June is the start of summer in Belgium, but it’s still the shoulder season before the summer rush. That makes it ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the good weather and summer concerts and festivals without the high prices or oppressive crowds. Explore the medieval and modern culture in Ghent, see an enormous reenacted battle in Waterloo, and enjoy some live music. Here’s what you can see and do in Belgium in June.
Weather
June heralds the arrival of summer in Belgium, though the weather during this month tends to be milder compared to the peak summer months that follow. The climate across Belgium is diverse, exhibiting variations between the coastal regions, the inland areas, and the elevated highlands. Coastal Flanders, the northern, Flemish-speaking region of Belgium, generally enjoys the warmest and mildest temperatures. This is attributed to its maritime climate, which effectively moderates extreme temperature fluctuations, preventing both severe cold and intense heat. In contrast, the southern, inland region of the Ardennes, characterized by its hills and forests, experiences cooler temperatures. This difference in climate is largely due to its inland location and higher altitude compared to the coastal plains.
The capital city, Brussels, situated inland, exhibits a more continental climate than coastal cities such as Bruges or Antwerp. This means that Brussels typically experiences warmer summers and colder winters. During June, Brussels sees an average high temperature of 68°F (20°C) and a low of 53°F (12°C). These temperature ranges make it a pleasant time to explore the city, although layering clothing is advisable to accommodate potential temperature variations throughout the day.
Crowds & Costs
June falls within the shoulder season for travel to Belgium, marking the period just before the peak summer months of July and August, when tourist numbers are at their highest. Opting to travel during this month, rather than later in the summer, offers several advantages. You can anticipate benefiting from more affordable prices on accommodations, tours, and other travel expenses. Additionally, you’ll likely encounter fewer crowds at popular attractions, allowing for a more relaxed and immersive experience. Furthermore, transportation options, accommodations, and restaurants will generally have greater availability, making it easier to plan and manage your itinerary.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Where to Go
June presents an excellent opportunity to explore one or two of Belgium’s most renowned cities, avoiding the larger crowds that typically gather during July and August. Consider visiting Ghent, a northern city celebrated for its rich medieval history and vibrant modern art and culture scene. While in Ghent, be sure to visit SMAK, a museum dedicated to modern art, STAM, a comprehensive history museum, and the Design Museum, showcasing innovative designs. You can also explore the medieval castle of Gravensteen, prominently located in the city center, and the impressive St. Bavo’s Cathedral, a Gothic cathedral that houses a portion of the famous Ghent Altarpiece, a collection of 15th-century paintings created by Hubert and Jan van Eyck. To gain a unique perspective of Ghent’s medieval treasures, consider taking a boat tour along the scenic Leie River.
For history enthusiasts, a visit to Waterloo, located south of Brussels, in mid-June is highly recommended. Around 800 historical re-enactors participate in recreating the Battle of Waterloo, the pivotal 1815 battle in which the armies of the United Kingdom and Prussia triumphed over Napoleon Bonaparte’s forces. Witnessing the reenactment is an impressive spectacle and an engaging experience, regardless of your prior knowledge of the historical event. The reenactment takes place on the weekend closest to June 18, the actual date of the original battle, providing a captivating glimpse into the past.
What to Do
With its pleasant and sunny weather that avoids excessive heat, June is an ideal time to embark on hiking adventures in Belgium. A wide variety of established trails are available to suit different preferences, whether you prefer a refreshing coastal walk along the North Sea coast or an immersive experience through the lush forests of the Ardennes. For keen hikers seeking a more extended and challenging experience, the five-to-seven-day Grande Randonnée 56 offers a rewarding trek through Wallonia‘s Eastern Townships, situated near the border with Germany. Key highlights of this multiday hike include misty upland heath and bogs, meadows teeming with wildflowers, and Belgium’s highest point, the 2,277-foot (694-m) Signal de Botrange.
June also marks the beginning of the summer festival season in Belgium, ensuring that you’ll always be within easy reach of an outdoor concert, show, or other exciting event. Be sure not to miss the five-day Fête de la Musique, held in Brussels and numerous other towns throughout Wallonia, showcasing a diverse range of musical talent. Another compelling reason to visit Brussels this month is to attend BRIFF, the Brussels International Film Festival, which features film screenings and awards ceremonies.
Events in June
Fête de la Musique, Brussels and around Wallonia. A series of vibrant music concerts are staged in the capital city and across Wallonia over a period of five days in June.
BRIFF, Brussels. The Brussels International Film Festival provides a platform to showcase both local and international films, attracting filmmakers and cinephiles alike.
More Helpful Information
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