Things To Do
in Oosterzele
Oosterzele is a tranquil Flemish municipality in East Flanders, made up of several villages and a fertile agricultural landscape. The area is known for gentle hills, expansive meadows, and easy countryside cycling routes that connect villages and farms. It lies a short drive from Ghent, offering a peaceful base for exploring Flemish culture, markets, and local hospitality.
Visitors can enjoy farm shops, traditional cuisine, and scenic rural views that epitomize rural Belgium.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Oosterzele and check into your charming local accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets, soaking in the picturesque surroundings. Stop by a local café to enjoy a traditional Belgian breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee.
Explore the stunning St. Amandus Church, known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. Afterward, visit the nearby Dender River to take a relaxing walk along the water's edge. Here, you can take in the natural beauty and perhaps spot some local wildlife.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring classic Belgian dishes like moules-frites or carbonnade flamande. Spend your evening wandering through the charming village, where you can find small shops and art galleries. Cap off your night with a visit to a local bar to taste some famous Belgian beers.
Start your day with a visit to the nearby town of Geraardsbergen, known for its historical significance and beautiful landscapes. Climb the iconic Muur van Geraardsbergen, a steep hill with sweeping views of the region. Don’t forget to try a 'Mattentaart’, a local pastry specialty.
Return to Oosterzele and visit the local museum to learn more about the area’s history and culture. Afterward, take a bike ride around the countryside, where you can soak in the lush green landscapes and enjoy the tranquil ambiance. Stop at a vineyard for a tasting of local wines.
Have dinner at a cozy bistro, enjoying the warmth of local cuisine. After your meal, take a relaxed walk in the nearby park, allowing the sounds of nature to enhance your experience. Finish the night at a local theater or cultural venue, catching a performance or event.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🍺Local beer (0.5L) in a bar | $4-6 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket (one-way) | $3-4 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment rent (city center) | $650-950 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful rural setting with easy access to Ghent
- Excellent cycling and walking routes
- Friendly local hospitality and farm-to-table dining
- Limited nightlife within Oosterzele itself
- Public transportation less frequent than in big cities
- Weather can be changeable and wet in both spring and autumn
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please/You're welcome
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Oosterzele
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic windmill set among fields, ideal for sunrise or golden-hour photography.
Open meadows and water reflections along the river with rural backdrops.
Forest-edge scenes with dappled light and seasonal foliage.
Food in Oosterzele
Oosterzele Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked beef in beer, typically served with fries or crusty bread.
Must-Try!
Creamy chicken or fish stew with herbs and vegetables.
Mussels steamed in a light broth or beer, served with crispy fries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market with local produce, cheeses, breads, and street bites a short trip from Oosterzele.
Seasonal stalls offering fresh vegetables, dairy, eggs, and regional specialties in nearby villages.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake and say 'Dag' or 'Goedemorgen'. Dutch (Flemish) is the local language; English is widely understood in towns.
Be punctual for appointments; form orderly queues in shops and transit.
Polite conversation is valued; avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Oosterzele
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants.
Cards are widely accepted; cash is handy in smaller establishments; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, long days with plenty of daylight; occasional rain. Great for cycling, riverside walks, and outdoor markets.
Mild to cool weather with colorful foliage; harvest-time cuisine and markets; expect some rain.
Cool to cold with shorter days; cozy cafés and indoor cultural activities; possible frost and light snow.
Mild temperatures with fresh blooms; ideal for hiking and photography of green fields and blossoms.
Oosterzele at Night
Hiking in Oosterzele
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle, scenic loop along the Dender valley with farmland, wetlands, and wildlife.
Circular hike through Balegem’s wooded areas and open fields.
Varied routes through rural lanes—great for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Oosterzele by plane.
Main international airport; good rail connections to Ghent and East Flanders.
Mid-size airport with European connections; drive/train access to the region.
Budget-friendly international hub; accessible by road or rail to Belgium's interior.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Dutch-speaking Flemish community with deep agricultural roots.
Many families and retirees; a slower pace of life compared to cities.
Residents who work in Ghent or Aalst and live in the countryside.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Belgium’s favorite pastime; well-maintained routes through farmland and forests.
Local clubs and schools support football culture in the area.
Public courts and clubs offer seasonal play; often near community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oosterzele.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian options—opt for vegetable-forward dishes, dairy products, and cheese; ask for vegetarian adaptations when needed.
Inform staff of gluten-free needs; many venues can accommodate with gluten-free breads or meals, with caution for cross-contamination.