Things To Do
in Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde

Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde is a charming village located in the province of East Flanders, Belgium. It is known for its picturesque landscapes and rich history, showcasing traditional Flemish architecture and serene countryside. The village is surrounded by lush fields and waterways, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde is also conveniently situated near Dendermonde, giving visitors access to more urban amenities while still enjoying a quaint village atmosphere.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Village
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, then take a stroll through the village center to admire the historic buildings and the beautiful church.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Dendermonde Abbey, which is rich in history and offers guided tours to explore its grounds and artifacts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Flemish restaurant, sampling local dishes such as carbonnade flamande, followed by a relaxing walk along the Dender River.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hike in the nearby nature reserve, enjoying the fresh air and scenic views of the countryside.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit a local artisan workshop to see traditional crafts being made and maybe even participate in a workshop.

evening
:

End your day at a local pub, experiencing the warm hospitality of the locals and trying out Belgian beers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍺Local Beer$5
🚍Public Transport Ticket$2
🛒Groceries (1 week)$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming village atmosphere with rich history
  • Access to beautiful nature and outdoor activities
  • Friendly locals and a relaxed pace of life
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Public transport may be infrequent
  • Fewer dining options than urban areas
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I don't speak Dutch
  • "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde

Visit one of these nice places.

Sint-Gillis Church

This beautiful church, with its impressive architecture and stained glass windows, is a must-see.

Dender River

The serene banks of the Dender provide perfect scenery for nature photography.

Village Center

Capture the charm of Flemish houses and local life in the main square.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde

Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde offers a delightful culinary experience, with a focus on traditional Flemish dishes and locally sourced ingredients.

Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Carbonnade Flamande

A hearty beef stew cooked with Belgian beer, onion, and spices, served with fries.

Must-Try!

Waterzooi

A creamy stew made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and potatoes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Dendermonde Market

Held every Saturday, this market features fresh local produce, cheeses, and baked goods.

Street Food Festival

An annual event showcasing various local food trucks offering Belgian specialties.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde experiences a temperate maritime climate. Winters are mild with occasional snow, while summers are warm and humid. Spring and autumn are generally pleasant, with moderate temperatures and varying rainfall. The average temperature ranges from 0°C (32°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is the typical greeting; it's polite to greet everyone in a small group.

Dining Etiquette

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

Language

While many speak English, using basic Dutch phrases is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde is considered a safe village, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as securing valuables and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Tipping in Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small gratuity is common.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards; however, carrying some cash is advisable for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, ideal for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Summer is warm and lively, with local festivals and outdoor dining opportunities.

Autumn

Autumn offers stunning foliage and a harvest season, perfect for local food experiences.

Winter

Winter can be cold, but the village is cozy, with holiday markets and festive decorations.

Nightlife Guide

Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde at Night

The nightlife in Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde is laid-back, with a few pubs and bars where locals gather to enjoy Belgian beers and socialize. Live music events are occasionally hosted, and the nearby city of Dendermonde offers more vibrant nightlife options, including clubs and late-night eateries.

Hiking in Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Boven-Dender Nature Reserve

A scenic area with well-marked trails, offering views of diverse flora and fauna.

Laarne Castle Trail

A picturesque hiking trail that leads to the historic Laarne Castle, combining nature and culture.

Airports

How to reach Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde by plane.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Located approximately 40 km from Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde, it is the main international airport serving Belgium, offering numerous flight connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde is highly walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants within a short distance. The village layout is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot while enjoying the scenic surroundings.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population primarily consists of Flemish Belgians, with a strong sense of community and tradition.

Tourists

Visitors to the area include both domestic and international tourists, often drawn by the village's charm and outdoor activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

Cycling is a popular sport in the region, with many scenic routes and cycling clubs.

Soccer

Soccer (football) is widely followed and played, with local clubs participating in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transport is available, with bus services connecting to nearby towns and cities, though schedules may vary.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's always good to inform the staff.

Gluten-Free Options

Some places have gluten-free menus, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services are accessible in Sint-Gillis-bij-Dendermonde, with a local clinic available for minor medical needs. For emergencies or specialized care, residents typically visit hospitals in nearby Dendermonde or larger cities.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide