Budget Weekend Away in Belgium: Tips & Deals

Choose the right time

Timing is everything when you want to travel cheaply. Prices for holiday homes in Belgium vary greatly depending on the season. The most expensive periods are school holidays, especially the summer holidays (July-August) and Christmas. But outside these peaks you can find great deals.

The best periods for a budget weekend are spring (March-April, outside Easter), autumn (September-November) and the winter months (January-February). During these periods prices are often up to 40% lower than in high season. And honestly: the Ardennes in autumn with their spectacular colours are just as beautiful as in summer.

Mid-week instead of weekend

One of the easiest ways to save is to avoid booking on Friday and Saturday and go mid-week instead. A mid-week stay (Monday to Friday) is considerably cheaper at most holiday homes than a weekend stay. You also have less traffic on the roads, fewer queues in restaurants and quieter walking paths. Are you flexible with your plans? Then a mid-week stay is the best choice for your budget.

The most affordable regions

The Ardennes: surprisingly affordable

Although the Ardennes are Belgium's most popular holiday region, they are not necessarily expensive. Especially in the lesser-known parts of Luxembourg province you will find charming little cottages at surprisingly low prices. Villages like Houffalize, Bertrix and Vielsalm offer beautiful nature and peace, without the price tag of hotspots like Durbuy or La Roche. A cosy holiday home for four people can be found from 150 to 200 euros for a weekend.

The Kempen and Limburg

The north of Belgium is often overlooked as a holiday destination, but Limburg and the Kempen have a lot to offer. The Hoge Kempen National Park, the fruit regions and the charming Meuse valley villages make a beautiful backdrop for a weekend away. Prices there are on average lower than in the Ardennes or at the coast, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers.

The Westhoek

The Flemish hinterland, and specifically the Westhoek, is a hidden gem. The region around Ypres and Poperinge offers a fascinating mix of history, gastronomy and nature. The hop fields, the war monuments and the wide open landscapes are well worth discovering. Holiday homes are affordable and it is an excellent base for day trips to the coast.

Last-minute deals: the ultimate saving tip

If you are flexible, you can take advantage of last-minute offers. Landlords who cannot rent out their home often lower the price at the last moment. This is especially the case in the low season and for stays of two to three nights. Keep an eye on our website for the latest offers, or sign up for our newsletter to be the first to hear about discounts.

Another strategy is to look for holiday homes that have just had a cancellation. These are often re-offered at a discount. Be quick though, as these deals are very popular.

Save on costs while you are there

A holiday home has a big advantage over a hotel: you can cook for yourself. By shopping at a local supermarket or market and cooking in your holiday home, you can easily save tens of euros per day compared to eating out. Make it a pleasant ritual: buy fresh local produce and cook a lovely dinner together. That is not only cheaper, but also more enjoyable.

Free activities for a perfect weekend

Belgium offers countless free activities that will make your weekend extra special without extra cost. Here are our favourites:

• Walking: Belgium has thousands of kilometres of marked walking paths. The node network makes it easy to plan your own route.
• Cycling: With the extensive cycling network you can explore the area on two wheels. Many holiday homes have bikes available free of charge.
• Exploring nature: Visit nature reserves, viewpoints and waterfalls. Most are freely accessible.
• Discovering towns: Walk through historic little towns like Durbuy, Bouillon or Rochefort and enjoy the architecture and atmosphere.
• Local markets: Many villages and towns organise weekly markets where you can taste and browse.

A budget weekend in Belgium comes down to one thing: flexibility with timing. Those who are not tied to school holidays and willing to drive a little further than the well-known spots will find something for every budget.