Things To Do
in Bonheiden

Bonheiden is a charming village located in the province of Antwerp, Belgium, known for its picturesque landscapes and tranquil atmosphere. The village is surrounded by lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. With a rich history reflected in its architecture and local culture, Bonheiden offers a unique glimpse into the Belgian way of life.

Visitors can enjoy the blend of rural charm and proximity to urban amenities in nearby cities like Mechelen and Antwerp.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Bonheiden
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local bakery for a traditional Belgian breakfast of croissants and coffee, then take a stroll through the scenic parks in Bonheiden.

afternoon
:

Visit the Bonheiden church and the surrounding historical sites, followed by lunch at a local café serving regional specialties.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant known for its Flemish cuisine, and take a leisurely walk through the village to admire the illuminated buildings.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trips and Local Culture
morning
:

Take a short train ride to Mechelen and explore its historical sites, including St. Rumbold's Cathedral.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local bistro in Mechelen, then visit the Toy Museum.

evening
:

Return to Bonheiden for a cozy dinner at a local pub, experiencing the Belgian beer culture.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Cup of coffee$3
🍺Local beer$5
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🛒Grocery shopping for a week$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming and peaceful atmosphere.
  • Rich history and cultural experience.
  • Access to beautiful outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transport may not be frequent.
  • English may not be widely spoken in rural areas.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Bedankt" - Thank you
  • "Alstublieft" - Please
  • "Ja" - Yes
  • "Nee" - No

Places to Visit in Bonheiden

Visit one of these nice places.

Bonheiden Church

A beautiful historical church with stunning architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of the village.

Local Parks

The lush green parks in Bonheiden provide picturesque landscapes, ideal for nature photography.

Canal Views

The scenic canals around Bonheiden offer great opportunities to capture reflections and peaceful waters.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bonheiden

Bonheiden offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Belgian flavors and local specialties. Visitors will find a variety of eateries, from quaint cafés to upscale restaurants, serving dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

Bonheiden Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoverij

A rich Flemish beef stew, slow-cooked with beer and served with fries.

Must-Try!

Waffles

Belgian waffles are a must-try, served with a variety of toppings like whipped cream, strawberries, and chocolate.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Farmers' Market

Held weekly, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and baked goods, providing a taste of the region.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Bonheiden is temperate, with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Summers are mild to warm, averaging 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with occasional heatwaves. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with the wettest months typically being July and August.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake and maintaining eye contact is customary when meeting someone.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start, and keep your hands on the table, but not your elbows.

Language

While many speak English, greeting people in Dutch (the local language) is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bonheiden is generally a safe village with low crime rates, but standard precautions should be taken. Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in quiet areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and local hospitals are equipped to handle most medical situations.

Tipping in Bonheiden

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash for small purchases is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer is warm, ideal for enjoying the parks and outdoor dining, though occasional rain showers are possible.

Autumn

Autumn showcases vibrant foliage, and the weather is cool, perfect for hiking and enjoying seasonal dishes.

Winter

Winter can be cold with occasional snow, offering a picturesque snowy landscape, ideal for cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Bonheiden at Night

Bonheiden has a relaxed nightlife scene with a few cozy pubs and bars where locals gather to enjoy Belgian beers. While it may not be as vibrant as larger cities, visitors can find live music and occasional events at local venues. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Bonheiden

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mechelen Forest Trail

A lovely hiking trail through the Mechelen Forest, offering scenic views and diverse wildlife.

Kessel-Lo Nature Reserve

A beautiful reserve with well-marked trails, suitable for hiking and enjoying the natural flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Bonheiden by plane.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Located about 25 km from Bonheiden, Brussels Airport is the main international airport serving Belgium, offering numerous flight connections to various destinations across Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bonheiden is quite walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and a compact village layout. Most attractions, restaurants, and parks are within walking distance, making it easy for visitors to explore the area on foot. The peaceful environment encourages leisurely walks, especially in the scenic parks.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families reside in Bonheiden, attracted by the peaceful environment and good schools.

Young Professionals

A growing number of young professionals are moving to Bonheiden due to its proximity to larger cities and charming lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is widely popular in Belgium, with local clubs representing the village and regional competitions being a community highlight.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored sport in the region, with many locals participating in cycling events and enjoying the extensive bike paths available.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bonheiden is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation is available with regular bus and train services connecting to nearby cities. However, during peak hours, roads can become congested, so planning travel times accordingly is advisable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bonheiden.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian meals, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Some places provide gluten-free options, but it's recommended to inquire about specific dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Bonheiden is generally good, with local clinics and hospitals available for medical needs. Emergency services are prompt, and the region has a well-functioning health system. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers health care while abroad.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide