Things To Do
in Menen
Menen is a small city located in the Belgian province of West Flanders, near the French border. It is known for its historical importance as a key strategic location during both World Wars. The city has a charming town center with picturesque buildings and a bustling market square.
Menen also offers outdoor recreational activities along the Leie River and the Leievallei nature reserve.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful stroll in the Parc des Eaux. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and the beautiful landscapes as you breathe in the fresh morning air.
Visit the local cafes for lunch and try traditional Belgian waffles. After, explore the nearby historical sites, including the town square and old architecture.
Relax in the evening by visiting a local restaurant for dinner. Try some regional dishes while soaking in the local ambiance.
Begin at the Menen Town Hall, a beautiful building filled with local history. Spend some time appreciating its architecture and learning about the town's past.
Head to the Menen War Cemetery to pay respects and learn about the significance of this site. Wandering through the grounds offers a sobering but important glimpse into history.
Unwind with a casual dinner at a nearby bistro. Reflect on the history you've learned while enjoying some comforting local cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming historical architecture and a quaint town center
- Rich cultural heritage with local festivals and events
- Proximity to larger cities like Ghent and Antwerp for easy access to urban amenities
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals
- Beautiful natural surroundings with opportunities for outdoor activities
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities
- Fewer job opportunities in specialized fields
- Smaller selection of restaurants and entertainment compared to urban centers
- Potential for a quieter lifestyle that may not suit everyone
- Economy may be slower-paced, affecting growth and development
Best Activities in Menen
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful natural landscapes and trails in the Menen area, such as the Nonnebossen Woods or Leiekasteel Park.
Enjoy biking along the scenic paths that follow the Leie River, offering picturesque views of the surrounding countryside.
Relax and enjoy a picnic in one of Menen's charming parks, such as the Burgemeester Pouseelepark or Preshoekbos.
Tours
Uncover the best of Menen with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Menen
Visit one of these nice places.
This historic church offers a scenic view of Menen and its surroundings, perfect for photos.
The bridge provides a picturesque vantage point for capturing the river and the cityscape of Menen.
While technically in nearby Ypres, this iconic monument is a must-see for its architectural beauty and historical significance.
Food in Menen
Menen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy soup or stew made with fish or chicken, vegetables, and cream. It's a popular dish and can be found at many local restaurants like De Rooden Hoed.
Must-Try!
A rich beef stew often cooked with beer and served with fries. Café de Dreve is known for its excellent Stoofvlees.
Local waffles that are thicker and chewier than Brussels waffles, often served with whipped cream, fruits, or chocolate. Look for them at Maison Dandoy or Waffle Factory.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Menen better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh local produce, cheeses, meats, and more. There are also food stalls offering street food delicacies like frites and grilled sausages.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Menen, it's customary to greet people with a handshake, particularly when meeting someone for the first time. It's also polite to maintain eye contact during the greeting.
Being punctual is highly valued in Menen. Arriving on time for social and business appointments is considered respectful.
When dining in Menen, it's important to wait until the host signals to start eating. It's also polite to keep your hands visible on the table during the meal and to express appreciation for the food.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Menen with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Menen
Ensure a smooth experience
In Menen, Belgium, tipping is not mandatory but it is appreciated for good service. It is common to round up the bill or leave a 5-10% tip at restaurants if the service was satisfactory.
Payment in Menen, Belgium is widely done using cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted in most establishments. Contactless payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Menen.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Menen, Belgium, with the city coming to life as flowers bloom and temperatures start to warm up. It's a great time to explore the city's parks and gardens and enjoy outdoor activities.
Summer is peak tourist season in Menen, Belgium, with long days and warm weather perfect for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor festivals and events. The city is bustling with energy during this time.
Autumn brings a mix of mild weather and beautiful foliage to Menen, Belgium. It's a great time for exploring the surrounding countryside and enjoying the fall colors.
Winter can be cold in Menen, Belgium, but the city takes on a festive atmosphere with Christmas markets and holiday decorations. It's a cozy time to visit and experience the local winter traditions.
Menen at Night
Hiking in Menen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that meanders along the Schorrebeek river, offering a blend of forest paths and open fields.
A beautiful nature reserve with well-marked hiking paths surrounded by diverse flora and fauna.
A tranquil park with walking trails, ideal for leisurely hikes among beautiful greenery.
A picturesque hiking trail that follows the Dender River, featuring peaceful views and ample wildlife.
A unique trail that explores the local dairy industry while providing a nice walking experience through the countryside.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Menen through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Menen by plane.
Located approximately 112 km from Menen, this is the main international airport in Belgium, serving numerous international destinations.
Located about 128 km from Menen, this airport primarily serves low-cost airlines and offers a variety of European destinations.
Situated around 44 km from Menen in France, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, mostly within Europe.
Located approximately 360 km from Menen, it serves as a major international airport for the tri-national area of France, Germany, and Switzerland.
About 97 km from Menen, this smaller international airport focuses on a limited number of destinations, mainly within Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population in Menen, consisting of citizens holding Belgian nationality.
A significant demographic group with historical roots in the region, mainly involved in various industries.
A sizable community contributing to the cultural and economic landscape of Menen.
Citizens from other EU countries residing in Menen, including those from France and the Netherlands.
A diverse group of residents from non-EU countries, contributing to the multicultural fabric of Menen.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Menen, with many local clubs and a strong community support for the teams.
Cycling is a favored activity in Menen, thanks to the many scenic routes available, making it popular both as a sport and recreational activity.
Basketball has a significant following in Menen, with various teams and youth programs fostering local talent.
Athletics, including running and field events, is actively promoted in Menen through local clubs and competitions.
Volleyball is also well-liked in Menen, with community leagues and school competitions encouraging participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Menen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Menen offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, including Brasserie Florian and Menen Vlaming.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable options at Menen Vlaming and can also enjoy traditional frites which are typically gluten-free.