Things To Do
in Wevelgem

Wevelgem is a compact Flemish town in West Flanders near Kortrijk, offering a gentle mix of rural scenery and easy city access. The landscape is flat and bike-friendly, with farmland, canals, and a visible cycling heritage that locals celebrate. The town center preserves traditional Belgian life with quiet squares, churches, and welcoming cafes.

It serves as a convenient base for exploring the wider West Flemish countryside and nearby cities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Local Orientation
morning
:

Settle into your accommodation in Wevelgem and unpack your bags before heading out. Stroll through the lively Markt square to admire the town hall and hear the gentle ring of the Belfry bells. Stop at a local bakery for a fresh pastry and strong coffee to fuel your first day.

afternoon
:

Join a guided walking tour to learn about Wevelgem’s history and architectural landmarks, from the Sint-Salvator church to the scenic canals. Browse antique shops and boutiques along Meensestraat, picking up unique souvenirs and Belgian lace. Pause at a sidewalk café for a cold Picon bière and people-watching on the cobblestones.

evening
:

Dine at a cozy bistro serving Flemish stews and regional cheeses, enjoying warm hospitality. Take a leisurely post-dinner stroll along the River Lys promenade as the lights reflect on the water. End the evening at a local pub, sampling a variety of Belgian craft beers while chatting with friendly locals.

day 2
Cycle the Lys River Trail
morning
:

Rent a bicycle and set off along the Lys River cycle path, known for its flat terrain and scenic views. Stop at the historic windmill in Rollegem for photos and learn about its restoration and milling heritage. Enjoy a mid-morning snack of fresh fruit and crisp bread by the riverbank as swans glide by.

afternoon
:

Continue pedaling through pastoral landscapes dotted with quaint farmhouses and blooming fields. Dive into local life by visiting a small dairy farm, meeting the farmers, and tasting artisanal cheeses. Stop at a riverside picnic spot to savor your packed lunch while listening to birdsong.

evening
:

Return your bike in Wevelgem and freshen up before heading out for dinner. Savor fresh trout caught from the Lys, prepared with seasonal vegetables at a waterfront restaurant. Conclude your evening with a moonlit bike ride back to your lodgings, the river’s surface glimmering under muted street lamps.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🥖Lunch at mid-range restaurant$15-25
🛏️Mid-range hotel per night$70-120
🚆Local transport day pass$6-12
Coffee in cafe$3-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, walkable town with easy access to larger cities
  • Beautiful countryside and cycling routes
  • Small nightlife scene compared with bigger Belgian cities
  • Limited high-end dining options within town center
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Wevelgem

Visit one of these nice places.

Markt Square at dawn

Quiet streets and the historic town hall provide an atmospheric urban photo just as the light hits the square.

Leie riverbank

Wide canal views with swans and boats, perfect for long exposure and reflection shots.

Windmill on the town edge

A classic rural landmark offering a nostalgic silhouette against the countryside sky.

Bridge over the canal

Architectural lines and gentle water reflections ideal for composition and street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Wevelgem

Belgian cuisine features hearty stews, fresh seafood, cheese, and a world-renowned beer culture. In Wevelgem you’ll find comforting Flemish dishes, seasonal specials, and casual cafés perfect for a relaxed meal.

Wevelgem Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoverij (Flemish beef stew)

Rich slow-cooked beef served with fries or bread and a beer reduction, a Belgian classic.

Must-Try!

Moules-frites

Mussels cooked in white wine and herbs, served with crisp Belgian fries.

Waterzooi

Creamy chicken or fish stew with vegetables and potatoes, a comforting regional favorite.

Frieten met mayo

Golden Belgian fries served with a dollop of mayonnaise or a local dipping sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Wevelgem Town Market

Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and ready-to-eat snacks.

Fritkot stalls

Casual street food vendors serving hot Belgian fries and other quick bites along the center.

Seasonal farmers market

Occasional markets featuring local meat, honey, and seasonal vegetables.

Climate Guide

Weather

Wevelgem enjoys a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters. Rain is frequent throughout the year, so bring a light rain jacket regardless of season. Spring and autumn are typically wet but comfortable for outdoor activities, while summer offers long daylight hours and pleasant cycling weather.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A handshake is common; address adults with formal 'u' in initial interactions unless invited to use 'you'.

Language

Dutch (Flemish) is the local language; English is widely understood in tourist spots.

Punctuality and politeness

Be punctual for meetings and queues; polite small talk is appreciated.

Tipping and sharing

Tipping is modest and based on service quality; splitting bills is common in groups.

Safety Guide

Safety

Wevelgem is generally safe for travelers. Standard urban safety applies: keep an eye on belongings in crowded areas, especially markets, and use bike lanes and crosswalks. For emergencies, dial 112; local pharmacies and clinics are common in Kortrijk if you need medical help quickly.

Tipping in Wevelgem

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Service charges are not always included; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is customary in bars and restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cards are widely accepted; cash is still useful in markets and small shops; contactless payments are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days with blooming countryside; bring light layers and a foldable rain jacket.

Summer

Warm days with long daylight; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and enjoy outdoor cafés and bike lanes.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and turning leaves; great for golden-hour photography and comfortable cycling.

Winter

Short days and occasional frost; plan indoor stops and cozy evenings in cafés or pubs.

Nightlife Guide

Wevelgem at Night

Wevelgem has a relaxed nightlife scene centered on the Markt and riverside pubs. Expect cozy cafés, craft beer bars, and occasional live music rather than a large club scene. The pace is friendly and neighborhood-oriented, with many locals meeting for a beer after work. For bigger nights out, head to nearby Kortrijk, a short train ride away, for more venues and events.

Hiking in Wevelgem

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Leie River Greenway

Scenic river path suitable for easy hikes and long bike rides.

Kemmelberg area trails

Hilly viewpoints nearby with countryside scenery and WWII monument routes.

West Flemish countryside loop

A network of gentle hiking trails through fields, farms, and dikes near Wevelgem.

Airports

How to reach Wevelgem by plane.

Kortrijk-Wevelgem Airport (KJK)

A small regional airport near Wevelgem offering general aviation and charter services.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Main international gateway for Belgium; extensive connections across Europe and beyond.

Ostend-Bruges International Airport (OST)

Coastal airport serving regional and international routes.

Lille Airport (LIL)

French airport reachable for cross-border trips and low-cost flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and very walkable, with most sights, cafés, and markets within a short stroll. Outside the core, some attractions are best reached by bike or short car ride, but the traffic is generally calm. Cycling is a natural choice for getting around and exploring nearby countryside.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Dutch-speaking Flemish residents

The vast majority of the population speaks Flemish Dutch.

Immigrant communities and international residents

There are small Turkish, Moroccan, and other communities, plus seasonal workers and students in the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

A central part of life here, with many routes and local cycling clubs.

Football

Local amateur clubs and school teams keep the sport active.

Rowing/Boating

Leisure boating and small-boat sports on nearby canals and rivers.

Transportation

Traffic

Wevelgem benefits from good rail and bus connections to Kortrijk and beyond. The town features calm streets and well-developed bike lanes, making cycling a practical choice. Car traffic is generally light, but peak hours around larger towns can slow routes to Kortrijk and Ghent.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Wevelgem.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many dishes can be adapted; look for vegetable stews, salads, cheese boards, and potato-based meals. Ask for no meat and request plant-based sauces; most places can accommodate with advance notice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Wevelgem is accessible through a network of general practitioners and clinics, with major hospitals located in Kortrijk and nearby Ghent or Bruges. For emergencies, Belgium has a strong public healthcare system and high-quality facilities; you can access international pharmacies in town centers and hospitals in Kortrijk for more complex needs.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide