Things To Do
in Hemiksem

Hemiksem is a charming municipality located in the province of Antwerp, Belgium. It is situated along the banks of the Scheldt River, offering picturesque views and a serene environment. Known for its rich history and local culture, Hemiksem is a hidden gem for travelers seeking an authentic Belgian experience.

The town features a mix of historic architecture, green spaces, and friendly locals, making it an ideal spot for exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Hemiksem
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local bakery for a traditional Belgian breakfast featuring croissants and coffee. Afterward, stroll through the scenic town square and visit the Church of Saint John the Baptist.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café, then take a walk along the Scheldt River to admire the views. Visit the nearby Museum of Contemporary Art to immerse yourself in local culture.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local restaurant and try traditional Flemish stew, followed by a relaxing evening at a local pub to enjoy some Belgian beers.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Kickstart your day with a nature walk in the nearby park, enjoying the fresh air and local flora. Afterward, visit the local market to experience the flavors of Hemiksem.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at the market, sampling local cheeses and meats, then head to a nearby historical site to learn more about the history of the region.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a scenic boat ride along the Scheldt, followed by dinner at a cozy restaurant specializing in seafood.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$8
🍽️Dinner for Two at a Restaurant$50
Coffee$3
🍺Local Beer$5
🥖Baguette$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming and peaceful atmosphere
  • Rich local culture and history
  • Delicious traditional Belgian cuisine
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Public transportation may be less frequent
  • Some attractions may have limited opening hours
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
  • "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Hemiksem

Visit one of these nice places.

Church of Saint John the Baptist

An architectural gem with stunning stained glass windows, perfect for capturing the essence of Hemiksem.

Scheldt River Promenade

A picturesque walkway along the river, ideal for sunset photography.

Local Market

Vibrant scenes of local life and colorful stalls make for captivating images.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hemiksem

Hemiksem offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the rich flavors of Belgian cuisine. Visitors can savor local dishes, fresh produce, and traditional sweets.

Hemiksem Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Flemish Stew

A hearty beef stew cooked in a rich beer sauce, served with fries.

Must-Try!

Moules-frites

Steamed mussels served with a side of crispy fries.

Speculoos

Traditional spiced cookies that are a beloved treat in Belgium.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hemiksem Market

A weekly market where you can find fresh local produce, cheeses, meats, and baked goods.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls offering delicious snacks like waffles and frites throughout the town.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hemiksem experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures in winter 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 distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in late spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

A handshake is a common greeting, and using 'Bonjour' or 'Hallo' is polite.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting your meal, and keep your hands on the table (but not elbows).

Dress Code

Dress smartly, especially in restaurants and cultural venues; casual wear is acceptable but avoid overly casual attire.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hemiksem is generally considered safe for travelers. Basic precautions such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings are advisable. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Hemiksem

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Service charge is often included in the bill, but rounding up or leaving a small tip is appreciated.

Payment Methods

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

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather attracts more visitors, and outdoor cafes are lively, perfect for enjoying local cuisine.

Autumn

Beautiful fall colors adorn the parks, and the harvest season offers seasonal delicacies.

Winter

Cold temperatures may lead to snowfall, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying hot chocolate by the fireplace.

Nightlife Guide

Hemiksem at Night

Hemiksem's nightlife is laid-back, focusing on cozy pubs and bars rather than large clubs. The local pubs offer a selection of Belgian beers and often host live music events or trivia nights. For a more vibrant scene, nearby Antwerp offers various clubs and late-night venues that cater to diverse tastes.

Hiking in Hemiksem

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kalmthout Heath

A beautiful nature reserve located about 30 minutes from Hemiksem, featuring trails through heathland and woodlands.

Meren van Puyenbroeck

A scenic area with various trails around lakes, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.

Airports

How to reach Hemiksem by plane.

Antwerp International Airport

Located approximately 15 km from Hemiksem, this airport offers connections to various European cities and is the closest option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hemiksem is quite walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops located within a short distance of each other. The town features pedestrian-friendly streets and paths along the river, making it enjoyable to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The community is mainly composed of Belgian families who have lived in the area for generations.

Young Professionals

An increasing number of young professionals are moving to Hemiksem due to its proximity to Antwerp and affordable living.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

Cycling is popular in Belgium, and Hemiksem offers scenic routes along the river and through the countryside.

Football (Soccer)

Local football clubs have a strong following, and attending a match can be an exciting experience.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Hemiksem is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include buses that connect to Antwerp and surrounding areas, though schedules may vary.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hemiksem.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Some eateries provide gluten-free meals, but options may be limited.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Hemiksem is accessible, with several clinics and pharmacies available. In case of emergencies, local hospitals in nearby Antwerp provide comprehensive medical services.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide