Half-term holiday in Belgium: a week away in February or March
The half-term holiday is the shortest school break of the year, but that does not mean there is nothing to do with it. Booking a holiday home in the Ardennes, on the coast or in the Kempen for a week or a long weekend is perfectly doable. Here are the best destinations and what to bear in mind.
The Belgian half-term holiday usually falls in the third week of February. Holiday home prices are lower than in the summer holidays but higher than outside school periods. Book at least 2 months ahead for the best choice.
The Ardennes during the half-term holiday
The Ardennes are the most popular destination for the half-term holiday in Belgium. February is the month with the greatest chance of snow in the Ardennes, especially in the higher areas around Malmedy, Vielsalm and the High Fens. A holiday home with a fireplace in a snowy Ardennes valley is for many Belgian families the ideal half-term break.
Even without snow, the Ardennes are pleasant in February. The forests are bare but impressive, the walking paths are quiet and holiday homes are cheaper than in summer or the Christmas holidays. La Roche-en-Ardenne, Durbuy and Bouillon are good bases for an active half-term with children.
The Belgian coast during the half-term holiday
The Belgian coast has a particular charm in February. The beaches are deserted, the seafront is quiet and the sea air is sharper than in summer. That is exactly what some people are looking for: a deserted coastline with the smell of salt and the power of the winter waves.
Holiday homes on the coast are reasonably affordable during the half-term. Knokke, De Haan and De Panne have smaller beach villas and apartments that are easily accessible in the low season. Ideal for couples or small families who are not afraid of wind and fresh air.
Activities during the half-term by region
- Ardennes: hiking, Bouillon castle, Han-sur-Lesse caves (indoors, perfect in bad weather)
- Ardennes: if there is snow, sledging, snowshoeing, building snowmen in the garden
- Coast: walk on the deserted beach, chips on the seafront, minigolf in covered halls
- Coast: North Sea Aquarium, NAVIGO museum (Ostend), Den Herd in De Panne
- Kempen: Olmense Zoo, indoor play areas, cycling if the weather allows
- Kempen: Lommel sand dunes (spectacular in the cold) or the Kalmthout Heath
The Kempen during the half-term holiday
The Kempen is less obvious than the Ardennes or the coast but has its own charm in February. The vast heathlands and pine forests are silent and deserted. Families looking for a quiet, affordable alternative will find holiday homes with large gardens and good facilities in the Kempen.
The Kempen also has attractions that work in bad weather: Olmense Zoo, indoor play areas in Hasselt and Mol and covered swimming pools in the region are good options when nature temporarily has nothing to offer.
What to pack for the half-term holiday?
February is unpredictable. You might get beautiful winter weather with snow and clear blue skies, but also a grey, rainy week. Pack for both scenarios. Bring rain gear and sturdy walking shoes even if the weather forecast looks good. In the Ardennes the weather can change quickly even in the middle of the day.
For families with children, a small bag of indoor games is handy: board games, cards and other activities for evenings or rainy afternoons. Bringing candles costs nothing but immediately makes the home cosier. And pack warm layers for short walks: fleece jackets and thermal underlayers are not overkill in February.
What is open during the half-term holiday?
Most tourist attractions in the Ardennes and on the coast are open during the half-term. The Han-sur-Lesse caves have daily guided tours. Bouillon castle is open unless there are exceptional weather conditions. On the coast, most restaurants and shops are open, although some smaller businesses may be closed on Monday or Tuesday.
Before you leave, check the websites of the attractions you want to visit. Some adjust their opening hours in the low season and are open for fewer hours than in the summer holidays. Booking a visit in advance, especially for popular attractions like the Han-sur-Lesse caves, is always a good idea.
Tips for the half-term holiday
The half-term is only one week, so planning pays off. Make sure you have a home large enough to play inside if it rains. A fireplace or wood burner makes a big difference to the atmosphere in February. Also choose a home with good heating: temperatures in the Ardennes can drop below zero.
Also plan one or two activities outside the home. The half-term is short enough to mix things up: a day trip to a castle or cave, a day's walking and a day just relaxing in the house. That rhythm works well for families with children of different ages.
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do with children during the half-term in Belgium?
The half-term falls in February or March. In the Ardennes there are indoor activities like the Han-sur-Lesse caves. On the Belgian coast the beach is empty but wild and beautiful. Holiday homes with a fireplace or sauna are perfect for cosy evenings after a day outdoors.
Are holiday homes cheaper during the half-term?
Compared to the summer holidays, prices are noticeably lower. The half-term is popular with families who do not want the summer crowds but still want to go away together. Booking early pays off here too.
Is it cold during the half-term?
February and early March are the coldest periods of the year in Belgium. Average daytime temperatures are between 5 and 10 degrees. Snow is possible in the Ardennes. This makes the half-term ideal for homes with a fireplace, sauna or hot tub.
When do the half-term holidays fall in 2026 and 2027?
The exact dates are set each year by the Flemish and French-speaking Communities and may differ slightly. Check the official school calendar on the Onderwijs Vlaanderen or Fédération Wallonie-Bruxelles website for the most up-to-date dates.