Things To Do
in Oostakker

Oostakker is a quaint suburb of Ghent, Belgium, known for its charming residential areas and lush greenery. It offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city center while still providing easy access to urban amenities. The community is characterized by its friendly locals and a mix of traditional and modern Belgian culture.

Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere and explore the surrounding nature, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Oostakker
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying freshly baked pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the nearby parks, such as the Park van Beervelde.

afternoon
:

Visit the historical sites in the area, including the St. Joseph's Church, and explore the local shops for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Belgian restaurant where you can savor regional dishes, followed by a walk to enjoy the tranquil evening atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Exploring Ghent
morning
:

Take a short trip to Ghent and start your day at the Gravensteen Castle for a dose of history and panoramic views of the city.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museum of Fine Arts and stroll along the picturesque canals, stopping by local boutiques for shopping.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant before experiencing a local music venue or bar for some live entertainment.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍺Local Beer$5
🏨Hotel Night$100
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Peaceful suburban atmosphere
  • Easy access to Ghent's attractions
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces
  • Limited nightlife options in Oostakker
  • Fewer dining choices compared to Ghent
  • Public transport may require transfers to reach central Ghent
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank je wel" - Thank you
  • "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
  • "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I do not speak Dutch

Places to Visit in Oostakker

Visit one of these nice places.

St. Joseph's Church

This beautiful church showcases stunning architecture and provides great photo opportunities, especially at sunset.

Gravensteen Castle

A short trip away in Ghent, this medieval castle offers impressive views and picturesque surroundings.

Oostakker Park

A scenic park featuring lush greenery, walking paths, and tranquil spots perfect for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Oostakker

Oostakker offers a delightful taste of Belgian cuisine with a focus on local flavors and fresh ingredients. Visitors can indulge in must-try dishes while enjoying the vibrant food scene.

Oostakker Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Waterzooi

A traditional Flemish stew made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and a creamy broth.

Must-Try!

Stoverij

A hearty beef stew cooked slowly with beer and served with fries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Oostakker Farmers Market

A weekly market where locals sell fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and homemade pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Oostakker experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Rain is common throughout the year, so carrying an umbrella is advisable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

A polite handshake is the common greeting; addressing people formally until invited to use first names is expected.

Dining Manners

Wait for the host to start eating and keep your hands on the table but not your elbows.

Punctuality

Being on time is important; arriving late can be seen as disrespectful.

Safety Guide

Safety

Oostakker is generally a safe neighborhood, but standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and locals are usually willing to help if you need assistance.

Tipping in Oostakker

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Culture

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros is common.

Payment Methods

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

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers and local festivals celebrating springtime.

Summer

Warm temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities, while events and markets are vibrant and bustling.

Autumn

Enjoy the beautiful fall colors, perfect for photography, along with harvest festivals and local produce markets.

Winter

Cold temperatures with occasional snow; the holiday season brings charming Christmas markets and festive decorations.

Nightlife Guide

Oostakker at Night

Oostakker's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to nearby Ghent. However, there are local bars and cafes where you can enjoy a relaxed evening. For a livelier scene, Ghent's vibrant nightlife offers numerous clubs, live music venues, and bars, catering to various tastes and preferences.

Hiking in Oostakker

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen Nature Reserve

A beautiful nature reserve near Ghent, offering various hiking trails through wetlands and wildlife observation opportunities.

Kouterbos

A forested area with well-marked trails, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature walks just a short drive from Oostakker.

Airports

How to reach Oostakker by plane.

Antwerp International Airport

Located about 50 km from Oostakker, this airport offers international flights and connections to major cities in Europe.

Getting Around

Walkability

Oostakker is quite walkable, with pedestrian-friendly streets and parks. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and many local amenities can be reached on foot. The area is also bike-friendly, making it easy to explore the surrounding neighborhoods.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Oostakker has a strong family presence, with many parks and schools catering to children and young adults.

Young Professionals

The area attracts young professionals who work in Ghent and appreciate the quieter suburban lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is extremely popular in Belgium, and local clubs often have enthusiastic support from the community.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored recreational activity, with many locals participating in both leisure and competitive cycling.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Oostakker is generally manageable, with main roads connecting to Ghent. Public transportation options include buses that frequently run to the city center, making it convenient for residents and visitors alike. Cycling is also a popular mode of transport, with dedicated bike lanes available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Oostakker.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to inform staff about dietary restrictions.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some eateries provide gluten-free meals, but checking availability in advance is recommended.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Oostakker is good, with several clinics and pharmacies available. The nearby city of Ghent has larger hospitals and specialized services. Emergency medical services can be contacted through 112, and health insurance is recommended for travelers.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide