Things To Do
in Berlaar
Berlaar is a small Flemish village in the Antwerp province, set among green fields and centuries-old farmsteads. It sits close to the historic town of Lier, offering a peaceful base for day trips into Brabant’s countryside. The town blends rural charm with easy access to cafés, markets, and scenic cycling routes.
Visitors can enjoy authentic Belgian hospitality in a calm, approachable setting that’s ideal for relaxed exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Wake up with a warm croissant and local coffee at Brasserie De Lampenist overlooking St. Lambertus Church. Join a guided walking tour along the cobblestone lanes of the village to learn about centuries of village life. Stop at the weekly market stalls to meet artisans and taste fresh produce from surrounding farms.
Lunch on traditional Belgian waffles at a sunlit terrace near the church square. Spend time touring the St. Lambertus Church and its baroque interior while listening to the morning prayers echo through the nave. Browse the small independent shops selling handmade chocolates and lace.
Dine in a family-owned bistro featuring seasonal Flemish dishes like stoemp and waterzooi. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the canal as dusk paints reflections across the water. Cap off the night with a Belgian beer tasting at a cozy tavern frequented by locals.
Set out at dawn for a guided birdwatching walk through the marshy meadows of Berlaars Broek Nature Reserve. Listen for reed warblers and marsh harriers as the mist lifts over the winding streams. Capture photographs of native orchids blooming along the water’s edge.
After a picnic of local cheeses and cured meats, rent a canoe to paddle gently along the narrow waterways. Observe frogs and dragonflies gliding above the water’s surface as meadowlands stretch into the distance. Stop to rest on wooden platforms overlooking reed beds alive with activity.
Return to Berlaar village and relax on a shaded bench by the Kerkhofstraat canal. Sip a crisp white wine while reflecting on the day’s encounters with wildlife. Dine at a farm-to-table restaurant featuring vegetables grown in the reserve’s community garden.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transport fare | $2-3 per ride |
| 🍺Beer at a pub | $4-7 |
| 🏨Hotel per night | $90-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming village atmosphere and warm locals
- Excellent base for cycling and nature trips
- Close to historic towns like Lier and Mechelen
- Quiet, safe, and walkable center
- Limited nightlife within the village
- Smaller selection of restaurants on-site
- Public transport more limited on weekends
- Weather can be variable in spring and autumn
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is de dichtstbijzijnde bushalte?" - Where is the nearest bus stop?
- "Ik ben vegetariër" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Berlaar
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic church with a simple exterior and a tranquil churchyard, excellent for golden-hour photos.
Old brick houses, a traditional Belgian square, and seasonal flower displays.
Quiet rural roads with hedgerows and reflections in the water—great for landscapes.
Food in Berlaar
Berlaar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked beef in beer with onions, typically served with fries or mashed potatoes.
Must-Try!
Fresh mussels simmered in white wine and herbs, paired with Belgian fries.
Eel cooked in a verdant herb sauce, a regional specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A short ride away, offering fresh produce, dairy, bread, and regional specialties.
Classic Belgian street food—hot fries with sauce and crispy waffles in town squares.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; address people with Mr./Ms. until invited to use first names.
Dutch (Flemish) is the primary language; French or English are commonly understood in tourist areas.
Be patient and polite; rules of social space are similar to other Western countries.
Safety
Tipping in Berlaar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash is also fine; some smaller shops may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming fields; ideal for walking and city photography.
Warm weather and longer days; occasional showers—perfect for outdoor cafés and markets.
Colors change to amber and gold; harvest markets and scenic light.
Cool temperatures and short days; charming Christmas markets in nearby towns.
Berlaar at Night
Hiking in Berlaar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic loop through heath land and woodlands near nearby Nijlen—great for easy hikes.
Riverside paths near Lier for a relaxed day of walking and photography.
Gentle forest trails close to the village offering shade and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Berlaar by plane.
Major international hub about an hour or less by train/car from Berlaar; many international and domestic flights.
Regional airport near Antwerp; useful for domestic and some international flights; public transport connections to Berlaar.
Low-cost carrier hub in southern Belgium; accessible by road or rail with a longer transfer time.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A steady mix of local families living in the village and nearby countryside.
A significant portion of long-term residents and visitors who enjoy the peaceful setting.
Many residents commute to nearby towns for work, especially to Antwerp and Mechelen.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Belgian football is popular nationwide; local clubs often host matches and provide youth programs.
Flat to gently rolling terrain makes cycling a favorite pastime; many cycling routes start from Berlaar.
Public courts available in nearby towns and clubs; suitable for families and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Berlaar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted; ask for veggie versions of classics, and seek cheeses, salads, and seasonal vegetables.