Mariakerke
,Mariakerke is a charming suburb located just outside the city of Ghent in Belgium. It is known for its peaceful residential neighborhoods and green spaces, making it a popular choice for families. The area offers easy access to the city center of Ghent, with its historic architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
Mariakerke also boasts a lovely beach along the North Sea coast, providing residents with a relaxing seaside escape.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Mariakerke
morning
:Start your day with a refreshing stroll along the beach. Grab a coffee at a local café and enjoy the ocean views.
afternoon
:Visit the nearby Oostende city center for some shopping and local sights. Make sure to check out the fishing port to soak in the maritime atmosphere.
evening
:Dine at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood dishes. Enjoy a relaxing walk on the beach as the sun sets.
Cultural Day
morning
:Take a guided tour of the Mariakerke heritage sites. Enjoy the architecture and learn about the local history.
afternoon
:Stop by the Mariakerke Maritime Museum to see intriguing exhibits. Participate in hands-on activities if available.
evening
:Indulge in a dinner at a traditional Belgian restaurant. Try local dishes like carbonnade flamande or moules-frites.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful beachside location with picturesque views of the North Sea.
- A variety of water sports and recreational activities available.
- Family-friendly atmosphere with attractions suitable for all ages.
- Close proximity to the city of Ostend, offering additional cultural and dining options.
- A vibrant local community with events and festivals throughout the year.
Bad
- Can be crowded during the peak summer season, impacting the experience.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Higher accommodation prices during tourist season.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with cooler temperatures outside of summer.
- Potential for tourist traps that can increase costs for food and attractions.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Beach Volleyball
Enjoy a game of beach volleyball on the sandy shores of Mariakerke's beach, which offers several courts for both casual and competitive play.
Cycling along the Coast
Explore the beautiful coastline of Mariakerke by cycling along the designated bike paths that offer scenic views of the sea and beachfront.
Walking on the Promenade
Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, where you can enjoy the fresh sea breeze, picturesque views, and plenty of shops and cafes.
Water Sports
Participate in various water sports activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, or sailing offered by local rental shops along the beach.
Picnicking in the Park
Relax and enjoy a picnic in one of the nearby parks or green spaces, perfect for families and friends to gather.
Sunbathing
Soak up the sun on Mariakerke's beach, which is a popular spot for sunbathers looking to enjoy the warm weather.
Fishing
Try your hand at fishing from the beach or nearby piers, where local anglers often catch a variety of fish.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Mariakerke with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Raversijde Domain
This historic site features dunes, trails, and a beach, offering stunning views and photo opportunities.
Mariakerke Beach
The beach provides beautiful coastal vistas and photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Domein 17
A park with a lake and open spaces, ideal for capturing scenic views and nature photography.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Moules-frites
A classic Belgian dish featuring mussels steamed with white wine, garlic, and parsley served with crispy fries. Be sure to try this at De Klipper, a popular seafood restaurant known for its excellent moules-frites.
Must-Try!
Waterzooi
A creamy stew originating from Ghent, made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and seasoned with herbs. Enjoy an authentic bowl of Waterzooi at De Graslei, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Belgian fare.
Carbonade flamande
A flavorful beef and onion stew slow-cooked in Belgian beer and served with bread or frites. You can savor this hearty dish at De Hipste Friet Fabriek, a cozy eatery celebrated for its delicious Flemish stews.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Mariakerke better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Mariakerke Sunday Market
Explore the vibrant Mariakerke Sunday Market to discover local produce, cheese, freshly baked bread, and an array of street food stalls offering delectable treats like Belgian waffles, frites, and artisanal chocolates.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
When meeting someone in Mariakerke, it's common to greet with a handshake. Make sure to maintain eye contact and offer a friendly smile as this shows respect and warmth.
Dining Etiquette
If you are invited to someone's home for a meal, it is polite to bring a small gift, such as flowers or dessert. Wait to be seated and keep your hands on the table during the meal, but not your elbows.
