The climate of Bruges
Bruges, located in
Belgium, is characterized by a Marine West Coast climate (Köppen climate classification Cfb), known for warm summers and cool winters. The geographical location of the city together with the prevailing oceanic weather patterns contribute to this particular climate.
The year-round weather conditions in Bruges fluctuate between a maximum average temperature of 21.4°C (70.5°F) in
August and a minimum average of 2.8°C (37°F) in
January and
February. The humidity levels remain relatively stable throughout the year, reaching highs of 85% in January and
December, and dipping to a low of 76% in
April,
July and August.
Bruges stands out for its reliable monthly rainfall, with amounts ranging from 20mm (0.79") in April to a high of 56mm (2.2") during the wetter months of August and December. Despite the notable consistency, the city experiences a significant variation in the number of rainy days, with April witnessing the least with 12.1 days, and
November the most with 18.6 days.
A noteworthy phenomenon is the occurrence of snow, which despite being typically low, sees a peak of 27mm (1.06") in January. The number of snowfall days is likewise higher in January, with 2.8 days, as opposed to insignificant amounts from April to November.
The city enjoys varying amounts of daylight hours, with a minimum of 8 hours in December and January, which shoots up to a peak of 16.5 hours in
June. Along with this, sunshine hours also see variation from just 3.8 hours in December to a maximum of 10.4 hours in June.
The best time to visit Bruges
Taking into consideration both the temperatures and rainfall, the optimal period to visit
Bruges falls approximately from
May to
September. During these months, the city offers up temperate weather conditions, with maximum average temperatures fluctuating between 15.9°C (60.6°F) in May and a warm 21.4°C (70.5°F) in
August. The number of sunshine days varies slightly, hovering from 13.1 days in
June down to 11.1 days in September. Rainfall also tends to be moderate, lying in the range of 29mm (1.14") in May to 56mm (2.2") in August.
The worst time to visit Bruges
Collectively, the colder and wetter months of the year, being
January,
February and
December, could present more challenges to visitors. January and February, despite offering the most snowfall, with 27mm (1.06") and 20mm (0.79") respectively, also pose the coldest conditions, with average lows of 2.8°C (37°F). December, whilst not quite as cold, tends to be the wettest month of the year, with 56mm (2.2") of rainfall over 18.3 days.
Spring weather in Bruges
Spring in
Bruges ensues from
March to
May, witnessing around a steady increase in temperatures from an average low of 4.4°C (39.9°F) up to a high of 15.9°C (60.6°F) in May. Despite a significant decrease in rainfall from 37mm (1.46") in March to 20mm (0.79") in
April, it goes back up to 29mm (1.14") in May. The city also sees a progressive increase in daylight hours, from 11.9 hours in March to a comfortable 15.6 hours in May.
Summer weather in Bruges
Extending from
June to
August, summer in
Bruges presents relatively warm and pleasant conditions. The average high temperatures range from 19°C (66.2°F) in June to an August peak of 21.4°C (70.5°F). Though rain is quite prominent in these months from 37mm (1.46") in June up to 56mm (2.2") in August, the abundance of sunlight, with daylight hours lingering around 16 hours and sunshine duration between 10.4 hours to 9.4 hours in August, balances the experience.
Autumn weather in Bruges
Autumn descends on
Bruges from
September to
November, featuring visible drops in the average temperature and the onset of wetter conditions. The warmer temperatures in the high teens at the start of the season to 10.5°C (50.9°F) in November. Rainfall also sees a peak in November, reaching 48mm (1.89").
Winter weather in Bruges
Winter months in
Bruges, falling between
December and
February, are characterized by lower temperatures, with the average low dropping to 2.8°C (37°F) in
January and February, and average highs of up to 7°C (44.6°F) in December. Rainfall touches its annual peak in December with 56mm (2.2"), while January offers the most abundant snowfall amounting to 27mm (1.06"). The daylight hours in these months represent the shortest of the year, resting around the 8-hour mark.
Weather in January
In
Bruges,
Belgium, there is no better month to experience wintry conditions than
January, setting the stage for a brisk start to the year. With the lowest recorded temperatures ranging from 2.8°C (37°F) to 6.2°C (43.2°F), it is the coldest month of the year.
Weather in January »Weather in February
February in
Bruges can be a chilly period with temperatures not varying much from
January. However, this month notably has fewer rainfall days at merely 14.1 days. Nevertheless, the transitional nature from winter to spring is felt, with slightly longer days and an increase in sunshine duration.
Weather in February » Weather in March
As spring dawns,
March ushers in noticeably warmer weather in
Bruges, creating an optimistic shift in the city's atmosphere. Interestingly, the average snowfall drops drastically from 20mm (0.79") in
February to 3mm (0.12"), giving way for the vegetation to spring back to life.
Weather in March »
Weather in April
April presents an even more pleasant weather pattern in
Bruges, facilitating exploration of this historic city's many gems. It brings about the season's highest daylight hours at approximately 13.9 hours, providing plenty of time to take in the city's beauty.
Weather in April » Weather in May
May is a delightful period in
Bruges, characterized by a warmth that spreads through the city. The city witnesses the highest visibility, extending up to 10km (6.2mi), thereby enabling clear, spectacular views. This time of year is perfect for canal tours and wandering around the cobblestone streets.
Weather in May » Weather in June
June marks the beginning of summer in
Bruges and invites spectators to experience the historic city in full bloom. With temperatures ranging from 12.3°C (54.1°F) to 19°C (66.2°F), June offers a warm yet comfortable climate. Its accommodating weather makes June an excellent month for a variety of outdoor activities, from biking around the city to exploring its numerous parks.
Weather in June »
Weather in July
As the warmest month of the year in
Bruges,
July offers a chance to explore the city in its sunniest state. The city enjoys temperatures up to 21.2°C (70.2°F), inviting visitors to indulge in leisure activities such as cruising the canals.
Weather in July »Weather in August
August weather largely continues the warm trend set by
July, with its temperatures reaching similar highs. Though the average humidity is at 76%, the pleasant climatic conditions make this month a popular choice for visitors. During this period,
Bruges is bustling with activities, from music festivals to vibrant cultural events.
Weather in August » Weather in September
September ushers in the autumn season in
Bruges, adding a unique allure to the city's picturesque landscapes. The average temperature falls to a comfortable range between 13.3°C (55.9°F) to 18.8°C (65.8°F). As the leaves begin to fall and the trees get a colourful makeover, the city is transformed, presenting an entirely fresh perspective.
Weather in September »
Weather in October
October brings distinctive weather patterns to
Bruges, making it a captivating time to experience the city. Despite temperatures decreasing to between 10.5°C (50.9°F) and 15.2°C (59.4°F), the climatic conditions remain favourable for tours and excursions.
Weather in October » Weather in November
November marks a transition into winter for
Bruges. The city's atmospheric conditions take a significant shift with the average wind speed increasing up to 20.3km/h (12.6mph). However, this period doesn't hinder the attractiveness of the city; the chilly weather offers a refreshing contrast to the warmer months.
Weather in November » Weather in December
December invites visitors to experience the cheerful festive season in
Bruges, while also enduring the chilly winter weather. Even though temperatures range from 4.6°C (40.3°F) to 7.7°C (45.9°F), the city sparkles with the charm of the Christmas markets and dazzling lights.
Weather in December »