Things To Do
in Nijlen
Nijlen is a quiet Flemish town in the Antwerp province, set in the Kempen countryside. It offers a relaxed pace, friendly locals, and a compact town center with traditional Flemish architecture. The surrounding woods and meadows provide easy access to outdoor activities and scenic country lanes.
Located within reach of Antwerp and Lier, Nijlen serves as a convenient base for exploring Flemish countryside and culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Nijlen, soaking in the charming architecture and local shops. Stop by a quaint café to enjoy a traditional Belgian breakfast featuring fresh pastries and strong coffee. As the sun rises higher, visit the local market to browse fresh produce and handmade goods from friendly vendors.
After lunch, take a guided tour of the historic St. Martin's Church, marveling at its stunning Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass windows. Spend some time in the nearby Nijlen Park, where you can enjoy the serene surroundings and perhaps have a picnic under the shade of a tree. Visit a local art gallery to appreciate the works of regional artists, gaining insight into the local culture.
As the evening approaches, dine at a local restaurant renowned for its Belgian cuisine, indulging in dishes like moules-frites or carbonnade flamande. After your meal, take a leisurely walk around the town square, where you may find live music or cultural performances. End your night at a cozy pub, sampling some of the finest Belgian beers while mingling with locals.
Start your day with a visit to the Nijlen Cultural Center, where you can learn about the town's rich history and vibrant arts scene. Attend a morning workshop focused on traditional Belgian crafts, such as lace-making or pottery, guided by local artisans. Enjoy a refreshing break with a cup of hot chocolate and a slice of speculoos cake at a nearby café.
Spend your afternoon exploring the various exhibits at the local museum, which showcases artifacts from Nijlen's past and present. Afterward, take a leisurely bike ride through the surrounding countryside, taking in the beautiful landscapes and charming farmhouses. Make a stop at a local vineyard to sample some regional wines and enjoy a guided tour of the vineyard.
For dinner, head to a bistro that specializes in local dishes, where you can savor the flavors of Belgium. After your meal, attend a performance at the cultural center, whether it be theater, music, or dance, showcasing local talent. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a local bar, enjoying the vibrant nightlife of Nijlen.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧀Local cheeses (per small block) | $4-8 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket (local) | $3-7 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming Flemish town with easy access to nature
- Friendly locals and relaxed pace of life
- Good base for exploring the Kempen and nearby cities
- Limited nightlife within Nijlen itself
- Smaller town may have fewer dining and shopping options compared to cities
- Public transport can require connections to reach some destinations
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Waar is het treinstation?" - Where is the train station?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I do not speak Dutch
Places to Visit in Nijlen
Visit one of these nice places.
The town square with traditional Flemish facades and a slender church spire makes a classic photo backdrop.
Countryside lanes and wooded edges offer golden hour shots and textures of nature.
Historic grounds and gates provide a glimpse of local history and architecture.
Food in Nijlen
Nijlen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beer-braised beef stew served with potatoes or bread.
Must-Try!
Thick Belgian fries served with mayonnaise and optional sauces.
Fresh mussels cooked in wine or beer, paired with crispy fries.
Creamy chicken or fish stew with vegetables and herbs.
Light, crisp waffles enjoyed with whipped cream or fruit.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town center offering fresh produce, cheese, bread, and regional specialties.
Seasonal markets nearby with charcuterie, fish, baked goods, and street food stalls.
Summer and festival season stalls serving Belgian snacks and regional treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; greet with eye contact. Use polite language and address people with courtesy in Flemish (Dutch).
Safety
Tipping in Nijlen
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included, but rounding up or adding 5-10 percent is appreciated if the service is good. Cash tips are common in small eateries, while many places accept cards and contactless payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; outdoor terraces are lively, and local parks host events and markets.
Mild to cool days with colorful foliage; ideal for forest walks and harvest markets.
Cool to cold weather with possible rain; festive lights in town and cozy cafes for warmth.
Mild weather with blooming trees; perfect for biking and outdoor cafés.
Nijlen at Night
Hiking in Nijlen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of forest paths and gentle hills in the Kempen region near Nijlen.
A hilly ridge with scenic viewpoints and long-distance walking routes nearby.
Airports
How to reach Nijlen by plane.
Main international gateway; about a 30-45 minute drive or train ride depending on connections to Nijlen.
Located in Deurne (near Antwerp); easy rail or road access to Nijlen via regional transport.
Smaller international airport; farther from Nijlen but accessible by road and rail with transfers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Nijlen, attracted by the calm environment and good schools.
A portion of residents commute to Antwerp or Lier for work, benefiting from the region's transport links.
A comfortable town for retirees with peaceful neighborhoods and community activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played at amateur and club levels in the region.
Favored by locals due to flat terrain and scenic routes in the Kempen.
Public courts and clubs serve casual and competitive players.
Popular on forest trails and nature reserves around Nijlen.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nijlen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in most places; look for vegetable dishes, salads, quiches, and dairy based options. You can usually request substitutions if needed.