Things To Do
in Sint-Gillis-Waas

Sint-Gillis-Waas is a charming municipality located in the province of East Flanders, Belgium. Known for its picturesque countryside, it offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of larger cities. Visitors can explore its rich history through various historical sites and engage with the vibrant local community.

The area is also recognized for its beautiful parks and gardens, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh produce.

afternoon
:

Explore the Sint-Gillis-Waas Park, where you can take a leisurely stroll or enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant to enjoy traditional Belgian cuisine and finish the day with a walk through the quaint town center.

day 2
Day 2: History and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the local museum to learn about the history and culture of Sint-Gillis-Waas.

afternoon
:

Take a bike ride through the scenic countryside, discovering hidden gems and beautiful landscapes.

evening
:

Unwind at a cozy café, sipping on Belgian beer or coffee, and enjoy the relaxed ambiance of the town.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-25
Coffee$3-5
🍺Local Beer$4-6
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2
🛒Groceries (per week)$50-70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings
  • Rich local culture and history
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Less touristy attractions
  • Public transport might be infrequent
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Alstublieft" - Please
  • "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I do not speak Dutch

Places to Visit in Sint-Gillis-Waas

Visit one of these nice places.

Sint-Gillis-Waas Church

A stunning example of Gothic architecture, perfect for capturing historical beauty.

Local Countryside

Breathtaking landscapes with rolling hills and fields, ideal for nature photography.

Town Center

Charming streets lined with traditional buildings, perfect for capturing the local culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sint-Gillis-Waas

Sint-Gillis-Waas offers a delightful culinary experience with a blend of traditional Belgian dishes and local specialties. From hearty stews to delectable pastries, the region is a food lover's paradise.

Sint-Gillis-Waas Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Waterzooi

A traditional stew made with chicken or fish and vegetables, often served with bread.

Must-Try!

Stoofvlees

A rich Flemish beef stew, slow-cooked in beer and served with fries.

Speculoos

A spiced shortcrust biscuit, perfect as a snack or dessert.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sint-Gillis-Waas Market

A lively market held weekly, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and baked goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sint-Gillis-Waas experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm, averaging 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winters (December to February) can be cold, averaging 0-5°C (32-41°F). Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and say 'Eet smakelijk' (Enjoy your meal) before dining.

Respect for Quiet

Keeping noise levels down in public spaces is appreciated, especially in residential areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sint-Gillis-Waas is generally a safe area with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and securing personal belongings. It's also advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.

Tipping in Sint-Gillis-Waas

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

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

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having cash on hand for smaller vendors is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect blooming flowers and mild weather, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures and longer days, ideal for cycling and enjoying local festivals.

Autumn

Beautiful fall colors and harvest festivals, perfect for enjoying the local produce.

Winter

Cold temperatures with occasional snow, offering a cozy atmosphere and holiday festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Sint-Gillis-Waas at Night

Sint-Gillis-Waas has a relaxed nightlife scene, primarily focused on cozy bars and cafés rather than clubs. Local establishments offer a variety of Belgian beers and wines, creating an inviting atmosphere for socializing. Special events and live music can occasionally be found, making evenings enjoyable for visitors seeking a laid-back experience.

Hiking in Sint-Gillis-Waas

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Waasland Nature Reserve

A scenic reserve with various trails, perfect for both casual walkers and serious hikers.

Landschapspark De Lieve

Offers trails through diverse landscapes, including woodland and open fields, ideal for a day of hiking.

Airports

How to reach Sint-Gillis-Waas by plane.

Antwerp International Airport

Located approximately 40 km from Sint-Gillis-Waas, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, providing good connectivity to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sint-Gillis-Waas is quite walkable, with many amenities and attractions located within a short distance. The town features pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are designated walking paths in parks and green spaces.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Sint-Gillis-Waas is home to many families who enjoy the peaceful environment and community activities.

Young Professionals

An increasing number of young professionals are moving to the area, drawn by its charm and proximity to larger cities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

A popular activity in the region, with numerous cycling paths and events throughout the year.

Football

Local football clubs engage the community, with matches attracting enthusiastic support.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sint-Gillis-Waas is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation includes buses that connect to nearby cities, though schedules may vary. Cycling is a popular mode of transport, and the town's flat terrain makes it suitable for biking.

Accomodations

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

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are becoming more common; however, it's best to inform the staff of any dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Sint-Gillis-Waas is good, with several local clinics and hospitals available for residents and visitors. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and most medical professionals speak English. It's advisable to have travel insurance to cover any potential medical needs.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide