Things To Do
in Damme
Damme is a small, picturesque town in West Flanders, Belgium, just northeast of Bruges. It is renowned for its canal-side charm, timber-framed houses, and a tranquil, walkable center that feels timeless. The town centers around historic sites like the Sint-Donaaskerk and a scenic market square, with easy access to the surrounding countryside and waterways.
Visitors come for a relaxed atmosphere, café culture, and convenient day trips to Bruges and the Flemish countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll along Damme's picturesque canals, where the reflections of historic buildings and lush greenery create a serene atmosphere. Stop by a local café to enjoy a traditional Belgian breakfast of fresh pastries and coffee. Capture the beauty of the early morning light illuminating the waterway with your camera.
Afterwards, head to the Damme Museum to learn about the town's rich history, including its significance during the medieval period. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a canal-side restaurant, indulging in traditional Flemish dishes. Spend some time cycling through the nearby countryside, taking in the quaint landscapes dotted with windmills.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot by the canal to unwind and enjoy a locally brewed beer. You may wish to participate in a cooking class that focuses on Belgian cuisine, where you can learn to prepare a delicious Flemish stew. End your day by taking a twilight walk through the town, admiring the illuminated architecture.
Start the day by visiting the iconic windmill, the 'Damme Molen.' Take a guided tour to learn about its operation and history while enjoying the scenic views from the top. Be sure to bring your camera, as the panoramic overlook provides an excellent photo opportunity.
After your windmill visit, feast on a hearty lunch featuring local specialties at a charming bistro nearby. Spend the afternoon exploring the quaint shops that line Damme's streets, where you can find handmade crafts and local art. Don't forget to pick up some waffles for a sweet treat!
In the evening, take part in a guided ghost tour through the historic streets of Damme, where tales of medieval ghosts and legends come alive. After the tour, indulge in dinner at a restaurant known for its seafood and Flemish dishes. Conclude your evening with a scenic boat ride along the canal under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $90-150 |
| 🚆Local transport ticket (day pass / single ride) | $3-10 |
| 🧀Groceries (basic items like milk or bread) | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Picturesque, walkable town with canal scenery
- Close to Bruges for easy day trips and broader nightlife
- Authentic Flemish cuisine and friendly cafés
- Accessible bike-friendly routes through farmland and polder
- Limited nightlife within Damme itself; more in Bruges
- Smaller selection of big-name restaurants compared with larger cities
- Can be busy on market days and weekends due to proximity to Bruges
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you are
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is de dichtstbijzijnde halte?" - Where is the nearest bus stop?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much is this?
- "Kunt u vegetarisch alternatief aanbevelen?" - Can you recommend a vegetarian option?
Places to Visit in Damme
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic canal-side views with timber-framed houses, reflecting on calm water—perfect for morning light.
A tall, historic church tower offering elevated views of the town and surrounding countryside.
Cobbled square with characteristic Flemish façades and subtle arcades; ideal for architectural photography and street life.
Classic canal bridge scene paired with a traditional windmill backdrop for atmospheric shots.
Quiet backstreets with charming doors, flower boxes, and light patterns through branches—great for candid portraits.
Food in Damme
Damme Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy stew typically made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and herbs, best enjoyed with crusty Belgian bread.
Must-Try!
A beer-braised beef stew, slow-cooked with rich flavors and served with fries or bread.
Mussels cooked in white wine and aromatics, served with thick Belgian fries.
Chicory wrapped with ham and melted cheese, a classic Belgian comfort dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small market in the town square offering local cheese, fresh produce, breads, pastries, and seasonal specialties on market days.
Street-side stalls and cafés offering waffles, pastries, and light bites ideal for a quick lunch or snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch (Flemish) is the local language; greet with a simple 'Hallo' or 'Goedemorgen' and offer a handshake when meeting someone.
Be punctual for appointments; in casual settings, arrive within a few minutes of the agreed time. Keep voices moderate in public spaces, especially in cafés and religious sites.
Respect church and historic sites’ quiet hours; photography may be restricted inside some buildings.
Safety
Tipping in Damme
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is common if service is not included. Rounding up the bill is also acceptable in casual places.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Small shops may prefer cash, while larger eateries usually accept cards and mobile pay.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Blooming trees and longer days; ideal for canal walks and outdoor cafés.
Warm days and frequent outdoor events; expect crowds around Bruges, with plenty of daylight for photography and cycling.
Milder temperatures and harvest markets; golden light in the evenings enhances canal and town photos.
Chilly but charming; fewer crowds, cozy cafés, and soft dustings of snow can make for intimate scenes.
Damme at Night
Hiking in Damme
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic flat walks along the canal with agricultural fields and wildlife; suitable for all levels.
Gentle hikes through wetlands and meadows, offering birdwatching opportunities and peaceful scenery.
Airports
How to reach Damme by plane.
Approximately 40-60 minutes by car; useful for international flights and regional connections.
About 1.5-2 hours by car or train; major international hub with extensive European and global connections.
Around 1.5-2 hours by car; serves mainly European destinations and budget carriers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Dutch-speaking Flemish families and retirees, with a growing, small international resident presence due to its proximity to Bruges.
A steady stream of visitors seeking a quieter Flemish experience and easy day trips to Bruges and the countryside.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favored pastime in the region, with numerous scenic routes around Damme and into Bruges.
Popular among locals; local clubs and community leagues contribute to weekend activity.
Rural trails and farms offer equestrian experiences in the surrounding countryside.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Damme.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options such as seasonal salads, vegetarian stews, or cheese-and-chard dishes. When ordering, ask for 'vegetarisch' or 'zonder spek' to avoid meat. Many cafés can adapt dishes with dairy and vegetables to suit vegetarian diets.