Things To Do
in Eeklo

Eeklo is a charming municipality located in East Flanders, Belgium, known for its beautiful landscapes and rich history. The town boasts a mix of modern amenities and historical architecture, including quaint buildings and serene parks. Eeklo is also recognized for its vibrant local culture and community spirit, making it an inviting destination for travelers.

Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities, delightful local cuisine, and a tranquil atmosphere.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Eeklo's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café before visiting the Eeklo City Museum to learn about the town's history.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful parks of Eeklo, such as the Lindepark, followed by lunch at a nearby bistro.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Belgian dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a walk through the town square to soak in the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast, then visit the nearby Beernem Nature Reserve for some birdwatching and photography.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch in the park before visiting local boutiques and shops to explore handmade crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

End your day with a visit to a local brewery for a tasting session of Belgian beers, followed by dinner at a highly-rated restaurant.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🥖Baguette$1.50
🍺Beer (local)$3.00
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15.00
Coffee$2.50
🚇Public transport ticket$2.00

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be less frequent.
  • Some establishments may close early.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I do not speak Dutch
  • "Help!" - Help!

Places to Visit in Eeklo

Visit one of these nice places.

Lindepark

A picturesque park featuring lush greenery, flowerbeds, and serene walking paths, perfect for nature photography.

Eeklo Town Hall

An impressive historical building with beautiful architecture, ideal for capturing the essence of Eeklo's heritage.

Sint-Vincentiuskerk

A stunning church with intricate designs and stained glass windows, offering great photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Eeklo

Eeklo offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing traditional Belgian flavors and local specialties.

Eeklo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoverij

A hearty beef stew slow-cooked in Belgian beer, often served with fries.

Must-Try!

Waterzooi

A creamy stew made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and potatoes, typical of the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Eeklo Market

A local market held weekly where you can find fresh produce, cheeses, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Eeklo experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average temperatures range from 3°C (37°F) in winter to 22°C (72°F) in summer. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with slightly wetter conditions in late spring and early summer. Visitors should pack layers to accommodate varying weather conditions.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, and it's polite to greet with 'Bonjour' or 'Hallo'.

Dining Etiquette

It is customary to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and to keep your hands on the table during the meal.

Personal Space

Belgians value personal space, so maintain a comfortable distance during conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Eeklo is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, it's wise to remain vigilant in crowded areas and secure your belongings. Emergency services are easily accessible, and the town enjoys a low crime rate.

Tipping in Eeklo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip (around 5-10%) at restaurants, but it's not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather is ideal for festivals and outdoor dining, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Enjoy the beautiful fall foliage and cooler temperatures, perfect for hiking and exploring local parks.

Winter

Cold temperatures can be expected, with the possibility of snow, creating a picturesque winter landscape.

Nightlife Guide

Eeklo at Night

Eeklo offers a laid-back nightlife scene, primarily focused around cozy pubs and bars. While it may not have the vibrant club scene found in larger cities, locals enjoy socializing over drinks and live music in the evenings. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it easy for visitors to mingle and experience the local culture.

Hiking in Eeklo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Langelede Trail

A scenic hiking trail that winds through forests and fields, offering picturesque views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Wilderen Park Trail

This trail features well-marked paths and is suitable for hikers of all levels, with opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Airports

How to reach Eeklo by plane.

Ostend-Bruges International Airport

Located about 45 minutes from Eeklo, this airport offers flights to various European destinations and is the closest airport to the town.

Getting Around

Walkability

Eeklo is a highly walkable town, with most amenities, parks, and attractions within a short distance. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are plenty of benches and resting spots along the way.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Eeklo's population consists of local residents, many of whom have lived in the area for generations.

Students

Eeklo is home to a number of educational institutions, attracting students from various backgrounds.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

Cycling is a popular sport in Eeklo, with many locals participating in both recreational and competitive cycling events.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely followed and played in Eeklo, with local clubs providing opportunities for community engagement.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Eeklo is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, although schedules may vary. Cycling is a favored mode of transport, with dedicated bike lanes throughout the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Eeklo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Eeklo offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some establishments provide gluten-free options, but it is recommended to inform staff about dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Belgium has a good healthcare system, and Eeklo is served by local clinics and hospitals. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and most healthcare professionals speak English. Travelers should have travel insurance to cover any potential medical needs.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide