Things To Do
in Balen
Balen is a quiet Flemish town in Antwerp province surrounded by the Kempen heath and farmland. It serves as a friendly gateway to nature with easy cycling and scenic countryside. The town center offers traditional eateries, a weekly market, and historic architecture.
With good road links to Antwerp and neighboring towns, Balen makes for relaxed day trips and immersion in local Belgian life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Kick off your adventure in Balen with a visit to the town center where you can explore the charming streets and grab some fresh pastries from a local bakery. Wander through the quiet parks, breathing in the fresh morning air and enjoying the beauty of the local flora. The peaceful atmosphere of Balen is perfect for a leisurely stroll to start your day.
In the afternoon, visit the Balen town museum to learn about its rich history and cultural heritage. Take time to enjoy lunch at a traditional Belgian café, sampling local specialties like fries and a hearty stew. Afterward, wander around the nearby nature reserve, soaking in the serene landscapes.
As the sun begins to set, settle into one of Balen’s lovely eateries for dinner, where you can indulge in regional specialties paired with Belgian beers. Enjoy a relaxed evening atmosphere, perhaps catching a glimpse of locals unwinding after their day. Cap the night off with a leisurely walk along the canal, taking in the gentle sounds of water and the twinkling lights reflecting in the water.
Start the day early with a trip to the beautiful Haspengouw region, known for its stunning landscapes and fruit orchards. Rent a bike and pedal through picturesque roads, breathing in the fresh air while soaking in the sights of nature. Stop occasionally to take photos of the scenic views and vibrant wildflowers.
Return to Balen for a hearty lunch at a local tavern, where you can try some traditional dishes. Afterward, participate in an adventure activity such as canoeing on the local river, offering an exciting way to discover the scenery from a different perspective. Be sure to enjoy the thrill of paddling through tranquil waters surrounded by lush greenery.
Relax into the evening with a visit to a cozy pub for a local beer tasting session, sampling some of Belgium's finest brews. Engage with locals and listen to stories about the region’s brewing traditions, making new friends along the way. Enjoy a late dinner at an outdoor terrace, where you can reflect on the day’s adventures under a starlit sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $70-150 |
| 🚆One-way ticket on local transport | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming rural setting and easy access to nature
- Good value for money and comfortable pace of travel
- Friendly locals and relaxed vibe
- Solid base for day trips to Antwerp and nearby Kempen towns
- Limited nightlife and major tourist attractions in town
- Distances to larger cities can require planning for day trips
- Fewer hotel options within the town center
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het station?" - Where is the station?
- "Alstublieft" - Please/Here you go
Places to Visit in Balen
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic Flemish square with historic gabled houses and a prominent church spire.
Wide skies over heath and pine woods, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Photogenic countryside with farmsteads, streams and quiet farmland scenery.
Food in Balen
Balen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beef slowly simmered in dark beer with onions and herbs, typically served with fries or mashed potatoes.
Must-Try!
Fresh mussels cooked in white wine and herbs, served with Belgian fries.
Classic Belgian steak with fries and a simple sauce, a staple at many local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, cheeses, and local specialties on market days.
Croquettes, waffles, and fries from small local stalls and casual cafés.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Goedendag' or 'Hallo'; use formal 'u' in business or with strangers.
Maintain a modest voice in public spaces; ask before taking photos of people and private property.
Safety
Tipping in Balen
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common.
Credit cards are widely accepted; cash and debit cards are commonly used; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days and blooming countryside; bring light rain gear and plan outdoor shoots early.
Long days and warm temperatures; stay hydrated and seek shade during peak sun.
Colorful foliage and harvest markets; great for golden-hour photography and comfortable hiking.
Cool, wetter weather; look for cozy indoor venues and potential snowy landscapes if lucky.
Balen at Night
Hiking in Balen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Diverse hiking routes through heathland, pine forests and gentle hills.
Scenic day hikes along quiet woodland paths and farmland edges.
Airports
How to reach Balen by plane.
Major international hub about 70-100 km away; convenient for long-haul flights.
Nearby Dutch airport with budget options; about 70-90 km away.
Low-cost carrier hub about 70-95 km away.
Small regional airport near Antwerp; about 40-60 km away.
Regional airport about 90-110 km away.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families with children in the surrounding villages.
People who commute daily to Geel, Mol, Antwerp, and Leuven for work.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Extensive cycling routes through heathland and farms.
Popular among locals with matches in nearby towns.
Accessible trails in Kempense Heuvelrug and surrounding countryside.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Balen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most places; look for veggie mains or sides like potatoes, vegetables and cheese.