Things To Do
in De Pinte
De Pinte is a quiet Flemish municipality just north of Ghent, known for its green spaces and easy access to larger city amenities. It offers a relaxed base for exploring the Ghent region while retaining village charm and walking routes along scenic lanes. The area blends tranquil residential streets with quick hops into buzzing university-town culture.
Visitors typically use De Pinte as a gateway to Ghent’s rich history, architecture, and nearby nature reserves.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming village center. Enjoy a fresh pastry and coffee at a local bakery while soaking in the small-town atmosphere. Visit the local market to experience the region's fresh produce and artisanal goods.
Embark on a guided bike tour of the surrounding countryside, discovering the stunning landscapes and serene waterways. Stop for lunch at a quaint café, enjoying traditional Belgian fare. In the afternoon, visit local art galleries showcasing the work of emerging artists from the region.
Indulge in a gourmet dinner at a renowned restaurant that specializes in Belgian cuisine. Afterward, take a peaceful walk along the banks of the river, enjoying the picturesque sunset. Conclude your night with a tasting of local beers at a nearby brewpub.
Begin your exploration at the De Pinte Heritage Centre, diving into the village’s rich history and culture. Participate in a guided tour that highlights the significant landmarks and their stories. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby café to fuel your day of discovery.
Spend the afternoon visiting the local museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibitions related to De Pinte’s past. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local specialties. Stroll through the scenic parks that pepper the village, perfect for a moment of relaxation.
Attend a cultural event or performance at the local community center to experience the vibrant arts scene. Enjoy dinner at a family-owned tavern, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious homemade dishes. Cap off the night with a walk to see the beautifully illuminated buildings in the town square.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or cappuccino | $3-5 |
| 🚆Monthly public transport pass | $60-75 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $1,000-1,300 |
| 🛒Groceries per week (essentials) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent base for exploring Ghent and northern Belgium
- Pleasant, safe towns with easy cycling and walking access
- Rich blend of historic sights and nature nearby
- De Pinte itself is quiet; for nightlife you’ll go to Ghent
- Weather can be changeable; plan for rain
- Traffic and parking can be tricky in Ghent’s busy periods
- "Dag" - Hello/Good day
- "Hallo" - Hi
- "Goedemiddag" - Good afternoon
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is de ...?" - Where is the ...?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Proost" - Cheers
Places to Visit in De Pinte
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic canal-front with medieval guild houses; especially photogenic at dawn or sunset when the light softens on the water.
A dramatic medieval fortress offering striking angles and moody reflections on the nearby water.
Radiant Gothic façade and the interior with historically significant art, ideal for architectural photography.
A modern tower with distinctive architecture; great for urban landscapes and lines of sight toward the river.
Charming cobblestone streets and canal views perfect for intimate street photography.
Food in De Pinte
De Pinte Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy stew traditionally made with chicken (or fish) and vegetables; best enjoyed in a cozy Ghent brasserie.
Must-Try!
A rich beef stew cooked in Belgian beer, commonly served with fries or bread to soak up the sauce.
Mussels cooked in white wine and herbs, typically served with thick Belgian fries.
Classic waffles and handmade chocolates are widely available in Ghent’s patisseries and shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal fruit, vegetables, cheeses, breads, and local specialties; great for sampling and discovering fresh ingredients.
Casual options near the center include fries stands, seafood bites, and casual bistros with a casual, lively atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite hello: Hallo or Dag; handshakes are common in formal settings, and maintain eye contact.
Dutch (Flemish) is the local language; English is commonly understood in urban areas and tourist spots.
Say please (Alstublieft) and thank you (Dank u wel / Dank je wel). Be patient in queues and on public transport.
Safety
Tipping in De Pinte
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is often included; tipping is customary around 5-10% for good service, optional otherwise.
Cards are widely accepted, including contactless payments. Cash is accepted but less common in some spots; ATMs are plentiful.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming streets; great for walks, cycling, and outdoor cafe seating. Pack layers for wechselnde showers.
Warm days with long evenings; occasional rain. Stay hydrated, and take advantage of outdoor dining and riverfront sunsets.
Pleasant, cooler days with colorful foliage; ideal for scenic walks along rivers and in nature reserves around Ghent.
Cold but manageable; Christmas markets in Ghent offer festive lights and warm drinks. Bring a warm coat and waterproof shoes.
De Pinte at Night
Hiking in De Pinte
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Wetlands and meadows with easy walking loops and birdwatching opportunities, ideal for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach De Pinte by plane.
Major international hub; about a 1-1.5 hour rail or car trip from Ghent, with frequent connections.
Smaller regional airport; convenient for some European destinations; about 1-1.5 hours by road from Ghent.
Another regional option with international flights; reachable within roughly 1-2 hours by car or train from Ghent.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Quiet residential areas and good schools make De Pinte appealing to families; Ghent hosts a large student and international community.
Ghent’s universities and businesses attract a steady stream of students and professionals in the surrounding municipalities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played across clubs and local leagues in the Ghent region.
A staple activity in Flanders with extensive bike routes around Ghent, De Pinte, and the river valleys.
Common in local clubs and public facilities; suitable for all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting De Pinte.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in Ghent; request vegetable-forward dishes or plainer salads, and ask for no meat stock or bacon in soups.