Things To Do
in Ekeren
Ekeren is a district located in the northern part of Antwerp, Belgium. It features a mix of residential areas, parks, and historic buildings. Ekeren is known for its green spaces, including the Ekeren Donk park which offers scenic views of the surrounding area.
The district has a rich cultural heritage and hosts various events throughout the year.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $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 local market for fresh produce and artisan goods. Enjoy a coffee at a nearby café while soaking in the local atmosphere.
Visit the beautiful Ekeren Castle and take a stroll through its gardens. Capture some photos and admire the architecture before heading to a nearby restaurant for lunch.
Relax at a local pub and enjoy some Belgian beer. End your day with a leisurely walk along the scenic paths of Ekeren.
Begin with a refreshing walk in the nearby nature reserve. The fresh air and greenery will invigorate you for the day ahead.
Pack a picnic and enjoy your lunch in a peaceful spot surrounded by nature. Take the time to unwind and appreciate your surroundings.
Attend a local outdoor event or concert if available. Alternatively, you can watch the sunset at a quiet park.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Good access to public transportation, making it easy to commute to nearby cities like Antwerp.
- A mix of urban and natural environments, with parks and green spaces available.
- Community-oriented neighborhood with local shops, cafes, and markets.
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and local events.
- Family-friendly atmosphere with schools and recreational facilities.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Housing prices may be rising as more people move to the area.
- Some areas may experience traffic congestion during peak hours.
- Public services may be less extensive than in major metropolitan areas.
- Weather can be rainy and gray, which may not appeal to everyone.
Best Activities in Ekeren
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride around the picturesque Ekeren Lakes.
Explore this beautiful park with various tree species and serene walking trails.
Spend a relaxing day by the lake, take a boat tour, or enjoy the surrounding nature.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ekeren with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ekeren
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic area with walking paths, ponds, and abundant wildlife, offering beautiful views and photo opportunities.
A charming village with picturesque streets and historic architecture, providing great photo opportunities.
A park area with a lake and greenery, ideal for capturing serene natural landscapes and wildlife photographs.
Food in Ekeren
Ekeren Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Stoofvlees (beef stew) served with crispy frieten (fries) is a Belgian classic. The succulent, slow-cooked beef simmered in a rich beer-based sauce makes for a comforting and satisfying meal. Try it at De Groote Witte Arend, a cozy restaurant known for its traditional Belgian fare.
Must-Try!
For a taste of the sea, indulge in Mosselen-friet, a dish featuring Belgian blue mussels served with crispy fries. The mussels are often cooked in a flavorful broth of white wine, herbs, and vegetables. Visit De Bomma for a delightful rendition of this beloved dish.
No visit to Belgium is complete without savoring a Liège waffle. These sweet, dense waffles are studded with pearl sugar, creating a caramelized crunch. Pair it with a variety of toppings such as fresh fruits, whipped cream, or chocolate sauce at Wafelhuis Van Hecke.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ekeren better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore Ekeren Markt, a vibrant market where you can sample local produce, cheeses, and artisanal bread. Enjoy freshly prepared street food such as Belgian frites, waffles, and scrumptious Belgian chocolates from various stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ekeren, Belgium, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially during conversations and interactions.
When meeting someone in Ekeren, Belgium, it is customary to greet them with a handshake, especially in formal or business settings.
Being on time is highly valued in Ekeren, Belgium, so it is important to be punctual for meetings and appointments.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ekeren with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ekeren
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ekeren, Belgium, tipping is not obligatory as a service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants, cafes, and bars. However, it is common to leave a small tip for good service, usually rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros.
Payment in Ekeren, Belgium is predominantly done through cash, credit/debit cards, and increasingly through digital payment methods such as mobile apps and online transactions. Most establishments accept major credit cards, and ATMs are easily accessible for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ekeren.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Ekeren, Belgium is in spring (March to May) when the weather is mild, and the city is in full bloom with colorful flowers. Expect to see the famous Keukenhof Gardens in nearby Netherlands and enjoy various outdoor activities.
Summer (June to August) is another great time to visit Ekeren, Belgium. Expect warm weather, longer days, and lively outdoor events such as music festivals and open-air markets. It is also the perfect time to explore the city's parks and enjoy outdoor dining.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. It is a good time to visit Ekeren, Belgium if you enjoy fall colors and want to experience local harvest festivals and seasonal cuisine.
Winter (December to February) may not be the most popular time to visit Ekeren, Belgium due to cold weather, but it offers a chance to experience the city's charming Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and cozy indoor activities.
Ekeren at Night
Hiking in Ekeren
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail along the Laarse Beek river, offering a peaceful hiking experience with beautiful natural surroundings.
A large park with several walking paths, perfect for a leisurely hike while enjoying urban nature and scenic views.
A lovely park with wooded areas and well-marked trails ideal for casual hikes and walks in nature.
A stunning nature reserve featuring heathlands and forests, offering various hiking trails with diverse landscapes.
A nature area with marked hiking trails that take you through serene landscapes and provide opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ekeren through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ekeren by plane.
The largest airport in Belgium, located approximately 52 km southeast of Ekeren, serving as a major international gateway.
A small international airport located about 6 km from Ekeren, primarily serving regional and some international flights.
Located approximately 80 km south of Ekeren, this airport mainly serves low-cost carriers and international flights.
Located about 100 km southeast of Ekeren, this airport primarily serves cargo but also offers some passenger flights.
Located approximately 106 km north of Ekeren, this airport serves mainly holiday destinations and some business flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This age group constitutes a significant portion of the population, often engaged in the workforce and family life.
Young adults typically beginning their careers and establishing families, contributing to the vibrant cultural scene.
Children and adolescents, representing the future demographic potential and community development.
Senior citizens, including retirees who contribute to the community in various ways, including volunteering.
Youth, often in education or early career stages, influencing future demographics and trends.
A diverse group contributing to the cultural richness and social fabric of Ekeren.
The Soul of Ekeren
Discover the essence of Ekeren through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport in Ekeren, played by various local clubs and enjoyed by many fans.
A favored recreational activity, with numerous cycling paths and routes available in and around Ekeren.
With several local tennis clubs, this individual sport is popular among residents for both recreation and competition.
Track and field activities are supported by local sports clubs, encouraging participation in various athletic events.
Growing in popularity, basketball is played in schools and local clubs across Ekeren.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ekeren.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ekeren caters well to vegetarians and vegans, with many establishments offering plant-based dishes. Look out for 'V' symbols on menus to indicate vegetarian options, and savor innovative vegan creations at Kaffeenini and De Groote Witte Arend.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free options at select eateries in Ekeren. Restaurants like De Kleine Zavel and Wafelhuis Van Hecke provide gluten-free variations of traditional dishes and delectable gluten-free waffles.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ekeren with these cultural adventures.
