Things To Do
in Boortmeerbeek

Boortmeerbeek is a charming municipality located in the Flemish Brabant province of Belgium. Known for its picturesque landscapes and historical architecture, it offers a serene escape from the bustling cities nearby. The area is characterized by its friendly community and rich cultural heritage, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and exploration.

Visitors can enjoy nearby parks, local festivals, and the enchanting countryside that surrounds this quaint town.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Boortmeerbeek
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to the historic St. Martin's Church, which dates back to the 13th century.

afternoon
:

After lunch, stroll through the scenic trails of the nearby Mechelen region, taking in the lush greenery and perhaps spotting some local wildlife.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Flemish restaurant, followed by a relaxing walk through the town square, where you can absorb the local atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the local market to sample fresh produce and homemade goods, followed by a guided tour of the area’s historical landmarks.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at a nearby museum, exploring local art and history before having a light lunch at a bistro.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local pub for some Belgian beer and traditional snacks while enjoying live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15-$25
Coffee$3-$5
🍺Local beer$3-$6
🚍Public transportation ticket$2-$3
🏨Night at a hotel$70-$120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming small-town atmosphere.
  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Close proximity to larger cities like Mechelen.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Fewer dining choices compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be less frequent.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u" - Thank you
  • "Tot ziens" - Goodbye
  • "Alstublieft" - Please
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Boortmeerbeek

Visit one of these nice places.

St. Martin's Church

A beautiful Gothic church with stunning architecture, perfect for capturing historical photographs.

The River Dijle

Picturesque riverbanks that provide a serene backdrop for nature photography.

Local Parks

Scenic parks filled with seasonal flowers and greenery, ideal for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Boortmeerbeek

Boortmeerbeek boasts a delightful culinary scene that reflects the rich flavors of Belgian cuisine, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Boortmeerbeek Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoofvlees

A traditional Flemish beef stew, cooked slowly with beer and served with fries.

Must-Try!

Waterzooi

A creamy stew typically made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and potatoes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Boortmeerbeek Market

A vibrant local market held weekly, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal bread.

Climate Guide

Weather

Boortmeerbeek experiences a temperate maritime climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are mild to warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Winters can be cold, averaging around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F), with occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn bring moderate temperatures and variable weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and use utensils properly.

Language Considerations

While many locals speak English, greeting in Dutch can be appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Boortmeerbeek is generally considered a safe destination with low crime rates. However, as in any location, it is advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night. Keeping your belongings secure and avoiding poorly lit streets can enhance your safety.

Tipping in Boortmeerbeek

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

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

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having cash for small purchases or markets is recommended.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy mild temperatures and blooming flowers, great for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather makes it ideal for exploring outdoor markets and local festivals.

Autumn

Experience beautiful fall foliage and harvest festivals, perfect for scenic walks.

Winter

Cold temperatures can bring snow, creating a picturesque winter wonderland, though some outdoor activities may be limited.

Nightlife Guide

Boortmeerbeek at Night

Boortmeerbeek offers a laid-back nightlife scene with a few local bars and cafes where you can enjoy Belgian beers and live music. The atmosphere is generally relaxed, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration. For more vibrant nightlife, the nearby city of Mechelen boasts clubs and larger venues for dancing.

Hiking in Boortmeerbeek

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mechelen Loop

A picturesque 10 km loop trail that offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, suitable for all skill levels.

Kruidtuin Trail

An easy 5 km trail through lush gardens and parks, ideal for a family outing or a leisurely walk.

Airports

How to reach Boortmeerbeek by plane.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Located about 20 km from Boortmeerbeek, Brussels Airport is the main international gateway, offering flights to numerous destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Boortmeerbeek is quite walkable, with many local attractions, parks, and cafes located within a short distance of each other. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the town's layout encourages leisurely strolls. However, for longer distances, a bicycle or car may be more convenient.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families reside in Boortmeerbeek, drawn by its peaceful environment and good schools.

Retirees

The town is also home to a significant number of retirees who enjoy the tranquil lifestyle and community activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in Boortmeerbeek, with local clubs and community events often organized around it.

Cycling

The region is known for its cycling culture, with numerous cycling routes and events taking place throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Boortmeerbeek is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns and cities. While the town itself is quiet, during peak hours, traffic may increase slightly as commuters travel to larger urban areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Boortmeerbeek.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants provide vegetarian versions of traditional dishes, but it's advisable to check with the staff.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some establishments offer gluten-free options, particularly in larger cities nearby.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Boortmeerbeek is good, with local clinics and pharmacies available for basic medical needs. For more specialized care, nearby cities like Mechelen have hospitals and medical facilities. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance for emergencies.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide