Things To Do
in Ganshoren
Ganshoren is a small, residential municipality on the northwestern edge of Brussels, Belgium. It offers quiet streets, green spaces, and a distinctly local feel within easy reach of the capital’s attractions. While it remains a tranquil suburb, it provides convenient access to Brussels via tram and bus, making day trips or city explorations effortless.
Visitors often use Ganshoren as a relaxed base from which to explore nearby parks, markets, and the vibrant Brussels scene within a short ride.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Ganshoren and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling some Belgian pastries while planning your day. Take a stroll through the neighborhood to familiarize yourself with the charming streets and parks.
Visit the nearby Parvis Saint-Pierre, a quaint square where locals gather. Take in the sights and perhaps enjoy a light lunch at one of the bistros. Explore the local shops and boutiques, capturing the essence of Ganshoren’s community.
Dine at a family-run restaurant, savoring traditional Belgian dishes. After dinner, take a scenic walk in the nearby park while the sun sets, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. End your night with a nightcap at a cozy bar, relishing the local beer.
Take an early train to Brussels, just a short distance away. Begin your day at the iconic Grand Place, marveling at the stunning architecture. Grab a local coffee and a waffle from a street vendor as you plan your adventure.
Visit the Magritte Museum to immerse yourself in the works of the famous surrealist painter. Afterward, explore the vibrant streets of Brussels, stopping for lunch at a trendy eatery in the Sablon district. Don't forget to try some artisanal chocolates as you shop around.
As evening falls, head to the Atomium to witness its unique structure illuminated at night. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant nearby, specializing in regional Belgian cuisine. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk through Parc du Cinquantenaire, appreciating the beautiful night views.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕️Coffee and pastry | $3-6 |
| 🥖Bakery item | $1-3 |
| 🚆Single transit ticket | $2-4 |
| 🏨One-night mid-range hotel | $80-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Brussels with easy access to major sights
- Quiet residential atmosphere with good transit links
- Limited nightlife directly in Ganshoren itself
- Smaller local dining scene compared to central Brussels
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la gare ?" - Where is the train station?
- "L’addition, s’il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Je suis végétarien(ne)" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Ganshoren
Visit one of these nice places.
A short tram ride away, the ornate guild houses and the square’s dynamic light offer dramatic cityscape and street photography opportunities, especially at dawn or dusk.
A scenic vantage point with formal gardens and city views; ideal for architectural shots and panoramas of Brussels’ skyline.
Wide avenues, monumental arches, and lush green spaces provide classic Europe-in-a-park photography moments.
A short trip from Ganshoren offers tranquil woodland paths and filtered light through tall trees—great for nature and landscape photography.
A distinctive modern icon with futuristic lines; captures striking architectural shots, especially with surrounding skies and night lighting.
Food in Ganshoren
Ganshoren Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh mussels cooked in a variety of broths served with crispy fries; widely available in brasseries across the region.
Must-Try!
Slow-braised beef in beer with onions, often served with fries or bread for a hearty Belgian classic.
Endive leaves wrapped in ham and cheese gratin, a beloved Belgian comfort dish.
A creamy chicken or fish stew with vegetables and herbs; a flavorful regional specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and ready-to-eat bites; great for sampling regional foods and buying picnic supplies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
French is widely used in Brussels-region areas like Ganshoren; Dutch is also common in some corners. A simple greeting like ‘Bonjour’ or ‘Goede dag’ shows politeness.
Queue patiently, greet hosts and shopkeepers, and maintain a calm, respectful demeanor in public spaces and transit.
Smoking is restricted indoors in most venues; ask before taking photos of people and be mindful of quiet conversations in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Ganshoren
Ensure a smooth experience
In Belgium, a service charge is often not included, so a tip of 5-10% in restaurants and bars is appreciated if the service is good. Rounding up the bill is common in casual places.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; outdoor dining and park visits are popular. Expect some rain showers; stay hydrated and carry a light layer for evenings.
Mild temperatures and blooming gardens; ideal for strolls, markets, and outdoor photography. Pack a light jacket and waterproof layer.
Crisp air and colorful foliage in parks and wooded areas; great for scenic walks and city photography. Layers recommended.
Cool to cold with shorter days; indoor attractions and cafés become appealing. Bring warm clothing and a good umbrella for rain or snow.
Ganshoren at Night
Hiking in Ganshoren
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive forested area with well-marked trails, easy to moderate hikes, and a peaceful escape into nature just outside the city.
Famous for its bluebell carpets in spring; a short drive from Brussels offering scenic woodland hikes.
Airports
How to reach Ganshoren by plane.
Brussels’ main international airport, located about 20-30 minutes by train or car from central Brussels; frequent connections to the city and beyond.
Budget-friendly carrier hub located about 60-90 minutes by train/bus from Brussels; useful for low-cost international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse mix typical of the Brussels region, including multilingual locals, EU staff, families, and students from various backgrounds.
A notable presence of international residents drawn to Brussels’ job market and cosmopolitan lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular throughout Belgium; local clubs, casual pickup games, and formal leagues are common in and around Brussels.
Belgians are passionate about cycling; many routes and flat to rolling terrain around Brussels suit riders of all levels.
Public and private courts are available in parks and clubs; a common recreational activity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ganshoren.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Belgian dishes can be adapted; look for vegetarian staples like cheese dishes, frites with sauces, seasonal vegetables, and vegetarian quiches. When dining out, ask for meat-free options or vegetable-forward plates.