Best Time to Visit Belgium
Last updated: November 9, 2025
Belgium is a country of medieval charm, world-famous chocolate, and grand architecture. From the romantic canals of Bruges and the cobbled streets of Ghent to the lively squares of Brussels and the beaches of the North Sea coast, Belgium offers a wonderful blend of history, art, and culture. The best time to visit depends on whether you want mild sightseeing weather, festive markets, or summer celebrations.
🌸 Spring (March – May): Blooming Parks and Perfect Sightseeing Weather
Spring is one of the best times to visit Belgium. The weather is mild, the parks are in bloom, and the cities are full of life without the summer crowds. It’s ideal for exploring on foot, enjoying café terraces, and visiting colourful flower gardens.
Highlights:
- Mild temperatures (10–18 °C)
- Keukenhof-style tulip displays at Floralia Brussels (April–May)
- Great for walking tours in Bruges, Ghent, and Brussels
- Fewer tourists and lower hotel prices
☀️ Summer (June – August): Sunshine, Festivals, and Outdoor Fun
Summer is Belgium’s peak travel season, with long days, warm temperatures, and lively outdoor events. It’s perfect for sightseeing, canal boat tours, and enjoying the country’s famous beer festivals and music events.
Highlights:
- Warm temperatures (20–25 °C)
- Best for outdoor dining, cycling, and canal tours
- Tomorrowland (July), Gentse Feesten, and Brussels Summer Festival
- Vibrant atmosphere in city squares and along the coast
🍂 Autumn (September – November): Golden Colours and Cosy Charm
Autumn is a lovely time to visit Belgium. The weather cools but remains pleasant for sightseeing, and the changing leaves make the countryside and city parks particularly beautiful. It’s also the start of beer and chocolate season — perfect for a cosy cultural break.
Highlights:
- Cool temperatures (10–18 °C)
- Autumn colours in the Ardennes and city parks
- Great for museum visits and café-hopping
- Brussels Beer Weekend (September) and chocolate tastings galore
❄️ Winter (December – February): Festive Markets and Romantic Evenings
Winter in Belgium is chilly but enchanting. The cities sparkle with Christmas lights, markets fill the squares, and the smell of waffles and mulled wine fills the air. It’s a wonderful time for romantic getaways and cultural escapes.
Highlights:
- Cold temperatures (0–8 °C)
- Christmas markets in Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent
- Ice skating, hot chocolate, and festive lights
- Peaceful museums and fewer tourists after New Year
🇧🇪 In Summary
- Best for sightseeing: April – June and September
- Best for festivals and outdoor events: June – August
- Best for cosy travel and Christmas markets: December
- Best for budget travel: March – May and November
From the medieval towers of Bruges and the art galleries of Antwerp to the cafés of Brussels and the forests of the Ardennes, Belgium offers something special in every season. Whether you visit for sunshine, chocolate, or culture, this small but stunning country is always full of flavour.
Top Travel Tips for Belgium
✅ GOOD NEWS: Visa Not Required (for most)
Belgium is part of the Schengen Area. Visitors from the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and many other countries do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, always check your government's latest travel advice before booking.
ℹ️ Currency: The Euro (€)
The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards (especially Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted everywhere, including on public transport. It's still a good idea to have some cash for small purchases at local markets or for small tips.
ℹ️ Tipping: Service is Included
By law, a service charge ("service compris") is included in all restaurant and café bills. Tipping is not mandatory or expected. However, for exceptional service, it is common to round up the bill or leave an extra 5-10%. Tipping taxi drivers is also not required, but rounding up is appreciated.
✅ GOOD NEWS: Tap Water is Safe
The tap water in Belgium is of high quality and is perfectly safe to drink. You can save money and reduce plastic waste by bringing a reusable water bottle and filling it from the tap.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Power Plugs (Type E)
Belgium uses Type E plug sockets (which have two round pins and a round earth pin). This is the same as in France. Visitors from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, etc., will need a travel adapter. The standard voltage is 230V.
Things to do in Belgium
Take a canal tour in Bruges, marvel at the Grand-Place in Brussels, explore the medieval castle in Ghent, or indulge in a chocolate-making workshop. Book your tours and activities easily via our trusted partners: