Things To Do
in Mortsel

Mortsel is a charming town located just south of Antwerp, Belgium, known for its rich history and vibrant community. It features a blend of residential neighborhoods and urban amenities, making it a pleasant place for both locals and visitors. The town is home to beautiful parks, historical sites, and a friendly atmosphere.

Mortsel serves as a gateway for exploring the larger metropolitan area of Antwerp while retaining its local character.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Mortsel
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local bakery, Pauly, to enjoy a traditional Belgian breakfast of pastries and coffee. Afterward, stroll through the serene park of Mortsel, enjoying the greenery and peaceful surroundings.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum, the Museum of Mortsel, to learn about the town’s history and culture. Spend some time exploring the local shops and boutiques in the town center.

evening
:

Dine at Brasserie De Walvis, known for its Belgian cuisine, and enjoy a drink at a nearby café, soaking in the local ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Exploring Nearby Antwerp
morning
:

Take a short train ride to Antwerp and start your day by visiting the iconic Cathedral of Our Lady, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the surrounding area, including the beautiful Groenplaats.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) to enjoy fascinating exhibits about the city’s history and maritime heritage. Walk along the river and enjoy lunch at one of the riverfront restaurants.

evening
:

Return to Mortsel and enjoy a relaxed dinner at Bistro 't Hof, followed by a stroll through the town's streets to admire the local architecture.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee in a café$3
🍺Local beer$5
🚍Public transportation ticket$2
🛒Grocery shopping for a week$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming small-town atmosphere with friendly locals.
  • Close proximity to Antwerp for larger city experiences.
  • Rich history and cultural heritage.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may require transfers for longer trips.
  • Fewer tourist attractions than nearby Antwerp.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Alstublieft" - Please
  • "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
  • "Tot ziens" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Mortsel

Visit one of these nice places.

Park of Mortsel

A beautiful park featuring lush greenery, perfect for capturing serene landscapes.

St. Benedict's Church

An impressive architectural site that showcases the town's historical heritage.

Riverbank of the Scheldt

Ideal for sunset photography, offering stunning views of the river and Antwerp skyline.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mortsel

Mortsel offers a delightful culinary experience with its blend of traditional Belgian flavors and local specialties. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dishes, from hearty stews to delectable pastries, along with refreshing local beers.

Mortsel Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoofvlees

A traditional Flemish beef stew, slow-cooked in beer, served with fries.

Must-Try!

Moules-frites

Mussels served with crispy fries, a beloved Belgian classic.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mortsel Market

A weekly market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal products, ideal for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Mortsel has a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while winters can drop to around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Rainfall is distributed evenly throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella regardless of the season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a kiss on the cheek is customary when meeting locals.

Language

While Dutch is the official language, many locals speak English; making an effort to greet in Dutch is appreciated.

Dining Etiquette

Keep hands on the table (but not elbows) while dining, and wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Safety Guide

Safety

Mortsel is generally considered a safe town for visitors, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 in case of any incidents.

Tipping in Mortsel

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though having some cash on hand for small purchases is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures and longer days are perfect for festivals and enjoying outdoor cafés.

Autumn

Cool weather with beautiful fall colors; a great time for hiking and exploring nature.

Winter

Cold temperatures, and occasional snowfall; visit Christmas markets for a festive experience.

Nightlife Guide

Mortsel at Night

Mortsel's nightlife is relatively calm compared to larger cities, with a few bars and cafes offering a cozy atmosphere for socializing. The nearby city of Antwerp offers a more vibrant nightlife scene with clubs, live music venues, and late-night dining options. Local bars often host events and live music, creating a friendly and inviting environment for residents and visitors alike.

Hiking in Mortsel

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

De Kessel Lo

A scenic hiking trail near Mortsel that offers beautiful views of the countryside and various wildlife.

Lier River Trail

A picturesque hiking route along the Lier River, perfect for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful escape.

Airports

How to reach Mortsel by plane.

Antwerp International Airport (ANR)

Located approximately 8 km from Mortsel, this airport offers flights to various European destinations and is easily accessible by public transport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mortsel is highly walkable, with many amenities located within a short distance of each other. The town features well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, making it easy to explore on foot. Parks and local shops are accessible, allowing visitors to enjoy the town's charm without the need for a car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Mortsel has a significant population of families, attracted by its quiet neighborhoods and local amenities.

Young Professionals

The town also hosts a growing number of young professionals commuting to nearby Antwerp for work.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Mortsel, with local clubs and community support for youth programs.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored activity, with many residents using bikes for commuting and leisure.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Mortsel is generally light, with the town being easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include buses and trains that connect Mortsel to Antwerp and surrounding areas, making it convenient for commuting. Parking is available, but it's advisable to use public transport to avoid congestion during peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mortsel.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Mortsel offer vegetarian dishes, but it is advisable to check menus or ask staff.

Gluten-Free Options

Some eateries provide gluten-free options, but confirming with the staff is recommended.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Mortsel is of high quality, with several clinics and hospitals in the area. Residents have access to general practitioners, specialists, and emergency services. Pharmacies are also available for over-the-counter medications, and many staff members speak English.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide