Things To Do
in Ekeren
Ekeren is a leafy district just north of Antwerp, known for its green spaces and easy access to the city center. It blends quiet residential streets with small local markets and traditional Flemish cafés. The area serves as a calm base for exploring Antwerp's historic sights while remaining close to nature along the nearby canals and parks.
With efficient public transport and a village-like atmosphere, Ekeren offers a relaxed Flemish getaway without straying far from urban amenities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Ekeren and check into your accommodation. Spend the morning wandering around the charming streets, soaking in the quaint atmosphere of this Belgian town. Visit a local café for your first taste of Belgian pastries and coffee.
After lunch, explore the local parks, such as Park Drie Fonteinen, where you can enjoy the fresh air and beautiful landscapes. Consider visiting the Ekeren Municipal Museum to learn about the local history and culture. A leisurely stroll through the park will introduce you to the local flora and fauna.
For dinner, enjoy a meal at a traditional Belgian brasserie. Experience the local cuisine by trying dishes such as carbonnade flamande or moules-frites. End your evening with a nightcap at a cozy pub, where you can taste some Belgian beers.
Visit the nearby city of Antwerp, just a short tram ride away, to start your day. Focus on the renowned Cathedral of Our Lady, a stunning Gothic structure housing masterpieces by Rubens. Spend your morning soaking in the architectural beauty and history of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
After lunch at a nearby eatery, stroll through the vibrant neighborhoods, visiting the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) to discover more about the city’s maritime history. Take a walk along the picturesque riverfront for scenic views and photo opportunities. Feel the lively atmosphere of the city infused with culture and creativity.
Return to Ekeren for a quiet evening, winding down at your accommodation. If you're still hungry, try a local pizzeria or explore a different cuisine that the area has to offer. Relax with a book or enjoy a leisurely walk under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-6 |
| 🚇Public transit day pass | $6-10 |
| 🏨1 night in mid-range hotel | $80-150 |
| 🍷Beer at a local pub | $5-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Nearby Antwerp offers rich culture, architecture, and cuisine within easy reach
- Calm, safe, and green suburb with quick access to city life
- Limited nightlife within Ekeren itself; best experienced in Antwerp
- Weather can be rainy; plan outdoor activities with indoor options in mind
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het station?" - Where is the station?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ik heb een reservering" - I have a reservation
- "De rekening alstublieft" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Ekeren
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide waterway with cargo ships and reflections, especially beautiful at dawn or golden hour.
Extensive park with ponds, woodlands, and formal gardens—ideal for nature photography and macro shots.
Expansive heathland and woodland with seasonal colors; wide vistas and boardwalks for panoramic shots.
Food in Ekeren
Ekeren Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Belgian mussels cooked in beer or white wine with onions and herbs, served with thick fries.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked beef in beer with onions, often served with bread or fries.
Creamy chicken (or fish) stew with vegetables, typically served with bread or potatoes.
Crisp, golden waffles with toppings like whipped cream, chocolate, or fruit; a classic treat for a tasting stop.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local produce, bread, cheese, and ready-to-eat treats on market days, with seasonal specials.
Fresh seafood, vegetables, Belgian snacks, and regional delicacies a short ride away.
Look for frites stands, croquettes, and beer stalls near market squares for quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch (Flemish) is the local language. A basic greeting in Dutch is appreciated; use a formal 'U' with strangers and handshake on first meetings.
Be punctual for appointments and patient in queues; cashless payments are widely accepted, but carry some cash for small vendors.
Safety
Tipping in Ekeren
Ensure a smooth experience
In Belgium, a service charge is often included in the bill; if not, a tip of 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants. Rounding up at cafes or bars is acceptable but not mandatory.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; occasional showers. Great for outdoor markets, canal strolls, and park picnics; stay hydrated and carry a light rain layer.
Milder days with crisp air; colorful foliage in parks and heathlands. Perfect for photography, hiking, and enjoying seasonal markets.
Cool to cold with possible rain or frost; many outdoor attractions are quieter, but cozy cafes and museums are inviting year-round.
Blooming gardens and trees; comfortable temps for cycling and outdoor markets. Gardens and park trails are particularly scenic.
Ekeren at Night
Hiking in Ekeren
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Expansive nature reserve with heathland and forests; popular for long walks and panoramic views.
Accessible trails through parks and green spaces, suitable for easy hikes and family outings.
Airports
How to reach Ekeren by plane.
Small regional airport serving general aviation and some charter flights; easy access to Ekeren and Antwerp.
Major international hub; about 30-60 minutes by rail or road from Antwerp; broad connections to Europe and beyond.
Major international hub accessible via rail/air routes with connections to many destinations; longer transfer if coming from Ekeren.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant local population; diverse but shares common language and cultural background.
A smaller but growing community drawn by Antwerp's port, business, and cultural offerings.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played across Belgium; local clubs and matches can be found in the Antwerp region.
A staple activity for locals and visitors, with scenic routes along canals, parks, and heathlands.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ekeren.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Belgian dishes center on meat, but vegetarian options are common; look for menu sections marked 'vegetarisch' or ask for cheese and vegetables, and choose meat-free dishes.