October is fall in Belgium, with cool but not very cold temperatures and few tourists around. It’s a great time of year to enjoy the colors of nature, especially the forests of the hilly Ardennes region. The autumn colors provide a beautiful backdrop to the small country’s hundreds of castles, from Renaissance palaces to turreted fairy-tale-like castles. Read on to learn more about traveling to Belgium in October.
October in Belgium marks the full embrace of autumn. The weather transitions into a cooler phase, the daylight hours diminish noticeably, and rainfall becomes a more frequent occurrence. Indeed, both October and November are typically recognized as the wettest months throughout the year in this charming European nation.
While Belgium is geographically compact, its climate exhibits variations depending on the region. The coastal areas, the inland regions, and the higher altitude zones each experience subtly different weather patterns. Coastal **Flanders**, the northern, Flemish-speaking part of Belgium, generally enjoys the mildest temperatures. Its maritime climate helps to moderate both the extremes of cold and heat, creating a more temperate environment. The capital city, **Brussels**, situated inland, experiences a more continental climate compared to coastal cities such as **Bruges** or **Antwerp**. This means that **Brussels** tends to have colder winters and warmer summers. However, in October, the weather in **Brussels** is generally moderate. The average high temperature in **Brussels** during October reaches around 57°F (14°C), while the average low temperature dips to approximately 46°F (8°C). Be prepared for potentially chilly evenings and comfortable daytime temperatures.
October is considered part of the low season for tourism in Belgium. While the allure of Belgium’s historic cities draws visitors throughout the year, the crowds are typically smaller during this period. The flow of tourists is more of a steady stream than a bustling rush. Consequently, hotels often reduce their rates to attract guests. For the most attractive deals, consider booking city breaks during the midweek period rather than around the weekends, when demand tends to be slightly higher.
Now is an excellent time to plan your trip to Belgium.
During October, Belgium transforms into a prime destination for leaf-peeping enthusiasts. The country’s woods and forests become a spectacle of dazzling golden and orange hues. Photographers and anyone who appreciates the beauty of fall foliage should make their way east to the **Ardennes** region. When the weather cooperates and refrains from excessive rainfall, take advantage of opportunities to hike in the hills and explore the boardwalks that wind through the grasslands. For an unforgettable experience in the **Ardennes**, consider renting a holiday home situated near the woods, complete with a cozy fireplace to enhance the autumnal ambiance.
If your travels keep you closer to **Brussels** during this month, be sure to explore the **Sonian Forest**, which lies just south of the capital. This expansive forest, composed of beech and oak trees, has stood for hundreds of years. It offers a variety of walking routes, running paths, and cycling/mountain biking trails to explore. The **Sonian Forest** also presents an excellent opportunity to witness the pretty colors of fall without venturing too far into the Belgian countryside. It provides a convenient and accessible way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the season.
Belgium boasts a remarkable collection of over 3,000 castles, making October an ideal time to incorporate a few into your travel itinerary. The autumnal foliage that surrounds these castles adds an extra layer of charm and allure, creating picturesque scenes. Moreover, with fewer tourists around during this time of year, you can enjoy a more intimate and less crowded experience. Given Belgium’s relatively small size, it’s entirely feasible to visit several castles on a day trip or over the course of just a few days. Among the highlights are the 15th-century turreted **Vêves Castle** in the **Ardennes**, the **Gaasbeek Castle** in **Flanders** which functions as a museum, the formidable 12th-century **Gravensteen Castle** in **Ghent**, and the Renaissance-era **Groot-Bijgaarden** near **Brussels**, which offers stunning views from its gardens, even though the interior is not accessible to the public. These castles provide a glimpse into Belgium’s rich history and architectural heritage, making for memorable excursions.
Fall also marks the peak season for mushroom picking in the **Ardennes**. Varieties such as boletus, chanterelles, and morel fungus can all be found growing in the forests during this time. Consider combining your autumn-leaf viewing with a culinary adventure in nature by foraging for these delicious fungi. However, unless you possess expert knowledge in mushroom identification, it’s advisable to consult with a local expert or join an organized foraging tour to ensure you avoid picking any potentially harmful or poisonous specimens. Safety should always be a priority when engaging in foraging activities.
Throughout the month of October, Belgium plays host to several notable events.
**Film Fest Gent**, in **Ghent**: Belgium’s largest film festival takes place in October. It has a specific focus on film soundtracks, offering a unique perspective on the art of filmmaking.
**Liège Fair**, in **Liège**: As the biggest fairground in Belgium, the **Liège Fair** offers an array of thrilling rides and other carnival attractions during the early part of October. It provides entertainment for all ages and adds to the festive atmosphere of the season.
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