May is spring in Belgium and a great time to come to enjoy good weather, smaller crowds, and more affordable prices. Spring flowers add color to the cities and countryside, and a 13th-century procession in beautiful Bruges provides a good reason to visit this Flemish city in May. Find out more about what to see and do in Belgium this month.
Belgium in May: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
May in Belgium heralds the arrival of spring, painting the landscape with vibrant colors and offering generally warm and sunny weather. While Belgium may be a relatively small country, its climate presents a diverse tapestry, varying noticeably between the coastal regions, the inland areas, and the higher altitude highland terrains. Coastal Flanders, the Flemish-speaking northern region of Belgium, typically enjoys the mildest conditions, characterized by a maritime climate that effectively tempers the extremes of both cold and heat, creating a pleasant and comfortable environment for visitors. In stark contrast, the southern, inland Ardennes region experiences cooler temperatures, offering a different climatic experience within the same country.
Brussels, situated inland, exhibits a more continental climate compared to coastal cities such as Bruges or Antwerp. This translates to warmer summers and colder winters, a characteristic of inland locations. In Brussels during May, travelers can expect an average high temperature of around 64°F (18°C) and a low temperature hovering around 48°F (9°C), making it essential to pack layers to accommodate the varying temperatures throughout the day.
May falls within the shoulder season for travel to Belgium, presenting a unique opportunity to secure advantageous deals on accommodation. This period, nestled between the bustling Easter holidays and the peak summer season, often sees fewer crowds and potentially lower prices. While costs are generally moderate, it’s worth noting that cities like Brussels and Ghent are particularly popular weekend destinations throughout the spring months, attracting both local residents and European travelers alike. To minimize expenses during a city break in Belgium, consider planning your visit for midweek, when prices are typically lower.
Bruges, the enchanting coastal city, hosts the renowned Procession of the Holy Blood festival, drawing an impressive crowd of approximately 40,000 visitors every May. If you intend to witness this captivating spectacle, it’s highly recommended to book your accommodation and transportation well in advance to avoid disappointment.
There are compelling reasons to visit the alluring city of Bruges during any month of the year, but May holds a special appeal due to the opportunity to witness the UNESCO-listed Procession of the Holy Blood. This remarkable parade, with roots tracing back to the 13th century, takes place 40 days after Easter. It serves as a commemoration of the legendary tale of a Bruges citizen who is believed to have brought the Relic of the Holy Blood of Christ back from the Second Crusade.
If your travels bring you to Bruges for this extraordinary event, consider extending your stay to explore the historic coastal city’s numerous other attractions. Embark on a scenic boat tour along the picturesque canals, admire the stunning architecture with a leisurely walking or bicycle tour—the 13th-century Church of Our Lady stands out as a particular highlight—and immerse yourself in the world of Flemish art at the renowned Groeningemuseum.
May is a truly delightful time to visit Belgium, especially for those with a passion for flowers and nature. While the first blooms of spring begin to emerge as early as March and April, May brings forth a breathtaking array of colorful varieties, creating a visual feast for the eyes. Regardless of your location within Belgium, you’ll never be far from a captivating floral display. Explore the vibrant rhododendrons at Borrekens Castle near Antwerp, marvel at the sight of thousands of yellow buttercups at Zevenbergenbos in Ranst, admire the delicate pale purple wisteria adorning the Kruidtuin Leuven botanical gardens, and discover the charming poppies and wildflowers at the Chateau de Leignon in Wallonia, among many other enchanting floral experiences.
Belgium has embraced the charming tradition of guinguettes—wooden drinks stalls nestled in city parks—from neighboring France. These inviting establishments open their doors for business in May, eagerly anticipating the arrival of the long, sun-kissed summer evenings. Take a leisurely stroll through a park and discover your new favorite Belgian beer, and if you’re fortunate, you might even find yourself in a park adorned with blooming spring flowers, creating the perfect ambiance for relaxation and enjoyment.
Key Events in May:
Procession of the Holy Blood, Bruges: An awe-inspiring historic procession dating back to the Crusades era, recognized by UNESCO as part of its intangible culture list. This event draws hundreds of thousands of visitors, eager to witness its grandeur and significance.
Iris Festival, Brussels: This vibrant festival transforms Brussels into a hub of excitement, offering a diverse range of entertainment for the whole family. Expect to find DJs spinning electronic music, captivating street art displays, mesmerizing circus performances, engaging dance shows, captivating art exhibitions, and enchanting magic acts.
Floralia, Groot-Bijgaarden: This spectacular flower show, held at the magnificent castle of Groot-Bijgaarden, showcases an impressive collection of 400 varieties of tulips in full bloom during May, complemented by a host of other delightful spring blossoms.
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