Belgium in May: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Spring is in full swing in Belgium by May. For smart travelers seeking charm without the crowds, it’s your last chance to visit before the summer tourist rush drives up prices and fills the streets and hotels.

Belgium may be small, but it packs a variety of experiences across Belgian cities into just a few hours of travel. By May, the days are longer, the weather is pleasantly mild, and the country feels lively without the peak-season crowds that make summer visits more hectic and expensive.

From historic canals in Bruges to the cosmopolitan energy of Brussels, each city offers something for travelers looking to balance sightseeing with leisurely exploration. Figuring out how to fit it all in one itinerary can be tricky, despite the country’s compact size.

Use this guide to plan your Belgium vacation with confidence. Read on to find out what to pack, which destinations to visit, and how to structure your time to enjoy the top things to do in Belgium this spring.

Early May vs. Late May Weather in Belgium

If you’re deciding whether to travel in early or late May, it helps to know what to expect so you can plan your sightseeing, outdoor activities, and packing accordingly.

• Early May (around May 1–15): Mild but slightly cooler temperatures with daytime highs around 59 F to 63 F (15 C to 17 C). Mornings and evenings can feel brisk, dipping to 45 F to 50 F (7 C to 10 C). Light rain showers are common, though there are sunny breaks perfect for exploring cities.
• Late May (around May 16–31): Warmer days with highs around 63 F to 68 F (17 C to 20 C) and longer, sunnier afternoons. Showers can still occur, but dry periods are longer, making walking tours, canal rides, and outdoor cafes more enjoyable.

No matter when you visit in May, layering is key. Below, you’ll find practical tips on what to wear to stay comfortable during your spring trip to Belgium.

What To Pack and Wear in Belgium in May

Spring in Belgium brings mild days, cool mornings and evenings, and occasional rain showers, so your wardrobe should be flexible.

• Tops: Light t-shirts or long sleeves, plus a sweater or cardigan
• Outerwear: Waterproof jacket or light raincoat
• Bottoms: Jeans, trousers, or comfortable skirts
• Shoes: Sturdy, comfortable shoes; waterproof sneakers are ideal
• Accessories: Small backpack, compact umbrella, sunglasses; in early May, a light scarf or gloves for crisp mornings

By late May, afternoons are often warm enough to skip heavier layers, but a sweater and rain protection are always useful.

With these essentials, you’ll be comfortable exploring Belgium’s top tourist attractions no matter what May brings.

Bruges in May: For Canals, History, and Spring Atmosphere

Bruges in May is ideal for exploring calm canals, historic squares, and medieval streets without the heavy summer crowds. Side streets, cafe terraces, and boat tours make it easy to enjoy the city at a relaxed pace.

A half-day or full-day visit allows time to combine sightseeing with canal-side dining and wandering into artisan shops.

Ghent in May: For Culture, Food, and Local Life

Ghent in May comes alive along the Leie River, where outdoor terraces and riverside cafes reopen for the season. Patershol’s narrow streets and historic squares offer a mix of local life and culture, from small artisan shops to medieval architecture.

Half-day and full-day visits work well, with easy access to highlights like Gravensteen Castle, Korenlei, and Graslei.

Brussels in May: For Festivals, Parks, and Day Trip Access

A trip to Brussels in May is especially appealing thanks to seasonal festivals and green spaces. Visit Parc du Cinquantenaire or Bois de la Cambre, and time your trip to catch events like the Iris Festival or Brussels Pride.

Its central location makes it a convenient base for day trips to Bruges, Ghent, Leuven, or Antwerp.

Antwerp in May: For Art, Shopping, and Outdoor Neighborhoods

Antwerp in May is perfect for visitors interested in art, fashion, and design. Wide streets, riverside paths, and the lively Het Zuid district are ideal for strolling between galleries, boutiques, and cafe terraces.

A full day lets you explore museums, shopping streets, and riverside walks, while a half-day can focus on one neighborhood with relaxed cafe stops.

Leuven in May: For Student Life and Easy Walks

Leuven in May combines historic streets with the energy of a student city. Outdoor seating returns to the main squares, and the area around Old Market Hall buzzes with terraces, breweries, and casual eateries.

Leuven is ideal for a half-day trip or a relaxed overnight stay, with easy train access from Brussels.

Wallonia and the Ardennes in May: For Nature and Outdoors

Southern Wallonia in May offers a contrast to city life. Places such as Durbuy, La Roche-en-Ardenne, and Dinant provide riverside walks, citadels, and cafes for convenient stops. A full day or overnight stay allows time to enjoy nature.

