Things To Do
in Lichtervelde

Lichtervelde is a small Flemish town in West Flanders that exudes rural charm and easy access to the region’s historic towns. Its quiet streets, local cafés, and friendly residents create a relaxed pace perfect for a countryside getaway. The town serves as a convenient base for day trips to Bruges, the Belgian coast, and other Northern Belgian towns.

Visitors can enjoy markets, cycling routes, and scenic farmland that showcase classic Flemish life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Lichtervelde, taking in the quaint architecture and local shops. Stop by the local bakery to sample fresh Belgian pastries and coffee, enjoying the morning sun. Visit the historic St. Martin's Church, where you can admire its stunning stained glass and peaceful ambiance.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a traditional Belgian café, embark on a guided walking tour to learn about the town's rich history and cultural heritage. Discover the unique stories behind Lichtervelde's landmarks and meet some friendly locals. Take some time to relax in the nearby park, where you can enjoy the serene surroundings and perhaps read a book under a tree.

evening
:

As the sun sets, dine at a local restaurant known for its exquisite Flemish cuisine, savoring dishes that highlight regional ingredients. After your meal, explore the vibrant nightlife, stopping by a local pub to enjoy a Belgian beer and chat with residents. End your day with a peaceful walk back to your accommodation, reflecting on the day's adventures.

day 2
Cycling Through the Countryside
morning
:

Rent a bicycle and set out on a picturesque ride through the lush Belgian countryside surrounding Lichtervelde. The early morning light casts a golden hue over the fields, making it a perfect time to capture stunning photographs of the landscape. Stop at a local farm to see the animals and learn about traditional farming practices.

afternoon
:

Continue your cycling journey to nearby villages, where you can explore quaint markets and sample homemade cheeses and other local delicacies. Enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch in a scenic spot, surrounded by nature's beauty. After lunch, visit a local museum or gallery that showcases the area's artistic heritage.

evening
:

Return to Lichtervelde and unwind at a cozy café, sipping on hot chocolate or a local brew. Join a community event or workshop if available, immersing yourself in the local culture and making new friends. As the evening draws to a close, take a peaceful stroll along the canal, listening to the sounds of nature.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🛏️Budget hotel room per night$40-90
🧀Local cheese or snack$3-6
Coffee$3-5
🚆Rail or bus fare (local travel)$2-8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, scenic Flemish town with easy access to Bruges and the coast
  • Pleasant countryside, welcoming locals, and affordable stays
  • Limited nightlife or big-city amenities in Lichtervelde
  • More driving or bus trips required for major attractions
  • "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
  • "Alstublieft" - Please
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
  • "Ik begrijp het niet" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Lichtervelde

Visit one of these nice places.

Bruges Canals at Dawn

Golden light along Bruges’ winding canals, with historic façades and bridges.

Lichtervelde Town Hall Square

Village square and church spires with Flemish architectural details in a quiet morning light.

Uitkerkse Polder

Wide polder views with reed beds, water channels, and birds—great for wide landscapes.

Wijnendale Forest Trails

Shade-dappled paths and calm woodland scenes, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lichtervelde

Belgian cuisine in West Flanders emphasizes hearty stews, fresh dairy, seafood, and excellent beers; expect wholesome flavors and seasonal produce.

Lichtervelde Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Moules-frites

Steamed mussels served with crisp fries, widely available in coast and Bruges region.

Must-Try!

Stoverij (Beef Stew)

Rich beef stew cooked in Belgian beer, commonly served with fries or bread.

Waterzooi

Creamy chicken or fish stew, a comforting classic in Flemish brasseries.

Belgian Waffles

Classic Brussels or Liège waffles enjoyed warm with toppings.

Cheeses and Charcuterie

Assorted regional cheeses and cured meats—perfect for a market snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Lichtervelde Market

Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and local seasonal produce; try regional cheeses and freshly baked bread.

Bruges Markt

Historic market square with seasonal stalls, seafood and pastries on market days.

Torhout Market

Nearby market with regional produce, cheeses, and street snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

West Flanders has a temperate maritime climate with mild summers (often around 20-22°C) and cool winters (around 0-5°C). Rain is common year-round; humidity and wind from the North Sea influence weather patterns.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting and Politeness

Greet with a handshake; use polite phrases: alstublieft (please), dank u wel (thank you).

Dress and Etiquette in Public Places

Casual but neat; modest attire in churches and formal settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is good in Lichtervelde; be mindful of traffic on rural roads, especially during early mornings or dusk. Keep valuables secure in tourist areas near Bruges; emergency number is 112.

Tipping in Lichtervelde

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Belgium generally includes service; if not, rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common.

Payment Methods

Cash (EUR) and cards are widely accepted; contactless and Bancontact/Payconiq are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with a maritime breeze; possible showers. Long daylight hours are perfect for cycling and canal walks, with coastal day trips popular.

Autumn

Cooler days and autumn colors; harvest markets and fewer crowds in Bruges and the coast.

Winter

Cool to cold with frequent rain; festive lights in Bruges; indoors are comfortable and cozy.

Spring

Mild temperatures, blooming countryside, and great light for photography and walking.

Nightlife Guide

Lichtervelde at Night

Lichtervelde is a quiet town with limited nightlife; most evening options are in nearby Bruges and Ostend with pubs, wine bars, live music, and river/canal views.

Hiking in Lichtervelde

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Wijnendale Forest Trail

Woodland loop near Torhout with easy paths and scenic forest scenery.

Uitkerkse Polder Trail

Polder and waterway paths ideal for birdwatching and wide landscapes.

Damme Lakes and Damme-Yser Coast Trail

Coastal inland trail with lakes and loops around the Damme area near the coast.

Airports

How to reach Lichtervelde by plane.

Ostend-Bruges International Airport (OST)

Closest international airport with regular flights; ~45-60 minutes by car from Lichtervelde.

Kortrijk-Wevelgem International Airport (KJK)

Smaller regional airport near Wevelgem; useful for European connections.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Major international hub about 1.5-2 hours by car or train from Lichtervelde.

Getting Around

Walkability

Lichtervelde is a small, walkable town with charming streets; however, for most major sights and coast trips you’ll rely on a car or public transport; cycle routes are well-developed in the region.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Dutch-speaking Flemish residents

Predominant demographic culture is Flemish with a mix of families, retirees, and nearby professionals.

Tourists from Belgium and neighboring countries

Seasonal visitors from the Netherlands, France, and the UK.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

A staple in the Flemish countryside; bike lanes and flat routes make it popular for day trips.

Football (Soccer)

Popular sport across Belgium with local amateur clubs.

Running and Tennis

Common in parks and club facilities in and around Lichtervelde.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is usually light in Lichtervelde; regional roads connect to Bruges and Ostend, with higher traffic near market days or holidays. Public transport is available via De Lijn buses and regional trains to Bruges and Ostend; driving to coastal towns is common for day trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lichtervelde.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Ask for vegetarische maaltijd; many places offer quiches and salads; emphasize cheese, eggs, and vegetables for protein.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible regionally through general practitioners and clinics in Lichtervelde and nearby towns; hospitals and emergency services are located in Bruges, Ostend, and Torhout; carry your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or private insurance. In emergencies call 112.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide