Things To Do
in Boortmeerbeek
Boortmeerbeek is a tranquil Flemish Brabant town nestled among rolling farmland and quiet waterways. It offers a quintessential Belgian village atmosphere with brick houses, local cafés, and a sense of rural charm just a short hop from larger cities. The area serves as a relaxed base for day trips to Mechelen, Leuven, and beyond, while still feeling distinctly local.
Expect friendly locals, scenic countryside, and easy access to regional markets and nature trails.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Boortmeerbeek and settle into your charming accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the village to get acquainted with the picturesque surroundings. Enjoy a local breakfast at one of the cozy cafes, sampling some traditional Belgian pastries.
Visit the local shops and artisan boutiques to discover unique handcrafted goods. Take a guided tour of the area to learn about the history and culture of Boortmeerbeek and its surrounding regions. Don't miss the beautiful parks where you can enjoy a peaceful afternoon outdoors.
Savor a delightful dinner at a renowned restaurant featuring classic Belgian cuisine. Join locals at a nearby pub to enjoy some Belgian beer and live music. End the night with a relaxing walk under the stars in the open squares.
Begin your day with a visit to the historic St. Martin’s Church, admiring its stunning architecture and serene ambiance. Then, stroll through the village and visit local museums that reflect the rich heritage of the area. Capture photographs of the charming countryside landscapes that surround the village.
Lunch at a quaint bistro will rejuvenate you for the afternoon activities. Spend your afternoon exploring the countryside on a bike, following the scenic paths that wind through colorful fields and idyllic farms. Make sure to visit the nearby historical site which offers insight into local traditions and practices.
Head back to Boortmeerbeek for dinner at another local favorite, where you can indulge in delectable regional specialties. Participate in a community event, such as a market or festival if one is occurring. Conclude the day with a stroll along the canals, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket | $2-4 |
| 🍺Local beer at a pub | $5-8 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, welcoming village vibe with easy access to larger cities.
- Good value for food and lodging near nature and culture.
- Limited nightlife within Boortmeerbeek itself.
- Public transport may require transfers to reach major hubs.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Waar is het station?" - Where is the station?
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Boortmeerbeek
Visit one of these nice places.
Quaint Flemish brick architecture around a compact square, ideal for daytime and golden-hour photography.
Lush wetlands and woodlands with reflective water surfaces and tranquil trails.
Expansive skies and hedgerow-lined fields perfect for wide landscape shots.
Open fields just outside town offering dramatic morning light and long shadows.
Food in Boortmeerbeek
Boortmeerbeek Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich braised beef stew served with fries or bread, a Belgian classic found in many local brasseries.
Must-Try!
Creamy chicken or fish stew with vegetables, a regional staple you may encounter in traditional eateries.
Belgian fries served hot with mayonnaise or a range of sauces.
Caramel-spiced biscuits enjoyed with coffee or tea.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly markets in Mechelen, Leuven, and surrounding towns offer fresh produce, regional specialties, and ready-to-eat treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; maintain polite eye contact and address people with titles and surnames until invited to use first names.
Dutch is the local language; many people also speak French or English. A few basic Dutch phrases are appreciated.
Being on time is valued in both social and professional settings.
Keep voices moderate in public spaces and show quiet respect in religious sites and during meals.
Safety
Tipping in Boortmeerbeek
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants. Cash tips are appreciated at smaller venues.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for markets and small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with plentiful daylight; occasional showers. Great for outdoor cycling, markets, and long village walks.
Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage; ideal for scenic drives, harvest meals, and mushroom foraging in nearby woods.
Mildly cold with frequent rain; cozy cafés, hearty Belgian dishes, and quiet countryside landscapes. Layer up for chilly mornings.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming countryside; perfect for nature walks, cycling, and casual day trips to nearby towns.
Boortmeerbeek at Night
Hiking in Boortmeerbeek
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Wetland and woodland trails with boardwalks and seasonal wildlife viewing.
Gentle trails along the river valley with scenic pastoral views suitable for easy to moderate hikes.
Airports
How to reach Boortmeerbeek by plane.
Main international gateway to Belgium; about a 30-45 minute drive or train ride to Boortmeerbeek with good rail connections.
Smaller international airport serving the Antwerp region; reachable with direct or transfer travel via rail and road.
Budget-friendly gateway; longer transfer times but good value for low-cost European travel.
Regional airport with several European connections; typically longer transfers to Boortmeerbeek.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, commuters, and older residents; primarily Dutch-speaking Flemings with multilingual abilities due to proximity to larger cities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cycling is deeply embedded in the region's culture, with many scenic lanes and rural routes.
Football (soccer) is widely played and followed; local clubs and regional matches are common on weekends.
Public courts and local clubs are available for casual play and beginner lessons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Boortmeerbeek.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Belgian brasseries offer vegetarian mains; look for cheese-based dishes, seasonal vegetables, salads, or inquire for vegetarian versions of stews or fish dishes.