Things To Do
in Grimbergen
Grimbergen is a picturesque town located in the Flemish Brabant province of Belgium. It is known for its historic abbey, which dates back to the Middle Ages and is a popular tourist attraction. The town has a charming atmosphere with cobblestone streets, traditional architecture, and beautiful parks.
Grimbergen also boasts several breweries that produce the renowned Grimbergen beer, adding to its cultural richness.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the renowned Grimbergen Abbey, famous for its rich history and beautiful architecture. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about its founding and significance.
After lunch, stroll through the charming streets of Grimbergen, taking in the local shops and cafes. Stop by the local market for a taste of artisanal products.
Conclude your day with dinner at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Belgian cuisine. Take a leisurely walk to enjoy the ambiance of the town at night.
Start with a hearty breakfast before heading to the local brewery for a tour. Learn about the brewing process and the history of Grimbergen beer.
Enjoy sampling different beers from the brewery after the tour, chatting with the staff about their brewing techniques. Then, visit a nearby park for a relaxing afternoon.
For dinner, try a restaurant that pairs well with beer, showcasing their unique menus. End the night at a cozy pub, enjoying live music or board games.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with beautiful architecture
- Famous for its breweries and traditional Belgian beer
- Charming small-town atmosphere
- Proximity to Brussels, making it easily accessible
- Pleasant parks and green spaces
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Can be touristy during peak seasons
- Small size may mean fewer amenities
- Transportation options may be limited compared to larger urban areas
- Potential language barrier for non-French speakers
Best Activities in Grimbergen
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the historical Grimbergen Abbey, known for its picturesque gardens and impressive architecture.
Explore the scenic countryside around Grimbergen on a bike ride, taking in the beautiful natural landscapes.
Enjoy leisurely walks or more challenging hikes in the nearby countryside and forests.
Tours
Uncover the best of Grimbergen with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Grimbergen
Visit one of these nice places.
Provides a stunning view of the Abbey and its surroundings, offering great photo opportunities.
A historic windmill that offers picturesque views of the surrounding countryside, perfect for photo opportunities.
Food in Grimbergen
Grimbergen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A semi-hard cheese with a distinct taste, often enjoyed as a standalone snack or as an ingredient in various local dishes. Try it at Fromagerie Matthys, renowned for its high-quality cheeses.
Must-Try!
A classic Belgian beef stew slow-cooked in beer and served with frites. Visit Brasserie het Verloren Gedicht to savor an authentic preparation.
A creamy stew traditionally made with fish or chicken, flavored with vegetables and herbs. Sample this dish at De Mouterij, known for its traditional Belgian cuisine.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Grimbergen better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This lively market offers a delightful array of local produce, cheeses, and baked goods. The food stalls feature delicious street food such as waffles, frites, and fresh seafood.
An annual event celebrating local gastronomy, where visitors can relish an assortment of street foods, artisanal treats, and beverages while immersing in the town's vibrant festivities.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Grimbergen, it is important to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Being polite and using formal titles such as 'Mr.' and 'Mrs.' is also appreciated.
Belgians generally value their personal space, so it's important to respect physical boundaries and avoid standing too close when conversing or interacting with others.
Being on time for social and business engagements is important in Grimbergen. Additionally, when dining, it's customary to wait for the host to start eating and to keep your hands visible on the dining table.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Grimbergen with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Grimbergen
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory in Grimbergen, Belgium, as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, it is customary to leave a small tip of around 5-10% for exceptional service.
In Grimbergen, Belgium, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular, and most establishments, including restaurants and shops, accept major international credit cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Grimbergen.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit Grimbergen, with milder temperatures and blooming flowers. You can expect the city to come to life with outdoor events and festivals.
Summer (June to August) brings warm and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the green spaces and parks around Grimbergen. The city is bustling with tourists and events during this time.
Autumn (September to November) offers beautiful foliage and crisp temperatures, creating a picturesque setting for walks and sightseeing. The harvest season brings local food festivals and cultural events.
Winter (December to February) may be cold, but it also brings the charm of Christmas markets and the opportunity to indulge in cozy indoor activities. The city is decorated with festive lights and decorations.
Grimbergen at Night
Hiking in Grimbergen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park surrounding the historic Grimbergen Castle, offering well-maintained walking paths and beautiful views.
Located just a short drive from Grimbergen, this extensive garden features numerous walking trails amidst diverse plant species.
With its extensive grounds, this park offers tranquil hiking routes and opportunities to explore a wide variety of flora.
A nature reserve nearby featuring picturesque trails along the valley and river, perfect for a day hike.
A large forested area ideal for hiking, offering multiple trails and a peaceful natural environment, just a short drive from Grimbergen.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Grimbergen through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Grimbergen by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in Belgium, located approximately 12 km southeast of Grimbergen. It serves as a major hub for international and domestic flights.
An international airport located about 46 km south of Grimbergen, serving low-cost airlines and offering flights to various European destinations.
Located around 45 km north of Grimbergen, this airport primarily serves regional flights and general aviation. It also has limited international connections.
A smaller airport located approximately 65 km southeast of Grimbergen, mainly serving general aviation and limited commercial flights.
Located about 95 km east of Grimbergen, this airport is significant for cargo flights but also provides some passenger services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Grimbergen are Belgian nationals, constituting a significant demographic group.
This group includes individuals from various countries, contributing to the multicultural aspect of Grimbergen.
A notable proportion of the population consists of elderly individuals, reflective of aging demographics in the region.
Young people, including students and young professionals, make up a vital demographic in Grimbergen.
The Soul of Grimbergen
Discover the essence of Grimbergen through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played in Grimbergen, with several local clubs and a passionate following.
Grimbergen is known for its cycling paths, making it a favored activity among locals and cycling enthusiasts.
Basketball is practiced in local schools and clubs, contributing to community engagement and youth sports.
Volleyball is played recreationally in Grimbergen, with various teams participating in local leagues.
Running has gained popularity in Grimbergen, with numerous events and trails attracting runners of all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Grimbergen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most local eateries offer a variety of vegetarian dishes, with many restaurants having dedicated sections on their menus for vegetarian choices. Den Breughel and Café du Heysel are particularly recommended for their vegetarian offerings.
While fewer in number, several restaurants in Grimbergen cater to vegans, serving plant-based dishes and accommodating special requests. Café du Heysel is a popular choice for its vegan-friendly menu.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable options at many dining establishments, with a growing awareness of gluten-free requirements. Den Breughel stands out for its diverse gluten-free offerings.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Grimbergen with these cultural adventures.
