What's the Weather like in Bruges in January
January in Bruges can be categorized as being cold and wet. Because of the chilly weather conditions, there are not a lot of tourists during this time of the year and there are many deals for visitors to take advantage of. However, travellers will need to bring their heavy coat in order to see the sights.
Temperature
Both the early morning and the afternoon hours can be cold to start the year off. The average daily temperature for the month is a cold 4° (39°F). Additionally, thanks to the nearby water, any northerly wind can make it feel much colder. Light frosts are also possible during the early morning hours with overnight lows bottoming out at 1°C (34°F). Since temperatures are flirting with the freezing mark, it is not out of the question for the region to get a few light snows during the winter season. Afternoons are not much warmer with temperatures topping out at an average of 6°C (43°F).
Average Sunshine Hours
Additionally, there is not a lot of sun to help warm things up. The region only experiences an average of 2 hours of sunshine a day during the month.
Rainfall
The winter season is known as a wet one for the area. Over the course of the month, the region receives an average of 64mm of precipitation. This precipitation can be a mixture of rain, freezing rain, sleet or snow given the cold temperatures experienced during this time of the year. The precipitation falls over an average of 8 days. While most of the month is dry, some holidaymakers may run into some heavy downpours over the course of a few hours or a few days.
Average Sea Temperature
Throughout the month, it is also much too cold to go to a beach. The average water temperature is a chilly 7°C (45°F). It will be several months before it is possible to enjoy some of the region's beaches and waters.
Bruges Hotels in January
Botaniek Hotel
Located in an 18th century mansion, the Botaniek Hotel has been lovingly and elegantly renovated into a boutique hotel. Just a short walk away from the centre of the city, the hotel is known for its tranquil atmosphere and is a perfect spot for those looking for some privacy while on holiday or on a honeymoon. Just 50 metres from the canals, the hotel is perfectly situated for lovers to take a long stroll and enjoy what the city has to offer. The hotel has a total of nine rooms that all have a private bathroom, radio and television.
Hotel Biskajer
Adults who are looking to get away without children will appreciate the adults only Hotel Biskajer. All rooms are tastefully decorated and have a private bathroom, flat screen TV, telephone and free Wi-Fi. With just 17 rooms, they can fill up fast despite the fact that January normally has much fewer tourists than other time of the year. The hotel is just a two-minute walk from the centre of Bruges and visitors will be able to easily access the main sights in the city.
Hotel Navarra
Hotel Navarra is a four-star establishment that is sure to please even the most well-seasoned traveller. Located in an historic building, the hotel offers 94 well-appointed rooms and all the amenities of home. All rooms have satellite TV, private bath, minibar, air conditioning and heating. The hotel also offers one of the only pools in the city as well as a sauna and a gym. The relaxed atmosphere is guided by the hotel's 35 staff members who are on hand day and night to make sure your stay is perfect in every way.
Bars and Restaurants
Gran Kaffee De Passage
Known as one of the best restaurants in the city, Gran Kaffee De Passage serves wonderful food as well as a wide selection of beers and other drinks. The menu is made up of typical Belgium dishes served fresh and made with local ingredients. With reasonable prices and a friendly staff, this is a great place to go in order to get a true taste of the region.
Bistro Zwart Huis
Guests are sure to get a break from the cold winter weather when dining at Bistro Zwart Huis. With a roaring fire, the atmosphere does not disappoint and neither does the food. Known for one of the best steaks in the city, the menu also has a wide selection of fish and even pasta. There is also a jazz band some nights to help add to the overall cosiness of the restaurant.
Duvelorium Grand Beer Café
The Duvelorium Grand Beer Café is the place to be for anyone who enjoys a beer. With a wide selection of brews and a view that is to die for, this is one spot that should be on everyone's list. Guests can choose between the full size beers or, if they can't make up their mind, try a sample of a wide variety. One of the best times to visit is late in the day to take advantage of a great view of the sunset.
Things to do in Bruges in January
Chocolate Museum
Because the weather is so cold in the month of January, this is the time to explore museums and other indoor sights around Bruges. One of the most popular spots to visit is the Chocolate Museum. The goal of the museum is to educate visitors on how cocoa becomes chocolate as well as to promote the health benefits and other aspects of Belgium chocolate.
Shopping
While you might have to run in and out of stores, now is a good time to do some shopping. With smaller crowds during this time of the year, shop owners will be happy to have visitors stop in. Bruges is known for its lace and there are several shops where tourists can buy the real stuff. Of course, purchase some of your favourite chocolates and be sure to stop in a beer shop as well.
