Things To Do
in Ternat
Ternat is a quiet Flemish municipality in the province of Flemish Brabant, situated between Brussels and Aalst, with a mix of small-town charm and rural landscapes. The town features historic churches, manor houses and green lanes that make it pleasant for cycling and relaxed walks. Many residents commute to Brussels, giving Ternat a residential feel while still offering local cafés, bakeries and a handful of traditional pubs.
Its location makes it a convenient base for exploring both the Brussels region and the scenic Pajottenland countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by taking a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Ternat's historic center, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and quaint shops. Stop by the local bakery to try some fresh Belgian pastries, accompanied by a warm cup of coffee. As the morning unfolds, visit the Church of St. John the Baptist, known for its stunning stained glass windows and serene atmosphere.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the rich history of Ternat by visiting the local museum, where you can learn about the town's heritage and cultural significance. After the museum, take a relaxing walk in the nearby Park of the Castle, enjoying the lush greenery and perhaps a picnic lunch on the grass. Explore the nearby artisan shops, where you can purchase local crafts and specialties to take home.
As the sun sets, head to a cozy restaurant in the heart of Ternat to savor authentic Belgian cuisine, including moules-frites or carbonnade flamande. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk along the picturesque streets, soaking in the evening ambiance as the town lights illuminate the historic buildings. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a local bar, where you can sample some craft beers brewed in the region.
Kick off your day with a refreshing hike in the nearby Zoniënwoud (Sonian Forest), where you can experience the tranquility of nature amidst towering trees. The morning light filtering through the leaves creates a magical atmosphere as you walk along the well-marked trails. Keep an eye out for local wildlife; this forest is home to various birds and small mammals.
After your hike, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the scenic spots within the forest, taking in the peaceful surroundings. Continue your day by visiting the nearby village of Londerzeel, where you can explore charming streets and quaint shops. Wrap up the afternoon with a visit to the local café for a refreshing drink, enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of the countryside.
As evening approaches, return to Ternat and dine at a local bistro that showcases seasonal dishes made with fresh ingredients. After dinner, take a stroll through the town square, where you might catch a glimpse of local musicians or performers. End your night at a nearby gelato shop, indulging in a sweet treat while watching the stars come out.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-4 |
| 🍺Local beer in a bar | $4-6 |
| 🎫Public transport single ticket | $2-4 |
| 🛒Basic weekly groceries (per person) | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful, small-town atmosphere close to Brussels
- Great base for cycling and countryside exploration
- Easy access to regional attractions and parks
- Friendly local cafés and authentic Flemish character
- Limited nightlife and fewer tourist facilities locally
- Public transport connections are adequate but less frequent than in big cities
- Fewer dining and specialty shopping options compared with Brussels
- "Hallo / Goedemorgen" - Hello / Good morning
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you are
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "De rekening, alstublieft" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Ternat
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture historic brick façades, the parish church and the quiet market square in soft morning light.
Rolling fields, hedgerows and scattered farmhouses provide classic rural Flemish landscapes, ideal at sunrise or sunset.
Well-kept estate gardens and castle exteriors in nearby municipalities offer architectural interest and landscaped scenes.
Woodland paths and mossy banks are photogenic year-round, especially with autumn colours or misty mornings.
Small canals, ponds and rustic bridges make for reflective compositions, particularly after rain or at golden hour.
Food in Ternat
Ternat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked beef stew in Belgian beer with onions and mustard; commonly found in local brasseries and traditional restaurants in and around Ternat.
Must-Try!
Mussels served with fries, a Belgian classic available at larger restaurants nearby especially in season.
Local farms supply fresh seasonal vegetables, charcuterie and occasionally lamb dishes reflecting the surrounding countryside; check farm shops and weekend markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small market days feature fresh bread, cheese, seasonal produce and sometimes a stall with ready-to-eat snacks; nearby larger town markets (e.g., in Aalst or Halle) offer more variety on market days.
Simple street-food options include Belgian frites with a choice of sauces and local bakeries offering fresh pastries and sandwiches.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Ternat is in Flanders, so Dutch (Flemish) is the main language — a few words in Dutch are appreciated. Greet people with a simple 'goedemorgen' or 'goedendag'.
Respect quiet neighbourhood norms, especially in residential areas during evenings and Sundays when shops may be closed.
Be polite and patient in interactions; Belgians value courtesy and formality in first encounters.
Cyclists follow road rules and often have priority on marked cycle paths; always lock bikes securely when unattended.
Safety
Tipping in Ternat
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is usually included in restaurant bills in Belgium; small additional tips for good service (rounding up or leaving 5-10%) are appreciated but not required.
Debit and credit cards (EMV and contactless) are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; keep some euros in cash for small vendors, markets or if a place is card-free.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming hedgerows and fewer tourists make spring a lovely time for cycling and hiking; expect occasional rain and muddy trails.
Warm but not excessively hot; outdoor terraces and festivals are active. Expect more visitors on weekends and occasional thunderstorms in the afternoon.
Cooler weather and vivid foliage across the countryside create great photo opportunities; harvest markets and cosy restaurants are appealing.
Chilly, damp conditions with short daylight hours; snow is possible but not guaranteed. Many attractions are quieter — ideal for low-season rates and peaceful walks.
Ternat at Night
Hiking in Ternat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Network of countryside trails through rolling farmland and small villages — ideal for day hikes and country rambles.
A large deciduous forest near Brussels with marked trails, ancient beech trees and peaceful woodland paths; a popular spot for longer hikes and nature walks.
Parkland and formal gardens around a historic castle offer pleasant walking routes and photogenic landscapes; combine with a cultural visit to the castle if open.
Airports
How to reach Ternat by plane.
The main international airport serving Brussels, about 25–40 km from Ternat depending on route; reachable by car in around 30–45 minutes and by a combination of regional trains and buses.
A budget-airline airport located roughly 50–60 km from Ternat; accessible by car in under an hour or by bus/shuttle connections to Brussels followed by regional transport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-term inhabitants speaking Dutch (Flemish), often families and older residents rooted in the area.
Professionals who live in Ternat and commute daily to Brussels or nearby employment centres.
A modest number of international residents who work in Brussels or multinational companies in the region; English is commonly understood.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Both recreational and competitive cycling are extremely popular — the flat and rolling terrain attracts cyclists of all levels.
Local football clubs provide community activity and matches on weekends are common.
Horse riding and related events take place at local stables and countryside centres.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ternat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are increasingly available in cafés and restaurants (salads, omelettes, veggie mains), but choices can be limited in very traditional places — ask chefs for adaptations or visit larger nearby towns for broader options.
Vegan offerings are present but less common; health-food shops in nearby towns and some cafés in Brussels are better equipped. Carry snacks if you have strict requirements.
Awareness of gluten-free needs is growing; many bakeries and restaurants can accommodate requests, but always confirm cross-contamination risks if you are highly sensitive.