Things To Do
in Beersel
Beersel is a small Flemish town just southwest of Brussels, anchored by the moated Het Kasteel van Beersel and surrounded by green farmland. It sits in the Pajottenland, offering rural charm, forested hills, and easy access to the capital’s culture. The town delivers a relaxed, village atmosphere with cozy brasseries and scenic walks.
Beersel is a convenient base for day trips to Brussels and the Sonian Forest, all wrapped in Belgian hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by visiting the stunning Beersel Castle, an impressive medieval fortress surrounded by lush greenery. Take a guided tour to learn about its rich history, architecture, and the important role it played in local defense. Don’t forget to capture the beautiful views of the surrounding landscape from the castle’s towers.
After exploring the castle, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, where you can sample traditional Belgian dishes. Post-lunch, stroll through the quaint streets of Beersel, discovering charming shops and local artisans. Visit the nearby church of St. Anthony, known for its beautiful stained glass windows and serene ambiance.
As the sun sets, head to a local brewery to experience Belgium's renowned beer culture. Join a tasting session to savor various local brews while learning about the brewing process and the history behind each drink. Conclude your day with a cozy dinner at a traditional restaurant, indulging in authentic Belgian cuisine.
Start your morning with a visit to a local bakery, where the smell of freshly baked bread and pastries fills the air. Enjoy a traditional Belgian breakfast of croissants and coffee while mingling with locals. After breakfast, take a stroll through the town market to discover fresh produce and artisanal goods.
Join a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Belgian dishes, such as stoofvlees (beef stew) or waterzooi (a creamy chicken or fish dish). Work alongside a local chef, who will share secrets of Belgian culinary traditions and techniques. Enjoy the meal you prepare alongside your cooking companions, enhancing your cultural experience.
After your culinary adventure, take a leisurely walk through the picturesque streets of Beersel, admiring the architecture and evening lights. Find a cozy bistro where you can share your cooking experiences with fellow travelers over dessert. End your day with a nightcap of Belgian beer or a sweet dessert wine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transport (one-way) | $2-3 |
| 🏨One-night hotel (mid-range) | $90-150 |
| 🧀Local cheese (half-kilogram) | $5-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Brussels with easy access to culture and transport
- Peaceful rural charm and abundant nature
- Great Belgian food and beer culture
- Limited nightlife within Beersel itself
- Public transport outside peak hours can be sparse on weekends
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Alstublieft" - Please
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Kunt u dat herhalen?" - Could you repeat that?
Places to Visit in Beersel
Visit one of these nice places.
The moated 14th-century castle provides atmospheric angles at sunrise or sunset with reflections in the water.
Quiet river banks and gentle bends offer long, golden-hour shots with rural bridges.
Dappled light through tall trees and mossy paths create moody forest photography.
Hills surrounding Alsemberg offer sweeping views over farmland and the town with a Brussels backdrop.
Food in Beersel
Beersel Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-braised Flemish beef stew cooked in beer, usually served with fries or mashed potatoes; widely found in Beersel brasseries.
Must-Try!
Mussels steamed in white wine with onions and herbs, paired with crisp Belgian fries; a seasonal favorite in local eateries.
Belgian endives wrapped in ham, bathed in a creamy cheese sauce, then baked until bubbling; common in local bistros.
Fluffy pastry shells filled with a creamy chicken ragout, a staple at Belgian brasseries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small-town market offering fresh produce, cheese, bread, and prepared foods on market days.
Seasonal market nearby with farm-fresh products, regional honey, cheeses, and pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time; use formal 'u' with strangers and reserve 'je/u' for friends and family.
Dutch (Flemish) is widely spoken; French is common in Brussels; many people also speak English at tourist-friendly places.
Punctuality is valued; arrive on time for appointments and dinner reservations; table manners are relaxed but polite.
Safety
Tipping in Beersel
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is often included; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common for good service.
Cash and cards (credit/debit) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some small vendors at markets may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight; comfortable for outdoor trails and terrace dining; possible brief showers; carry a light rain jacket.
Rust-coloured forests and harvest markets; cooler days; wet trails; ideal for photography in autumn foliage.
Chill but usually mild for Belgium; shorter days; cosy pubs and Christmas markets in Brussels; bring warm layers.
Blooming orchards and woodland trails; mild temperatures; occasional rain; great for cycling and walking.
Beersel at Night
Hiking in Beersel
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest loops and river crossings with varying difficulty, ideal for day hikes and photography.
Gentle climbs with rewarding views over Pajottenland and the Brussels skyline on clear days.
Riverside path offering easy to moderate hikes along the Zenne, connecting Beersel to nearby communities.
Airports
How to reach Beersel by plane.
Main international airport; about 20-40 minutes by car or train from Beersel (depending on traffic).
Low-cost carrier hub; longer transfer to Beersel but still convenient for budget travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families drawn to the area for village life within easy reach of the city.
A number of residents commute to Brussels and nearby towns for work.
A stable, established community with long-standing local ties.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Flat to rolling Pajottenland roads and forest trails make cycling popular among locals and visitors.
A common pastime in community clubs and during weekend matches.
Forest and rural trails attract hikers of all levels, especially in the Sonian Forest.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Beersel.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in Beersel brasseries, including veggie stews, mushroom dishes, salads, and cheese plates; communicate dietary needs in Dutch or French, and ask for meat-free versions of classic dishes.