Things To Do
in Merchtem
Merchtem is a charming municipality located in the Flemish region of Belgium. It is known for its picturesque countryside, historic architecture, and welcoming community. The town center features a beautiful church, a town hall dating back to the 17th century, and a variety of cozy cafes and shops.
Residents and visitors alike enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and traditional Flemish culture of Merchtem.
- "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 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely walk around Merchtem, enjoying the charming streets and local architecture. Don't forget to grab a coffee at a local café to fuel your morning.
Visit the local market to experience the Belgian culture and sample some fresh produce. Spend some time at a nearby park to relax and take in the natural beauty.
Dine at a traditional Belgian restaurant to indulge in local dishes. Enjoy a night stroll through the town center to see the area lit up beautifully.
Rent a bike and explore the scenic cycling routes around Merchtem. Enjoy the fresh morning air while pedaling through scenic landscapes.
Pack a picnic lunch and stop at a picturesque spot along your route. Take your time to enjoy the delicious food and beautiful surroundings.
Return to Merchtem and relax at a cozy pub for a drink. Share stories of your adventure with the locals and fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-town atmosphere with a close-knit community.
- Proximity to larger cities like Brussels and Antwerp for greater employment and entertainment options.
- Access to beautiful parks and outdoor recreational activities.
- Rich historical heritage with local architecture and cultural events.
- Good public transport connections enhancing mobility.
- Limited job opportunities within the town itself, which may require commuting.
- Smaller selection of shops and amenities compared to larger cities.
- Possible isolation for those seeking a more vibrant nightlife or cultural scene.
- Potential language barrier for non-Dutch speakers in local interactions.
- Public transport options may be limited during off-peak hours.
Best Activities in Merchtem
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
An exciting outdoor park featuring aerial trails and zip lines, perfect for adventure seekers and families wanting to experience nature from above.
Explore the scenic countryside and charming villages surrounding Merchtem by bike, with well-marked cycling routes suitable for all levels.
Enjoy a relaxed day at local parks such as the Egenhovenpark, perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, and enjoying the greenery.
Discover various hiking trails that offer beautiful views and opportunities to immerse yourself in the local flora and fauna.
Participate in local community events, markets, and festivals that often feature outdoor activities, local crafts, and food stalls.
Tours
Uncover the best of Merchtem with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Merchtem
Visit one of these nice places.
A historical site in the nearby Waterloo that offers stunning panoramic views of the battlefield and surrounding countryside.
An impressive castle with beautiful gardens and picturesque views, known for its stunning architecture and scenic surroundings.
A unique building and museum with futuristic architecture, providing a great vantage point to capture panoramic views of the city and beyond.
Food in Merchtem
Merchtem Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Flemish beef stew slow-cooked in beer and served with crispy Belgian fries. Not to be missed at 'Café De Lindekens'.
Must-Try!
Steamed mussels from the nearby North Sea served with a side of golden fries. Best enjoyed at 'Brasserie De Drie Koningen'.
Belgian endives wrapped in ham, smothered in creamy cheese sauce, and baked to perfection. A must-try at 'Brasserie Het Vuur'.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Merchtem better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience the bustling Merchtemse Markt, where local vendors showcase fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and delightful pastries. Don't miss the crispy waffles and warm stroopwafels from the street food stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Merchtem, as in much of Belgium, it is customary to greet people politely. Use 'Bonjour' in French-speaking areas or 'Goedemorgen' in Dutch-speaking areas. A friendly handshake often accompanies greetings, and addressing people with 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' shows respect.
If invited to someone's home for a meal, it is polite to bring a small gift such as flowers or chocolates. Wait for the host to begin the meal before starting to eat. Keeping your hands on the table (but not elbows) and using utensils for most foods is common.
Being on time is highly valued in Belgian culture. Arriving late to appointments or social gatherings can be considered disrespectful. It’s recommended to arrive on time or a few minutes early to show that you value the other person’s time.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Merchtem with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Merchtem
Ensure a smooth experience
In Merchtem, Belgium, tipping is generally appreciated but not obligatory. It is common to leave a small amount of change or round up the bill in restaurants and cafés as a sign of appreciation for good service. In more upscale establishments, a tip of around 10% may be expected, but again, this is not mandatory.
Merchtem offers various payment options, including cash, credit/debit cards, and contactless payments. Most restaurants, shops, and services accept major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or markets that may not accept cards. In recent years, digital payment methods have also become more popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Merchtem.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Merchtem, Belgium. The weather is usually mild and the flowers are in bloom.
Another great time to visit Merchtem, Belgium. The weather is warm and the days are long, perfect for outdoor activities.
A good time to visit Merchtem, Belgium. The foliage is beautiful and the weather is still pleasant.
The holiday season is a charming time to visit Merchtem, Belgium. The town is decorated and there are festive events.
Merchtem at Night
Hiking in Merchtem
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Enjoy a scenic hiking trail that runs through the beautiful Meise Botanic Garden, offering a variety of landscapes and a wide array of plant species.
A moderately challenging trail that winds through the surroundings of Laarne Castle, providing both historical context and picturesque views.
A network of trails in Beverbeek Park, suitable for all levels, featuring lush greenery and small water bodies, ideal for a leisurely hike.
Located a bit further but worth the trip, Zoniënwoud offers vast forest trails with rich biodiversity and peaceful surroundings perfect for nature lovers.
A tranquil hike along the Dender River, providing beautiful views and a mix of urban and natural scenery.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Merchtem through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Merchtem by plane.
The largest international airport in Belgium, located approximately 25 km from Merchtem.
A major international airport serving low-cost airlines, located about 55 km from Merchtem.
A smaller airport catering to regional flights, located around 50 km from Merchtem.
One of the largest cargo airports in Belgium, also serving passenger flights, located roughly 80 km from Merchtem.
An international airport that serves both passengers and cargo, located approximately 110 km from Merchtem.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Merchtem speaks Dutch, as it is located in the Flanders region of Belgium.
A smaller segment of the population speaks French, reflecting the bilingual nature of certain areas in Belgium.
This includes individuals from various international backgrounds, primarily from European and North African countries.
A significant proportion of the population consists of children and teenagers, reflecting the family-oriented nature of the community.
An increasingly growing demographic group within Merchtem, reflecting trends in aging populations in many European cities.
The Soul of Merchtem
Discover the essence of Merchtem through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Merchtem, with various local clubs and a strong community following.
Cycling is a favorite pastime in Merchtem, thanks to its beautiful landscape and cycling trails.
Athletics, including track and field events, has a dedicated following in Merchtem, with local clubs promoting the sport.
Basketball is also popular in Merchtem, with various clubs and activities for youths and adults.
Tennis enjoys popularity in Merchtem, with local courts and clubs catering to players of all ages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Merchtem.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Merchtem offer delicious vegetarian options, such as hearty salads, vegetable tarts, and creamy pasta dishes.
While vegan options may be limited, some eateries are accommodating and can prepare plant-based dishes upon request. 'Groen Eten' offers a creative vegan menu.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free alternatives at select restaurants and cafes. 'De Groene Mangerie' specializes in gluten-free pastries and baked goods.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Merchtem with these cultural adventures.
