Things To Do
in Destelbergen
Destelbergen is a quiet Flemish suburb east of Ghent known for its leafy residential streets, riverfront along the Leie and easy access to Ghent’s cultural attractions. The municipality balances small-town charm with plenty of green spaces, cycling routes and river views that attract families and outdoor lovers. Its proximity to Ghent makes Destelbergen a peaceful base for exploring medieval squares, canals and top restaurants while avoiding the bustle of the city center.
You’ll find local cafés, small parks and riverside paths that highlight typical Belgian suburban life with good transport links to larger cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely walk in the serene surroundings of the local parks, where you can enjoy the fresh air and the beauty of nature. The tranquil atmosphere allows for reflection and revitalization. Don't forget to bring along your camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
Afterward, head to a quaint café nearby to grab a delicious Belgian lunch, complete with homemade pastries. While you eat, take a moment to socialize with friendly locals who are often eager to share tips about the area. This intimate dining experience will give you a taste of Belgian culture.
In the evening, immerse yourself in local music at a nearby venue, where artists frequently perform traditional Flemish tunes. The ambiance filled with melody offers a perfect way to wind down. Enjoy some local brews while you soak in the lively atmosphere.
Kick off your day at a nearby art gallery that showcases works from local artists, providing insight into the creative scene within Destelbergen. Participate in an interactive workshop where you can try your hand at creating your own piece of art. The morning will spark your imagination.
After your artistic exertions, have lunch at a café that features rotating exhibitions, allowing you to enjoy delicious food surrounded by art. Connect with some artists who frequent the space to gain deeper insights into their creative processes. Engaging in conversation enriches your understanding even further.
Wrap up the day by attending an art exhibition or a cultural event at a local community center where you can enjoy performances from local artists. This vibrant atmosphere allows for interaction with residents who share similar interests in art. Share your thoughts on the event over a drink at a local bar afterward.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| ☕Coffee at a café | $3-4 |
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (pub) | $3-5 |
| 🚆Local train ticket (short ride) | $3-8 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $80-140 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Ghent’s major attractions while remaining quiet and green
- Excellent cycling and riverside scenery along the Leie
- Good transport links to Ghent and other Belgian cities
- Access to quality Belgian cuisine and craft beer in nearby Ghent
- Limited nightlife and dining options within Destelbergen itself
- Weather can be changeable with frequent rain
- Smaller-town services and shops may close earlier than in the city
- Some attractions require a short trip into Ghent or neighboring towns
- "Hallo / Dag" - Hello / Hi
- "Dank u wel / Dankje" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Ik heb hulp nodig" - I need help
Places to Visit in Destelbergen
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour reflections, willow trees and moored boats along the Leie offer picturesque compositions and calm water reflections.
Historic row of guild houses and lively riverfront — an iconic Ghent vista especially beautiful at sunrise and after dark when the facades are lit.
Architectural details, soaring towers and the cathedral interior (including art) provide strong subjects for both wide-angle and detail photography.
A photogenic moated castle not far from Destelbergen with formal gardens and scenic approaches ideal for classic landscape shots.
Quiet country roads around Destelbergen are lined with hedges, seasonal blossoms and agricultural scenes — great for pastoral photographs.
Food in Destelbergen
Destelbergen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mussels served in a flavorful broth with crispy fries — widely available in season at seafood restaurants and brasseries in Ghent and along the river.
Must-Try!
Flemish beef stew slowly cooked in beer with onions and thyme — a warming classic served at many local taverns and family-run restaurants.
A creamy stew of fish or chicken with vegetables, originally from Ghent — try at traditional restaurants for a regional specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Destelbergen and nearby Ghent have weekly markets where you can sample fresh bread, artisanal cheeses, local charcuterie and seasonal produce — look for stalls selling waffles, Vlaamse frites and regional cheeses.
In Ghent, markets and food stalls offer street snacks, seafood stands and specialty food vendors — an excellent place to try regional beers and quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch (Flemish) is the local language. Learn a few polite phrases and greetings — people appreciate attempts to use the local language even though many speak English.
Belgians value punctuality for appointments and social gatherings; be polite, avoid loud behavior in residential areas and say ‘dank u’ (thank you) and ‘alstublieft’ (please) as appropriate.
Follow local recycling rules and be mindful of quiet hours in the evenings and on Sundays in some neighborhoods; respect private property and leash rules for dogs.
Safety
Tipping in Destelbergen
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is typically included in restaurant bills but leaving small change or rounding up to the nearest euro for good service is common; for exceptional service, a 5–10% tip is appreciated but not expected.
Cards (international debit/credit, Maestro, Visa, Mastercard) and contactless payments are widely accepted, especially in Ghent; carry some euros in cash for small shops, market stalls and village cafés which may be card-reluctant.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming trees and increased bird activity make spring ideal for cycling and nature walks; expect occasional rain and muddy paths after heavy showers.
Warm but rarely hot summers with long daylight hours — perfect for river outings, outdoor terraces and festivals in Ghent; bring sun protection and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Crisp air and colorful foliage along the Leie and parks; excellent season for photography and cozy cafés, though daylight shortens and rains become more frequent.
Chilly and damp winters with occasional frosts; snow is infrequent but possible — indoor cultural attractions, hearty cuisine and warm beers are appealing alternatives to outdoor plans.
Destelbergen at Night
Hiking in Destelbergen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat, scenic trails following the Leie river ideal for easy hikes, birdwatching and peaceful riverside walks.
A protected wetland and meadow area with boardwalks and marked routes for observing wildlife and enjoying quiet walks.
Trails and parkland around the castle offer pleasant walks among formal gardens and along the moats; good for short hikes and photography.
Regional greenways and country lanes around Destelbergen provide longer walking loops connecting small villages, farmland and woodlands.
Airports
How to reach Destelbergen by plane.
About 50–60 km from Destelbergen; international hub with many connections. Reachable by car (roughly 45–60 minutes depending on traffic) or by train via Brussels with a transfer in Ghent or Brussels.
Approximately 60 km away; smaller airport with short-haul European flights. Accessible by car or a combination of train and local transit.
Around 80 km from Destelbergen; budget airline flights operate here. Often requires a coach or train transfer via Charleroi and Brussels to reach Ghent/Destelbergen.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Destelbergen is home to many local Flemish families and commuters who work in Ghent or nearby industrial/business zones.
Due to proximity to Ghent University, the wider area includes students and international young professionals living in suburbs and the city.
A modest international community exists, attracted by jobs in Ghent, international companies and academic institutions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cycling is both a popular leisure activity and a common commuting method, supported by extensive bike lanes and flat terrain.
Rowing clubs and small boating on the Leie and canals are popular, reflecting the region’s strong waterway culture.
Local amateur football clubs are active, as in much of Belgium, with community teams and youth programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Destelbergen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Belgium is increasingly vegetarian-friendly: many restaurants offer vegetarian mains and Ghent has several fully vegetarian/vegan cafés; ask staff for recommendations and specify ingredients as some dishes use meat-based stocks.
Vegan options are common in Ghent and improving in suburbs; look for vegan cafés and use apps or ask at restaurants — smaller local places may have limited choices.
Gluten-free options are available but variable; bakeries and small cafes may not have many choices, so communicate clearly and check menus in advance.