Things To Do
in Westerlo

Westerlo is a charming municipality located in the province of Antwerp, Belgium. Known for its picturesque landscapes and historic architecture, it offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. The area is rich in cultural heritage, with numerous parks and recreational facilities.

Visitors can enjoy both the serene countryside and the vibrant local atmosphere.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Westerlo
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Westerlo Castle, which dates back to the 14th century. Wander through its gardens and enjoy the scenic views.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market to sample some Belgian delicacies and shop for handcrafted goods. Afterward, visit the local museum to learn about the history and culture of Westerlo.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant where you can enjoy traditional Belgian cuisine, followed by a relaxing walk in the town square.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby nature reserve, exploring the lush landscapes and wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby village of Laakdal for a guided tour of its historical sites and enjoy a picnic in one of its parks.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a visit to a local brewery for a tasting session of traditional Belgian beers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$5
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel night$75

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming atmosphere with historic architecture.
  • Rich local cuisine and friendly locals.
  • Access to beautiful nature for outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transport may not be frequent.
  • Some attractions may have limited hours.
  • "Dank u" - Thank you
  • "Alstublieft" - Please
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Tot ziens" - Goodbye
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Westerlo

Visit one of these nice places.

Westerlo Castle

Capture stunning images of this historic castle surrounded by lush gardens and scenic landscapes.

St. Martin's Church

A beautiful church with impressive architecture, perfect for both exterior and interior shots.

Nature Reserve

A picturesque location with diverse flora and fauna, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Westerlo

Westerlo offers a delightful array of local dishes and beverages that reflect the rich culinary heritage of Belgium. From hearty stews to exquisite chocolates, food lovers will find plenty to indulge in.

Westerlo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoofvlees

A traditional Belgian beef stew, slow-cooked with beer and served with fries.

Must-Try!

Boudin Blanc

A type of white sausage made from pork, often served with mashed potatoes and a light gravy.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Westerlo Market

Held every Saturday, this market features local produce, artisanal cheeses, and delicious street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Westerlo experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, so it's advisable to pack an umbrella or raincoat, especially during the summer months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time; greetings are polite and often include asking about one's health.

Dress Code

Belgians tend to dress smartly; casual wear is acceptable, but avoid overly informal clothing in restaurants or events.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal, and keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) during dining.

Safety Guide

Safety

Westerlo is generally a safe town, with low crime rates. However, it is always good practice to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places. Keep valuables secure and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Westerlo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small percentage (5-10%) is common.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards, but it's wise to carry some cash for small purchases, especially at markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm temperatures are perfect for exploring parks and enjoying outdoor cafes, although occasional rain can occur.

Autumn

Enjoy the beautiful fall foliage and cooler temperatures, ideal for hiking and enjoying local harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold and sometimes snowy, winter is a time for cozy indoor activities, and you can enjoy festive decorations throughout the town.

Nightlife Guide

Westerlo at Night

Westerlo's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. The town features a few cozy bars and cafes where locals gather for drinks and socializing. Some venues host live music or trivia nights, creating a friendly atmosphere. For more vibrant nightlife, nearby cities like Antwerp offer a wider range of clubs and entertainment options.

Hiking in Westerlo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Beverbeek Valley Trail

A scenic hiking trail that takes you through lush forests and along the river Beverbeek, offering stunning views and wildlife sightings.

Kasterlee Trail

This trail offers a moderate hike through picturesque landscapes, perfect for families and nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Westerlo by plane.

Antwerp International Airport

Located about 30 km from Westerlo, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Westerlo is a walkable town, with its main attractions located within a short distance from each other. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are clearly marked. The town center is particularly pedestrian-friendly, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Westerlo's inhabitants are Belgian, with a rich mix of cultures due to immigration over the years.

Tourists

Visitors to Westerlo often include those exploring Belgium's countryside, as well as history and nature enthusiasts.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a popular sport in Westerlo, with local clubs actively participating in regional leagues.

Cycling

Cycling is widely enjoyed, with many residents taking advantage of the scenic routes and dedicated bike lanes.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Westerlo is usually light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, but schedules may vary. Cycling is also a popular mode of transport, with well-marked bike paths.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Westerlo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu beforehand as options may be limited.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available at various eateries; however, it's best to inform staff about allergies.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Westerlo is accessible, with several clinics and pharmacies available. In case of emergencies, the nearest hospital is located in nearby cities. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for treatment, while non-EU visitors are advised to have travel insurance.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide