Antwerp
Antwerp
Belgium
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Antwerp, the sparkling diamond capital of the world and a global fashion powerhouse, is a city that blends 16th-century opulence with avant-garde creativity. Located in the heart of Flanders, Antwerp ...
About Antwerp
Antwerp, the sparkling diamond capital of the world and a global fashion powerhouse, is a city that blends 16th-century opulence with avant-garde creativity. Located in the heart of Flanders, Antwerp enjoys a temperate oceanic climate characterized by mild summers and chilly, atmospheric winters. Whether you are coming for the world-class museums, the legendary nightlife in Het Zuid, or the festive Christmas markets, timing your trip is key. Peak season hits in the warm summer months of July and August and returns for the magical winter holidays in December. For those seeking a balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September) are ideal. Many travelers choose to combine their visit with a trip to the capital city; for more planning, see our guide on the [best time to visit Brussels](/best-time-to-visit/brussels).
Fly from Halifax, or anywhere in Atlantic Canada, and discover Antwerp at its best. We'll show you when to go, what to see, and where to eat, so you can simply enjoy the journey.
March, April, May
Spring (March–May)
June, July, August
Summer (June–August)
September, October, November
Autumn (September–November)
December, January, February
Winter (December–February)
What's Included
Seasonal Guide
Complete 12-month breakdown with weather, crowds & pricing
Flights from Halifax
Routes: Halifax — Antwerp, or via major hubs from Atlantic Canada
Neighborhoods
5 curated areas to stay, from budget to luxury
Budget Guide
Euro (EUR) daily budgets: €70–€90/day to €400+/day
At a Glance: When to Visit Antwerp
Best Overall
May–June and September
Cheapest
January–February
Busiest
July–August and December
Best Weather
June–August
For Events
August
For Families
June (for Sinksenfoor) and December
For Couples
September and December
Budget Travel
January–March
From Atlantic Canada
Halifax to Antwerp.
Month by month.
Everything you need to know about travelling from Canada to Antwerp — the best seasons, what to pack, and how to save.
Month-by-Month Guide to Antwerp
January
Cold and damp with average highs of 6°C (43°F) and lows of 1°C (34°F). Sunshine is limited to about 2 hours per day.
“Best for budget travelers and fashionistas looking for deep discounts during the biannual sales.”
February
Similar to January but slightly drier. Highs of 7°C (45°F) and lows of 1°C (34°F).
“Ideal for a quiet, romantic getaway without the tourist crowds.”
March
Spring begins to wake the city with highs of 10°C (50°F) and lows of 3°C (37°F).
“Best for art enthusiasts who want to experience the city's burgeoning gallery scene.”
April
Variable weather ('April showers') with highs of 14°C (57°F) and lows of 5°C (41°F).
“A great time for families to enjoy the zoo and the city's blossoming parks.”
May
Pleasant and blooming with highs of 18°C (64°F) and lows of 9°C (48°F). Long daylight hours.
“One of the best months overall, offering beautiful weather and a lively local atmosphere.”
June
Mild and bright with highs of 21°C (70°F) and lows of 12°C (54°F). Peak daylight occurs this month.
“Perfect for outdoor culture lovers who enjoy long evenings and festivals.”
July
The warmest and often wettest month. Highs of 23°C (73°F) and lows of 14°C (57°F).
“Best for music fans and those who love the high-energy vibe of peak summer.”
August
Warm and sunny with highs of 23°C (73°F) and lows of 14°C (57°F).
“The best month for social travelers and foodies looking to celebrate Antwerp’s identity.”
September
Crisp and golden with highs of 19°C (66°F) and lows of 11°C (52°F).
“Ideal for fashionistas and history buffs wanting moderate temperatures and cultural depth.”
October
Cool with beautiful autumn foliage. Highs of 15°C (59°F) and lows of 8°C (46°F).
“Great for a cozy city break focused on museums and urban photography.”
November
Often grey and rainy with highs of 10°C (50°F) and lows of 4°C (39°F).
“The best month for travelers who prefer indoor cultural experiences and low hotel prices.”
December
Festive but cold. Highs of 7°C (45°F) and lows of 2°C (36°F). Expect frequent rain and rare snow.
“The best month for festive magic and holiday cheer, despite the cold.”
Festivals & Events in Antwerp
Winter in Antwerp
A massive festive market featuring an ice rink, a Ferris wheel, and over 100 stalls spanning from the Grote Markt to Groenplaats.
High hotel demand; book at least 3 months in advance for weekend stays.Antwerp Pride
One of Europe's most vibrant Pride celebrations, featuring a massive parade, parties in Het Zuid, and a closing festival at the MAS.
Very high energy; hotels in Het Zuid and the Center sell out fast.Bollekesfeest
A local food and beer festival celebrating De Koninck brewery and Antwerp’s regional products.
Crowded city center; great for atmosphere but hard to find restaurant seating near Grote Markt.Sinksenfoor
One of Belgium's largest funfairs with over 150 attractions, usually held over the Pentecost period.
Local crowds increase; family-friendly hotels see higher demand.Antwerp Fashion Week
A week dedicated to the city's status as a global fashion capital, featuring shows and open ateliers.
Attracts international visitors; boutique hotels see a surge in pricing.Museum Night (Museumnacht)
A single night where all major museums stay open until after midnight with special performances and bars.
Lively nighttime atmosphere; consider the Antwerp City Card for easy entry.Jazz Middelheim
An acclaimed open-air jazz festival set in the beautiful park of Middelheim.
Brings many music tourists to the south of the city; book Berchem-area stays early.Antwerp Art Weekend
A city-wide event showcasing contemporary art across dozens of galleries and pop-up spaces.
Moderate impact on boutique hotel availability in Het Zuid.Budget Guide: How Much Does It Cost to Visit Antwerp?
Euro (EUR)
Daily Budget
Peak
€140–€250/night
Off-Peak
€80–€130/night
Antwerp is generally 10-15% cheaper than Brussels for accommodation. Prices spike significantly in July (Tomorrowland) and December (Christmas). For the best value, visit in the shoulder months of April or September.
Where to Stay in Antwerp by Season
Historic Center (Centrum)
€120–€200Winter
The heart of the Christmas market action. Best for first-timers who want to be steps away from the Cathedral and Grote Markt.
Het Zuid (The South)
€100–€180Summer
Trendy and artistic with upscale galleries and a vibrant terrace scene. Ideal for Pride and Jazz Middelheim.
Eilandje (The Island)
€110–€190Summer
The old port district, now home to the MAS. Best for waterfront views and modern apartments.
Zurenborg
€90–€150Autumn
Residential and romantic, famous for Cogels-Osylei (Art Nouveau homes). Stunning when the fall leaves turn.
Central Station & Diamond District
€80–€160Year-round
Maximum convenience for train travel to Brussels or Amsterdam. Excellent for business travelers.
What to Pack for Antwerp
Spring
Pro tip: Layering is essential as temperatures can jump 10 degrees between shade and sun.
Summer
Pro tip: Antwerpians dress stylishly; avoid athletic wear if you plan on visiting upscale restaurants or boutiques.
Autumn
Pro tip: November is one of the windiest months; a windproof coat is more effective than just an umbrella.
Winter
Pro tip: Moisturizer is a must for the dry, cold winter air to prevent skin chapping.
FAQs: Visiting Antwerp
What is the best month to visit Antwerp?
May, June, and September are the best months, offering mild weather (18-21°C), long days, and moderate crowds.
When is the cheapest time to fly to Antwerp?
January and February are the cheapest months. You can often find flight and hotel deals as the city recovers from the holiday season.
What is the weather like in Antwerp in July?
It is warm with average highs of 24°C (75°F). However, July is also one of the rainiest months, so always carry a light rain jacket.
Is Antwerp worth visiting in winter?
Yes! The Christmas market in December is magical, and the January sales offer the best shopping deals in Europe.
Does it snow in Antwerp?
Snow is rare and usually light, occurring most often in January or February. It rarely stays on the ground for more than a day.
When should I visit for fashion and shopping?
Visit in January or July for the big sales (Solden), or in September for Antwerp Fashion Week.
How many days do I need in Antwerp?
A 2 to 3-day trip is perfect for exploring the main museums and districts. It also makes a great day trip from Brussels.
Is Antwerp crowded during Tomorrowland?
Yes, while the festival is in Boom (20 mins away), many attendees stay in Antwerp, causing hotel prices to double.
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