Things To Do
in Waregem

A great spot for architectural shots, street scenes, and capturing local life around cafés and the weekly market.

Green spaces and riverside paths offer reflections, trees and seasonal colors, especially attractive at golden hour.

During the horse racing festival you can photograph dynamic equestrian action, colorful crowds and event atmosphere.

Rolling fields, hedgerows and typical Flemish rural scenes appear along cycling and walking routes; ideal for wide landscapes and rural portraits.

A slow-cooked beef and beer stew spiced with thyme and bay; commonly found at brasseries and family restaurants.

Must-Try!

Creamy chicken and mushroom ragout in a puff pastry shell — a Belgian comfort-food classic available in many traditional eateries.

Freshly fried fish, often complemented by regional sauces; look for small local restaurants serving the day’s catch.

Bakeries sell specialties like couque, speculoos and seasonal Flemish pastries — great for breakfast or a snack.

Weekly market where you can buy fresh produce, cheeses, charcuterie and baked goods; ideal for sampling street-food-style snacks and local specialties.

During events like horse racing or town festivals, expect street-food stands selling regional snacks, waffles and local beers.

A friendly handshake is standard for first meetings; smile and be polite. Use titles and last names in formal contexts until invited to use first names.

Dutch (Flemish) is the local language in Waregem; many locals speak good English and some French. Attempting a few Dutch phrases is appreciated.

Belgians value punctuality for appointments and business; be on time for tours, meetings and restaurant reservations.

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat; hands on the table (not elbows) and polite conversation are common.

Service is usually included in restaurant bills in Belgium (service compris), but it’s common to leave small change or round up for good service—around 5-10% in casual settings. Tipping taxi drivers or leaving a small amount for helpful staff is appreciated but not mandatory.

Cards (Visa, MasterCard, Maestro) are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile pay are common in urban spots. Carry some cash for small market stalls or very small shops, though most vendors accept cards.

Mild, often changeable weather with blooming fields and parks. Great time for cycling and outdoor markets; pack layered clothing and a light waterproof jacket.

Warmest months with long daylight, local festivals and busy outdoor terraces. Expect crowds during events; sunscreen and lighter layers are recommended, plus occasional rain showers.

Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage in nearby hills—excellent for walks and photography. Bring warmer layers and waterproofs for windy or rainy days.

Chilly, damp and sometimes frosty; fewer tourists and cozy cafés. Dress warmly with a good coat, and check opening hours as some smaller attractions may have reduced schedules.

Short drives away, these hills offer scenic trails and climbs used by cyclists and hikers — ideal for panoramic views and varied terrain.

Riverside walking routes along the Leie offer tranquil scenery, birdlife and opportunities for gentle hikes and photography.

About 10–20 minutes by car—lakeside trails, woodlands and marked walking routes suitable for families and nature lovers.

Local waymarked loops connect farms, chapels and small hamlets, providing accessible short hikes through typical West Flemish landscapes.

Majority Dutch-speaking population with deep local roots, family-run businesses and strong community ties.

People who commute to Kortrijk, Ghent or other regional centers for work; they contribute to a steady daytime population and local services.

Surrounding areas include farms and agricultural workers who maintain traditional rural activities and markets.

Seasonal influx of visitors for horse racing, festivals and cycling events, bringing multicultural crowds at peak times.

Vegetarian options are increasingly common in restaurants and cafés; request vegetable-forward mains, salads and cheese plates. Markets offer fresh produce for self-catering.

Vegan-specific dishes are less widespread than vegetarian ones but available in some modern cafés and bistros—ask staff or look for vegetarian menus that can be adapted.

Gluten-free options exist but are not universal; inform servers about celiac needs and consider shopping at supermarkets for specialty items.

Most restaurants are accustomed to allergy requests—explain clearly (in Dutch or English) and double-check ingredients when ordering dishes with sauces, pastries or nuts.