Things To Do
in Kampenhout

Kampenhout is a small municipality in Flemish Brabant located just outside Brussels, known for its rural charm and green landscapes. Its town center blends centuries-old churches with quiet lanes and local farms. The surrounding fields and woods invite relaxed day trips and cycling routes.

Visitors discover a friendly countryside atmosphere with easy access to nearby Leuven and Brussels.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Local History
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the remarkable St. Martin's Church, where you can admire its stunning Romanesque architecture. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of Kampenhout, taking in the beautiful old buildings and local shops. Don't forget to stop at a local café for a traditional Belgian breakfast.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the nearby Provinciaal Domein Kessel-Lo for a peaceful hike through lush nature trails. Enjoy a packed lunch by the serene pond and soak in the tranquility of the park. Consider visiting the small museum dedicated to local history to learn more about the region.

evening
:

As the evening approaches, find a cozy restaurant in the town square to savor some authentic Belgian cuisine. Opt for a dish like waterzooi or stoofvlees paired with a local beer. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the twinkling streets, enjoying the hometown ambiance.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Begin your morning with a visit to Kampenhout's local art gallery, where you can appreciate works from up-and-coming Belgian artists. Engaging with the local art scene offers you a glimpse into the creative spirit of the town. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby bakery featuring locally made pastries.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon taking a guided bike tour of Kampenhout and its surrounding countryside. This is a wonderful way to explore the region’s picturesque landscapes and discover hidden gems. Stop at quaint villages along the way for tea or coffee and to meet friendly locals.

evening
:

Tonight, immerse yourself in Belgian nightlife by attending a local music event, which often features talented musicians from the area. Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Kampenhout’s bars, where you can mingle with locals over refreshing drinks. End the night by dancing to some live music, capturing the heart of the town's culture.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee$3-5
🥖Bread or groceries$2-5
🚊One-way public transit ticket$2-3
🛏️Hotel room per night (mid-range)$90-130

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Peaceful rural setting near Brussels and Leuven
  • Good value for money and relaxed pace
  • Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
  • Some rural spots may have limited English in menus and signage
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Doei" - Goodbye
  • "Alstublieft" - Please
  • "Bedankt" - Thank you
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Kampenhout

Visit one of these nice places.

Kampenhout Church and Town Square

Historic church set against a cobbled square—great for morning light.

Kampenhoutse Bossen Forest Trails

Lush green forests with winding paths and wildlife for nature photography.

Polder and meadow views near the outskirts

Open landscapes with skies and farmhouses; ideal golden hour shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kampenhout

Kampenhout and the surrounding Brabant region offer rustic Belgian cuisine based on seasonal produce, dairy, and local beers.

Kampenhout Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoverij (Beef Stew)

Rich Belgian beef stew simmered in dark beer and served with fries or bread.

Must-Try!

Moules-frites

Mussels simmered in beer or white wine with herbs, served with fries.

Waterzooi

Creamy stew typically made with chicken or fish and vegetables.

Belgian waffle

Light, crisp waffles perfect as a dessert or snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kampenhout Market

Weekly market offering seasonal produce, cheese, bread, and prepared foods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Belgium has a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool, wet winters. Rain is possible year-round, and conditions can change quickly.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Language and greetings

Dutch is the local language; greet with a friendly hallo/ goeiedag; use polite forms like alstublieft and bedankt.

Safety Guide

Safety

As in most small towns, safety is generally good. Keep an eye on valuables in crowded areas, and use standard travel precautions at night or in larger nearby cities.

Tipping in Kampenhout

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up or leaving around 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and cafes.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Blooming orchards and fields; pleasant temperatures for walking and cycling.

Summer

Long days and outdoor markets; bring sun protection and water.

Autumn

Harvest season with colorful foliage and soft lighting for photos.

Winter

Cool weather; town lights and nearby Christmas markets; layers recommended.

Nightlife Guide

Kampenhout at Night

Kampenhout has a quiet nightlife with local pubs and taverns; nearby Leuven or Mechelen offer more bars and live music options, often with student crowds and craft beers.

Hiking in Kampenhout

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kampenhoutse Bossen Forest Trails

A network of forest paths suitable for easy hikes and nature walks.

Mechelen–Leuven greenways (nearby)

Scenic routes connecting historic towns with gentle terrain for longer hikes.

Airports

How to reach Kampenhout by plane.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Main international gateway located about 25-40 miles away; accessible by train or car.

Antwerp International Airport (ANR)

Located to the north; smaller but useful for some routes; car or train transfer available.

Charleroi Airport (CRL)

Budget-friendly option southwest of Brussels; connected by road and rail.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kampenhout has a compact town center that is easy to explore on foot, but the surrounding countryside is best accessed by bike or car for broader exploration.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Residents

Predominantly Flemish-speaking families and retirees; mix of commuters to Brussels and Leuven; a small expatriate community.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Popular across Belgium; local clubs and casual play.

Cycling

Active regional culture; flat countryside supports long rides.

Tennis

Public courts in parks and clubs; seasonal bookings.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kampenhout is light; you’ll mostly navigate rural roads. Public transport links to larger cities exist via bus and train, with Brussels being a frequent destination; car travel is typically smooth, though peak times around major hubs can be busier.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kampenhout.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are common; look for salads, vegetable dishes, and cheese-based plates; ask for meat-free versions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Belgium offers high-quality healthcare. Local GP clinics exist in Kampenhout or nearby towns; for more specialized care, Leuven or Brussels hospitals are accessible by car or train. EU residents can use a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) where applicable; private insurance is recommended for visitors.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide