August is peak tourist season in Belgium and it’s not hard to see why. Belgium’s moderate climate means that even in high summer the temperature doesn’t get unbearable. It’s the perfect weather for meandering through cobbled streets, sipping a drink in the sunshine at a sidewalk cafe, and a myriad of outdoor activities.
July and August are the school holidays in Belgium, so be prepared for a higher number of people. However, in August you mostly won’t find problems with things being closed – in general, the world is gearing up for back to work in September and most attractions and sites will be up and running.
As with most places in tourist season, it’s a good idea to book in advance as accommodation and eateries in many destinations are in higher demand in the summer.
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Weather in Belgium in August
The temperature in Belgium in August has an average of 22°C / 72°F during the day, while at night it averages at 13°C / 55°F. These cool nights and comfortable days make camping a great option – what better weather and time of the year for sleeping outdoors!
Belgium weather in August is fairly mixed – as a country, Belgium does experience its share of rainfall, and August is no different. These will likely be short showers as opposed to heavy downpours, so you’ll get away with it if you have an umbrella to hand. On average, there are between 8 and 10 days of rain in August in Belgium.
Things to do in Belgium in August
Be warned – the Belgian coast is packed in August! However, sometimes you just have to see the sea, and that is completely understandable. With August’s higher temperature and sunny weather, the North Sea’s chilly temperature is nice and refreshing.
There’s another reason to head for the shore though. Sandcastles! All along Belgium’s 65 km / 40-mile coastline is a plethora of local sandcastle competitions. International sand enthusiasts travel to compete and create the most jaw-dropping structures on the beach. One of the best of these is at the small port of Zeebrugge.
There’s no better thing to enjoy in warmer weather than watersports, and you won’t just find these at the coast. Travel to the forested valleys of the Ardennes in the southeast of Belgium for a day of kayaking, paddle boarding, or any other water-based activity that you fancy.
Want even more inspiration? Check out these fun things to do in Belgium.
What to wear in Belgium in August
Sunny days and warm weather are much more plentiful in August so it’s time to air your summer wardrobe! If you’re doing high-energy activities in Belgium like hiking or sport then the temperature will require lightweight outfits.
Do be prepared however for the odd rain shower – the weather can be a little temperamental in Belgium so it’s always worth putting in a sweater and a waterproof to be safe.
Events in Belgium in August
If you can’t get to the Belgian coast, there might be another option for your fix of sand, sunbathing and watery fun. Welcome to Brussels Beach!
This is a multi-week event that takes place (almost) every summer. Both sides of the canal in Brussels is transformed into an urban beach. It comes with plenty of sand, live music, waterside activities, sun umbrellas, cocktails… A beach party in the center of Brussels, Belgium.
August is also a great time for local processions, carnivals, and music festivals that take over the country’s towns and cities. One of the best is the procession of giant puppets in the town of Ath – huge UNESCO-listed models that reenact biblical and folkloric stories like the battle of David and Goliath for a few days at the end of August.
Every two years in the month of August, the capital of Belgium, Brussels, is home to an amazing explosion of color where almost a million flowers are laid down in a beautiful flower carpet in the Grand Place. It only lasts for four days but it’s absolutely worth a day trip to see if you’re staying nearby and have the time.
Places to visit in Belgium in August
With comfortable weather and high temperature, people travel to Belgium from all over the world. The most internationally popular destination in Belgium is the beautiful city of Bruges. So although you might be itching to walk through those medieval streets, it may be an idea to save this city for a quieter month.
Instead, why not visit Mechelen, another medieval city that is far less famous, located between Brussels and Antwerp. Its medieval market square and Gothic and Renaissance churches are stunning at this time of year. While you’re there, take a trip to St Rumboldt’s Cathedral where you can step out of the sun and visit the largest bell-ringing school in the world.
To be honest, there aren’t many places that won’t stand out in August. However, you can’t go wrong by stepping into nature, and there are plenty of choices. If you want a taste of the sea but want to avoid the hordes, head to Westhoek nature reserve at De Panne for a sunset walk in the dunes.
For a breeze in your hair and some of the best views, the Hautes Fagnes plateau in the Ardennes is an enchanting place to travel to at this time of year.
So now you have the information on what it’s like to visit Belgium in the month of August, it’s time to go and make the most of the raised temperatures and local festivities.
Where to stay in Belgium
With so much to do in Belgium, it's a good idea to stay for a while. I almost always use Booking.com for accommodation. It has an extensive list of hotel, apartment, and guesthouse options for all budgets and needs.
Don't forget travel insurance
Plan for the best, prepare for the worst. Travel insurance has you covered in case (part of) your trip gets canceled, you get sick or hurt abroad, and sometimes even when your electronics break or get stolen. I always make sure I'm covered every trip I go on.
Don't have travel insurance yet? Check out SafetyWing. They offer super flexible plans that you can even sign up for while you're already on your trip. On top of that, they were the first travel insurance to cover COVID, and when I got COVID, they reimbursed all of my expenses without making a fuss. Their customer support team is great and I can personally recommend them.
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