Things To Do
in Enghien
Enghien is a charming Belgian town just outside Brussels, set among green hills and tranquil waterways. Its compact center features well-preserved façades, a welcoming square, and easy riverside strolls. The town serves as a relaxed base for exploring both the capital’s culture and the rolling countryside of Brabant.
Expect a friendly, laid‑back atmosphere with convenient rail and road links to the region’s highlights.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a refreshing stroll through Enghien Park, a beautiful landscape that offers picturesque views and serene pathways. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance as you breathe in the fresh air and marvel at the vibrant colors of the flowers. Don’t forget to visit the elegant Château d'Enghien that sits within the park grounds, adding a touch of history to your morning walk.
After a relaxing morning, head to the nearby historical center for lunch at a local café, where you can savor traditional Belgian cuisine. Spend the afternoon exploring local boutiques and quaint shops, discovering unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. As you meander through the streets, take the time to appreciate the charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere of Enghien.
As dusk approaches, find a cozy restaurant to indulge in a delightful dinner featuring regional specialties. After your meal, take a leisurely evening stroll through the park again, where the setting sun casts a magical glow over the landscape. Cap off your day with a visit to a nearby bar for a taste of local Belgian beer, mingling with the friendly locals.
Start the day with a visit to the Museum of Enghien, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the region. The exhibits showcase local art, historical artifacts, and engaging stories that bring the town's past to life. Spend some time soaking in the artistic tapestry of the area before heading out for lunch.
For lunch, try a local bistro known for its hearty fare and warm hospitality, fueling you for an afternoon of exploration. Visit the nearby church of Saint-Nicolas, showcasing stunning architecture and intricate stained glass that tells tales of the past. Later, take a guided tour of the historic town center, where knowledgeable guides will share interesting tidbits about Enghien's heritage.
As evening arrives, enjoy a delightful dinner at a charming restaurant offering a variety of gourmet dishes. Experience the lively atmosphere as locals gather to socialize and enjoy their meals. After dinner, find a spot in a cozy café where you can wind down with a dessert or a warm drink, soaking in the inviting atmosphere of Enghien.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🥤Soft drink | $2-3 |
| 🚆Monthly public transport pass | $60-90 |
| 🏨Night in a mid-range hotel | $80-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Brussels with easy access to culture, parks, and markets
- Green landscapes, walkable streets, and relaxed pace
- Limited nightlife within Enghien itself (more options in Brussels nearby)
- Smaller town feel may mean fewer dining and entertainment options than larger cities
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la gare?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Enghien
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobbled streets and pastel façades provide timeless photo opportunities, especially around the main square and arcades.
A calm waterway with reflections of trees and architecture, ideal for golden-hour shots.
Ruined or restored chateau grounds (where accessible) offer atmospheric backdrops for moody landscape and portrait photos.
A picturesque ecclesiastical silhouette set against a calm sky, great for architectural photography.
Food in Enghien
Enghien Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Belgian classic: mussels cooked in white wine, herbs, and shallots, served with crisp fries. Common in brasseries around the town center.
Must-Try!
A rich Flemish beef stew braised in beer and onions, often enjoyed with fries or bread.
Creamy chicken or fish stew with vegetables; a comforting dish you’ll find on many menus.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering cheeses, bread, fruit, vegetables, and ready-to-eat snacks; look for fresh waffles and fries on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings (Monsieur/Madame) are appreciated. Use French in Enghien, with Flemish as a secondary language in some areas; a few residents may speak English, especially in tourist-facing spots.
Keep voices moderate in public spaces, especially near churches or residential areas. Respect queues, doors, and personal space.
Safety
Tipping in Enghien
Ensure a smooth experience
In Belgium, a service charge is often included in the bill. If not, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in casual eateries.
Cash and card payments are widely accepted; smaller cafés may prefer cash. Contactless payments are common for purchases and taxis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days and pleasant evenings; outdoor terraces buzz with locals and visitors. Bring light layers for cooler nights and keep hydrated while exploring the town and surrounding parks.
Colorful foliage and mild temperatures; good for scenic walks and photography in wooded lanes. Expect occasional rain, so pack a compact umbrella.
Chillier but dramatic in mornings and evenings; Christmas markets in nearby towns can add festive charm. Dress warmly and plan indoor stops for meals and drinks.
Blooming trees and longer daylight hours; ideal for outdoor strolls and cycling. Bring a light jacket for variable weather and enjoy café terraces reopening.
Enghien at Night
Hiking in Enghien
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Expansive, well-marked trails through a vast deciduous forest just southeast of Brussels; ideal for day hikes and nature photography.
Famous for its bluebell carpets in spring, with gentle loops and easy paths suitable for all ages.
Airports
How to reach Enghien by plane.
Major international hub about 20-40 miles from Enghien; frequent domestic and international flights and robust rail connections into the Brussels region.
Low-cost carrier hub located further south of Brussels; provides budget-friendly options with public transport links.
In France, a reasonable option for budget flights; access via rail or road through nearby cross-border routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly French-speaking with a mix of families, retirees, and professionals who commute to Brussels or nearby towns.
People who work in Brussels or larger towns, contributing to a cosmopolitan feel on market days and during events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across Belgium, with local clubs and recreational leagues for all ages.
Well-loved in the region, with scenic routes through countryside and easy day trips to nearby towns.
Common in local clubs and parks; suitable for casual play and clinics.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Enghien.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in most brasseries and cafés. Look for seasonal vegetable dishes, cheese plates, and adaptable entrees; don’t hesitate to ask for substitutions.