Belgium in January: Weather, Winter Festivities & More

The weather in Belgium during January is characterized by a pronounced chill as the country experiences winter in full force. Average temperatures across the country range from -1°C (30.2°F) to 5°C (41°F) in the southeastern Ardennes region. Coastal destinations like Antwerp and Bruges see slightly milder conditions compared to the central plateau and mountainous Ardennes. The Ardennes tend to be significantly colder and receive more frequent snowfall, perfect for winter activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding. Even in the lower-lying cities like Brussels and Ghent, January is the coldest month, with average highs only reaching 7°C (45°F). While precipitation levels are elevated compared to milder months, the relative humidity is actually lower, leading to crisp, dry winter days, especially in places like Liege.

Read our best time to visit Belgium article for a more detailed month-by-month overview.

January might be the coldest month in Belgium, but that doesn’t mean it is a bad time to visit. There are many perks of planning your trip to Belgium in January.

• Avoid crowds and save money: January is part of the low travel season in Belgium, which means you can enjoy popular cities like Bruges and Brussels without the usual tourist crowds. Additionally, travel and accommodation costs are generally lower during this period, making it an excellent time for budget travelers.
• Embrace winter sports: While Belgium may not be a typical winter sports destination, it offers opportunities for ice skating, snowboarding, skiing, and sledding during the winter months. You can visit outdoor ice rinks in cities like Brussels and Bruges or head to the Ardennes region for winter hiking and snow sports.
• Cozy up in charming cities: During January, Belgian cities like Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp transform into picturesque winter wonderlands. Stroll along cobblestone streets, admire the historic architecture and warm up in cozy cafes while embracing the winter charm.
• Experience winter festivities: During January, Belgium hosts a variety of winter events and festivals, including the Brussels Jazz Festival and the Winter Glow Festival in Bruges. The latter features a light experience trail, ice skating, and cozy winter bars.
• Explore Christmas markets: If you visit in early January, you can still catch the tail end of Belgium's famous Christmas markets, which often extend into the first week of the new year. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, delicious treats, and unique gifts at the markets in Brussels, Antwerp, and other cities.

The start of the new year in Belgium is a magical time, with the chill of winter still lingering in the air. In the diamond capital of Antwerp, January sees the city's lively Christmas market carry on into the first week, beckoning visitors to glide across its covered ice rink and sip mulled wine at the cozy winter bars. As you explore Antwerp's famous Diamond District, you'll catch it preparing for the annual Antwerp Diamond Trade Fair, giving the historic area an extra sparkle. After admiring the city's gems, take a crisp winter stroll along the picturesque Scheldt River before ducking into a local restaurant for hearty Belgian stew or carbonnade flamande.

January is a festive affair in the nation's capital of Brussels, with the Winter Wonders event in full swing across the city center. Over 200 chalets sell gifts, piping hot food, and drinks to keep you warm as you wander among the carnival rides and ice skating rink. But the real star is the dazzling light and music show that illuminates the iconic Grand Place each evening. Alongside the Brussels Jazz Festival, the city also hosts the prestigious Brafa Art Fair during the month.

Your trip to Bruges can be even more enchanting during the January snow. Start in the main Market Square, where the Christmas market may still peddle its wares into the first few days of the new year. Browse the stalls sipping a rich Belgian hot chocolate or treating yourself to a fresh waffle. Then, take a peaceful boat tour along Bruges' iconic canals to soak in the ethereal medieval architecture from the water. Don't miss climbing to the top of the Belfry Tower for panoramic views of Bruges' snow-dusted rooftops.

For a taste of Ghent in January, explore the city's historical quarters on a guided walking tour without the usual crowds. If you're lucky, the charming Christmas market may still be operating in the early days of the month. A true winter wonderland awaits at Gravensteen Castle, its ramparts and towers frosted in snow. Or take a crisp walk through Ghent's peaceful parks like Citadel Park, the bare trees etching an enchanting scene across the winter sky.

If you want an active winter adventure, head to the Ardennes region in southeast Belgium. This hilly area transforms into a winter sports haven with enough fresh powder. Head to spots like Baraque De Fraiture for invigorating days of skiing, snowboarding, and sledding down the slopes. Or strap on some snowshoes for a tranquil winter hike, the pristine forests and hills blanketed with snow.

If a winter wonderland getaway is what you're craving, then Belgium in January should be at the top of your list. As the crowds of tourists dwindle, you'll have this charming country all to yourself. From romantic markets with twinkling lights and hot mulled wine to thrilling ski adventures amidst the Ardennes forests, get ready to make some unforgettable memories in Belgium in January.

For more information and inspiration, check out our Belgium travel guide. You can also browse our extensive list of January tours or contact our local travel experts to plan a customized trip to Belgium.