Things To Do
in Aartselaar

Aartselaar is a quaint municipality located in the province of Antwerp, Belgium. Known for its picturesque landscapes and friendly community, it is a perfect escape from the bustling city life of Antwerp. The town boasts a rich history, evident in its charming architecture and local traditions.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of urban amenities and serene natural surroundings, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Aartselaar
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local bakery for some fresh waffles and coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the beautiful Aartselaar Park to enjoy the morning tranquility.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby historical sites such as the Church of Aartselaar and explore local shops. Grab lunch at a quaint café that serves traditional Belgian cuisine.

evening
:

End your day with dinner at a local restaurant followed by a leisurely walk along the riverbank to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Begin with a visit to a local market where you can sample fresh produce and handmade goods. Enjoy a casual breakfast at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Explore the local art scene by visiting galleries and cultural centers. Participate in a workshop or local event if available.

evening
:

Dine at a popular bistro and then experience the local nightlife by visiting a bar or pub to enjoy live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🍺Local beer$4-$6
🏨Hotel night (mid-range)$80-$120
🚇Public transport ticket$2-$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming and peaceful atmosphere
  • Rich in history and culture
  • Accessible to Antwerp and other cities
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Less diverse dining options
  • May require a car for exploring surrounding areas
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Tot ziens" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Aartselaar

Visit one of these nice places.

Aartselaar Park

A beautiful park featuring lush greenery, walking paths, and scenic water features, perfect for capturing nature shots.

Church of Aartselaar

An architectural gem that showcases stunning Gothic design; great for historical photography.

Riverbank

Ideal for sunset photography, with picturesque views of the river and surrounding landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Aartselaar

Aartselaar offers a delightful culinary scene that emphasizes local flavors and ingredients, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Aartselaar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Moules-frites

A classic Belgian dish consisting of mussels served with crispy fries.

Must-Try!

Carbonade Flamande

A traditional Flemish beef stew made with beer, onions, and spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Aartselaar Market

A weekly market where vendors sell fresh produce, local cheeses, and homemade pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Aartselaar experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures typically hover between 0°C and 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Rain is common throughout the year, with the wettest months being July and August. Spring and autumn bring pleasant temperatures but can also be unpredictable with occasional showers.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A polite greeting is customary; a handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal. It's also polite to say 'Bon appétit'.

Personal Space

Belgians value personal space, so it's important to maintain a respectful distance during conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Aartselaar is generally considered a safe place for travelers. However, it's advisable to remain vigilant in crowded areas and secure your belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it’s wise to familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and hospitals.

Tipping in Aartselaar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, typically rounding up to the nearest euro or leaving a 5-10% tip for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a lovely time to explore outdoor parks and gardens.

Summer

Warm weather is perfect for outdoor dining and festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Expect cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, enhancing the town's charm.

Winter

Cold temperatures with potential snowfall create a picturesque winter scene, especially around the holidays.

Nightlife Guide

Aartselaar at Night

Aartselaar's nightlife is relaxed yet vibrant, with a mix of cozy pubs, lively bars, and occasional live music venues. You'll find a welcoming atmosphere where locals and visitors enjoy socializing over drinks. The nightlife tends to be quieter than in larger cities, making it an ideal locale for those looking to unwind in a charming setting.

Hiking in Aartselaar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kalmthoutse Heide

A vast nature reserve located about 30 minutes from Aartselaar, known for its scenic heathlands and diverse wildlife.

Domein Huysmans

A nearby park offering various hiking trails through lush woodlands and open fields, perfect for a day out in nature.

Airports

How to reach Aartselaar by plane.

Antwerp International Airport

Located approximately 15 kilometers from Aartselaar, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Aartselaar is quite walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. The town center is compact, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some attractions may be spread out, so plan your walking routes accordingly.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Aartselaar's population consists of Belgian locals, predominantly of Flemish descent, who maintain a rich cultural heritage.

Expat Community

There is a small but growing expat community in Aartselaar, mainly consisting of professionals and families drawn to the area's quality of life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a beloved sport in Belgium, with many local clubs and community teams actively participating in leagues.

Cycling

Cycling is not just a sport but a popular mode of transportation in Belgium, with numerous biking paths and events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Aartselaar is generally manageable, with most streets being quiet. Public transportation options include buses that connect to Antwerp and other neighboring towns, making it easy to navigate without a car. Parking can be found in designated areas, but it’s advisable to check for any restrictions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Aartselaar.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to check for hidden meat ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are available, but it's best to inform the staff of your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Belgium has a robust healthcare system, and Aartselaar is no exception. There are local clinics and hospitals where residents and visitors can receive medical care. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers healthcare services when visiting.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide