Things To Do
in Begijnendijk
Begijnendijk is a quiet rural municipality in Flemish Brabant, set among rolling farmland and hedgerows. Its name recalls the historic beguinage communities that once shaped village life in this Brabant borderland between Leuven and Diest. Today it offers peaceful countryside, charming village churches, and easy access to Brabant's green landscapes, ideal for cycling and short hikes.
Although small, it serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby towns like Leuven and Aarschot, preserving a distinctly local Flemish character.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming streets of Begijnendijk, observing the traditional architecture and quaint shops. As the morning unfolds, visit the local church to appreciate its unique history and peaceful ambiance.
Post-lunch, embark on a biking adventure along the scenic countryside paths that surround the village. Keep an eye out for beautiful flora and fauna as you pedal through the lush fields and small forests. Stop by a local farm for a hands-on experience with Belgian agriculture and perhaps even sample some homemade delights.
As the sun sets, settle in at a cozy restaurant to enjoy a traditional Belgian dinner, savoring dishes like stoofvlees or waterzooi. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the village square, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and the glow of street lamps. End your evening with a local craft beer at a nearby tavern, mingling with residents and fellow travelers.
Begin your day by visiting the local museum to learn about the rich history of Begijnendijk and its surrounding areas. Engage with interactive exhibits and historical artifacts that narrate stories from the past. After satisfying your curiosity, wander the nearby botanical gardens to enjoy the tranquility of nature.
In the afternoon, participate in a cooking class where you can learn to prepare some authentic Belgian dishes. This hands-on experience not only teaches you culinary skills but also provides insight into the cultural significance of the food. After your class, share a meal with fellow participants, exchanging stories and laughter.
In the evening, attend a local theater performance showcasing Belgian folklore or contemporary art. Enjoy the atmospheric setting as local talents bring stories to life through acting and music. After the show, make your way to a nearby café to discuss the performance with locals, adding to your immersive cultural experience.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $70-130 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week for two | $60-100 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful countryside and easy day trips to Leuven and Diest
- Good value for money and relaxed pace
- Limited nightlife within the municipality
- Public transport can be less frequent than in larger cities
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het treinstation?" - Where is the train station?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ik begrijp het niet" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Begijnendijk
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque church and quiet lanes with soft morning light.
Historic square with brick façades, market activity, and local life.
Open fields with hedgerows and windbreaks, ideal for wide rural landscape shots.
Fields lit by warm sunset tones with distant church spires on the horizon.
Food in Begijnendijk
Begijnendijk Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich Flemish beef stew served with thick-cut fries and a side of gravy.
Must-Try!
Creamy chicken (or fish) stew with vegetables, herbs, and soft potatoes.
Crispy puff pastry filled with savory chicken, mushrooms, and creamy sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and regional snacks in traditional stalls.
Market stalls and cafés offer fries with sauces and warm waffles, especially on market days and festivals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet locals with a polite 'goedemorgen/goedemiddag' in Dutch; use 'u' for formal address with strangers and older people; keep voices moderate in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Begijnendijk
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common; many restaurants include service in the price.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Fields bloom and the weather is mild; great for cycling and photography; expect occasional showers.
Long days and pleasant warmth; keep hydrated and be prepared for sudden showers or heat.
Harvest season with golden fields and cooler air; bring layers and a camera for atmospheric light.
Colder days with occasional frost and shorter daylight; many indoor attractions add seasonal charm in nearby towns.
Begijnendijk at Night
Hiking in Begijnendijk
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic loop through Betekom’s countryside with gentle hills and farmland views.
Forest and meadow paths with birds and quiet streams.
A longer route spanning countryside and small villages in the area.
Airports
How to reach Begijnendijk by plane.
Main international airport serving the region; about 40-70 minutes by car depending on traffic.
Secondary international airport serving low-cost carriers; roughly 60-90 minutes by car.
Regional airport within reach; around 60-90 minutes by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are local families in village centers and surrounding farmlands.
Leuven's university community influences nearby areas with day visitors and student activity.
People who travel to larger towns for work or study.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple activity in Brabant with extensive rural lanes and flat terrains.
Widely played and followed in local clubs and schools.
A traditionally Belgian team sport combining ball handling and net scoring.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Begijnendijk.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; ask for veggie plates, legumes, cheeses, and seasonal vegetables. Many dishes can be adapted by omitting meat.