Things To Do
in Hemiksem
Hemiksem is a quiet Flemish town on the Scheldt river just southeast of Antwerp. It blends riverside scenery with a compact historic center and green bike paths. The town makes a good base for exploring the broader Antwerp region, with easy access to museums, markets, and nature reserves.
Visitors will find a relaxed pace, charming local cafés, and scenic views along the water.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by taking a short train ride from Hemiksem to the magnificent city of Antwerp. Once there, stroll through the cobbled streets, admiring the stunning architecture of the Cathedral of Our Lady and the picturesque buildings surrounding the Grote Markt. Stop by a local bakery to savor a freshly baked croissant paired with a rich cup of Belgian coffee.
After lunch at a charming café, immerse yourself in the art world by visiting the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, where masterpieces from Flemish painters await. Take time to explore the vibrant district of Het Zuid, known for its galleries and boutiques. Don’t forget to treat yourself to some Belgian chocolates at one of the renowned chocolatiers in the area.
As the sun sets, make your way to the vibrant Meir shopping street for a bit of retail therapy. Choose a cozy restaurant for dinner where you can indulge in traditional Belgian dishes like stoofvlees or moules-frites. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely evening walk along the River Scheldt, taking in the city lights reflecting on the water.
Begin your day by visiting the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) in Antwerp, where you can explore the city's rich maritime history and cultural heritage. The panoramic views from the rooftop are breathtaking and offer a perfect photo opportunity. Spend time in the museum shop, where you can find unique local crafts and souvenirs.
After your museum visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery known for its delicious Flemish stew. In the afternoon, head to the Red Star Line Museum, which tells the story of thousands of immigrants who left Europe for America. Engage with the interactive exhibits that bring their stories to life, connecting you to the past.
End your day with a visit to the trendy neighborhood of Zurenborg, famous for its Art Nouveau architecture. Choose a local bistro for dinner and experience the warm hospitality of the locals. As night falls, enjoy a drink at a nearby bar, soaking in the atmosphere of this eclectic area.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🚆Public transit ticket (local) | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Antwerp and easy day trips
- Riverside scenery and relaxed pace
- Pleasant cycling and walking routes
- Good value for money in a quiet area
- Friendly locals and authentic Flemish experience
- Limited nightlife within Hemiksem
- Small town amenities may require trips to Antwerp
- Public transport coverage not as dense as larger cities
- Weather can be changeable along the river
- Limited multilingual signage in very local spots
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please/Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much is this?
- "Kunt u langsgaan alsjeblieft?" - Could you help me, please?
- "Ik begrijp het niet" - I don’t understand
- "De rekening alstublieft" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Hemiksem
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide water views with old barges and boats; ideal for sunrise shots over calm waters.
Historic abbey grounds with green paths and architectural details suitable for moody, historic photography.
Quaint squares and churches with Flemish brickwork, perfect for street photography.
Food in Hemiksem
Hemiksem Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mussels cooked in white wine and herbs, served with thick Belgian fries, a seaside favorite along the Scheldt.
Must-Try!
Slow-simmered beef in beer with onions and crusty bread, a comforting staple in Belgian homes.
Creamy fish or chicken stew with vegetables, often enjoyed with crusty bread.
Golden, crispy waffles usually topped with cream, fruit, or chocolate.
Spiced shortcrust cookies often enjoyed with coffee or as a dessert component.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small weekly market offering fresh produce, cheese, bread, and seasonal specialties.
Nearby Antwerp markets offer diverse street foods, seafood stalls, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch (Flemish) is the local language; English is widely understood in tourist areas; polite greetings matter.
A handshake is common; maintain polite address 'U' in formal situations; say 'alstublieft' and 'dank u wel'.
Be patient in queues; speak calmly in public; avoid loud conversations in quiet areas.
Safety
Tipping in Hemiksem
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants.
Cards widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash is still useful for markets and small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight; occasional showers; carry water, sunscreen, and a light layer for evenings by the river.
Mild to cool days with colorful foliage along the river; great for outdoor photography and cycling.
Cold and damp with short daylight; cozy cafés, and festive lights in nearby Antwerp; dress in layers.
Fresh greens, blooming trees along the river, and pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities.
Hemiksem at Night
Hiking in Hemiksem
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Pleasant walking and light hiking along the Scheldt with views of boats and river life.
Wooded trails and historical sites; a day trip away from Hemiksem for forest walks (near Puurs).
Expansive nature reserve with heathland trails; ideal for longer hikes; outside a bit but reachable for a day trip.
Airports
How to reach Hemiksem by plane.
Small airport serving regional flights; about a 20-30 minute drive or 40-60 minutes by public transit from Hemiksem.
Major international hub about 40-60 minutes by train or car from Hemiksem; frequent connections to Belgian cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Flemish-speaking families and retirees; a mix of professionals commuting to Antwerp.
Tourists from Belgium and neighboring countries exploring the Antwerp region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Belgium; local clubs and matches on weekends.
Extensive bike paths along the Scheldt; cycling is a common pastime and mode of transport.
Public and club tennis courts available in nearby towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hemiksem.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options include veggie stews, salads, grilled vegetables, and vegetarian quiches; ask for dairy-free soups or plant-based emulsions.