Things To Do
in Dendermonde

Dendermonde is a charming city located in Belgium's East Flanders region, known for its rich history and picturesque architecture. The city is situated at the confluence of the Dender and Scheldt rivers, offering beautiful scenic views. Dendermonde boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with various festivals and events throughout the year.

Visitors can explore its historic center, including the majestic town hall and the famous Beguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historic Dendermonde
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the St. Alexander Church, known for its stunning architecture and artwork. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll around the historic market square.

afternoon
:

Visit the Dendermonde Town Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the nearby Beguinage. Enjoy lunch at a local café, sampling some traditional Belgian dishes.

evening
:

Dine at a recommended restaurant and then take a walk along the Dender River, enjoying the serene atmosphere as the sun sets.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the local bakery for some fresh pastries and coffee. Then, head to the nearby nature reserve for a morning hike to enjoy the local flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Return to the city and explore the local art galleries, followed by lunch at a street food market where you can sample local delicacies.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant and wrap up your evening at a bar or pub to experience the local nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-30
Coffee$2-4
🍺Local beer$3-5
🚍Public transport ticket$3
🏨Hotel night$80-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with historic sites.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings for outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Weather can be unpredictable and rainy.
  • Some attractions may have limited opening hours.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Ik wil dit graag" - I would like this

Places to Visit in Dendermonde

Visit one of these nice places.

Dendermonde Town Hall

An architectural masterpiece with ornate details, perfect for capturing the essence of the city's history.

Beguinage

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring beautiful houses and tranquil gardens, ideal for serene photography.

Dender River Promenade

A picturesque spot with scenic views of the river and surrounding nature, perfect for sunset shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Dendermonde

Dendermonde offers a delightful culinary experience with its rich selection of local dishes and vibrant food scene.

Dendermonde Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dendermondse Pudding

A traditional dessert made with milk, sugar, and bread, often flavored with spices and served warm.

Must-Try!

Waterzooi

A creamy stew made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and herbs, served with bread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Dendermonde Market

A bustling market held twice a week featuring local produce, meats, cheeses, and street food vendors offering delicious snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Dendermonde experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 1°C (34°F) in January to 24°C (75°F) in July. Rain is common throughout the year, with the highest precipitation in summer. The weather can be unpredictable, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella and dress in layers.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is the norm when greeting someone; it's customary to greet everyone in a group.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and it's polite to keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows).

Punctuality

Being on time is valued; it’s considered disrespectful to arrive late for social gatherings or appointments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Dendermonde is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as in any urban area, it’s wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Use common sense, avoid poorly lit areas, and keep your belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Dendermonde

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping in Restaurants

Tipping is not compulsory, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (5-10%) for good service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract tourists, and various festivals take place, offering lively cultural experiences.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage create a cozy atmosphere for exploring the city.

Winter

Cold weather may bring snow, and the city is beautifully decorated for the holiday season, making it perfect for winter walks.

Nightlife Guide

Dendermonde at Night

Dendermonde offers a lively nightlife scene with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs. The city has a mix of casual pubs where locals gather to enjoy Belgian beers and cocktails, and a few dance clubs that offer music ranging from electronic to rock. Many nightlife spots are concentrated in the city center, making it easy to hop from one venue to another. Live music events and themed parties are common, providing a vibrant atmosphere for both locals and visitors.

Hiking in Dendermonde

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Boven-Scheldelaan Trail

A scenic trail along the Scheldt River that offers beautiful views and is suitable for hikers of all levels.

Burgemeesterstraat Trail

An accessible hiking trail that winds through forests and fields, perfect for a peaceful day in nature.

Airports

How to reach Dendermonde by plane.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Located about 40 km from Dendermonde, Brussels Airport is the main international airport serving Belgium, offering numerous flights to destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Dendermonde is a highly walkable city, with most attractions located within a short walking distance from each other. The city center features paved sidewalks and pedestrian zones, making it comfortable for leisurely strolls. Additionally, the presence of parks and green spaces enhances the walkability, allowing visitors to enjoy nature while exploring.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic of young professionals are moving to Dendermonde for its attractive job market and quality of life.

Families

Many families reside in Dendermonde, attracted by the family-friendly environment, good schools, and parks.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is one of the most popular sports in Dendermonde, with several local clubs and a strong community following.

Cycling

Cycling is widely practiced in the region, with many scenic routes providing excellent opportunities for both leisure and competitive cycling.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Dendermonde is generally manageable, with a mix of local traffic and visitors. Public transportation is available through buses and trains connecting to nearby cities. The city is bicycle-friendly, and many locals prefer cycling over driving. Parking is available but can be limited in the city center, so using public transport or walking is advisable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Dendermonde.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Dendermonde offer vegetarian dishes; be sure to ask for recommendations.

Gluten-Free

There are gluten-free options available, but it's advisable to inform your server about any dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Dendermonde is accessible, with several hospitals and medical facilities available for residents and visitors. The largest hospital, AZ Sint-Blasius, provides comprehensive services, including emergency care. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for medical services, while others are advised to have travel insurance for coverage during their stay.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide