Things To Do
in Bornem

Mussels served with fries — a Belgian classic often available in riverside brasseries and seasonal menus along the Scheldt.

Must-Try!

Slow-braised beef in a rich beer sauce, usually served with fries or mashed potatoes; a warming local favorite at family restaurants.

Thick-cut, twice-fried fries sold at snack bars and markets; try with traditional mayonnaise or more adventurous local sauces.

A range of Belgian and regional brews are available in cafés and restaurants — sample a local amber or farmhouse ale with your meal.

A small weekly market in the town center (check local listings for days) where you can buy bread, cheese, produce and local snacks — ideal for tasting regional products.

In summer there are occasional stalls or events along the Scheldt serving grilled fish, waffles and drinks — a good way to try street-style local flavors.

Dutch (Flemish) is the local language. Use simple greetings like 'Hallo' or 'Goede morgen' and polite phrases; many people also speak Dutch-accented French or English in tourist contexts.

Belgians value punctuality for appointments and tours — arrive on time.

Keep voices moderate in public spaces and be polite when entering small shops or cafés; a brief 'goeiedag' on entry is appreciated.

Follow local recycling and waste rules — separate paper, glass and household waste as required.

Service is generally included in restaurant bills in Belgium, but it’s customary to leave small change or round up for good service (5–10%). In cafés, leaving coins is appreciated but not mandatory.

Belgium uses the euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops, restaurants and hotels; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common. In smaller cafés or markets, have some cash on hand.

Warm (often 20–25°C/68–77°F) with long daylight hours and many outdoor activities; riverside events and markets are more frequent but expect occasional showers.

Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage in parklands and polders; wetter and windier at times — good season for moody photography and quieter visits.

Cold and damp with temperatures often near freezing; snow is possible but not guaranteed. Shorter days and fewer services/events, but pleasant for quiet walks and cozy cafés.

Mild weather, blooming fields and returning birdlife make it an attractive time for cycling and walks; occasional rain showers are common.

Short, easy loops through the castle grounds and gardens — ideal for family walks and photography.

A walk around historic fortifications and wetlands offering varied terrain and good birdwatching.

Linear riverside trails that can be walked in sections toward Hingene, Temse or Dendermonde for peaceful river scenery.

Flat routes across agricultural landscapes and alongside canals; great for longer hikes or combined walking-and-cycling outings.

Vegetarian options are increasingly common in cafés and bistros (salads, cheese-based dishes, vegetable stews). Tell staff 'Ik ben vegetarisch' to clarify. Markets also offer produce for DIY meals.

Vegan choices are available but more limited in smaller towns; larger supermarkets carry plant-based alternatives, and some cafés will adapt dishes on request.

Gluten-free bread and options exist in supermarkets and some cafés; always inform restaurants of celiac needs ('glutenvrij, alstublieft') and confirm cross-contamination risks.

Halal-specific restaurants are uncommon in Bornem; visitors can find vegetarian or fish options, or travel to nearby larger towns (Antwerp) for broader halal dining choices.