Belgium, Europe
Bruges in May
Long evenings and the Procession of the Holy Blood on Ascension Day. Weekends fill up.
The straight answer
May is one of the best months of the year to visit Bruges. Long evenings and the Procession of the Holy Blood on Ascension Day. Weekends fill up.
- Weather
- Pleasant, highs near 65F (18C)
- Crowds
- 4 of 5
- Prices
- 4 of 5
What May is like in Bruges
May is pleasant, with highs near 65F (18C), and long evenings. The Procession of the Holy Blood on Ascension Day, 40 days after Easter, fills the streets with costumed scenes and the revered relic. Crowds and prices rise, and weekends fill up with day-trippers.
This month suits couples and families who want warm, comfortable weather. Staying overnight lets you enjoy the quiet evenings after day visitors leave. If you want lower prices, April or September is a good alternative. Book rooms early for Ascension weekend, which fills fast. Remember that several museums close on Mondays.
Make the most of May
What is especially good about Bruges this month.
Procession of the Holy Blood
On Ascension Day, a UNESCO-listed procession carries the relic through town. Stands sell out, so arrive early.
Long evening walks
Late sunsets make the canals glow after the day crowds leave.
Boudewijn Seapark
The small amusement park just outside town is an easy half day for families.
What to pack for May
- A light jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunglasses
- A light umbrella
Our timing tip
Book a room in the old town for the night before Ascension Day, and grab a spot along the route early.
Book Bruges for May.
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- Hotels for May
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in BrugesOpens a hotel search for Bruges in May, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in BrugesWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in BrugesTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Bruges for May. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in May
Procession of the Holy Blood
Ascension Day, 40 days after Easter, usually May
A UNESCO-listed procession with the relic and costumed scenes from the Bible and Bruges history. Stands sell out; arrive early.
Things to do in Bruges
The Belfry
Climb the 366 steps for the view over the rooftops. Timed tickets help; go at opening or late afternoon.
Groeninge Museum
Flemish Primitives including Jan van Eyck. Small and quiet compared with the crowds outside.
Canal boat tour
The classic 30 minute loop. Take the first boats of the morning to avoid the queues; service is reduced in winter.
Begijnhof and Minnewater
The white houses of the Beguinage and the 'Lake of Love' are serene at dawn, busy by midday.
Basilica of the Holy Blood
A two-level chapel on the Burg square holding a revered relic, the center of the Ascension Day procession.
De Halve Maan Brewery
A family brewery in the center with tours and a beer pipeline under the old town streets.
Beat the crowds
- Sleep in Bruges. Walk the Markt, the Burg, and the Rozenhoedkaai before 9am and after 6pm, when day-trippers are gone.
- Visit midweek rather than on weekends, and check if cruise ships are in at Zeebrugge.
- Spend the busiest hours in museums, on a bike ride to Damme, or in quieter neighborhoods like Sint-Anna in the east.
- Book the Belfry online, and go to the Holy Blood Basilica at opening.
Know before you go
- Several Musea Brugge museums close on Mondays. Check before planning a Monday visit.
- Canal boats run most of the year but can pause in freezing weather, storms, or winter weekdays.
- Some restaurants close one or two days a week, often midweek, and a few take winter holidays in January.
- Christmas Day and New Year's Day close many sights and shops.
Bruges in May, quick answers
Is May a good time to visit Bruges?
May is one of the best months of the year to visit Bruges. Long evenings and the Procession of the Holy Blood on Ascension Day. Weekends fill up.
What is the weather like in Bruges in May?
Pleasant, highs near 65F (18C).
Is Bruges crowded in May?
Bruges is busy in May, though mornings and late afternoons stay workable.
What is happening in Bruges in May?
Procession of the Holy Blood (ascension day, 40 days after easter, usually may).
Keep planning Bruges.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in May
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