Things To Do
in Grimbergen

Iconic architecture, the abbey church’s façade, cloisters, ponds and parklands provide classic photos at golden hour and strong local character.

Picturesque town square with cafés, traditional storefronts and everyday life—good for capturing local scenes and street photography.

Long, flat towpaths and bridges are ideal for moody reflections, leading lines and seasonal colours, especially in autumn and spring.

Open fields, hedgerows and country lanes around Grimbergen offer pastoral landscapes and wide skies for sunrise and sunset shots.

A slow-cooked beef stew in beer, often served with fries; a warming Belgian classic found in brasseries and family restaurants around Grimbergen.

Must-Try!

Seasonal favorite—mussels steamed in white wine or beer, served with fries. Available in many local eateries when in season.

Crisp waffles and buttery pastries from local bakeries make for a great breakfast or afternoon snack; try them with local jams or simply dusted with powdered sugar.

Abbey-style beer associated with the town—try the Blond, Double or Optimo Bruno at bars, the abbey visitor centre, or local shops.

A weekly market (typically a weekend) in the town centre where you'll find fresh produce, cheese, baked goods and occasional street-food stalls—great for sampling local ingredients and snacks.

For a wider street-food selection and specialty stalls, take a short trip to markets in Mechelen or Brussels where international and artisanal vendors are common.

Dutch (Flemish) is the official language in Grimbergen—basic greetings in Dutch go a long way. Many people also speak French and English, especially younger people and service staff.

Be punctual for appointments and tours. Polite, brief greetings and thank-you ("alstublieft" / "dank u") are appreciated.

Respect local quiet and recycling rules; Sundays and late evenings tend to be quieter in smaller towns.

Respect cycle lanes and the rules for cyclists—drivers and pedestrians expect cyclists to follow designated paths.

Service is typically included in restaurant bills in Belgium, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for excellent service is common and appreciated. Leave small change at cafés or taxis; add a little extra for guided tours if you’re pleased.

Euro is the local currency. Credit and debit cards (chip-and-PIN and contactless) are widely accepted in shops, cafés and restaurants, though some small businesses and market stalls may prefer cash. Mobile payments are increasingly common.

Mild temperatures, blossoming trees and fewer tourists make it a pleasant time for walks, cycling and photographing the abbey gardens; occasional rain—bring a light waterproof layer.

Warmest period with long daylight hours, outdoor terraces and festivals in the region; expect higher weekend visitor numbers and comfortable conditions for biking and day trips.

Crisp air and colourful foliage around parks and canals—excellent for photography and quieter streets; pack layers as temperatures can change quickly.

Cold and sometimes damp with short daylight hours; festive lights during the holidays create a cozy atmosphere, but some rural trails can be muddy—waterproof footwear recommended.