Bertem

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Bertem's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival in Bertem
morning
:

Arrive in Bertem and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café while soaking in the charming atmosphere of the village. Take a relaxing stroll around town, admiring the quaint architecture and vibrant gardens.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby nature reserve, De Riet, where you can immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery of ponds and lush greenery. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water, or indulge in some light hiking on the various trails. The tranquility of the environment offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Belgian restaurant, savoring local specialties such as stoofvlees or waterzooi. After dinner, take a walk through the illuminated streets of Bertem, where you can appreciate the peacefulness of the evening. Cap off the night with a craft beer at a local brewery or a cozy bar.

day 2
Exploring Leuven
morning
:

Take a short trip to the nearby city of Leuven, home to one of the oldest universities in the world. Start your day with coffee and a pastry at a café near the university library. Visit the stunning Gothic architecture of the Old Market Square, known as the 'longest bar in the world.'

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon wandering through the M-Museum and enjoying contemporary art exhibitions. Take a break for lunch at one of the many restaurants offering traditional Belgian cuisine. After lunch, stroll through the botanical garden of Kruidtuin, a peaceful oasis amidst the city's bustle.

evening
:

Return to Bertem for dinner at a local eatery. Share stories of your day over plates of delicious Belgian waffles for dessert. Enjoy the calm of the evening as you relax at your accommodation or take a night walk to appreciate Bertem's starry skies.

day 3
Cycling through Nature
morning
:

Rent a bike and hit the scenic cycling trails around Bertem, highlighting the beauty of the Flemish countryside. Your morning ride takes you through rolling hills and picturesque fields, making for a refreshing start to your day. Stop at a local farm for a quick snack of fresh fruit or homemade pastries.

afternoon
:

Continue your biking adventure to nearby villages, stopping to explore local shops and artisan markets. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café in one of the charming villages, where you can taste regional delicacies. The friendly atmosphere and local hospitality will make you feel right at home.

evening
:

Return to Bertem for a relaxing evening. Enjoy a homemade dinner with locally sourced ingredients at your accommodation or a nearby restaurant. Wind down by watching the sunset from a park bench, appreciating the serene landscape around you.

day 4
Cultural Immersion in Mechelen
morning
:

Travel to Mechelen, a vibrant city filled with historical landmarks. Visit the stunning St. Rumbold's Cathedral, where you can climb the tower for panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a late morning coffee at a café near the cathedral.

afternoon
:

Explore the charming streets lined with shops and cafes, immersing yourself in the city’s rich culture. Visit the Museum of the History of Science to learn about Mechelen's scientific contributions. Stop for lunch at a local bistro, sampling authentic Belgian fare.

evening
:

Return to Bertem and relax with a quiet dinner. Consider trying out a local dish you've never had before, or simply revisit a favorite. End the day with a gentle walk through the town, taking in the night’s peaceful ambiance.

day 5
Day Trip to Brussels
morning
:

Take a short train ride to Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, and begin your day at the iconic Grand Place. Grab a fresh pastry and coffee at a nearby café, then wander around the square, marveling at the ornate guildhalls. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the breathtaking Town Hall.

afternoon
:

Explore the Royal Palace and the surrounding park, immersing yourself in the royal history of Belgium. For lunch, enjoy traditional Belgian fries and a variety of sauces from a well-known local fry stand. Spend time visiting the Magritte Museum or the Atomium for a mix of culture and art.

evening
:

Head back to Bertem and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Reflect on your day while savoring a delicious meal that highlights Belgium’s culinary heritage. If you're up for it, grab a drink at a bar to mingle with locals and experience the community vibe.

day 6
Local Art and Crafts
morning
:

Spend your morning visiting local artisan workshops in Bertem, where you can observe artists crafting pottery, textiles, or paintings. Engage with the artists to learn about their techniques and inspirations behind their creations. Don't forget to pick up a unique souvenir as a memory of your visit.

afternoon
:

Take part in an art workshop, immersing yourself in the creative process. Whether it's painting, pottery, or another craft, this hands-on experience will be both fun and fulfilling. After crafting, enjoy lunch at a café, absorbing the local atmosphere.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a lovely dinner at a nearby restaurant that showcases local talent in the culinary arts. Share your artistic experiences over your meal, engaging with the owners and staff. Spend the evening admiring local performances or live music, if available.

day 7
Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take it slow on this day, enjoying a leisurely breakfast in bed or at a charming café. Afterward, visit the nearby parks for a morning spent in nature, basking in the tranquility that surrounds you. Meditate or read a book by a serene lake to recharge.

afternoon
:

Head back to your accommodation for a spa afternoon, complete with massages and relaxation therapies. Enjoy the pampering experience while indulging in some quiet time. Lunch can be light, perhaps a smoothie or salad that complements your rejuvenating afternoon.

evening
:

Finish your day with a candlelit dinner, celebrating the art of relaxation you've embraced throughout the day. Share your favorite moments of peace and tranquility. Wrap up with a gentle evening walk under the stars, feeling grateful for the serene experiences you’ve enjoyed.

day 8
Farewell to Bertem
morning
:

Spend your last morning reflecting on your trip to Bertem. Have a final breakfast at your favorite café, savoring local treats one last time. Take a stroll around the village, snapping photos to capture memories of your visit.

afternoon
:

Before departing, visit any last-minute sites or shops to pick up souvenirs. Enjoy lunch at a special spot you may have missed earlier in your trip. This farewell meal will be a beautiful closure to a splendid visit.

evening
:

As you leave Bertem, appreciate the journey you've taken and the experiences you've gathered. Consider planning a return visit soon to explore more of this enchanting area. To end your trip, share your stories online or with friends, keeping the memories alive.

Discover Bertem

Read more in our Bertem 2025 Travel Guide.

Bertem Travel Guide