Things To Do
in Lokeren
Lokeren is a compact Flemish town in East Flanders, known for its welcoming market town vibe and well preserved historic core. The town sits along the Durme and offers pleasant riverside walks and easy access to the Flemish countryside. Its lively weekly market, local cafés, and small museums reflect a strong sense of community and a relaxed pace of life.
Used as a base for exploring the region, Lokeren blends small-town charm with convenient connections to Ghent and beyond.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your trip by wandering through the charming streets of Lokeren. Take in the town's rich history while visiting the stunning Sint-Laurentiuskerk, a must-see landmark. Enjoy a freshly brewed coffee at a local café as you soak in the tranquil morning atmosphere.
After lunch, visit the Lokeren Museum to discover local art and culture, especially the exhibitions that showcase the town's industrial past. A stroll through the nearby parks is perfect for an afternoon break, where the sound of rustling leaves complements the serene environment. Don't forget to stop by the local shops for unique souvenirs.
In the evening, treat yourself to dinner at a cozy Belgian restaurant, where you can savor traditional dishes like stoofvlees and waffles. Following your meal, head to a local pub for a taste of Belgian beer, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere filled with laughter and conversation. Capture the charming ambiance of Lokeren by taking an evening walk along the river Durme.
Head out early to explore the beautiful nature reserves surrounding Lokeren, like the Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen. This area is perfect for birdwatching and immersing yourself in Belgium’s natural beauty. Bring a picnic breakfast to enjoy in the tranquil setting surrounded by lush greenery.
Continue your exploration with a hike through the nature trails, observing the diverse wildlife and impressive landscapes. Take the time to immerse yourself in the sounds and sights of nature while snapping photos of the stunning scenery. After your hike, visit a nearby café for a well-deserved lunch, perhaps trying some fresh local pastries.
As the sun sets, return to Lokeren and unwind at a nearby park for a peaceful evening. Reflect on your day while enjoying the natural beauty around you, perhaps engaging in light evening exercises or meditation. End the day with an informal dinner at a local eatery, savoring more of Belgium's delightful culinary offerings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $6-9 |
| 🚆Local transit (short ride) | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town center with historic charm
- Great base for exploring the Flemish countryside
- Good value for meals and accommodations
- Friendly locals and easy day trips to Ghent and beyond
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Public transport to more remote areas may require planning
- Some visitors may prefer more English-language signage in rural spots
- Smaller-scale attractions compared to larger Flemish cities
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please / You're welcome
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Lokeren
Visit one of these nice places.
The vibrant central square with historic façades, a great place to capture morning light and life on market days.
A picturesque church and surrounding streets perfect for architectural shots and street photography.
Riverside paths offer tranquil water views and sunset silhouettes over the water.
Quaint Flemish streets with shopfronts and stepped gables ideal for detail shots.
Food in Lokeren
Lokeren Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beef stew slowly braised in beer, typically served with fries or bread.
Must-Try!
Rabbit with prunes, a classic Flemish dish enjoyed with potatoes or noodles.
Chicory wrapped in ham and cheese, often baked until bubbling hot.
Belgian fries with a choice of sauces like mayonnaise, pickles, or Andalouse.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and prepared snacks to sample on the go.
Casual bites and local treats available around the market area on peak days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common when meeting new people; address strangers with the formal u in Dutch.
Dutch is the local language; many in hospitality speak English, and a few speak French.
Polite tone and orderly queues are appreciated; keep noise levels reasonable in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Lokeren
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is usually not included; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common practice.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always handy for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures and flowering streets make it ideal for walking tours and outdoor markets.
Long days and outdoor events; stay hydrated and enjoy riverside strolls in the evenings.
Golden light and harvest markets; great for landscape and street photography with falling leaves.
Chilly but cozy; Christmas markets and warm cafés provide seasonal ambiance and photography opportunities.
Lokeren at Night
Hiking in Lokeren
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic riverside trail suitable for relaxed hikes and photography.
Loop trails through wetlands and woodlands with birdwatching opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Lokeren by plane.
Major international hub about 60-90 minutes by train or car from Lokeren.
Smaller airport near Antwerp, convenient for regional travel and connections.
Coastal airport offering additional European connections, longer drive from Lokeren.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant demographic group with a mix of families, students, and retirees.
Tourists from Belgium and neighboring countries who come for markets and nature trips.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime and sport in the surrounding countryside thanks to flat, scenic routes.
Local clubs and amateur leagues are common; community spirit is strong.
Local courts and parks support year-round activity for residents and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lokeren.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in most Belgian eateries; ask for meat-free versions of classics like stoverij or chicory dishes, and consider cheese as a protein source.