Things To Do
in Beerse

Beerse is a tranquil Flemish town in the Antwerp province, surrounded by open farmland and heathland. It serves as a peaceful base for exploring the Kempen region with easy access to Turnhout and Antwerp by road or rail. The town center blends historic charm with friendly cafés and local shops.

Visitors can enjoy gentle nature trails, farmers markets, and an inviting village atmosphere year-round.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Beerse
morning
:

Arrive in Beerse and settle into your accommodations. Take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets to soak in the local architecture and charm. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a nearby café, sampling Belgian pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Visit the historical St. Leonard's Church, known for its stunning gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. Explore the local shops and boutiques for unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. Take a moment to relax in the nearby park, enjoying the serene atmosphere.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Belgian cuisine, including a hearty stoofvlees or moules-frites. After dinner, enjoy a quiet walk around the town center, admiring the illuminated buildings. Wind down at a cozy bar with a local beer in hand, soaking in the friendly atmosphere.

day 2
Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local bakery, sampling fresh bread and pastries. Visit the Beerse Museum, where you can learn about the history and culture of the region through engaging exhibits. Take a guided tour if available to enhance your understanding.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a café that offers outdoor seating, perfect for people-watching. Spend the afternoon visiting the local artist studios or galleries to immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene. Participate in a workshop if available to create your own masterpiece.

evening
:

Savor dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant, enjoying seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Attend a cultural event, such as a local play or concert at a nearby venue, immersing yourself in the local arts. Conclude your day with a nighttime stroll through the town, breathing in the night air.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-15
🥗Lunch in mid-range café$8-12
🏨Hotel (per night)$90-150
🚆Public transport ticket (single ride)$3-5
Coffee$3-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Peaceful town feel and easy access to nature
  • Good base for exploring the Kempen and nearby towns
  • Limited nightlife within Beerse itself
  • Many services and nightlife options require trips to Turnhout or Antwerp
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Beerse

Visit one of these nice places.

Beerse Market Square and Church

A picturesque town center with historic facades, the church spire, and lively market activity—great for daytime and golden-hour shots.

Turnhoutse Heide Outlook

Expansive heathland with pines and open skies, ideal for wide landscape photography and nature close-ups.

Demer Canalbank Views

Scenic canal paths near Beerse offer tranquil water reflections and seasonal wildlife photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Beerse

Beerse sits in the Flemish heartland, where hearty Belgian cuisine blends with seasonal produce and regional beers. Expect comforting dishes, fresh cheeses, and good local beers to pair with your meals.

Beerse Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoverij (Belgian beef stew)

Beer-braised beef stew with onions, usually served with fries or bread.

Must-Try!

Mosselen met friet (mussels with fries)

Fresh mussels cooked in beer and herbs, served with thick Belgian fries.

Vol-au-vent

Puff pastry filled with creamy chicken ragout and mushrooms.

Belgian waffles

Crisp waffles with a selection of toppings, widely available at cafés and market stalls.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Weekly Market in Marktplein

A seasonal farmers market offering local produce, cheeses, breads, pastries, and ready-to-eat treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Belgium has a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters. Rain is possible year-round, so packing a light waterproof layer is advisable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

General etiquette

Greet with a friendly 'Hallo' or 'Goedemiddag'; be polite in conversations; cycling lanes have right-of-way rules—stay aware of pedestrians.

Safety Guide

Safety

Beerse is generally safe with typical urban precautions. Keep an eye on belongings in busy areas, especially markets; follow local traffic rules when cycling or driving.

Tipping in Beerse

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Gratuity is appreciated for good service; rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common in restaurants and cafes.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some small vendors may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming orchards and green landscapes; excellent for walks and bike rides.

Summer

Warm days and long daylight hours; frequent outdoor markets and cafés with terraces.

Autumn

Colorful foliage and harvest-inspired cuisine; possible rain—pack a light waterproof jacket.

Winter

Cool, occasionally damp weather; shorter days but cozy cafés and festive markets in nearby towns.

Nightlife Guide

Beerse at Night

Beerse offers a quiet, village-style nightlife with a handful of bars and cafés. For richer options, the nearby towns of Turnhout and Antwerp provide more diverse venues, live music, and late-night spots within easy reach.

Hiking in Beerse

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Turnhoutse Heide

Expansive heathland and pine forests with well-marked trails and ample wildlife to photograph.

Zilvermeer Trails (Mol)

Forest and lake trails near Mol, offering scenic routes through parklands and water views.

Airports

How to reach Beerse by plane.

Antwerp International Airport (ANR)

Small regional airport serving the Antwerp region; convenient for quick trips or connections.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Major international hub with frequent flights; about a 40–60 minute drive or rail connection from Beerse.

Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS)

Large European hub accessible by rail or road; broader international options, longer transfer from Beerse.

Getting Around

Walkability

Beerse has a walkable town center with compact streets; many sights are reachable on foot, while longer nature excursions are best done by bike or car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Population

Predominantly Dutch-speaking Flemish residents with small communities of international residents and seasonal workers in the surrounding countryside.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

A beloved Belgian pastime; expect extensive cycle routes and local clubs in the region.

Football (soccer)

Local and regional clubs showcase community spirit and weekend matches.

Tennis

Public courts and local clubs are common, offering family-friendly play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Beerse is typically light to moderate; the town links to larger routes toward Turnhout and Antwerp. Bike lanes and a growing network of cycle paths help visitors get around safely; expect typical Belgian congestion during peak commute times in nearby towns.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Beerse.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many dishes can be adapted; look for vegetable or cheese-based options, seasonal salads, and vegetarian pastas. When ordering meat-heavy dishes, ask for meat-free versions or sides.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Local healthcare includes general practitioners and pharmacies in Beerse; for hospitals and specialized care, Turnhout or Antwerp offer larger facilities. In emergencies, dial 112.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide