Things To Do
in Kraainem

Steamed mussels served with fries — a Belgian classic found in brasseries across Kraainem’s nearby neighbourhoods and central Brussels.

Must-Try!

Slow-cooked beef in a beer-based gravy, often with fries or mashed potatoes; look for it on brasserie menus in Tervuren and Woluwe.

Available from street vendors and specialist shops — try Maison Dandoy in Brussels or local chocolatiers for high-quality options.

Hand-cut fries served with many sauces — Maison Antoine (Place Jourdan) is a famous nearby example; perfect for a casual snack.

Belgium is multilingual (Dutch/Flemish and French locally, plus many English speakers). Be polite about language preferences — using a few words in Dutch or French is appreciated.

Punctuality is valued for appointments and tours; arrive on time for restaurant reservations and meetings.

Kraainem is a quiet residential area — keep noise down in residential neighborhoods, especially in the evenings.

A simple 'Bonjour' or 'Hallo' when entering shops is common courtesy; handshakes are standard in formal introductions.

Service is typically included in restaurant bills in Belgium; adding a small tip (5–10%) for good service or rounding up café and taxi fares is appreciated but not mandatory.

Cards (Visa, MasterCard) and contactless payments are widely accepted; have some cash (euros) for small markets, friteries and small vendors. Mobile payments are increasingly common.

Mild temperatures and blooming parks make it a lovely time for forest walks and outdoor cafés; occasional rain means carrying a light waterproof is wise.

Warm but rarely extreme heat; long daylight hours and outdoor terraces are enjoyable. Expect more tourists in Brussels and local events—book popular restaurants in advance.

Great for forest photography as leaves change color; cooler, crisp days and more unpredictable rain. Layers and waterproof footwear are helpful for trails.

Cold, gray and occasionally snowy; attractions are quieter and heating is reliable indoors. Shorter daylight hours mean planning daylight activities carefully.

Extensive, well-marked routes through ancient beech and oak woodland with different loop lengths — ideal for half- to full-day hikes.

Lakeside and avenue walks around Tervuren estate, combined with museum gardens and open parkland — easy, scenic routes.

Shorter walking circuits around ponds and green corridors suitable for relaxed walks and family outings.

Larger connected woodland areas a short drive away offering longer trail options and more remote nature experiences.

Long-term Dutch/Flemish-speaking families and retirees living in residential neighborhoods.

Many French speakers live in and around Kraainem given its proximity to Brussels’ francophone communities.

Large numbers of international staff and diplomats work in Brussels and choose Kraainem for its quiet, convenient location.

Kraainem is popular with families attracted to good schools, parks and a suburban lifestyle close to city jobs.

Vegetarian options are widely available in cafés and modern brasseries; many places list meat-free mains and vegetable-forward starters. Markets also offer plenty of produce and ready-to-eat salads.

Vegan choices have grown in Brussels’ eateries; look for dedicated vegetarian/vegan cafés or request modifications at bistros. Supermarkets and health-food shops stock plant milks and vegan alternatives.

Awareness of gluten-free needs is common in larger restaurants; specialty bakeries and health shops offer gluten-free breads and snacks. Always confirm with staff as cross-contamination can occur.

Halal and kosher options are available across Brussels; many restaurants and markets serve halal meats, especially near multicultural neighborhoods.