Best Time to Visit Belgium from India
The best time to visit Belgium is between the months of April, May, June or between September and October. Belgium is at the crossroads of mediaeval and modern Europe. This country has cities like Ghent and Bruges, which will give you the impression of being straight out of a fairy tale. The country also has modern cities like Antwerp and Brussels, which forms a great contrast with its natural beauty.
Ensure to pick the best period to visit Belgium. This blog will cover when you should visit this country based on your plans.
Best Months/Seasons to Visit Belgium
The following list can be used to determine when is the best time to visit Belgium:
| Month | Average Temperature | Description |
| April - June (Spring Season) | 10 to 15 degrees Celsius | Spring is a wonderful time to explore Belgium, with blooming flowers and lush greenery. The weather is mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Popular events during this time: Brussels Film Festival, Jazz Marathon, and Ars Musica Festival. |
| July - August (Summer Season) | 20 to 25 degrees Celsius | Summer in Belgium is warm and vibrant, attracting tourists for its festivals and beach destinations. It's the peak season, so expect bustling cities and higher accommodation prices. Popular events during this time: Ghent Festival, Tomorrowland, and Brussels Summer Festival. |
| September - October (Autumn Season) | 12 to 15 degrees Celsius | Autumn offers moderate temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for exploring historical sites and enjoying the fall foliage. The countryside is particularly scenic during this time. Popular events during this time: Brussels Beer Weekend, MegaVino Expo, and EAT! Brussels Festival. |
| November - March (Winter Season) | 3 to 7 degrees Celsius | Winter in Belgium is cold, with snow in the Ardennes and frequent rain. It's off-peak for tourists, making it cheaper to travel. Great for winter sports and Christmas markets. Popular events during this time: Brussels Christmas Market, the Carnival of Binche, and skiing in Ardennes. |
April-June (Spring Season)
Spring in Belgium is characterised by vibrant blossoms and lush landscapes, making it an ideal season for outdoor activities and scenic exploration. The mild temperatures create a pleasant atmosphere for sightseeing and attending local events.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Belgium:
| Weather | Mild with blossoming flowers and occasional showers |
| Temperature | 10°C to 15°C |
| Season | Moderate |
| Season for Localities | Labour Day (May 1st), Ascension Day, Whitsun, Easter Celebrations |
| Key Highlights |
|
July-August (Summer Season)
Summer in Belgium brings warm and inviting weather, attracting both tourists and locals to various festivals and beach destinations. It’s the peak tourist season, with cultural events and outdoor activities.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Belgium:
| Weather | Warm and sunny with minimal rainfall |
| Temperature | 20°C to 25°C |
| Season | Peak |
| Season for Localities | National Day (July 21st), Assumption Day (August 15th), Tomorrowland Festival, Ghent Festival |
| Key Highlights |
|
September-October (Autumn Season)
Autumn offers moderate temperatures and a stunning fall foliage display, creating a perfect backdrop for exploring Belgium’s historical and natural attractions. This season provides a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere compared to the summer months.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Belgium:
| Weather | Crisp and cool with colourful fall foliage |
| Temperature | 12°C to 15°C |
| Season | Moderate |
| Season for Localities | All Saints' Day (November 1st), Brussels Beer Weekend, MegaVino Expo |
| Key Highlights |
|
November-March (Winter Season)
Winter in Belgium is cold, with frequent rainfall, making it the off-peak tourist season. Despite the chilly weather, it’s a great time to experience Belgium’s festive atmosphere, from Christmas markets to winter sports.
Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning for a trip to Belgium:
| Weather | Cold with a mix of rain and snow, especially in the Ardennes |
| Temperature | 3°C to 7°C |
| Season | Off |
| Season for Localities | Christmas and New Year celebrations, Carnival of Binche, and Saint Nicholas Day (December 6th) |
| Key Highlights |
|
When to Avoid Visiting Belgium?
Winter in Belgium, spanning from November to March, is characterised by cold temperatures and significant rainfall, especially in Brussels. However, it does offer unique winter sports and festive events for those willing to brave the chill.
| Months to Avoid | Reason |
| November to March (Winter Season) |
|
Seasonal Travel Costs of Visiting Belgium from India
Travel expenses to Belgium vary significantly by season. The Peak summer months have the highest costs due to increased tourist demand. Spring and autumn offer a balance of reasonable prices and pleasant weather. Winter provides the most budget-friendly travel options despite the less favourable climate.
| Season | Average Flight Cost | Average Hotel Cost per Night | Description |
| Spring (April - June) | ₹50,000 - ₹65,000 | ₹8,000 - ₹15,000 | Moderate prices with blossoming landscapes and mild weather. Ideal for exploring countryside areas and attending cultural events like the Brussels Film Festival and Jazz Marathon. |
| Summer (July - August) | ₹55,000 - ₹70,000 | ₹10,000 - ₹18,000 | Highest travel costs due to peak tourism. Expect vibrant festivals like Tomorrowland, crowded attractions, and warm, comfortable weather ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. |
| Autumn (September - October) | ₹50,000 - ₹65,000 | ₹8,000 - ₹15,000 | Normal travel costs and pleasant weather. A great time for enjoying fall foliage, local food festivals, and less crowded tourist spots. |
| Winter (November - March) | ₹40,000 - ₹55,000 | ₹6,000 - ₹10,000 | Lowest travel costs but challenging weather. Ideal for budget travellers, with opportunities to experience winter sports, indoor attractions, and festive events like Christmas markets. |
Things to Know Before Visiting Belgium
Now that you know all the best and cheapest seasons for your Belgium tour, you need to know a few things before you visit the place. Here are some of these facts:
- Antwerp is the world's diamond capital, meaning you can buy exquisite diamond jewellery there.
- Travelling around Belgium is very easy because the country is small. You can easily reach from one city to another within an hour or two via road. So, make sure you squeeze in as many cities and towns in your travel plan as possible.
- Tipping is not mandatory in Belgium when you go out to restaurants to eat.
- People can get their pockets picked in the famous places to visit in Brussels. Though this is a very safe country, it is better to be alert.
- All major cities in Belgium are equipped with free WiFi, so you can easily access the internet from anywhere.
- Belgium has a strict recycling system, so ensure you follow that while you are there for your vacation.
Tips for Travelling in Belgium
Below we have listed a few tips which will come in handy when you travel to Belgium from India:
- Carry a universal adapter because, in Belgium, people use a C and F type plug along with 230 volts and 50 Hz electrical points.
- If you purchase a SIM card from any other country that falls under the Schengen zone, it will also work in Belgium. You do not have to pay any additional charges and roaming.
- You need to get a Schengen Belgium tourist visa to travel across this country.
- The weather can be unpredictable. So, remember to carry an umbrella and raincoat as it can rain anytime.
- To use public restrooms, you need to carry some small pocket change.
- Belgium has the longest tram line in the world. So don’t forget to take a tram ride while you are there.
- Belgium has 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 12 cultural sites. You will want to visit all these places to experience the culture of this European country.
What Phrases Should You Know Before Travelling to Belgium?
Almost every person in Belgium can speak English. However, knowing a few phrases in French will only help you bond with the people there. Most people in Belgium speak French, and a small population speaks Flemish. Given below are certain phrases which will be useful:
| English | French |
| Hello | Salut |
| Good Morning | Bonjour |
| Good Evening | Bonsoir |
| Goodbye | Au revoir |
| Excuse Me | Pardon |
| Thank You | Merci |
| Please | S’il vous plait |
| Where are the toilets? | Ou sont les toilettes? |
| Yes | Oui |
| No | Non |
| How much does it cost? | Combien ça coûte ? |
| Can you help me? | Pouvez-vous m'aider ? |
| I don’t understand. | Je ne comprends pas. |
| Do you speak English? | Parlez-vous anglais ? |
| I would like... | Je voudrais... |
| Where is the nearest metro station? | Où est la station de métro la plus proche ? |
| I’m lost. | Je suis perdu. |
| Can I have the bill, please? | L'addition, s'il vous plaît. |
| I’m allergic to... | Je suis allergique à... |
| 0 | zéro |
| 1 | un |
| 2 | deux |
| 3 | trois |
| 4 | quatre |
| 5 | cinq |
| 6 | six |
| 7 | sept |
| 8 | huit |
| 9 | neuf |
| 10 | dix |
You can start planning your trip and apply for your visa now that you know the best time to visit Belgium. Furthermore, you should purchase travel insurance before you book your flight tickets. International trips can bring a lot of unpredictable circumstances, like losing your luggage or falling sick after having too many beers.
