Things to do in Ieper (Ypres) in May

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Overview

May is a great time to visit Ieper (Ypres). The weather is usually moderately chilly with a gentle breeze, with temperatures ranging from 46—63°F (8—17°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Ieper (Ypres) during this time. Some of our top recommendations: take a guided tour of the Ypres Salient battlefields and cemeteries, visit the In Flanders Fields Museum to learn about the history of World War I in the Ypres Salient, take a leisurely stroll along the Ypres city walls and moat, and more!

Ieper (Ypres) has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your May trip to Ieper (Ypres). Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to May. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Ieper (Ypres) in May. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout May, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Best events and things to do in Ieper (Ypres) in May

Top experiences in May
Take a guided tour of the Ypres Salient battlefields and cemeteries
May is a great time to explore the Ypres Salient battlefields and cemeteries, as the weather is usually mild and the countryside is in full bloom. Guided tours are available to take visitors to key sites such as Hill 60, the Canadian Hill 62 Memorial, and the Tyne Cot Cemetery, the largest Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemetery in the world. Knowledgeable guides provide insight into the history of the area and the experiences of the soldiers who fought and died there.
Visit the In Flanders Fields Museum to learn about the history of World War I in the Ypres Salient
The In Flanders Fields Museum is a state-of-the-art museum that provides a comprehensive and immersive experience of the First World War in the Ypres Salient. The museum uses a combination of artifacts, multimedia displays, and personal stories to bring the history of the war to life. In May, the museum often hosts special exhibitions and events related to the centenary of the war, providing a unique and educational experience for visitors.
Take a leisurely stroll along the Ypres city walls and moat
The historic city of Ypres is surrounded by well-preserved medieval walls and a moat, providing a picturesque and peaceful setting for a leisurely walk. In May, the trees and flowers along the walls are in full bloom, creating a beautiful backdrop for a relaxing stroll. Visitors can take in the views of the city and the surrounding countryside, and perhaps even spot some local wildlife, making for a tranquil and enjoyable experience.
Visit the Cloth Hall and climb the belfry for panoramic views of Ypres
The Cloth Hall is a stunning medieval building that has been meticulously restored and now houses the In Flanders Fields Museum. In May, visitors can explore the museum's exhibits and then climb the belfry for breathtaking panoramic views of Ypres and the surrounding area. The climb to the top is well worth the effort, as it offers a unique perspective on the city and its history, making for a memorable and rewarding experience.
Explore the Ramparts Cemetery and Ramparts War Museum
The Ramparts Cemetery is a peaceful and picturesque resting place for soldiers who died in the Ypres Salient, and the adjacent Ramparts War Museum provides a fascinating look at the history of the area. In May, the museum often hosts special events and exhibitions related to the centenary of World War I, offering visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the war and its impact on the region.
Sample local Belgian beers at a traditional pub or brewery
Belgium is famous for its beer, and Ypres is no exception. In May, visitors can enjoy the mild weather by sitting outside at a traditional pub or brewery and sampling a variety of local beers. From fruity lambics to strong Trappist ales, there is a beer to suit every taste, and the friendly atmosphere of the local establishments makes for a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Attend the Ypres Cat Parade
The Ypres Cat Parade is a quirky and charming event that takes place in May, celebrating the city's feline residents. The parade features costumed cats, cat-themed floats, and live music, as well as a variety of cat-related activities and entertainment. Visitors can join in the fun by dressing up as cats themselves or simply enjoying the festive
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Holidays in Ieper (Ypres) in May
May
  • Labor Day / May Day (May 1)
  • Mothers' Day (May 11)
  • Ascension Day (May 2930)
Other notable holidays
  • Good Friday (April 18)
  • Easter Sunday (April 20)
  • Easter Monday (April 21)
  • Whit Sunday (June 8)
  • Fathers' Day (June 8)
  • Whit Monday (June 9)
  • Belgian National Day (July 21)
  • Assumption of Mary (August 15)
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Weather in Ieper (Ypres) in May

Temperatures on an average day in Ieper (Ypres) in May

The average temperature in Ieper (Ypres) in May for a typical day ranges from a high of 63°F (17°C) to a low of 46°F (8°C). Some would describe it as moderately chilly with a gentle breeze.