Wander Through Historic Streets and Neighborhoods

Belgium’s historic city centers are open throughout the year, but in May, cobblestone streets, medieval squares, and riverside paths are especially comfortable to explore on foot.

With more time slots for guided walking tours in Bruges, Ghent, and other cities compared with winter, visitors have plenty of options for discovering Belgian history, architecture, and local culture.

To experience the highlights and hidden gems of Bruges, begin your stroll at the bustling Markt Square. Move along the Reie River paths and stop at the legendary De Halve Maan Brewery or the iconic Burg Square. Along the route, you’ll find artisan shops and hidden corners that are often overlooked on a typical walking path.

When in Ghent, start at Gravensteen Castle and follow the Leie River paths toward St. Michael's Bridge. This leads to Patershol, the city's historic quarter.

Continue to Korenlei and Graslei for a rewarding self-guided tour of Ghent, where you can explore canals and medieval architecture at your own pace.

Known as a university city, Leuven is ideal for young adults seeking a less touristy place for leisurely exploration until the evening. It’s home to the Old Market Hall, or “the longest bar in the world.” Here, Flemish architecture surrounds numerous numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants offering food and entertainment.

Half a day in each city is usually enough to see the main highlights, and most streets are pedestrian-friendly. Many visitors combine Bruges and Ghent into a single day trip from Brussels. Leuven is often visited alongside Mechelen for an authentic taste of Flanders away from the busiest tourist spots.

Cycle and Explore the Countryside

May is one of the best times to explore Belgium by bike, with spring greenery and riverside villages at their most vibrant. Most cycling paths are clearly marked, and routes along the rivers near Bruges and Ghent pass through charming villages, historic towns, and scenic countryside.

Bruges is a popular starting point for a cycling trip to the countryside and nearby Damme. This charming town is a cyclist’s paradise, with medieval streets, historic buildings, independent bookshops, and peaceful canals.

A ride along the Schipdonkkanaal offers waterside paths and scenic polder views. Nearby, the Hoeke Windmill provides a glimpse of classic Flemish heritage.

From Ghent, cyclists can follow the Leie River paths toward historic villages like Sint-Martens-Latem and Afsnee. These loops range from 12–22 miles (20–35 km) and combine riverside scenery with charming town centers.

Cycling through the Belgian Ardennes offers a different rhythm. Hills rise gradually and trails wind through dense woods. Routes here vary from 16–31 miles (25–50 kilometers), with opportunities to stop in small villages for refreshments.

Bike rentals across Belgium typically provide maps, helmets, and advice for planning spring routes. Forest trails can become slippery after spring showers, so it’s wise to check conditions before heading out.

Experience Spring Festivals and Local Events

May is one of Belgium’s liveliest months, with national holidays, historic processions, and large public festivals. These events add character to a visit, but they can also affect opening hours, transport, and crowd levels.

National Holidays in Belgium

• Labor Day (May 1, Nationwide): A public holiday when many shops, museums, and offices operate on reduced hours. Public transport runs on a holiday schedule, and city squares, parks, and cafes are busier than usual.
• Ascension Day (Date varies, Nationwide): Always falling on a Thursday, 40 days after Easter. Often paired with the following Friday for a long weekend, it can make city centers busier and some attractions may have reduced hours.
• Pentecost & Whit Monday (Date varies, Nationwide): Celebrated seven weeks after Easter, with Whit Monday immediately following Pentecost. Popular tourist areas can be busier, and museums, shops, and restaurants may operate on limited schedules.

Brussels Events in May

• Iris Festival (Early May, Brussels): Celebrates the Brussels-Capital Region with concerts, workshops, and cultural activities around Mont des Arts and throughout the city. The festival takes place on the weekend closest to May 8. Expect lively streets and family-friendly entertainment, with some temporary road closures.
• Brussels Pride (Mid-May, Brussels): Features parades, performances, and street celebrations across multiple neighborhoods. The event provides an inclusive, festive atmosphere, though central areas may be crowded and transport rerouted.
• Brussels Jazz Weekend (Late May, Brussels): Free open-air concerts in public squares showcase jazz, blues, and funk. Performances are informal and family-friendly, ideal to enjoy alongside sightseeing.
• Zinneke Parade (Biennial, Brussels): A community-led parade with music, costumes, and artistic floats. Streets close temporarily, offering a playful multicultural experience. Held every two years, it does not occur annually.

