Things To Do
in Boechout

Boechout is a quiet Flemish municipality in the Antwerp province, just a short journey from the city of Antwerp. The town is framed by green fields and bike-friendly lanes that invite easy, leisurely exploration. Its historic center centers around a compact market square and traditional Belgian façades.

As a convenient base for day trips, Boechout blends a village atmosphere with quick access to urban culture and nature.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Boechout
morning
:

Arrive in Boechout and settle into your cozy accommodation, taking in the charming local architecture that surrounds you. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café where you can sample some Belgian pastries. Take a stroll through the quaint streets to get a feel for the town's charm.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Church of St. Rochus, a striking 18th-century building that showcases beautiful Baroque architecture. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby parks, where you can unwind in nature and perhaps enjoy a picnic. Capture picturesque moments with your camera as you wander through the lush landscapes.

evening
:

Savor a traditional Belgian dinner at a local brasserie, where you can indulge in delectable dishes like mussels and fries. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the peaceful streets, perhaps stopping for a refreshing Belgian beer at a local pub. End your day by enjoying the starry sky from a cozy spot in town.

day 2
Exploring Antwerp
morning
:

Take a short train ride to Antwerp, known for its vibrant fashion and arts scene. Start your day at the Cathedral of Our Lady, marveling at the stunning architecture and impressive art collections. Don't forget to grab a famous Antwerp hand-cut fries breakfast from a local vendor before setting off for more adventures.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the world, home to more than 7,000 animals. After the zoo, head to the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) where you can learn about the city’s history while enjoying panoramic views from the rooftop. Wander through the trendy shops in the fashion district to find unique souvenirs.

evening
:

For dinner, enjoy an exquisite meal at one of Antwerp's upscale restaurants, renowned for their culinary artistry. Post-dinner, visit a local jazz bar to experience a vibrant atmosphere filled with live music. Wrap up your evening with a romantic walk along the river, taking in the tranquil ambiance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee$3-5
🚆Public transport (single ride)$3-5
🏨One-night hotel$90-150
🛒Grocery staple (bread, cheese, milk)$5-12

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, safe town with easy access to Antwerp
  • Pleasant green spaces and cycle routes
  • Friendly locals and easy day trips by train
  • Limited nightlife within Boechout
  • Some services may be limited on Sundays
  • Weather can be changeable and rainy
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Waar is de trein?" - Where is the train?
  • "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Boechout

Visit one of these nice places.

Town square and historic church façade

Cobbled square with traditional façades and a prominent church spire, ideal for daylight photography.

Green belt and countryside

Rural lanes, hedgerows, and fields provide classic Belgian landscape shots.

Canals and river edges nearby

Waterways along the outskirts offer reflective sunset compositions.

Sunrise over farmland on the outskirts

Quiet spaces that catch the soft morning light for atmospheric shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Boechout

Belgian cuisine in this region blends hearty regional dishes with seasonal produce and a strong beer culture. Expect comforting classics, fresh seafood in season, and plenty of artisanal breads and cheeses.

Boechout Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoofvlees (Flemish beef stew)

A rich, slow-braised beef stew typically served with fries or crusty bread and a glass of dark ale.

Must-Try!

Mosselen met frietjes (mussels with fries)

Fresh mussels cooked in white wine and herbs, paired with crispy Belgian fries and a baguette for soaking up the sauce.

Waterzooi (chicken or fish stew)

Creamy, comforting stew with vegetables and herbs; widely available in Belgian bistros and brasseries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local weekly market (Boechout and nearby towns)

Fresh produce, cheese, bread, and ready-to-eat bites on market days, offering a taste of everyday Flemish life.

Markets in Antwerp

Vibrant markets with street-food stalls and regional specialties when you visit the city.

Climate Guide

Weather

Belgian climate is temperate maritime, with mild summers (approximately 17-25 C) and cool winters (around 0-7 C). Rain is common year-round, and humidity can be high. Spring and autumn are variable, while summer can be pleasantly warm but occasionally wet.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a handshake; use polite forms like u for formal interactions; Flemish people value courtesy.

Language and conversation

Most locals speak Dutch; English is common in tourist areas; learning a few basic Dutch phrases helps.

Public spaces

Respect queues, mind noise levels in late evenings, and stay on bike lanes when cycling.

Safety Guide

Safety

Belgium is generally safe for travelers. Petty crime exists in tourist areas and on public transport; keep belongings secure and use common sense at night. In emergencies, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Be mindful of bicycle theft in busy areas and near popular destinations.

Tipping in Boechout

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Service is often not included; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in casual dining.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still useful for small shops and markets; contactless payments are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming orchards; showers are possible; great for walking and outdoor photography.

Summer

Longer days and pleasant temperatures, with occasional rain; ideal for long strolls and outdoor dining.

Autumn

Cooler days and colorful foliage; perfect for cycling and scenic landscapes.

Winter

Chillier with potential frost and rain; cozy cafes and museums are good indoor options.

Nightlife Guide

Boechout at Night

In Boechout, nightlife is low-key with cozy bars and cafes. The nearby city of Antwerp offers a lively nightlife scene with numerous bars, beer cafés, live music venues, and clubs ranging from intimate jazz spots to large dance venues. Expect Belgian craft beers and a diverse selection of international options, especially on weekends. Many venues close around 1-2 AM, with public transport available for late returns.

Hiking in Boechout

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kalmthoutse Heide

Expansive heathland and forest trails just a short drive away; excellent for long hikes and birdwatching.

Schoten Forest (Schotenbos)

Wooded routes near Schoten for shorter hikes and nature walks.

Airports

How to reach Boechout by plane.

Antwerp International Airport (Deurne)

Closest airport with limited flights but easy access to the city by taxi or public transport.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Major international gateway about 45-60 minutes by train or car from Boechout.

Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL)

Alternate option with connections; typically longer travel times.

Eindhoven Airport (EIN, NL)

Nearby Dutch gateway suitable for low-cost carriers; about 1.5-2 hours by train or car.

Getting Around

Walkability

Boechout is very walkable within the town center and its surrounding neighborhoods. For broader exploration, bikes and short train rides to Antwerp are convenient, and there are well-maintained cycling routes connecting the area. Expect modest traffic on main roads during peak hours, but the town center remains pedestrian-friendly.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Demonym

Residents are primarily Flemish Dutch-speaking Belgians, with families and retirees making up much of the population; a small number of international residents due to Antwerp’s global links.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

A staple activity in the flat Flemish countryside; many routes start from Boechout.

Football (soccer)

Local clubs and matches are common in autumn and winter; community leagues thrive on weekends.

Tennis

Public courts are available in parks and clubs around Antwerp for seasonal play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light to moderate in Boechout; Antwerp’s ring roads can get congested during rush hours. Public transport (train, bus) is reliable for regional travel, with good connections to Antwerp and beyond. Bike lanes and cycling routes make two-wheeled travel convenient in good weather. Parking in the town center is limited but available in designated spots.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Boechout.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many places offer vegetarian options; look for veggie mains, dairy, eggs, and cheese, and don’t hesitate to ask for meat-free preparations.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Belgian healthcare is high-quality and universal. In Boechout you’ll find GP clinics and pharmacies; for more extensive care, Antwerp hosts hospitals and specialist centers. EU visitors can use their EHIC for emergency care; otherwise, private health insurance is advisable. Always carry your health insurance card and identification when seeking care.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide