EVENTS

The most prestigious annual event in Brussels is Ommegang, a 16th-century-style procession staged within the illuminated Grand Place in early July. Just as popular is the biennial flower carpet that colours the square in mid-August every second year (even-numbered years). Immerse yourself in music at the annual Brussels Jazz Marathon (last weekend in May). The Grand Place, together with the Sablon and Place Ste Catherine, also host free open-air concerts throughout summer.

Public Holidays
Mar/Apr - Easter Monday
1 Nov - All Saints' Day
15 Aug - Assumption
21 Jul - Belgium National Day
1 May - Labour Day
1 Jan - New Year's Day
25 Dec - Christmas Day
11 Nov - Armistice Day

When to Go

Brussels is alluring any time of year. Most visitors arrive between May and September, when the weather is at its best. Unfortunately, the lovely temperate beauty of the place can be undermined by considerable crowds at tourist sites and a scarcity of accommodations.

If you're considering a weekend visit, Brussels is a particularly attractive option, as the majority of the city's top-end hotels drop their rates dramatically from Friday to Sunday. Don't settle for the first price you're quoted.

From November to March, the weather is often wretched (right around freezing with plenty of slushy precipitation), and the number of tourists falls off dramatically. If you pack the right clothes and keep in mind that the daylight hours will be short, you can make the most of uncrowded museums and markets. And there's always a cozy cafe where you can escape the cold and rain.