Other Regional Highlights

• Procession of the Holy Blood (Date varies, Bruges): A historic religious procession 40 days after Easter through Bruges’ medieval streets. Expect large crowds and temporary street closures, along with a striking display of centuries-old tradition.
• Ducasse de Mons (Date varies, Wallonia): UNESCO-listed festival celebrated annually on Trinity Sunday, the Sunday immediately following Pentecost (57 days after Easter). The event features a procession and reenactment of Saint George’s battle with the dragon, bringing Walloon traditions vividly to life.

Checking official tourism sites in advance and allowing extra time for transport helps ensure a smoother experience, especially when visiting Brussels or Bruges during event weekends.

Sit at Terraces and Observe Local Life

May marks the start of Belgium’s terrace season, when locals and visitors alike fill outdoor tables across cities. If you haven’t been to a Belgian cafe before, you’re in for a surprise.

Cafes in Belgium serve far more than just coffee. Many offer Belgian beers, light meals, and pastries, making them social hubs as well as dining spots.

Cafe terrace culture in Brussels is best observed near Place Jourdan, Ixelles, and Place du Grand Sablon. Local favorites include Café Belga in Flagey for its lively terrace, Pierre Marcolini for chocolate and pastries, and Le Cirio for historic interiors and casual drinks.

In Antwerp, the Het Zuid district is the place to go. Café Het Groene Hart offers a classic brown cafe atmosphere with outdoor seating, Caffe Mundi serves artisanal coffee and light bites, and Het Oud Arsenaal provides traditional Belgian beers in a cozy, historic setting.

Canal-side terraces in Bruges and Ghent are some of the most picturesque in Belgium in May. In Bruges, 2be and ‘t Poatersgat serve local beers and snacks alongside scenic water views, while Ghent’s Trollekelder features an extensive beer list and outdoor tables near historic streets.

Many Belgian terraces provide heaters in early May, though their use is gradually being reduced for environmental reasons. The afternoons and early evenings are the busiest and most lively times to enjoy cafes in Belgium, while mornings offer a quieter experience.

Take Short Trips Across Belgium

May is ideal for various trips and excursions across Belgium, when towns, countryside, and castles are at their most inviting. Many destinations are reachable by train, making them easy to include in city-based itineraries.

A day trip to Bruges and Ghent from Brussels is a classic, perfect for canals, historic squares, and castles. Visiting in May offers the chance to enjoy spring flowers along the canals, livelier cafe terraces, and fewer crowds than in summer.

An excursion to Mechelen and Leuven by train lets visitors wander historic streets, stop at local breweries, and enjoy charming squares. For a more relaxed schedule, a day trip to Antwerp by train highlights art, fashion, and a lively city center.

For nature and history, southern Wallonia features the Ardennes, with forest trails, small villages, and castles. Spring also brings the Hallerbos bluebells near Halle in Flanders, where well-marked forest paths allow for half-day visits suitable for families or casual walkers.

3-Day Belgium Itinerary: Highlights and Iconic Experiences

• Base & overnights: Brussels, 2 nights
• Getting around: No car needed; Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent are all accessible via frequent trains and day trips

Day 1 – Brussels: Chocolate, Beer, and Hidden Neighborhoods

Start your morning at Grand Place, observing the ornate guildhalls before heading to Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert for premium Belgian chocolates. Join a guided chocolate tasting and workshop, learning the history of Belgian chocolate production. It’s a key cultural insight for first-time visitors.

For lunch, choose a terrace in Ixelles or Flagey, sampling classic dishes like stoofvlees with Belgian beer. Afternoon options include a visit to Mont des Arts or a curated walking tour of Brussels’ historic districts.

In May, the city’s long daylight hours make evening exploration ideal. Stroll to Place du Grand Sablon for artisanal shops, or sample Belgian beer at historic brown cafes to experience Brussels like a local.

Day 2 – Bruges Day Trip: Canals and Medieval Streets

Take an early train to Bruges, arriving mid-morning. Begin at Markt Square, then follow the Reie River paths toward Burg Square, where medieval architecture frames the canals.

Stop for a tasting and tour at the De Halve Maan Brewery and learn about Bruges’ historic brewing culture. Optional: take a 30-minute canal boat ride to see the city from the water.

By late afternoon, explore side streets and artisan shops in quieter areas, absorbing the spring ambiance. Evening is perfect for a candlelit canal-side dinner or a guided beer tasting experience in Bruges. Return to Brussels by train.

