Things To Do
in Dendermonde
Dendermonde is a vibrant city located in the East Flanders province of Belgium. It is known for its rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, as seen in its well-preserved architecture and historic monuments. The city is situated at the confluence of the Dender and Scheldt rivers, offering scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Dendermonde also boasts a lively cultural scene with museums, festivals, and a variety of dining and shopping options for visitors to enjoy.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $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 visit to the historical Dendermonde Town Hall, known for its unique Gothic architecture. Stroll through the nearby market square, enjoying the fresh morning atmosphere.
Explore the picturesque Beguinage, a serene UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy some local lunch at a quaint café before visiting the Dendermonde Museum.
Dine at a traditional Belgian restaurant, sampling local dishes like carbonnade flamande. End your day with a leisurely walk along the Dender River.
Rent a bike and embark on a scenic ride along the Dender River paths. Stop at beautiful parks and enjoy the greenery.
Continue your cycling adventure to nearby villages, taking in the charming landscape. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the riverbank.
After a rewarding day, relax at a local brewery tasting Belgian beers. Share stories and savor the cozy ambiance of the place.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with beautiful architecture and landmarks like the St. Hemelrijk Church.
- Vibrant local culture with regular festivals and events, enhancing community spirit.
- Good transportation links to major cities like Brussels and Antwerp.
- Scenic surroundings with access to nature and outdoor activities along the river Dender.
- Culinary delights and local specialties, including famous Belgian beers and chocolates.
- Limited shopping and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Public transport may not be as frequent or extensive as in bigger urban areas.
- Potential for higher costs of living in certain neighborhoods due to historical charm.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with frequent rain and damp conditions.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields, leading to potential commuting to nearby cities.
Best Activities in Dendermonde
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic walk along the banks of the Scheldt River and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding nature.
Explore the various cycling routes in and around Dendermonde, including the picturesque green spaces and countryside.
Take a relaxing stroll through the historic Beguinage, which offers a peaceful and charming atmosphere for outdoor exploration.
Tours
Uncover the best of Dendermonde with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Dendermonde
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a picturesque view of the River Scheldt and the cityscape
A historic setting with beautiful architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of Dendermonde
Provides a scenic view of the river and offers great photo opportunities
Food in Dendermonde
Dendermonde Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional pastry with a buttery crust, filled with a sweet and tangy semolina pudding. It can be found at local bakeries such as Van Gogh Bakery.
Must-Try!
A local delicacy featuring eel cooked in a vibrant green herb sauce. Visit restaurants like De Koning van Spanje to savor this classic dish.
This strong Belgian ale is a must-try for beer enthusiasts. Enjoy it at cozy taverns like 't Hemelrijck.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Dendermonde better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide array of fresh produce, local cheeses, and regional specialties like Geraardsbergen mattentaart.
For authentic Belgian fries and other delectable street snacks, head to this popular fry shop located at Sint-Gillislaan.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Dendermonde, it's customary to greet people with a handshake, especially in formal settings. Kissing on the cheeks is also a common greeting, especially among friends and family members.
Being punctual is considered polite in Dendermonde. Arriving on time for social gatherings and appointments is appreciated and demonstrates respect for others' time.
Belgians generally value personal space and may stand at a comfortable distance during conversations. It's important to be mindful of this and not invade others' personal space.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Dendermonde with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Dendermonde
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Dendermonde, Belgium is not obligatory, as a service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants and cafes. However, it is common to leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation for good service, usually rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% of the total.
In Dendermonde, Belgium, cash is widely accepted for payments, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used. Contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular. It's important for visitors to carry some cash for smaller purchases, especially in more rural areas or when dealing with smaller businesses.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Dendermonde.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (April to June) is a great time to visit Dendermonde, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. The city comes alive with outdoor markets, festivals, and cultural events.
Summer (July to August) offers warm weather perfect for exploring the city's parks, enjoying outdoor cafes, and attending summer concerts and events.
Fall (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and vibrant autumn foliage, making it a lovely time to take scenic walks along the river or explore the historic sites.
Winter (December to February) may be chilly, but the festive atmosphere and holiday markets add charm to the city. Visitors can enjoy winter activities and cozy up in cafes and restaurants.
Dendermonde at Night
Hiking in Dendermonde
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that offers beautiful views of the countryside and is perfect for a day hike. The route is well-marked and suitable for all skill levels.
Located a bit further from Dendermonde, this reserve features diverse flora and fauna and several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area.
This trail follows the Dender River and offers a mix of hiking and biking opportunities. Enjoy the serenity of the river while traversing this well-maintained path.
A local park featuring several walking paths and a picturesque environment, ideal for a leisurely hike with family and friends.
A large forested area providing various hiking trails through dense woods and serene landscapes, perfect for nature enthusiasts looking for a longer hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Dendermonde through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Dendermonde by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in Belgium, located approximately 30 km from Dendermonde.
An international airport located about 45 km from Dendermonde, mainly serving low-cost carriers.
A regional airport located around 36 km from Dendermonde, serving mainly domestic and European flights.
Located approximately 70 km from Dendermonde, this airport primarily serves cargo flights but also has passenger services.
Located about 100 km from Dendermonde, it serves holiday destinations and some scheduled services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents in Dendermonde are Belgian nationals, comprising a significant percentage of the population.
A notable number of residents hail from other EU countries, contributing to cultural diversity.
There is a smaller population of immigrants from non-EU countries, including individuals from Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
Dendermonde has a substantial youth demographic due to its educational institutions and vibrant community life.
A significant portion of the demographic is made up of elderly residents, reflecting the aging population trend.
The Soul of Dendermonde
Discover the essence of Dendermonde through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Dendermonde, with several local clubs participating in regional leagues.
Cycling is a favored activity in Dendermonde, benefiting from scenic routes and a strong cycling culture in Belgium.
Basketball has a growing following in Dendermonde, with youth programs and local teams contributing to its popularity.
Athletics events, including running, jumping, and throwing, are popular in Dendermonde, supported by local athletic clubs.
Field hockey enjoys a presence in Dendermonde, with clubs that encourage participation at various levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dendermonde.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Dendermonde offer delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as the vegan quiche at H'eerlijk.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy gluten-free waffles at Torenhuis Dendermonde and gluten-free pancakes at Pancakehouse Den Blakken.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Dendermonde with these cultural adventures.
