Things To Do
in Aartselaar
Aartselaar is a small, green municipality just southeast of Antwerp, blending rural charm with easy access to city amenities. Its riverside and polder landscapes offer peaceful escapes, while cycling and walking paths invite slow, scenic exploration. The town has a traditional Flemish atmosphere with cozy cafés, local markets, and family-friendly attractions.
Visitors can easily combine a relaxed village feel with quick trips to Antwerp and the broader Antwerp province.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Brussels Airport and take a scenic drive to Aartselaar, soaking in the lush landscapes of Belgium. Once settled, enjoy a traditional Belgian breakfast at a local café, featuring fresh pastries and strong coffee. Take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets to get acquainted with the charming surroundings.
Explore the local area by visiting the nearby parks and gardens, where you can relax among colorful flowers and picturesque scenery. Head to De Witte Molen, a delightful eatery known for its regional cuisine, to savor some authentic Belgian dishes for lunch. Spend your afternoon visiting local shops and galleries that showcase Belgian craftsmanship.
As the sun sets, head to a popular local brewery for a tasting session of craft beers, learning about the brewing process from expert locals. Enjoy a cozy dinner at an intimate restaurant, where you can indulge in traditional Belgian specialties like mussels and fries. End your day with a peaceful wander by the river, taking in the serene atmosphere.
Take a short train ride to Antwerp, where you’ll start your day with a visit to the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the impressive artworks and the towering architecture while soaking in the rich history. Enjoy a light breakfast nearby at one of the many charming cafés.
Venture into the heart of Antwerp’s diamond district, where you can learn about the city's historic connection to the diamond trade. Afterward, head to the MAS Museum to explore its fascinating exhibits focused on the city’s maritime history and art. Enjoy lunch at a trendy restaurant in the trendy Het Zuid district, known for its vibrant atmosphere.
Make your way to Antwerp’s famous town square, where you can appreciate the beautiful Gothic architecture as night falls. Dine at a local brasserie, sampling dishes made with seasonal ingredients sourced from surrounding regions. After dinner, enjoy a nightcap at a rooftop bar, with breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚇Public transit ticket | $2-4 |
| 🏨One night in mid-range hotel | $100-170 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧀Groceries for a day | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful, green surroundings close to Antwerp
- Good value for a Flemish suburban experience
- Easy day trips to city attractions and nature reserves
- Limited nightlife within the town itself
- Less tourist infrastructure compared to larger cities
- "Goeiemiddag" - Good afternoon
- "Alstublieft" - Please
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Waar is de toiletten?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Aartselaar
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic riverside area ideal for sunrise reflections and tranquil landscape shots.
Historic church with a cobbled square, great for architectural and street photography.
Wide skies, windbreaks, and agricultural fields perfect for expansive rural photography.
Food in Aartselaar
Aartselaar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-simmered beef in beer gravy, typically served with fries or bread.
Must-Try!
Creamy chicken or fish stew with vegetables, a classic Belgian comfort dish.
Mussels cooked in stock with crispy fries, a Belgian staple found in many eateries.
Light, crisp waffles often enjoyed with toppings like whipped cream, fruit, or chocolate.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, cheeses, breads and local specialties; best experience on Saturday mornings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch (Flemish) is the local language; greet with a polite hello and a handshake in formal settings.
Be courteous in queues and public spaces; avoid loud voices in indoor spaces and religious venues.
Safety
Tipping in Aartselaar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common.
Credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is still used in some small shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours and outdoor seating, but expect occasional showers; stay hydrated and enjoy riverside picnic spots.
Mild days with colorful foliage; great for golden-hour photography and outdoor cycling.
Cool and damp possibilities; shorter days but cozy cafés and markets provide warm refuges.
Blooming landscapes and active birds; ideal for hiking, cycling, and outdoor markets.
Aartselaar at Night
Hiking in Aartselaar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Expansive nature reserve with extensive trails, ideal for hiking and wildlife watching.
Green parklands and easy trails connecting to broader nature routes near Antwerp.
Airports
How to reach Aartselaar by plane.
A small regional airport near Antwerp used mainly for general aviation and some private flights.
Belgium’s main international gateway, located about a short train or car ride from Aartselaar; extensive international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are long-term families seeking a quiet, green suburban lifestyle with easy access to the city.
Commuters to Antwerp and nearby towns for work and services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely popular across Flanders; abundant bike lanes and scenic routes.
Local clubs and regional leagues are common; weekend matches draw community support.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aartselaar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Belgian restaurants offer vegetarian versions of classics; ask for veggie substitutions or fresh salads, and confirm sauces are meat-free.