Things To Do
in Lebbeke
Lebbeke is a quiet Flemish town in East Flanders, tucked along the Dender River and surrounded by green farmland. It offers a relaxed, village-like atmosphere with easy access to larger towns and nature escapes. The town center features historic charm, local markets, and family-run eateries that showcase Belgian hospitality.
Visitors can enjoy scenic walks, riverside scenery, and a convenient base for exploring the broader Brabant region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and Belgian coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming streets of Lebbeke, admiring the beautiful architecture and quaint houses. Don’t miss visiting the St. Martin's Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that stands proudly in the town's square.
For lunch, indulge in traditional Belgian fare at a nearby restaurant, trying the famous moules-frites (mussels and fries). Post-lunch, visit the nearby Het Laar, a picturesque park perfect for a relaxing walk or picnic while enjoying the serene surroundings. Explore the local shops and artisan stalls, where you can find unique crafts and souvenirs to take home.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a cozy bistro that offers a range of local dishes paired with Belgian beers. After dinner, take a leisurely evening walk through the town, soaking in the peaceful ambiance and the warm glow of street lamps. Conclude your day with a quiet nightcap at a nearby pub, where you can chat with locals and reflect on your day.
Grab your bike and set off early to explore the beautiful cycling routes that surround Lebbeke, enjoying the fresh morning air. The scenic paths take you through lush fields and quaint villages, offering plenty of opportunities to stop and take photographs. Stop at a local bakery on your route for a quick snack of fresh bread and jam.
After a morning of cycling, find a scenic spot for a picnic lunch, perhaps near the Dender River, where you can relax and enjoy the views. Continue your journey cycling along the riverbanks, where you can spot wildlife and take in the natural beauty of the region. Take a break at a charming village like Dendermonde to explore its historic center and grab a coffee.
Return to Lebbeke in the late afternoon and freshen up before dinner. Choose a local restaurant known for its regional specialties, and enjoy a hearty meal of carbonnade flamande, a traditional Flemish beef stew. After dinner, consider visiting a nearby brewery for a tasting session, learning about the brewing process and enjoying a selection of local beers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $90-150 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $40-90 |
| 🚆Local public transport ticket | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful, small-town charm with easy access to nature
- Good base for day trips to Dendermonde, Aalst, and the Brabant countryside
- Friendly locals and family-owned eateries with authentic Belgian flavors
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Public transport outside town centers can be infrequent
- Some services and shops close earlier on Sundays
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is de Dender?" - Where is the Dender River?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Lebbeke
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour reflections on the river, with silhouettes of swans and distant church steeples forming a tranquil composition.
Old buildings, a cobbled square, and the church provide a quintessential Flemish scene, especially during market days.
Rural lanes bordered by hedgerows and farmland offer expansive compositions—great for moody skies and seasonal crops.
Paved and compact dirt paths along the Dender allow easy framing of water, boats, and tree-lined banks.
Food in Lebbeke
Lebbeke Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked beef in rich beer gravy, often served with mashed potatoes or fries; a Belgian staple widely available in town bistros.
Must-Try!
Fresh mussels cooked with onions and herbs, paired with thick Belgian fries and a lemon wedge.
Seasonal white or green asparagus served with a creamy sauce and new potatoes, popular in spring.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local produce, cheese, breads, and seasonal specialties set up in the town center on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake; address people formally using Mr./Ms. until invited to use first names. Punctuality is valued, especially for appointments or events.
Respect queues; keep a comfortable distance in crowds. Cashless tips are common; be mindful of local rules in cafes and shops.
Safety
Tipping in Lebbeke
Ensure a smooth experience
In Belgium, a service charge is commonly included in many restaurants. If not included, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% as a tip is appreciated for good service.
Cards (debit/credit) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Keep some cash for small shops or markets that may not take cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, pleasant temperatures, and outdoor dining; occasional showers. Stay hydrated and take advantage of riverside strolls and bike routes.
Colorful foliage and harvest markets; cooler temperatures, ideal for leisurely walks and photography with warm light at dusk.
Shorter days and potential frost; festive lights in the town, cozy pubs, and hearty meals by a fireplace in local eateries.
Blooming countryside and longer days; great time for outdoor activities and vibrant photos of blossoms along rural trails.
Lebbeke at Night
Hiking in Lebbeke
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Water-side loop offering easy to moderate hiking with scenic river views and wildlife opportunities.
Rural route through farmland, hedgerows, and woodlands ideal for a half-day hike or long walk.
Iconic bluebell forest in spring; a short drive away, offering magical woodland photography and serene trails.
Airports
How to reach Lebbeke by plane.
Major international hub about 45–60 minutes by car or train from Lebbeke; excellent rail and road connections to the region.
Smaller regional airport, offering mainly domestic and some European connections; accessible by road via the region.
Budget-friendly option with several European connections; typically a longer drive to Lebbeke but reasonable via road routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Quiet neighborhoods, parks, and local schools create a family-friendly vibe.
Tranquil environment and slower pace appeal to retirees seeking a peaceful base.
Proximity to larger towns makes Lebbeke a convenient home for workers who travel for work.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime in the Flemish countryside; plenty of quiet lanes and scenic routes for road cycling and family rides.
Local clubs and community fields reflect Belgium’s strong football culture at the amateur level.
Public and club courts provide opportunities for casual play and lessons in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lebbeke.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Belgian dishes can be adapted; look for vegetable stews, cheese plates, spinach dishes, and mushroom dishes. Request vegetarian versions of classics or opt for salads and grain bowls at bistros.