Things To Do
in Kortenberg

Kortenberg is a charming municipality located in the Flemish Brabant province of Belgium, known for its picturesque landscapes and serene atmosphere. It’s situated conveniently between Brussels and Leuven, making it an attractive destination for both locals and tourists. The town is characterized by its beautiful parks, historical buildings, and a rich cultural heritage.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of outdoor activities and local cuisine, all while experiencing the warmth of the Belgian community.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Kortenberg
morning
:

Start your day at the local bakery, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the Kortenberg Park, where you can admire the greenery and peaceful surroundings.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Church of St. John the Baptist, followed by lunch at a nearby café. Spend your afternoon exploring local boutiques and shops in the town center.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Belgian restaurant, sampling local dishes. End your day with a leisurely walk around the town, soaking in the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trips and Nature
morning
:

Take a short trip to the nearby town of Zaventem for a hearty breakfast at a local diner. Afterward, head to the Zaventem Nature Reserve for a morning hike.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature. Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby historic sites or local museums.

evening
:

Return to Kortenberg for dinner, and explore a local bar or café to enjoy some Belgian beers before wrapping up your trip.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-25
Coffee$3-5
🍺Local beer$4-7
🚍Public transport ticket$2
🛒Groceries (weekly)$50-80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming small-town atmosphere.
  • Proximity to larger cities like Brussels and Leuven.
  • Rich cultural heritage and beautiful parks.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent.
  • Fewer tourist attractions than major Belgian cities.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u" - Thank you
  • "Alstublieft" - Please
  • "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
  • "Tot ziens" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Kortenberg

Visit one of these nice places.

Kortenberg Park

A serene park with beautiful landscapes, perfect for capturing nature and tranquility.

Church of St. John the Baptist

An iconic historical church offering stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings.

Local Streets

Charming streets lined with local shops and cafes, ideal for capturing the essence of Belgian town life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kortenberg

Kortenberg offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing traditional Belgian flavors and ingredients. You can find a variety of local dishes that reflect the rich culture and history of the region.

Kortenberg Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoofvlees

A hearty beef stew, typically served with fries, that embodies the essence of Belgian comfort food.

Must-Try!

Moules-frites

Mussels cooked in white wine served with crispy fries, a classic Belgian dish enjoyed by many.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kortenberg Market

A weekly market where locals sell fresh produce, artisanal products, and homemade street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kortenberg experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Winters can be cold with temperatures averaging 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F), while summers are mild to warm, averaging 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is common throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Language Respect

Respecting the local language is important; learning a few phrases in Dutch can be appreciated.

Politeness

Greet people with a friendly 'Hallo' or 'Goedemorgen' and say 'Dank u' when thanked.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, it’s polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kortenberg is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, it's always wise to remain aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Basic precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and securing personal belongings, are advisable.

Tipping in Kortenberg

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash and credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect blooming flowers and mild weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities and park visits.

Summer

Warm temperatures draw locals and tourists to outdoor cafes and events, ideal for exploring.

Autumn

Enjoy the beautiful fall foliage and a cooler climate, perfect for hiking and scenic walks.

Winter

Cold temperatures may lead to snowfall, creating a charming winter wonderland, especially around the holidays.

Nightlife Guide

Kortenberg at Night

Kortenberg has a relaxed nightlife scene with cozy bars and pubs. While it may not have the vibrant nightlife of larger cities, locals enjoy gathering at bars to socialize over Belgian beers and casual conversations. There are also occasional events and live music performances at local venues.

Hiking in Kortenberg

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Zaventem Nature Reserve Trails

Offers a network of trails through scenic landscapes, perfect for hiking and birdwatching.

Hiking in the Sonian Forest

Located a short drive away, this expansive forest offers numerous trails and a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Kortenberg by plane.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Located about 10 km away from Kortenberg, Brussels Airport is the largest international airport in Belgium, offering numerous flights to both domestic and international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kortenberg is quite walkable, with a compact town center that makes it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within a short walking distance. However, for destinations outside the center, public transport or cycling may be necessary.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Kortenberg's population consists of Belgian locals, contributing to a close-knit community atmosphere.

Expat Community

A growing number of expatriates, particularly those working in Brussels, have settled in Kortenberg, adding to its cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A popular sport in the region, with local clubs and community events often centered around football matches.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored activity, with many residents enjoying rides through the picturesque countryside and organized cycling events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kortenberg is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation options are available, including buses that connect to nearby towns and cities. However, during peak hours, routes to Brussels may experience some congestion.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kortenberg.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to inquire about ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Some places may provide gluten-free options, but it’s recommended to ask beforehand.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Kortenberg has access to quality healthcare services, with local clinics and hospitals available for both residents and travelers. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and pharmacies are widely available for minor health needs. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide