Things To Do
in Meise

Meise is a charming municipality located in the Flemish Brabant province of Belgium, known for its serene gardens and rich cultural heritage. It is home to the renowned Botanic Garden Meise, which boasts a vast collection of plants and flowers from around the world. The town combines a peaceful rural atmosphere with easy access to nearby urban centers like Brussels.

Visitors can enjoy beautiful landscapes, historical architecture, and a warm, welcoming community.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and History
morning
:

Start your day at the Botanic Garden Meise, where you can stroll through extensive gardens and visit the impressive glasshouses.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Castle of Bouchout, which is located within the Botanic Garden and offers beautiful architecture and scenic views.

evening
:

Dine at a local bistro, trying traditional Flemish cuisine, followed by a leisurely walk through the garden as the sun sets.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Relaxation
morning
:

Explore the local market to experience daily life in Meise, sampling cheeses and pastries.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby village of Grimbergen, known for its Abbey, and take a guided tour to learn about its history.

evening
:

Enjoy a casual dinner at a local pub, followed by drinks at a nearby café to soak up the local nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍺Beer$5
🚍Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and gardens.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Quiet and peaceful atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Less public transport connectivity.
  • Some restaurants may have limited menus.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank je wel" - Thank you
  • "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I don't speak Dutch
  • "Wat kost dit?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Meise

Visit one of these nice places.

Botanic Garden Meise

Stunning landscapes and diverse plant collections make this garden a perfect spot for nature photography.

Castle of Bouchout

The beautiful architecture and surrounding gardens provide a picturesque backdrop.

Grimbergen Abbey

The historic abbey and its tranquil gardens offer a glimpse into the past and beautiful views.

Culinary Guide

Food in Meise

Meise offers a delightful culinary scene that highlights the region's rich agricultural produce and traditional recipes.

Meise Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Flemish Stew (Stoverij)

A hearty beef stew cooked in Belgian beer, often served with fries.

Must-Try!

Waterzooi

A creamy stew made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and potatoes, typical of the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Meise Market

A vibrant local market held weekly, featuring fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Meise experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average summer temperatures range between 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0-5°C (32-41°F). Rainfall is spread throughout the year, making it advisable to carry an umbrella.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is the norm when meeting someone new, along with a polite 'hello'.

Dining Etiquette

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

Language

While many speak English, making an effort to use basic Dutch phrases is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Meise is generally considered safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Meise

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's common to round up the bill or leave a small tip (5-10%) for good service in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Visit from March to May to see the gardens in full bloom, with vibrant flowers and pleasant weather.

Summer

June to August is great for outdoor activities, with warm temperatures and longer days.

Autumn

From September to November, enjoy the fall foliage and mild weather, perfect for hiking.

Winter

December to February can be cold, but the cozy atmosphere and holiday markets make it worthwhile.

Nightlife Guide

Meise at Night

Meise has a relaxed nightlife scene characterized by cozy bars and local pubs. Most bars close by midnight, but a few may stay open later on weekends. Live music and trivia nights are common, providing a friendly atmosphere for socializing.

Hiking in Meise

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trail at Meise Botanic Garden

A scenic walking path within the gardens, perfect for leisurely hikes surrounded by nature.

Grimbergen Nature Reserve

Located nearby, this reserve offers diverse trails for various skill levels amidst beautiful landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Meise by plane.

Brussels Airport

Located about 15 km from Meise, Brussels Airport is the primary international gateway to Belgium, offering numerous flights to various destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Meise is quite walkable, especially around the town center and the Botanic Garden. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and most amenities are within a short walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families reside in Meise, attracted by its peaceful environment and good schools.

Retirees

The town is also home to a significant number of retirees who enjoy the quiet lifestyle and access to nature.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

Cycling is immensely popular in Belgium, with many locals taking advantage of the scenic routes for commuting and leisure.

Soccer (Football)

Soccer is a beloved sport, with local clubs engaging the community and hosting matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Meise is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include buses that connect to Brussels and other nearby towns, though schedules may vary.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Meise.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with staff regarding specific dietary needs.

Gluten-Free Options

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

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Belgium has a high standard of healthcare, with both public and private facilities available. In case of emergencies, visiting a local hospital is recommended, and pharmacies are common for minor ailments.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide