Things To Do
in Berchem
Berchem is a picturesque suburb located in the southern part of Antwerp, Belgium. It is known for its charming streets lined with historic buildings and beautiful parks. The area also boasts a thriving cultural scene, with art galleries, museums, and theaters for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Berchem offers a mix of residential neighborhoods and commercial areas, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing stroll through the lush Parc de la Cascade. Enjoy a coffee and pastry at a nearby café as you soak in the morning sun.
After lunch, visit the captivating Berchem Church, known for its stunning architecture. Spend some time exploring the local boutiques and shops in the area.
Dinner at a traditional Belgian restaurant will give you a taste of local cuisine. Wind down with a walk along the scenic streets, enjoying the evening atmosphere.
Start your day with a refreshing walk in the nearby Kralingen Park. Breathe in the fresh air and listen to the sounds of nature around you.
Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch in the park, surrounded by greenery. Rent a bicycle to explore the park's scenic trails.
As the sun sets, take a moment to relax by the lake. Enjoy a laid-back dinner at a local bistro with a view of the water.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with beautiful architecture.
- Good access to public transport, making it easy to travel to nearby cities.
- A variety of local shops, markets, and eateries offering regional cuisine.
- Strong community spirit with several local events and festivals.
- Proximity to the city of Antwerp for additional cultural and economic opportunities.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Some areas may experience higher traffic congestion.
- Potential language barrier for non-French or non-Dutch speakers.
- Cost of living may be higher in more desirable neighborhoods.
- Weather can be rainy and overcast for a significant portion of the year.
Best Activities in Berchem
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A beautiful park with walking paths, gardens, and a pond. Perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic.
Enjoy a scenic ride along the Scheldt River, with well-maintained cycling paths and lovely river views.
Explore the Mastenbos forest and enjoy nature trails, birdwatching, and peaceful surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Berchem with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Berchem
Visit one of these nice places.
This historic church offers a stunning view of Berchem and the surrounding area.
This beautiful park has several scenic spots that provide great photo opportunities.
Food in Berchem
Berchem Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich beef and onion stew, slow-cooked in Belgian beer and served with frites. Try it at Den Afspanning, a charming local eatery known for its soul-warming traditional fare.
Must-Try!
Steamed mussels served with crispy golden fries. For a memorable moules-frites experience, head to Au Vieux Port, a popular spot known for its fresh seafood and inviting atmosphere.
Indulge in crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside waffles topped with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or Belgian chocolate at Chez Fred, a renowned waffle house loved by locals and visitors alike.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Berchem better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit Vrijdagmarkt, Berchem's bustling open-air market, to sample an array of local treats such as artisanal cheeses, freshly baked bread, and delectable pastries. Don't miss the stall offering warm, gooey stroopwafels.
For an authentic Belgian street food experience, make your way to Frituur Max for a cone of piping hot, perfectly crispy frites served with an assortment of delectable sauces.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Berchem, Belgium, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, especially in formal or business settings. In more informal situations, a friendly nod or a light kiss on the cheek may be appropriate depending on the relationship with the person.
Punctuality is highly valued in Berchem, so it is important to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and social engagements. Being late without a valid reason may be seen as disrespectful.
Belgians, including those in Berchem, tend to value their personal space. It is important to respect the physical space of others and avoid standing too close or touching someone unless given explicit permission to do so.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Berchem with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Berchem
Ensure a smooth experience
In Berchem, Belgium, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. A 10% tip is generally acceptable in restaurants, cafes, and bars, although it is not uncommon for locals to simply round up the bill or leave small change as a token of appreciation.
In Berchem, Belgium, cash is widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. However, credit and debit cards are also commonly used for transactions. Contactless payments and mobile payment apps are increasingly popular, offering convenience and security for both customers and businesses.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Berchem.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Berchem, Belgium as the weather starts to warm up and the beautiful flowers begin to bloom. It's a good time for outdoor activities and exploring the greenery around the city.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Berchem, Belgium. The weather is warm, and there are various events and festivals happening around the city. It's an ideal time for outdoor dining and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Autumn in Berchem, Belgium is characterized by beautiful foliage and milder weather. It's a great time for leisurely walks in the parks and enjoying the fall colors.
Winter in Berchem, Belgium may be cold, but it can also be charming with festive decorations and Christmas markets. It's a great time to experience the cozy cafes and winter traditions in the city.
Berchem at Night
Hiking in Berchem
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic nature reserve with a variety of trails through heathland, forests, and marshes, ideal for hiking enthusiasts of all levels.
A spacious national park with diverse landscapes and well-marked hiking trails, featuring beautiful pine forests and heathlands.
A large urban park with walking paths and green spaces, offering a more relaxed hiking experience close to the center of Antwerp.
A serene nature area with a network of trails, perfect for a peaceful hike surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife.
A lovely area with gentle trails that allows visitors to enjoy the local flora and fauna, great for family hikes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Berchem through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Berchem by plane.
The largest international airport in Belgium, located approximately 40 km from Berchem.
A smaller international airport located about 7 km from Berchem, primarily serving regional flights.
A significant low-cost carrier airport located roughly 60 km from Berchem, catering mainly to budget airlines.
An international airport located about 90 km from Berchem, known for cargo flights but also handling some passenger traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Berchem consists of Belgian citizens.
Residents from other European Union countries contributing to the local demographic.
This includes residents from various countries outside the EU, such as Morocco, Turkey, and others.
Various immigrant communities make up significant portions of the population, contributing to the cultural diversity.
A demographic group consisting of children and teenagers, representing a vital part of the population.
This group encompasses the majority of the workforce in Berchem.
An important segment of the population that includes retirees and older adults.
The Soul of Berchem
Discover the essence of Berchem through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football, or soccer, is the most popular sport in Berchem, with numerous local clubs and a dedicated fan base.
Cycling is a prevalent sport in Berchem, both for recreation and competition, with several cycling events and pathways.
Basketball enjoys a strong following in Berchem, with various clubs and teams participating in local leagues.
Tennis is a popular recreational sport in Berchem, with several courts available and a thriving local tennis community.
Swimming is favored in Berchem, with local pools and clubs offering classes and competitions for all ages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Berchem.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Berchem boasts numerous eateries offering diverse vegetarian and vegan dishes. From creative plant-based burgers to hearty Mediterranean salads, there's no shortage of options for those seeking meat-free meals.
Many restaurants in Berchem provide gluten-free alternatives, ensuring that individuals with dietary restrictions can savor the local cuisine without worry. Be sure to inquire about gluten-free choices when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Berchem with these cultural adventures.