Day 3 – Ghent Day Trip: Castles, Canals, and Local Life

Arrive in Ghent mid-morning and start at Gravensteen Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress. Walk along Korenlei and Graslei, where riverside terraces reopen in May for lunch or coffee. Explore Patershol, the historic quarter, stopping at artisan shops or local bakeries.

For an immersive experience, consider a guided food tour sampling Ghent specialties like waterzooi or Cuberdon candies. Return to Brussels by train in the evening, or linger for an early dinner at a riverside cafe.

This 3-day Belgium itinerary with Brussels as your base is ideal for first-time visitors who want to experience the country’s highlights without feeling rushed. It balances sightseeing, local culture, and leisure, giving you a complete taste of Belgium in just three days.

Flexible 5-Day Belgium Itinerary: Cities, Canals, and Day Trips

If you have an extra two days in Belgium, you can follow the 3-day itinerary and then expand your exploration. You can still use Brussels as your base for easy day trips, or choose to stay overnight in Bruges or Ghent.

Choosing between Ghent and Bruges depends on your interests. Stay in Ghent for a lively atmosphere and a mix of historic and contemporary culture. Bruges, by contrast, feels more relaxed and storybook-like, with cobblestone streets and iconic canals.

Spend one day exploring Antwerp. Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady to see some of Rubens’ masterpieces, then wander the fashion district or the riverside Het Zuid neighborhood. Stop at a brown cafe for local craft beers or enjoy an early dinner on a terrace overlooking the Scheldt River.

On your fifth day, consider a visit to Leuven or Mechelen, both about 30 minutes from Brussels by train.

Leuven offers historic squares, a vibrant student atmosphere, and breweries for sampling Belgian beers. Mechelen features charming canals, beautiful churches, and artisan shops, making it perfect for a leisurely day before returning to Brussels.

With these extra two days, you’ll experience a richer slice of Belgium’s cities, culture, and local life. Most destinations are easily reached by train, but you can rent a car in Brussels if you want more flexibility or wish to take scenic detours.

This flexible 5-day Belgium itinerary allows you to enjoy the best of both bustling cities and quieter towns at a comfortable pace.

Customizable 7-Day Belgium Itinerary: Highlights, Coast, and Countryside

If you have a full week in Belgium, you can start with the 3-day itinerary and then expand into a more immersive experience. Like the 5-day version, you can base yourself in Brussels for convenience, or choose to spend multiple nights in Ghent or Bruges.

With the additional days, consider a countryside excursion to the Ardennes or Wallonia region. Here, forest trails, historic castles, and charming villages offer a refreshing contrast to city life.

For a unique spring experience, head to Ostend, Belgium’s coastal city. In May, mild weather makes promenade walks pleasant, beaches are peaceful, and local seafood is at its best.

Return to Brussels on your final day for a leisurely morning. You might shop for souvenirs at Grand Place or enjoy a last chocolate tasting at a local chocolatier. Alternatively, savor a coffee or Belgian pastry on a sunny terrace before departure.

This customizable 7-day Belgium itinerary allows you to mix city culture, historic streets, canals, and nature at your own pace, capturing the full charm of the country in May.

Is May a good time to visit Belgium?

Yes, May is one of the best months to visit Belgium. Spring is in full bloom, bringing mild temperatures, long daylight hours, and lively streets in both cities and towns. It’s ideal for exploring historic canals, outdoor terraces, gardens, and seasonal festivals while avoiding the heavier crowds of summer.

What makes May different from other spring months in Belgium?

May in Belgium is the peak of spring, offering the mildest temperatures, longer daylight hours, and fully blooming gardens. Compared with March and April, which can still feel chilly and wet, May provides more reliable weather for walking historic streets, exploring canals, and enjoying terrace culture.

Belgium in June has warmer days and more tourists, so May is ideal for experiencing Belgium at its most pleasant and accessible before the summer crowds arrive.

How crowded is Belgium in May?

Belgium in May experiences moderate tourism. Major cities like Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent see steady visitors, especially on weekends and around public holidays. Coastal towns like Ostend and countryside regions such as the Ardennes remain quieter, making May a perfect month for relaxed sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Are attractions in Belgium fully open in May?

Yes, most attractions in Belgium operate fully in May. Museums, castles, historic squares, breweries, and riverboat tours follow regular schedules, and outdoor sites such as gardens and terraces are particularly enjoyable in spring. It’s wise to check schedules around public holidays, as some smaller venues may have limited hours.