Weather
October is fall in Belgium. The weather is getting cooler, the days shorter, and rain more common—October and November are the wettest months of the year.
Although it's a small country, Belgium's climate varies between the coastal, inland, and highland areas. Coastal Flanders (the Flemish-speaking northern region of Belgium) tends to be the warmest/mildest region, with a maritime climate that tempers extremes of cold or heat. Capital city Brussels is inland, so it has more of a continental climate than coastal cities like Bruges or Antwerp, meaning colder winters but hotter summers and generally moderate October weather. Brussels sees an average high temperature of 57°F (14°C) in October and a low of 46°F (8°C).
Crowds & Costs
October is the low season for travel to Belgium. While the attractive historic cities attract visitors year-round, this is more of a steady stream than a rush, and hotels reduce their rates. Try to book city breaks midweek rather than around the weekends to get the best deals.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Where to Go
Now is prime leaf-peeping time, with the country's woods and forests a dazzling range of golden and orange hues. Photographers and anyone with a fondness for fall colors should head east to the Ardennes in October. When the weather isn't wet, hike in the hills and along boardwalks through grasslands. An ideal way to stay in the Ardennes is to rent a holiday home near the woods with a cozy fireplace.
If sticking closer to Brussels this month, check out the Sonian Forest, just south of the capital. The large forest of beech and oak trees is hundreds of years old, and there are walking routes, running paths, and cycling/mountain biking trails throughout. It's also a great place to see the pretty colors of fall without having to travel too far into the Belgian countryside.
What to Do
Belgium is home to more than 3,000 castles, and October is a perfect time to fit a few into your itinerary. The autumnal foliage around the castles is particularly attractive this month, and fewer other tourists are around. Plus, as Belgium is quite a small country, you can visit several castles on a day trip or over just a few days. Highlights include 15th-century turreted Vêves Castle in the Ardennes, Gaasbeek Castle in Flanders, a museum, the sturdy 12th-century Gravensteen Castle in Ghent, and the Renaissance Groot-Bijgaarden near Brussels, which you can't go inside but can still admire from the gardens.
Fall is prime mushroom-picking season in the Ardennes, with boletus, chanterelles, and morel fungus all growing in the forests. Combine autumn-leaf viewing with a culinary adventure in nature. Unless you're an expert mushroom forager, it's a good idea to consult a local expert or join an organized foraging tour, to avoid picking the wrong specimen.
Events in October
Film Fest Gent, Ghent. In October, Belgium's largest film festival also focuses on film soundtracks.
Liège Fair, Liège. The biggest fairground in Belgium offers thrilling rides and other carnival attractions in early October.
More Helpful Information
Belgium in September
Belgium in November
Best Time of Year to Visit Belgium
How Many Days to Spend in Belgium