Things To Do
in Melle

Melle, Belgium is a charming municipality located in the province of East Flanders, known for its rich history and picturesque landscapes. The town features a blend of modern amenities and traditional architecture, making it an intriguing destination for travelers. Surrounded by lush greenery and serene waterways, Melle offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.

It is also conveniently situated near Ghent, providing easy access to urban experiences while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Melle
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local bakery for a traditional Belgian breakfast, including fresh pastries and coffee. Afterwards, take a stroll through the town center and visit the Church of St. Aldegonde.

afternoon
:

Explore the beautiful parks in Melle, such as the Melle Park, where you can enjoy a picnic or just relax in the greenery. Visit local shops to pick up unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant such as 'De Molen' for authentic Belgian cuisine, followed by a leisurely walk along the river.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the nearby Museum of Fine Arts in Ghent to appreciate local art and culture. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the region.

afternoon
:

Head back to Melle and enjoy a bike ride along the scenic routes around the town, soaking in the beautiful landscapes.

evening
:

End your day with a visit to a local brewery to sample Belgian beers and enjoy a hearty dinner at a traditional tavern.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$5
🚇Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming small-town atmosphere
  • Rich in history and culture
  • Proximity to larger cities like Ghent
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Less English spoken compared to larger cities
  • Public transport may be infrequent
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ik begrijp het niet" - I do not understand
  • "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Melle

Visit one of these nice places.

Church of St. Aldegonde

This historic church features stunning architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows, making it a perfect backdrop for photos.

Melle Park

The lush greenery and serene water features create picturesque scenes for nature photography.

Historic Town Center

The charming streets and traditional buildings offer a delightful setting for capturing the essence of Melle.

Culinary Guide

Food in Melle

Melle boasts a delightful culinary scene that highlights the region's rich traditions and flavors. From local delicacies to cozy cafes, there's something to satisfy every palate.

Melle Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Carbonnade Flamande

A hearty beef stew cooked in Belgian beer, typically served with fries or bread.

Must-Try!

Moules-frites

Mussels cooked in white wine and served with crispy fries, a classic Belgian dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Melle Market

Held weekly, this market offers fresh produce, cheeses, and local street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Melle experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and cool summers. Average temperatures range from 0°C (32°F) in January to 20°C (68°F) in July. Rainfall is frequent throughout the year, making it wise to keep an umbrella handy. The best time to visit for pleasant weather is during late spring and early autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, and it's polite to greet with 'Bonjour' or 'Hallo'.

Dining Etiquette

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

Personal Space

Belgians value personal space, so maintain a comfortable distance when conversing.

Safety Guide

Safety

Melle is generally a safe place for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is wise to stay vigilant in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be contacted through the European emergency number 112.

Tipping in Melle

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and cafes, with a standard of rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10%.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit 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 mild temperatures with blooming flowers, making it ideal for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather is perfect for outdoor dining and festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Beautiful fall colors adorn the landscape, providing a picturesque setting for walks and hikes.

Winter

Cold temperatures may lead to snow, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying hot chocolate in local cafes.

Nightlife Guide

Melle at Night

Melle's nightlife is relatively calm compared to larger cities, with a few bars and pubs offering a cozy atmosphere. Locals often gather for drinks at cafes, where you can enjoy Belgian beers and wines. Live music events are occasionally hosted, and the nearby city of Ghent provides a more vibrant nightlife scene with clubs and late-night venues.

Hiking in Melle

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

De Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen

A nature reserve near Ghent, offering various trails and beautiful wetlands, perfect for hiking and birdwatching.

Liedtspark

Located in the nearby town of Deinze, this park features scenic trails and picturesque landscapes for a relaxing hike.

Airports

How to reach Melle by plane.

Brussels Airport

Located approximately 60 km from Melle, Brussels Airport is the main international airport serving the region, offering numerous flights to various destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Melle is quite walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, featuring well-maintained sidewalks and crosswalks. Walking is a great way to explore the area and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The local population is predominantly Flemish, with a mix of families and individuals of various ages.

Expats and Tourists

Melle attracts a small number of expats and visitors seeking a quieter experience while still being close to urban attractions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

Cycling is a popular pastime in Melle, with many locals using bikes for transportation and leisure.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely followed, with local teams playing at various levels, drawing enthusiastic support from the community.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Melle is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation is available, with bus services connecting to nearby towns and cities. However, during peak hours, traffic can become congested, especially on routes leading to Ghent.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Melle.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's best to inquire about specific dishes.

Gluten-Free

Some eateries may provide gluten-free alternatives, but always check with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Melle is of high quality, with access to both public and private medical facilities. In case of emergencies, hospitals are easily reachable, and pharmacies are available throughout the town. EU citizens can use their EHIC cards for necessary medical care.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide