Things To Do
in Wichelen
Wichelen is a small Flemish town in East Flanders set along the Dender river, offering a calm mix of farmland, historic streets and friendly locals. Its compact center preserves traditional Flemish architecture, with a central square, a centuries-old church and quaint cafés. The town serves as a gateway to the Dender valley, making it easy to explore nearby forests, cycling routes and nearby towns like Aalst and Ghent.
Whether you’re here for a relaxed weekend or a base for day trips, Wichelen rewards slow travel and local encounters.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the picturesque streets of Wichelen, admiring the quaint architecture and local shops. Grab a fresh pastry from a nearby bakery and enjoy it at the town's lovely square. Don't forget to capture the beauty of the surrounding countryside as you plan your next adventure.
Visit the local museum to learn about the history and culture of Wichelen, immersing yourself in the stories that shaped the town. Afterward, take a leisurely bike ride along the scenic paths that wind through the lush landscapes. Stop for lunch at one of the charming cafes where you can savor traditional Belgian dishes.
As dusk falls, find a cozy restaurant for dinner and indulge in exquisite Belgian cuisine paired with a local brew. After your meal, take a sunset walk along the river, soaking in the serene atmosphere of Wichelen. End your evening by experiencing the vibrant nightlife at a local bar featuring live music.
Start your day by exploring the local art scene, visiting galleries that showcase works from regional artists. Grab a coffee and a light breakfast at a trendy café frequented by locals. Spend some time mingling with artists and learning about their inspirations.
Join a guided walking tour that dives deep into Wichelen’s artistic heritage, revealing hidden gems and murals around town. Enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery where you can sample local specialties. Visit artisan shops and perhaps pick up a unique piece of art as a souvenir.
Wind down your day with a visit to an open-air theater or cultural event if available, where you can connect with the local community. Savor a hearty dinner at a restaurant known for its collaborative atmosphere and farm-to-table ingredients. Wrap up the night with a gin tasting experience at a local distillery.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🧀Milk (1 liter) | $1-2 |
| 🚌Public transport ride (local) | $2-5 |
| 🧊Water (0.33 liter bottle) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-town atmosphere and easy access to nature
- Quiet and walkable historic center with authentic Flemish character
- Limited nightlife within the town
- Smaller selection of major attractions compared to larger cities
- "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreek je Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het treinstation?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Wichelen
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic views along the river with reflections at dawn and golden hour.
Cobbled streets, old façades and the church spires create timeless architectural shots.
Iconic religious architecture framing sunsets or morning light.
Food in Wichelen
Wichelen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-braised beef in beer with onions and herbs, typically served with fries or bread.
Must-Try!
Creamy chicken or fish stew with vegetables, reflecting Ghent’s culinary influence.
Rabbit cooked with prunes and beer, a comforting winter dish in the Flemish countryside.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh regional produce, cheeses, bread, and sometimes prepared foods; great for sampling local ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a firm handshake; address people with Mr/Ms and their surname in formal settings.
Dutch is the local language; a few phrases in Dutch are appreciated; replying in French or English is common in tourist areas.
Politeness in queues and calm conversations are valued; avoid speaking loudly in quiet cafés.
Safety
Tipping in Wichelen
Ensure a smooth experience
A service charge is often included; tipping for good service is customary but optional, around 5-10% in restaurants.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash is still common in small shops and markets; contactless payments are popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional rain; long daylight hours for sightseeing and river walks; outdoor cafés are busy.
Brisk air, colorful foliage; great for scenic drives and harvest markets.
Cold but charming; most markets are indoors or have seasonal stalls; many restaurants offer hearty Flemish dishes.
Mild weather and blooming landscapes; ideal for cycling and garden visits.
Wichelen at Night
Hiking in Wichelen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hiking paths along the Dender river with scenic farmland views.
Protected woodlands and wetland areas ideal for birdwatching and relaxed hikes.
Airports
How to reach Wichelen by plane.
Major international hub about 40-60 minutes by car or train from Wichelen; direct flights worldwide.
Smaller international airport serving some European destinations; about 45-70 minutes by road.
Coastal airport with European connections; about 1.5 hours by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents with children; good local schools and safe neighborhoods.
Quiet communities with long-standing local networks and services.
People who travel to nearby cities for work or study.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime in the countryside with numerous local routes.
Local clubs and casual play are common in community fields.
Facilities in municipal parks and clubs nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wichelen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Flemish dishes can be adapted; ask for vegetable stews, veggie quiches or salads; many cafés offer meat-free options and dairy-free milk for coffee.