Things To Do
in Opwijk
Opwijk is a small Flemish Brabant town just northwest of Brussels, known for its calm, village-like atmosphere and easy access to green countryside. The town center features quaint streets, a few historic buildings, and local markets that showcase Flemish life at a relaxed pace. Visitors can enjoy gentle cycling routes, riverside strolls, and cozy eateries that highlight seasonal Belgian fare.
With its proximity to Brussels and other Flemish towns, Opwijk makes for approachable day trips or a tranquil base for a longer stay in the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Opwijk, admiring the well-preserved architecture and historical buildings. Stop by the St. John the Baptist Church, where you can enjoy its stunning Gothic design and serene atmosphere.
For lunch, indulge in traditional Belgian cuisine at a nearby restaurant, perhaps trying the famous Flemish stew. Following your meal, visit the Opwijk Town Hall, a beautiful example of late Gothic architecture, and learn about the local history. Spend some time in the surrounding park, soaking in the tranquility and natural beauty of the area.
As the sun sets, head to a local bistro for dinner, where you can enjoy delicious Belgian fries and a variety of beers. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the nearby river, experiencing the peaceful ambiance of Opwijk at night. Conclude your evening with a visit to a cozy pub, where you can mingle with locals and enjoy live music.
After a hearty breakfast, lace up your hiking boots and prepare for a morning of exploration in the beautiful countryside surrounding Opwijk. Set off on a guided nature walk that takes you through lush fields, serene woodlands, and picturesque landscapes. Enjoy the sights and sounds of nature as you spot local wildlife and learn about the area's flora and fauna.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in a scenic spot, surrounded by the beauty of nature. After lunch, continue your journey with a visit to the nearby Kouter, a stunning natural reserve known for its vibrant wildflowers and tranquil walking trails. Take your time to absorb the peacefulness and snap some photos of the breathtaking scenery.
Return to Opwijk and freshen up before heading out for dinner at a charming restaurant specializing in local dishes. After your meal, take a stroll through the town, enjoying the illuminated streets and quaint shops. Relax at a café with a glass of Belgian beer, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-5 |
| 🧇Breakfast at a cafe | $5-8 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $25-50 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket (one-way) | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact town with a calm pace and friendly locals
- Easy access to green countryside and nearby cities
- Limited nightlife and big-city attractions within Opwijk itself
- Some services and amenities are smaller in scale compared to larger cities
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much is this?
- "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Alstublieft" - Please
Places to Visit in Opwijk
Visit one of these nice places.
A charming square framed by traditional Flemish buildings and the town’s historic ambiance; ideal for daytime and golden-hour photography.
Serene water views, weirs, and reflections; perfect for landscapes and tranquil street photography nearby.
Historic church facade and surrounding streets offer architectural photography opportunities.
Picturesque rural scenes with rustic bridges and tree-lined roads typical of the Flemish countryside.
Food in Opwijk
Opwijk Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, slow-cooked beef stew served with fries or crusty bread; a Belgian staple often found in local bistros.
Must-Try!
Creamy, comforting stew with vegetables; variations may be available in cozy neighborhood eateries.
Seasonal mussels cooked in a flavorful broth, typically enjoyed with thick-cut fries and a dip of sauce.
Fresh-baked pastries and Belgian waffles are common in bakeries and cafés, great for a sweet break.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly or seasonal markets offering fruits, vegetables, cheeses, bread, and regional specialties; a good place to sample fresh, local produce.
Regional markets within short rides provide farm-to-table options and street-food stalls on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch is the local language; greet politely with a handshake and use formal 'u' in formal settings.
Arrive on time for appointments; queue calmly and wait your turn in shops and cafes.
Respect personal space, practice courtesy, and modest behavior in public spaces; beer and meals are commonly enjoyed with friends.
Safety
Tipping in Opwijk
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in nicer places.
Credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is still common in smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days along with occasional showers; long daylight hours make it ideal for outdoor markets, cycling, and riverside strolls.
Mild to cool weather with vivid foliage; great for scenic drives and quiet walks, plus harvest-time culinary specials.
Cool temperatures with a chance of rain; cozy cafés and festive markets provide warm respite; days are shorter.
Fresh greenery and blooming trees; pleasant for walking tours, birdwatching, and outdoor photography.
Opwijk at Night
Hiking in Opwijk
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat to gently rolling riverside route with seasonal scenery and birdlife; suitable for easy hikes.
Wooded area offering shaded paths and longer hikes through light to moderate terrain.
Hilly, vineyard-adjacent routes a short drive away, offering sweeping views and rural landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Opwijk by plane.
Major international gateway located to the east; about 25-35 km from Opwijk with good rail and road connections.
Secondary international airport located to the south; around 50-60 km away, accessible by road and regional trains with longer travel times.
Regional airport further north; roughly 60-70 km away, with connections to major European destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly native Flemish-speaking families and individuals; communities are centered around local neighborhoods and schools.
Many residents commute to Brussels and nearby towns for work, contributing to a diverse daytime population.
A mix of EU and non-EU residents in the area, contributing to cultural variety while maintaining a local vibe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular activity across the region due to flat to gently rolling terrain and scenic routes.
Local clubs and casual play are common in towns and parks.
Public and club courts can be found in community centers and parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Opwijk.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries offer vegetarian options; look for cheese, mushroom, or vegetable-based mains; you can request 'vegetarisch' on the menu.
Vegan choices are increasingly available; ask for dairy-free preparations or adapt dishes with vegetables and grains.
Gluten-free bread and pasta options are commonly available; inform staff of dietary needs for safe preparation.