Punctuality
Being on time is important in Belgian culture. Aim to arrive at appointments and social gatherings a few minutes early to show respect for the host's time.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Mariakerke with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Mariakerke, as in the rest of Belgium, tipping is generally appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, it is customary to round up the bill or leave small change if service is satisfactory. A tip of around 5-10% is considered generous for exceptional service. However, many restaurants include service charges in the bill, so tipping may not be necessary.
Payment
In Mariakerke, various payment methods are accepted, including cash and credit/debit cards. Most establishments, such as restaurants and shops, will accept major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard. Contactless payments are also common, and many locals prefer using cards over cash for convenience. It's advisable to check with individual businesses regarding their accepted payment methods.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Mariakerke.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring is a great time to visit Mariakerke, as the weather starts to warm up and the flowers bloom. Expect pleasant temperatures and the start of outdoor events and festivals.
Summer
Summer is the peak tourist season in Mariakerke, with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. Visitors can enjoy the beaches, outdoor activities, and vibrant local events.
Autumn
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a peaceful time to visit Mariakerke. Enjoy the changing foliage, local harvest festivals, and a quieter atmosphere.
Winter
Winter in Mariakerke is chilly, but the holiday season brings festive markets, seasonal lights, and a cozy atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy indoor attractions and cultural events.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Mariakerke Beach
A scenic beach area perfect for walking and enjoying the coastal views, with sandy paths that are suitable for light hiking.
Kasteel Ter Borch
This historic castle has surrounding grounds and forested areas, ideal for a nature walk and light hiking.
Zoute Coast Trail
A coastal trail that offers beautiful views of the North Sea, making it a wonderful hiking spot along the beach and dunes.
The Oosteroever
A nature reserve featuring a range of trails through wetlands and forests, providing an opportunity for a relaxing hike.
Leopoldpark
A well-maintained park in nearby Ostend with walking paths surrounded by greenery and sculptures, suitable for casual hikes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Mariakerke through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Mariakerke by plane.
Brussels Airport (BRU)
The largest and busiest airport in Belgium, located approximately 70 km from Mariakerke.
Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL)
A major international airport mainly serving low-cost airlines, located about 124 km from Mariakerke.
Antwerp International Airport (ANR)
A smaller international airport located approximately 102 km from Mariakerke, primarily serving regional flights.
Liège Airport (LGG)
An international airport located around 133 km from Mariakerke, known for cargo operations but also serving passenger flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Ethnic Belgians
The majority ethnic group in Mariakerke, typically consisting of individuals with Belgian nationality, often speaking Dutch or French.
Turkish Community
A significant immigrant group known for their cultural heritage and contributions to the local economy.
Moroccan Community
Another prominent immigrant group in Mariakerke, contributing diverse cultural influences and businesses.
Italian Community
An established community with historical ties, often involved in local gastronomy and craftsmanship.
Eastern European Immigrants
A growing demographic, primarily consisting of individuals from Poland, Romania, and other Eastern European countries.
Sub-Saharan African Community
A smaller but vibrant group, contributing unique cultural diversity and social dynamics to the area.
The Soul of Mariakerke
Discover the essence of Mariakerke through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is one of the most popular sports in Mariakerke, with various local clubs and a strong community supporting youth and adult leagues.
Cycling
Cycling is a favored activity in Mariakerke, thanks to its scenic routes and dedicated cycling paths. The area hosts various cycling events and races.
Beach Volleyball
Given its coastal location, beach volleyball is a popular sport, especially during the summer months, attracting both locals and tourists to the beaches.
Swimming
With access to both pools and the sea, swimming is a common recreational and competitive sport among residents of all ages.
Running
Running clubs and events are prevalent in Mariakerke, encouraging fitness and community spirit among its residents.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Many establishments in Mariakerke offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options ranging from freshly prepared salads to creative plant-based entrees. Look out for 'veggie' or 'vegetarisch' labels on menus for these choices.
Gluten-Free Friendly
Travelers with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free options at several restaurants and cafes in Mariakerke. These venues often have dedicated menus or indicate gluten-free dishes on their regular menus for easy identification.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Mariakerke with these cultural adventures.
