Things To Do
in Ganshoren

Ganshoren is a charming suburb located in the Brussels-Capital Region of Belgium, known for its peaceful residential atmosphere and green spaces. It offers a blend of urban living with a touch of nature, making it an ideal spot for relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. The area is characterized by beautiful parks, local shops, and a strong sense of community.

With easy access to public transportation, visitors can explore not only Ganshoren but also the vibrant culture of nearby Brussels.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Ganshoren
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Parc de la Jeunesse, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk or a morning jog. Afterwards, head to a local café for a traditional Belgian breakfast.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Brussels Tram Museum to learn about the history of public transport in the region. Following this, enjoy a stroll through the quaint streets and explore local shops.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Belgian dishes, and finish the evening at a cozy bar with live music.

day 2
Day 2: Exploring Brussels
morning
:

Take a short tram ride to central Brussels and start your day at the iconic Grand Place, marveling at the stunning architecture.

afternoon
:

Visit the Magritte Museum to experience the surrealist art of René Magritte, followed by lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Return to Ganshoren for dinner at a family-owned restaurant, and enjoy a quiet evening in one of the local parks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$20
Cup of Coffee$3
🥐Croissant$1.50
🚆Public Transport Ticket$2.50
🏨Hotel Room (per night)$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Peaceful suburban environment with green spaces
  • Rich cultural experiences just a tram ride away in Brussels
  • Delicious local cuisine and friendly locals
  • Limited nightlife options compared to central Brussels
  • Less tourist-focused amenities
  • Public transport is necessary to reach major attractions
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Ganshoren

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc de la Jeunesse

A picturesque park with beautiful landscapes and plenty of greenery, ideal for nature photography.

The Brussels Tram Museum

An interesting backdrop for photos showcasing the history of transportation in Brussels.

Grand Place in Brussels

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this square is famous for its stunning architecture and is perfect for urban photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ganshoren

Ganshoren boasts a delightful array of Belgian cuisine, perfect for food lovers looking to indulge in local flavors.

Ganshoren Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Moules-Frites

A classic Belgian dish of mussels served with fries.

Must-Try!

Carbonnade Flamande

A hearty beef stew cooked in Belgian beer, often served with bread.

Waffles

Belgian waffles, available in various styles, are a must-try dessert.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Place du Chatelain Market

A vibrant market held every Wednesday, featuring local produce, cheeses, and street food.

Food trucks at Parc de la Jeunesse

A selection of food trucks offering diverse street food options on weekends.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ganshoren experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average winter temperatures range from 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F), while summer temperatures can reach up to 25°C (77°F). Rainfall is common throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A polite handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and keep your hands on the table.

Language Considerations

French is predominantly spoken; greeting people in French is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ganshoren is generally considered a safe suburb, with low crime rates. However, as with any urban area, it's wise to remain vigilant, especially at night. Avoid poorly lit areas and keep your belongings secure.

Tipping in Ganshoren

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to leave a tip of about 5-10% in restaurants, though service charges are often included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Warm temperatures make it ideal for enjoying parks and outdoor cafes, but occasional rain is common.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage create a picturesque setting for walks and photography.

Winter

Cold weather can bring snow, transforming the area into a winter wonderland, especially during the holiday season.

Nightlife Guide

Ganshoren at Night

Ganshoren has a relaxed nightlife scene, with a mix of local bars and pubs where you can enjoy Belgian beers and spirits. The nearby Brussels city center offers a more vibrant nightlife experience with clubs, live music venues, and late-night eateries. Locals often gather in bars to socialize, especially on weekends, creating a friendly atmosphere.

Hiking in Ganshoren

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sonian Forest Trails

Located just a short drive from Ganshoren, the Sonian Forest offers numerous hiking trails through scenic woodlands.

Brussels Regional Park

A lovely park with well-marked trails, perfect for a day hike or nature walk just outside the city.

Airports

How to reach Ganshoren by plane.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Located approximately 14 km from Ganshoren, Brussels Airport is the main international airport serving the city, offering flights to numerous destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ganshoren is quite walkable, particularly around Parc de la Jeunesse and local shops. Sidewalks are available, and the area is generally flat, making it easy for pedestrians. However, for access to more attractions in Brussels, public transportation is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The suburb is primarily composed of Belgian families and long-term residents.

Expats

Ganshoren is home to a growing number of expatriates, attracted by its proximity to Brussels and community vibe.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Belgium, with local clubs and a passionate fan base.

Cycling

Cycling is common, both as a sport and a means of transportation, thanks to the region's bike-friendly infrastructure.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ganshoren is generally light, particularly during off-peak hours. Public transportation options include trams and buses, which are reliable and connect well to Brussels. Cycling is also a favored mode of transport, with dedicated bike lanes available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ganshoren.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian alternatives, but it's always good to ask.

Gluten-Free Meals

Some places provide gluten-free options; inquire ahead to ensure availability.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Ganshoren has access to quality healthcare services, with clinics and hospitals located within a short distance. The healthcare system is efficient and most medical professionals speak English. Emergency services can be reached by calling 112.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide