Halen

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Halen's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival in Halen
morning
:

Arrive in Halen and settle into your accommodation, enjoying the cozy atmosphere of this small Belgian town. Grab a fresh croissant and coffee from a nearby bakery to energize your day. Stroll around the quaint streets, taking in the local architecture and environment.

afternoon
:

Visit the local historical museum to learn about Halen's rich history and its significant role in both World Wars. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional Belgian café, sampling local specialties like stoofvlees (beef stew) with fries. Wander through the town square, indulging in some shopping at local boutiques.

evening
:

Dine at a farm-to-table restaurant where you can experience authentic Belgian cuisine, paired with local beers. Post dinner, take a peaceful walk along the banks of the Demer River as the sun sets. End your night with a nightcap at a cozy bar, reflecting on your first day in Halen.

day 2
Exploring Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before heading to the beautiful nature reserve, De Demerbroeken. Spend the morning hiking along the trails, immersing yourself in the picturesque landscapes and observing local wildlife. Take a moment to appreciate the tranquility of nature, breathing in the fresh air.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch in the scenic surroundings of the nature reserve, surrounded by trees and the sounds of nature. After lunch, continue exploring the reserve or try birdwatching, as this area is home to numerous species. Capture memorable moments with your camera as you hike through stunning trails.

evening
:

Return to Halen and unwind with dinner at a local pizzeria, indulging in delicious wood-fired pizza. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the town in the evening, perhaps with a stroll through the peaceful streets. You may also want to check if there are any local events or markets happening during your visit.

day 3
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the nearby town of Aarschot, just a short drive from Halen, to explore its rich cultural offerings. Begin your day by visiting the historic St. Rumbold's Church, known for its stunning architecture and impressive tower. Take time to meander the charming streets and soak up local life.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a café in Aarschot, trying local dishes and experiencing the vibrant culture of the area. Afterward, visit the nearby Beguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about the unique history of the Beguines. Spend some time visiting local artisan shops for unique crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Head back to Halen for a relaxing dinner at a local brewery, where you can taste a variety of Belgian beers paired with traditional dishes. Enjoy the convivial atmosphere and perhaps join in on a local trivia night. Conclude your evening with an evening walk under the stars, enjoying the quiet charm of the town.

day 4
Heritage and History
morning
:

Visit the nearby town of Tienen to explore its historical sites and enjoy a rich breakfast before the day's adventures. Start at the Tienen Sugar Museum, which delves into the sugar production history that's central to the town. Walk around the vibrant market square, where you can find local vendors selling fresh produce.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch in Tienen at a cozy pub, sampling traditional Flemish fare. After lunch, visit the nearby Castle of Beersel, a medieval castle offering fascinating insights into the region’s history. Take your time exploring the castle grounds and gardens, soaking in the majestic architecture.

evening
:

Return to Halen for a relaxed evening, visiting a nearby wine bar to try some delightful local wines. Relish a leisurely dinner outdoors, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful surroundings. Take a late-night stroll, reflecting on the historical gems you encountered throughout the day.

day 5
Art and Innovation
morning
:

Dedicate the morning to exploring the art scene in Halen. Visit local galleries and artist studios, where you can witness creativity in action and perhaps meet some local artists. Engage with art and creativity, allowing inspiration to guide your thoughts.

afternoon
:

Enjoy art-inspired lunch at a café filled with local artwork, mingling with the creative community. After lunch, participate in a local art workshop that allows you to unleash your creativity through painting or craft. Share your creations with the friends you’ve made along the way.

evening
:

Celebrate your artistic day with a dinner at a bistro known for its innovative dishes, blending traditional recipes with contemporary flair. Engage in conversation about art with locals and fellow travelers, sharing experiences and insights. End the evening at a local theater for a performance showcasing Belgian talent.

day 6
Cycling Adventure
morning
:

Prepare for an exhilarating cycling adventure in and around Halen, starting your day with breakfast at a bicycle-friendly café. Rent a bicycle and set off on the scenic cycling paths, exploring the lush countryside, blooming fields, and picturesque villages. Stop frequently to capture the beauty of the Belgian landscape.

afternoon
:

Break for lunch at a charming countryside pub, savoring regional dishes that fuel your adventurous spirit. Afterward, continue your cycling journey through serene landscapes and past iconic windmills, connecting with the idyllic countryside. Take frequent breaks to take photos and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

evening
:

Return to Halen for a laid-back dinner at a local Belgian bistro, sharing your day's adventures with friends or fellow travelers. Relax with a local craft beer and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of the town. Take the evening to rest and prepare for another day of exploration ahead.

day 7
Local Markets and Gastronomy
morning
:

Spend the morning visiting a local market to discover fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade goods. Engage with local vendors to learn more about their crafts and appreciate the effort behind each product. Enjoy a light breakfast of fresh pastries made from market ingredients.

afternoon
:

Join a local cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Belgian dishes using the fresh ingredients you purchased earlier. Delight in the culinary techniques shared by the local chef while forging connections with other participants. Enjoy the fruits of your labor, savoring the meal you prepared together.

evening
:

Conclude your gastronomical journey with dinner at a gourmet restaurant that emphasizes local and seasonal ingredients. Taste an exquisite multi-course meal that celebrates the flavors of Belgium, paired with carefully selected wines. End your night with dessert at a famed patisserie, enjoying sweet treats before heading back to your accommodation.

day 8
Wine and Dine Experience
morning
:

Start the day with a trip to a local vineyard in the nearby region, known for its exceptional wines. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in a picturesque setting surrounded by vines. Learn about the wine-making process and the unique characteristics that make Belgian wine special.

afternoon
:

Participate in a guided wine tasting session, sampling a variety of wines and gaining insight into the different flavors and perfumes. Lunch in the vineyard, where the fresh food is paired perfectly with the wines you’ve tasted. Spend the afternoon walking through the beautiful vineyards and taking in the stunning landscape.

evening
:

Return to Halen for an unforgettable wine-pairing dinner at an upscale restaurant, celebrating the day’s discoveries. Engage in conversations with fellow diners about the wines and dishes you're experiencing. Wrap up your evening with a nightcap at a local wine bar, reflecting on your wine journey.

day 9
Relaxation and Farewell
morning
:

Dedicate your last morning to relaxation and reflection on your journey in Halen. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, soaking in the local ambiance one last time. Spend time journaling your experiences and thoughts about the wonderful memories you've made.

afternoon
:

Take a final stroll through the streets of Halen, revisiting your favorite spots or picking up last-minute souvenirs. Enjoy light shopping or visiting a local park for some peaceful moments in nature. Treat yourself to a last delectable lunch at a café near the town center.

evening
:

Bid farewell to Halen with a memorable farewell dinner at a cozy restaurant, savoring your favorite dishes one last time. As the day comes to an end, reflect on the connections you made and the experiences you’ve shared during your stay. Prepare for your departure, cherishing the memories that will last a lifetime.

Discover Halen

Read more in our Halen 2025 Travel Guide.

Halen Travel Guide