Things To Do
in Dilbeek
Dilbeek is a quiet, leafy municipality in the Flemish Brabant province just west of Brussels, known for its village atmosphere, historic churches and scattered farms. It sits inside the gentle rolling landscape of the Pajottenland and functions as a commuter town with good rail and bus links to central Brussels. Visitors find a mix of small-town Belgian life, cycling routes, and easy access to larger urban attractions while enjoying lower tourist crowds.
Cultural events, local markets and access to nearby forests (Hallerbos, Sonian Forest) make Dilbeek a pleasant base for short stays or day trips in the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic church of Sint-Anna, where you can admire the stunning architecture and intricate stained glass windows. Afterward, stroll through the quaint streets of Dilbeek's old town, taking in the charm of traditional Belgian houses. Don’t forget to stop by a local bakery to grab a fresh croissant and coffee to energize your exploration.
In the afternoon, head to the Dilbeek Museum, where you can delve into the local history and culture through fascinating exhibits. After your museum visit, take a leisurely walk in the nearby park, soaking in the serene surroundings and perhaps enjoying a picnic with local delicacies. As the sun sets, visit a small café for a refreshing Belgian beer, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.
In the evening, dine at a traditional Belgian restaurant where you can savor local dishes like carbonnade flamande. After dinner, take a stroll around the town square, where you might find local musicians performing, adding to the lively ambiance. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar, reflecting on the experiences of your first day in Dilbeek.
Begin your day with a refreshing walk at the beautiful Park of Coloma, known for its stunning rose garden and picturesque landscapes. Spend some time exploring the various walking trails, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the natural beauty. Don’t forget your camera, as there are plenty of opportunities for beautiful photographs along the way.
After your morning walk, head to the nearby village of Sint-Martens-Bodegem for a delicious lunch at a local eatery, sampling some regional specialties. Post-lunch, visit the local nature reserve, where you can experience the diverse flora and fauna, and perhaps spot some local wildlife. This peaceful retreat provides an ideal setting to unwind and connect with nature.
As evening approaches, return to Dilbeek for dinner at a restaurant offering classic Belgian cuisine. Enjoy a cozy atmosphere as you relish traditional dishes, paired with a fine selection of local wines. After your meal, stroll through the illuminated streets, appreciating Dilbeek's charm at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee (café) | $3-5 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (0.5L at a bar) | $4-6 |
| 🚆Single regional train ticket to Brussels | $3-6 |
| 🚕Taxi start (and short ride) | $4-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, scenic base close to Brussels with lower tourist density
- Excellent cycling and walking routes in the Pajottenland and nearby forests
- Authentic small-town Flemish life and easy access to Brussels' attractions
- Good public transport connections to the capital
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options compared with Brussels
- Some attractions and services close early — less activity late at night
- Fewer specialized dietary or niche shopping options than in a big city
- "Hallo / Goedendag" - Hello / Good day
- "Dank u wel / Dankjewel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het station?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Dilbeek
Visit one of these nice places.
Picturesque castle grounds with formal gardens, seasonal blooms and architectural details ideal for daytime photography.
Rolling fields, traditional farms and windmills provide pastoral landscapes best captured at golden hour.
In spring the forest floor fills with bluebells — a popular and photogenic spot (short drive from Dilbeek); arrive early to avoid crowds.
Dilbeek’s central squares, old churches and street scenes offer authentic small-town Flemish photography opportunities.
Food in Dilbeek
Dilbeek Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked beef and beer stew, slightly sweet and rich — commonly found at neighborhood brasseries and family restaurants in and around Dilbeek.
Must-Try!
Crisp double-fried fries served with a variety of sauces; try them at local friteries or casual takeaway spots.
Pajottenland and Brussels-region producers offer farmhouse cheeses and cured meats sold at markets and delis.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A typical small-town market (check local schedules) where you can buy bread, cheese, seasonal produce and occasional prepared snacks; a good place to sample local flavors and meet producers.
Within a short train ride you can reach larger markets (e.g., Sunday markets and food markets in Brussels) offering street food, waffles, chocolate and other Belgian specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch (Flemish) is the local language. People in service roles usually speak good English; polite greetings (Hallo, Goedemorgen) go a long way.
Belgians value punctuality — be on time for tours, appointments and social commitments.
Respect quiet hours in residential areas (especially late evening); keep noise down in apartment buildings.
Safety
Tipping in Dilbeek
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is generally included in restaurant bills; tipping is not obligatory but rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is appreciated. For taxis and small services, rounding up is common.
Cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Keep some cash (euros) for small vendors, market stalls and some cafés that prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming countryside; prime time for visiting Hallerbos to see the bluebells (usually April/May). Expect changeable weather and occasional rain showers.
Warm, pleasant weather good for cycling, outdoor markets and picnics. Peak travel in nearby Brussels can make transport busier; pack sun protection and light layers for cooler evenings.
Crisp air and colorful foliage across woodlands and farmland — great for hiking and photos. Rain increases in late autumn; bring waterproof gear.
Cold and grey with short daylight hours; occasional frost or snow. Many local cafes serve warming dishes and Belgian beers; some outdoor attractions may have reduced hours.
Dilbeek at Night
Hiking in Dilbeek
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Famous for spring bluebells; easy to moderate woodland walks with waymarked paths — best early in the morning in peak bloom to avoid crowds.
Large ancient beech forest offering longer hiking routes, varied scenery and a tranquil escape from urban areas.
Network of rural paths and minor roads through rolling farmland, ideal for scenic day hikes and circular walks between villages.
Airports
How to reach Dilbeek by plane.
Main international airport (Zaventem), about 20–35 km from Dilbeek depending on route; accessible by car, taxi or train connections to Brussels with onward regional transport.
Budget carrier airport south of Brussels, roughly 45–60 km away; cheaper flights possible but longer transfer times to Dilbeek by shuttle or bus plus train.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are native Flemish families who have lived in Dilbeek for generations or moved here for quieter suburban life.
A sizeable portion of the population commutes daily to Brussels for work, creating a professional, family-oriented demographic.
Proximity to Brussels' international institutions attracts some expats and international workers, contributing to cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport with many local clubs and youth teams; weekend matches are common in village pitches.
Cycling is both a sport and a common recreational activity — road cycling through the hills and commuting by bike are widespread.
Club sports such as field hockey and tennis have local followings and facilities around the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dilbeek.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in cafés and restaurants, though traditional dishes are meat-forward. Look for seasonal vegetable plates, Belgian cheeses, omelettes and veggie versions of popular dishes; always ask staff (in English or Dutch) for vegetarian options.
Vegan choices exist but are more limited than in big cities; specialized shops and some cafés offer plant-based dishes — Brussels has more options a short commute away.
Awareness of gluten-free diets is growing; many cafés can provide gluten-free bread or indicate which dishes are safe, but confirm with staff to avoid cross-contamination.