

This is an ideal season to discover the country’s stunning landscapes and historic towns—just remember to pack an umbrella and a raincoat.

From November to January, you’ll find the best Christmas markets and museum exhibitions.

In the low season, Belgium's weather tends to be overcast, though snow and freezing temperatures are uncommon. November is a quiet month best spent visiting the numerous museums scattered throughout the country.

During these months, flight prices tend to decrease (with round-trip tickets from New York available for as low as $300), while hotel rates remain fairly consistent.

Notable attractions include the newly renovated Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp, the Horta Museum in Brussels, and the In Flanders Fields Museum in Ypres, which is open from Tuesday to Sunday between 10am and 5pm.

December remains wet and chilly. However, numerous Christmas markets illuminate both major cities and hidden gems with ice skating rinks, stalls selling mulled wine, and tempting sweet treats.

For a memorable experience, visit the Antwerp Christmas Market, the Ghent Winter Festivities, or Plaisirs d’Hiver in Brussels. Alternatively, enjoy a cozy evening at smaller events like the Ostend Christmas Market or Louvain-La-Neige.

Late winter offers the best opportunities for budget travelers and carnival festivities.

As a Western European destination, Belgium tends to be on the pricier side for visitors. However, traveling on a tight budget is still feasible.

The ideal time to visit is between January and March, as the country gradually returns to normal after the Christmas and New Year celebrations. This period often features better deals and prices.

In February, carnival festivities fill the Belgian countryside, yet you can expect no disruptions in public transport or road access. Be aware that hotel rates may rise during carnival season in cities like Binche and Aalst.

The Carnival of Binche is among Europe’s oldest celebrations, tracing its origins back to the Middle Ages. During the festivities, performers known as Gilles don intricate costumes and toss blood oranges to the audience as a symbol of good fortune.

In Aalst, you’ll discover the largest carnival celebration in Belgium. Carnival participants parade through the streets with floats that can take nearly a year to embellish.

The carnival scene isn't afraid of controversy: participants voice their perspectives on social issues and current events through their costumes and float designs.

In 2023, one float depicted the city’s mayor as Big Brother, serving as a protest against his extensive use of surveillance cameras. No topic is off-limits.

Looking to travel through Belgium on a budget? Check out our tips for saving money