Weather in Bruges
Located along the northern coast of Belgium, Bruges is a centuries old town that is also known as the Venice of the North thanks to its series of canals flowing through the city. Additionally, it is known for its cobbled streets and medieval architecture. While the city does border the English Channel, the cold weather and cold water felt throughout much of the year precludes visitors from enjoying the nearby sea. The best time to visit the city is during the warmer summer months, but if visitors don't mind cold weather, good deals can be found in the colder times of the year.
Winter Weather in Bruges
Winter is comprised of December, January and February and is cold enough to create a few snowfalls over the three-month period. This time of the year is also fairly wet even though much of the rain is concentrated over just a few days in each month.
Temperature
Each month also sees consistent temperatures with average daily temperatures of 4°C (39°F). The coldest average overnight lows dip down to 1°C (34°F) and it doesn't get much warmer in the afternoon with highs climbing between 6-7°C (43-45°F). Additionally, there is a good chance of windy conditions and when combined with the damp chill, can make it feel much colder than it actually is.
Rainfall
February is the driest of the three months with only 57mm of mixed precipitation expected. December is actually the second wettest month of the entire year with 85mm of rain and snow coming down over a period of 6 days. Visitors also won't have much sun to enjoy with only 2-3 hours of sunshine each day.
Average Sea Temperature
It is also much too cold to enjoy the nearby waters during this season. Sea surface temperatures hover between 10°C (50°F) in December and 7°C (45°F) in both January and February.
Spring Weather in Bruges
Spring is a season of transitions for the city as warmer temperatures arrive slowly both on land and in the sea. This can be a good time to visit and see a late season snowfall as well as experience smaller crowds and shorter lines.
Rainfall
Another reason for visiting over March, April and May is that these are three of the driest months of the year. Rainfall amounts range from an average of 50mm in March to 45mm in April and climbing to 59mm in May. The average number of days with rain is between 4 and 6 in each month. As a result, most months are dry and allow visitors to experience what the region has to offer.
Temperature
Temperatures are warming throughout the season with average overnight lows climbing from 3°C (37°F) in March to 8°C (46°F) in May. Visitors will still need to bring a light jacket by the end of the season, but the truly heavy winter gear can be left at home. Afternoon temperatures are also on the rise and will climb from 9°C (48°F) in March to 15°C (59°F) in May. As temperatures warm, the threat of snow diminishes, but visitors will still need to check an extended forecast to make sure there are no late season cold fronts or surprises.
Average Sea Temperature
Sea temperatures remain too cold to enjoy during these three months. The average sea surface temperatures average between 7° and 12°C (45-54°F). It will be a few more months before visitors can enjoy some of the region's beaches. However, there is more sun and holidaymakers will experience between 4 to 7 hours of sunshine each day.
Summer Weather in Bruges
This is the time of year when most people choose to visit the city. Temperatures are now warm enough to leave heavy coats, scarves and hats at home. Vacationers will need to bring a light jacket for the evening hours, but there is no threat of freezing weather. Additionally, the geography of the region will keep it much cooler than the rest of Belgium or central Europe.
Temperature
During the season that consists of June, July and August, temperatures in the city will reach their warmest highs of the year. The average daily temperatures for summer are between 15°C (59°F) in June and 17°C (63°F) in August. Average afternoon highs will climb from 18°C (64°F) in June to their warmest level of 21°C (70°F) in August. Overnight lows are also much milder with temperatures between 11° and 12°C (52-54°F).
Average Sea Temperature
This is also the only time of the year when vacationers can enjoy some of the nearby beaches. Water temperatures have finally warmed to safe levels, but a wetsuit may still be a good idea. August is the warmest month for sea surface temperatures with averages of 18°C (64°F). June is the coolest with waters of 15°C (59°F).
Rainfall
Rainfall amounts also climb during the summer season. Rainfall amounts range from 64mm in June to 82mm in July and then 71mm in August. The rain will fall over a period of 4 to 6 days each month, so there are still plenty of chances to enjoy the great outdoors.
Autumn Weather in Bruges
Autumn is comprised of September, October and November. Thanks to falling temperatures and considerable amounts of rain, many visitors choose to stay away during this time of the year. However, autumn can be a beautiful time to visit the city and also get good deals on flights and hotels.
Temperature
After experiencing the warmest month of the year in August, temperatures quickly fall off as the calendar rolls over to autumn. Temperatures will get colder as the season goes on. The average afternoon high in September of 18°C (64°F) drops to 9°C (48°F) by November. Average overnight lows follow the same path and fall from 11°C (52°F) in the beginning of the season to 4°C (39°F) by the end.
Rainfall
With temperatures flirting with the freezing mark by November, there is a small chance of snow by this time. Overall, precipitation is high with November being the wettest month of the year and 88mm of rainfall and/or snow expected. Rainfall amounts increase throughout autumn with 53mm in September and an average of 73mm in October.
Average Sunshine Hours
The amount of sun steadily decreases with between 2 and 5 hours of sunshine per day.
Average Sea Temperature
Once again, sea temperatures are much too cold for visitors to enjoy. This is especially true by November when average sea surface temperatures are a cold 14°C (57°F). There is still a chance for visitors to enjoy the waters in September when they still average 18°C (64°F), but these warmer conditions don't last for long.
Overall, the city of Bruges is a wonderful place to visit for those looking for history and old world charm. With numerous things to do and several wonderful restaurants as well as an active nightlife, there is plenty going on. However, for those who don't like the cold, summer is the best time to visit. If you don't mind bundling up, then it is a beautiful place any time of the year.