Though January is midwinter in Belgium, it’s a great time to visit if you want to enjoy the arts and culture of the northern European country without the crowds—or the high prices. Brussels is brimming with excellent art galleries, while the historic port city of Antwerp is a must-visit for foodies. Still want to get outside and do something active? Look for ice-skating opportunities in the cities and countryside. Learn more about traveling to Belgium in January.
Weather in Belgium in January
January in Belgium represents the heart of winter, often cited as the coldest month of the year according to historical weather data. While Belgium is geographically a relatively small nation, its climate presents nuances and variations depending on the specific region. These subtle but noticeable differences are primarily influenced by the proximity to the coast, the characteristics of the inland areas, and the elevation of the highland regions.
Specifically, the coastal region of Flanders, the northern, Flemish-speaking part of Belgium, generally experiences the mildest temperatures during this period. The maritime climate characteristic of this area tends to moderate the extremes of both cold and heat, resulting in a less harsh winter. Conversely, the Ardennes, situated in the southern and inland part of the country, faces the brunt of the winter season. This region experiences colder temperatures, with a greater likelihood of snowfall and the formation of fog, creating a distinctly different winter atmosphere. Brussels, located inland, exhibits a climate that leans more towards a continental pattern than that of coastal cities such as Bruges or Antwerp. However, it’s important to note that Brussels typically does not experience consistently freezing temperatures during January. The average high temperature in Brussels during January is around 43°F (6°C), while the average low temperature hovers around 34°F (1°C).
Crowds and Costs Associated with January Travel
January falls squarely within the offseason for tourism in Belgium. This presents a unique opportunity for travelers who are mindful of their budget, as accommodation prices tend to be significantly more affordable during this time. You might discover enticing deals on hotels, particularly in popular tourist destinations like Ghent, Bruges, or Antwerp, which would typically command higher prices or be fully booked during the peak summer months. Despite being the low season, the majority of cultural facilities and attractions within the cities remain open and operational, ensuring that visitors can still enjoy a rich and fulfilling cultural experience.
Where to Explore in Belgium in January
Given the characteristically cold and often gloomy weather conditions of January, it’s an ideal time to focus on indoor attractions and activities. Belgium is world-renowned for its culinary delights, including chocolate, waffles, fries, and seafood. Embracing this culinary heritage through a self-guided or organized food walking tour is a surefire way to enhance your visit. A particularly excellent location for such a tour is the captivating city of Antwerp. The pleasant walks between different culinary venues contribute to the overall experience, regardless of the weather outside. As a port city situated on a river, Antwerp offers a unique blend of Belgian and international culinary influences, promising a delightful experience for food enthusiasts.
January also presents an opportune moment to immerse yourself in the art scene of Brussels by visiting its numerous art galleries. Escape the winter chill within the six museums that comprise the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium. These include the Oldmasters Museum, showcasing classical masterpieces; the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the works of the surrealist artist René Magritte; the Fin-de-Siècle Museum, capturing the art of the late 19th century; the Modern Museum, exhibiting contemporary art; the Antoine Wiertz Museum; and the Constantin Meunier Museum. Furthermore, the prestigious BRAFA Art Fair, a long-standing and highly regarded event, takes place in late January, offering visitors the chance to admire impressive art and design exhibits, as well as attend engaging talks and lectures.
Activities to Enjoy in Belgium in January
A trip to Belgium in January doesn’t necessitate spending all your time confined indoors. Ice skating is a beloved pastime, whether enjoyed on purpose-built rinks, such as the Plaisirs d’Hiver in Brussels, or on naturally frozen lakes and canals located inland. Ice skate rentals are typically available at skating rinks.
If you happened to miss the festive Christmas markets leading up to Christmas in December, there’s still hope! Unlike many other European countries, Belgium’s Christmas markets don’t universally close down at the end of December. Therefore, if you’re traveling to Belgium in January, especially during the earlier part of the month, you’ll still find some of these cheerful markets open for business. While the markets in Brussels and Antwerp are particularly popular, you can also satisfy your craving for mulled wine and delicious Belgian chocolate in other locations throughout the country.
Notable Events in January
**BRAFA Art Fair, Brussels:** Delve into the art scene during January and February, with a celebration of fine arts, antiques, and design spanning an eight-day festival.
**Brussels Jazz Festival, Brussels:** This ten-day event serves as a platform for both local and international musicians, contributing warmth to the winter arts season.
B-139