For comparison, the hottest month in Ieper (Ypres), August, has days with highs of 72°F (22°C) and lows of 56°F (13°C). The coldest month, February has days with highs of 45°F (7°C) and lows of 34°F (1°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Ieper (Ypres) in May based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in May
63°F
highs
46°F
lows

General weather summary

Moderately chilly with a gentle breeze
Feels like
22%
Chance of rain
0.078 in
Amount
14.7 mph
Wind speed
75%
Humidity
15.5 hrs
Daylight length
6:00 AM
Sunrise
9:29 PM
Sunset
46%
Cloud cover
Sweater
What to wear
What to wear in May
With an average high of 63°F (17°C) and a low of 46°F (8°C), it generally feels moderately chilly with a gentle breeze. With that in mind, most people would dress in something moderately warm like a sweater
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Best attractions for Ieper (Ypres) in May

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Ieper (Ypres) has to offer for travelers in May, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Ieper (Ypres) that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Ieper (Ypres) for May.
Menin Gate
1. Menin Gate
4.7
(13216)
War memorial
Sights & Landmarks
Iconic British war memorial, inscribed with 54,896 names, & site for a daily Last Post ceremony.
In Flanders Fields Museum
2. In Flanders Fields Museum
4.5
(6174)
War museum
Museums
Museum charting the horrors of WWI in this region, with educational visits & research.
Menin Gate
3. Menin Gate
4.7
(13216)
War memorial
Sights & Landmarks
Iconic British war memorial, inscribed with 54,896 names, & site for a daily Last Post ceremony.
Holiday Home Ieper Market Square
4. Holiday Home Ieper Market Square
4.4
(7)
Holiday home
Sights & Landmarks
Bellewaerde
5. Bellewaerde
4.3
(19505)
Theme park
Outdoor Activities
Belgium's oldest theme park with rollercoasters, gardens & a 4D cinema open April-October each year.
Sanctuary Wood Museum Hill 62
6. Sanctuary Wood Museum Hill 62
Monument
Sights & Landmarks
Hilltop monument & memorial park commemorating efforts by Canadian soldiers during World War I.
Hooge Crater Museum
7. Hooge Crater Museum
4.6
(1401)
Museum
Diner
Hill 60 Restaurant
8. Hill 60 Restaurant
4.4
(1267)
Restaurant
Sights & Landmarks
Essex Farm Cemetery
9. Essex Farm Cemetery
4.7
(70)
Military cemetery
Sights & Landmarks
Ramparts Cemetery, Lille Gate
10. Ramparts Cemetery, Lille Gate
4.8
(57)
Military cemetery
Sights & Landmarks
St George's Memorial Church, Ypres
11. St George's Memorial Church, Ypres
4.5
(211)
Anglican church
Sights & Landmarks
St. Martin's Cathedral
12. St. Martin's Cathedral
4.6
(385)
Catholic church
Sights & Landmarks
John McCrae Dressing Station WW1 Flanders Fields Fame
13. John McCrae Dressing Station WW1 Flanders Fields Fame
4.7
(37)
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
The Brooding Soldier
14. The Brooding Soldier
Monument
Sights & Landmarks
Sculpture at center of war memorial dedicated to Canadian soldiers who lost lives in WWI battle.
Sanctuary Wood Museum Hill 62
15. Sanctuary Wood Museum Hill 62
Monument
Sights & Landmarks
Hilltop monument & memorial park commemorating efforts by Canadian soldiers during World War I.
Belfry of Bruges
16. Belfry of Bruges
4.6
(18000)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Medieval bell tower with 366 steps leading to views, plus treasure chamber & 47-belled carillon.

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Ieper (Ypres)?

Get inspired for your trip to Ieper (Ypres) with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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