Having insurance will help cover the costs of such expenses. As a result, you will be able to enjoy your trip more freely with less worry.
FAQs about Best Time to Visit Belgium
Is Belgium expensive to visit?
No, Belgium is generally affordable, offering reasonable transport, food, and accommodation options compared to other Western European countries.
When to go to Belgium?
The best time to visit Belgium is between April and June and September and October when the weather is mild and ideal for exploring cities and the countryside.
Do Indians need a visa for Belgium?
Yes, Indian citizens need a visa to travel to Belgium. They can apply for a Schengen visa, which allows them to travel within the Schengen area, including Belgium.
Which month does Belgium have snow?
Belgium typically experiences snow from December to February, particularly in the Ardennes region and higher elevations.
Which month is good for visiting Belgium?
The best months to visit Belgium are April to June and September to October, which offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists.
Why is Belgium worth visiting?
Belgium is worth visiting for its rich history, mediaeval towns, vibrant cultural scene, and renowned chocolates and beers.
Is Brussels worth visiting?
Yes, Brussels is worth visiting for its mix of historical landmarks like the Grand Place, modern art museums, and diverse culinary offerings.
Is Brussels hot or cold?
Brussels experiences mild summers with temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 °C and cold winters averaging 0 to 5°C.
Is it safe to go to Brussels at night?
Yes, Brussels is generally safe to visit at night. However, like any major city, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is advisable.
Is Belgium good for nightlife?
Yes, Belgium is known for its vibrant nightlife, with Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent offering a wide range of bars, clubs, and entertainment options.
What is the speciality of Belgium?
Belgium is renowned for its chocolate, waffles, beer, and intricate lacework, all integral to its cultural identity.
What is the most visited place in Belgium?
Brussels is the most visited place in Belgium, followed by Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, and the Ardennes region for its natural beauty.
What is the prettiest place in Belgium?
With its well-preserved mediaeval architecture and picturesque canals, Bruges is often considered one of Belgium's prettiest cities.
What to buy from Belgium?
Popular souvenirs from Belgium include Belgian chocolates, lace products, beer glasses from famous breweries, and regional delicacies like speculoos biscuits.
What foods is Belgium famous for?
Belgium is famous for moules-frites (mussels with fries), Belgian waffles, carbonnade flamande (beef stew), and various artisanal chocolates.
What are 5 facts about Belgium?
Here are five facts about Belgium:
- Belgium is home to the headquarters of the European Union and NATO.
- The country has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German.
- Belgium produces over 1,000 different beers.
- It boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Grand Place in Brussels.
- Brussels is known as the comic book capital of the world.
Is Belgium good for shopping?
Yes, Belgium offers excellent shopping opportunities, from high-end boutiques in Brussels to unique local markets where you can find antiques, crafts, and fashion items.
Is Belgium known for its art scene?
Yes, Belgium has a rich art scene with museums like the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium in Brussels and the Museum of Fine Arts in Ghent.
When is the best time to visit Bruges?
The best time to visit Bruges is during spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.
Which cities in Belgium are best for architecture enthusiasts?
Cities like Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent are best known for their stunning mediaeval and Renaissance architecture.
What are the top festivals in Belgium?
Major festivals in Belgium include Tomorrowland (electronic music), Gentse Feesten (arts and music), and the Brussels Christmas Market.
Is cycling popular in Belgium?
Yes, Belgium is known for its cycling culture, with dedicated bike lanes and events like the Tour of Flanders.
Which Belgian beer is most popular?
Some of the most popular Belgian beers include Duvel, Chimay, and Westvleteren.
Are there UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Belgium?
Yes, Belgium boasts several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Grand Place in Brussels and the Belfries of Belgium and France.
What are the top shopping streets in Brussels?
Rue Neuve, Avenue Louise, and the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert are popular shopping streets in Brussels.
Can you visit breweries in Belgium?
Yes, many Belgian breweries offer tours where visitors can learn about beer-making traditions and taste different brews.
Is public transportation reliable in Belgium?
Yes, Belgium has an efficient public transportation system, including trains, trams, and buses connecting major cities and towns.
What are the top day trips from Brussels?
Popular day trips from Brussels include visiting Antwerp for its fashion and diamonds, Ghent for its mediaeval architecture, and Waterloo for its historical significance.
Is English widely spoken in Belgium?
Yes, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and major cities, along with Dutch and French.