Things To Do
in Anderlecht
Anderlecht is a diverse municipality in the Brussels-Cit des Walles region, just south of central Brussels, known for its mix of industry, housing, and green spaces. It blends historic industrial charm with modern neighborhoods, parks, and multicultural dining options. The area is home to RSCA Anderlecht, giving the district a football-tinged identity, while still feeling accessible and residential.
It’s well connected to the city center by tram, metro, and bike routes, making it easy to explore beyond its borders.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Basilica of the Sacred Heart, where you can admire its grand architecture and serene atmosphere. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Anderlecht, soaking in the rich history and vibrant culture. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a traditional Belgian breakfast, featuring fresh pastries and strong coffee.
In the afternoon, continue exploring the historic heart of Anderlecht by visiting the Brussels Museum of the History of the Brussels Region. Here, you will uncover fascinating exhibits showcasing the city's evolution through the ages. To wrap up your afternoon, enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro, sampling some hearty Belgian stew accompanied by a local beer.
As evening falls, immerse yourself in the local nightlife by heading to a cozy tavern where you can taste a variety of Belgian ales. Engage in conversations with locals and fellow travelers while enjoying some traditional snacks like frites or croquettes. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk through the illuminated streets, taking in the beauty of the historic buildings.
Begin your day at the bustling Anderlecht Market, where you can explore an array of stalls filled with fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisan crafts. The vibrant atmosphere is perfect for mingling with locals and discovering unique Belgian specialties. Grab a fresh waffle from a vendor and enjoy it as you wander through the market.
After the market, make your way to the nearby Parc Astrid for a relaxing afternoon. Enjoy a leisurely picnic on the grass, surrounded by the beautiful greenery, or take a stroll along the park's walking paths. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a bike and explore the trails that weave through the park.
For dinner, head to a family-owned restaurant known for its traditional Belgian cuisine. Savor classic dishes like mussels and fries or carbonnade flamande while enjoying the warm ambiance. To cap off the night, find a nearby bar that offers live music and enjoy some local tunes with a refreshing beer.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🥖Bakery pastry | $2-4 |
| 🚆One-way local transit ticket | $2-3 |
| 🎟️Movie ticket | $12-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent public transit access to central Brussels
- Multicultural dining options and markets
- Less nightlife focus compared with central Brussels
- Some areas can feel industrial or residential with fewer tourist attractions
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go (Dutch)
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you (Dutch)
- "Waar is het metrostation?" - Where is the metro station? (Dutch)
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please (French)
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English? (French)
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does this cost? (French)
Places to Visit in Anderlecht
Visit one of these nice places.
Photograph the stadium’s exterior architecture and surrounding urban landscape; best during golden hours when colors are warm.
Capture reflections and moored boats along the Brussels-Charleroi Canal, with industrial remnants and modern touches nearby.
Green spaces and quiet streets offer reflective, light-filled compositions ideal for candid street photography.
Candid scenes of daily life, stalls, and diners provide vibrant, authentic Brussels-of-Anderlecht imagery.
Food in Anderlecht
Anderlecht Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed mussels served with a generous portion of crispy fries; a Belgian staple widely available in local brasseries.
Must-Try!
Flemish beef stew cooked slowly in beer, usually served with fries or mashed potatoes.
Rich, creamy chicken or fish stew with vegetables and potatoes; a comforting Brussels classic.
Light, crisp waffles topped with fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate; commonly found at cafés and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Large, lively market area offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and general bargains; great for tasting street food and local snacks.
Flea and food stalls with a mix of vintage finds and quick bites; a good spot for casual bites and people-watching.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
French and Dutch are common in Brussels; useBasic greetings and politeness in whichever language you encounter. A small 'please' and 'thank you' in the local language goes a long way.
Be punctual for meetings and greet with a handshake in formal settings; in casual settings a warm hello is typical.
Queue patiently in markets, transport hubs, and cafés; Belgium values orderly lines and courtesy.
Safety
Tipping in Anderlecht
Ensure a smooth experience
In Belgium, service charges are often included (service compris) in restaurant bills; tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. If you’re happy with the service, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common in casual settings.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; outdoor terraces open, but occasional showers are possible. Stay hydrated and enjoy canal-side strolls and market life.
Mild to cool temperatures with colorful foliage; great for park walks and street photography in softer light.
Cool to cold with possible rain or light snow; layers are essential; indoor cafés and markets become cozy havens.
Moderate temperatures and blooming parks; ideal for outdoor exploration, cycling, and capturing fresh urban scenes.
Anderlecht at Night
Hiking in Anderlecht
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short drive or cycle from Anderlecht, this expansive forest offers well-marked trails, serene scenery, and a variety of wildlife and landscapes for easy hikes.
Several shorter city-adjacent trails around the Brussels region provide urban-to-rural transitions perfect for relaxed day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Anderlecht by plane.
Located in Zaventem, about 15-20 minutes by fast train or car from central Brussels; broad international connections and onward transport to Anderlecht.
Located to the south of Brussels; mainly serves low-cost carriers with shuttle and rail connections to Brussels.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of local Belgians and residents from various international communities contribute to a vibrant, diverse neighborhood.
A broader demographic drawn to Brussels’ opportunities, including students and workers who travel through Anderlecht.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region is proud of its football culture, with local clubs and passionate fans; attending a match offers a lively, communal experience.
A popular activity given Belgium’s cycling heritage; many routes pair city streets with scenic outskirts and canal paths.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Anderlecht.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Belgian restaurants commonly offer vegetarian dishes or veggie versions of classic meals; ask for plant-based options and consider 'vegetarisch' (Dutch) or 'végétarien(ne)' (French).
Many places can accommodate gluten-free requests; specify 'gluten-free' and look for options like salads, grilled fish or meat, and vegetables to avoid breaded items.