Things To Do
in Steenokkerzeel
Steenokkerzeel is a compact Flemish municipality just northeast of Brussels, notable for its mix of village charm and proximity to Brussels Airport. The town combines small-town streets, green agricultural fields and pockets of woodland with convenient access to the capital's services and transport links. Visitors will notice the aviation presence and related businesses alongside traditional churches, local cafés and family-run shops.
Steenokkerzeel is a practical base for exploring both Brussels and nearby natural areas while enjoying quieter, rural Flemish life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Steenokkerzeel and get settled in your cozy accommodation. After unpacking, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Belgian pastries and coffee. Take a stroll around the village to absorb the charming atmosphere and friendly locals.
Visit the nearby historic sites, such as the Church of Saint Martin, to appreciate its stunning architecture and tranquil surroundings. You can also explore unique shops offering local crafts and souvenirs. Lunch at a quaint eatery will provide a taste of regional cuisine.
As the sun sets, find a spot in one of Steenokkerzeel's parks for a relaxing picnic dinner. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance as you reflect on the day's adventures. For a nightcap, head to a local bar to mingle with the residents and experience the local nightlife.
Start your day with a visit to the Steenokkerzeel Museum to learn about the village's rich history and heritage. The morning will be filled with engaging exhibits and interactive displays that captivate all ages. Afterward, enjoy brunch at a café known for its hearty Belgian waffles.
Join a guided walking tour that highlights the landmarks and hidden gems of Steenokkerzeel. You’ll encounter historical anecdotes and local legends that bring the town to life. Stop for lunch at a local bistro, sampling the delicious Flemish stew, a culinary staple.
Treat yourself to a culinary experience with a reservation at a renowned restaurant specializing in Belgian cuisine. Savor a multi-course dinner while immersing yourself in the upscale dining atmosphere. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the village as the lights twinkle in the evening sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕️Coffee or pastry | $3-5 |
| 🍺Local beer (pub) | $4-6 |
| 🚇Public transport single ticket (to Brussels) | $3-6 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $80-130 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Brussels and international airport—convenient for travel and day trips.
- Quiet Flemish village atmosphere with easy access to green spaces and forests.
- Limited nightlife and cultural attractions within the town itself—many options require travel to Brussels.
- Airport noise can be noticeable in some areas and traffic congestion near terminals during peak hours.
- "Hallo / Goedemorgen" - Hello / Good morning
- "Dank u (wel)" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
Places to Visit in Steenokkerzeel
Visit one of these nice places.
Designated viewpoints around Brussels Airport offer dramatic aircraft takeoff and landing photos—great for aviation enthusiasts, especially at golden hour.
Picturesque village architecture, historic church facades and quiet streets provide classic Flemish village shots.
Rural roads, fields, hedgerows and seasonal crops create pastoral compositions—excellent early morning or late afternoon light.
Access to mature woodland, winding paths and mossy trunks; stunning in spring with fresh greens and in autumn with vibrant colors.
Food in Steenokkerzeel
Steenokkerzeel Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mussels served with fries—common on menus in Belgian brasseries; best enjoyed in a casual local restaurant with a crisp Belgian beer.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked beef in a rich beer-based sauce typically served with fries; a comforting regional specialty you’ll find at many brasseries and family restaurants.
Crisp-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside waffles sold at bakeries and cafés—great as a snack while exploring town markets.
Local and Belgian beers are ubiquitous; pair them with local cheeses and cured meats at cafés or as part of a casual meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small local market (check weekly schedule) offering fresh produce, bread, cheeses and occasional prepared foods—an opportunity to taste local ingredients and quick bites.
Within a short drive or train ride you'll find larger markets in Brussels (e.g., Marché du Midi or local neighborhood markets) offering street food, international stalls and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch (Flemish) is the local language—use basic Dutch greetings and polite phrases; most people in the service industry speak English but attempting a greeting in Dutch is appreciated.
Being on time for appointments, restaurant reservations and tours is expected and polite.
Belgians are conscientious about recycling—follow local waste-sorting rules. Observe quiet hours in residential areas (often evenings and Sundays).
Safety
Tipping in Steenokkerzeel
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; it’s common to leave small change or round up the bill in cafés and restaurants if service was good. For taxis and hotel porters, 5–10% or rounding up is customary.
Contactless cards and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; many small shops and market stalls prefer cash for small purchases. Mobile payments are increasingly supported, and ATMs are easy to find in nearby towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and budding greenery make spring a pleasant time for walks and cycling; occasional rain showers are common so bring a light waterproof layer.
Warm but rarely hot, summer is ideal for outdoor activities and longer daylight hours; popular weekend spots can be busier, and airport noise may be more noticeable with clear weather.
Crisp air and colorful foliage in nearby forests offer excellent hiking and photography conditions; pack layers as temperatures can vary substantially during the day.
Winters are cool and damp with occasional frost; fewer tourists and cozy restaurants make this a quieter time to visit, but shorter daylight and rainy weather mean indoor options are useful to plan for.
Steenokkerzeel at Night
Hiking in Steenokkerzeel
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive woodland southeast of Brussels with marked paths, varied ecosystems and excellent opportunities for short or long walks; reachable by car or public transport.
Park and arboretum areas offering pleasant, well-maintained paths, ponds and cultural landmarks—great for an easy half-day outing.
Rolling rural landscapes west of Brussels featuring country lanes, small villages and scenic viewpoints; best explored by bike or car with several walking loops available.
Airports
How to reach Steenokkerzeel by plane.
Main international airport located adjacent to Steenokkerzeel (partly in Zaventem). Very convenient by car, taxi or shuttle; public transport links include train and bus connections to Brussels and regional destinations.
Budget-airline hub located about 45–60 minutes by car depending on traffic; shuttle buses and car hire make it a viable alternative for low-cost carriers.
Smaller airport to the north; useful for regional flights and reachable by car or a combination of public transport and train from Steenokkerzeel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-term residents and families who commute to Brussels or work locally in agriculture, small business and services.
Employees working at Brussels Airport and related industries form a significant portion of the local workforce.
Proximity to Brussels and the airport attracts international staff, diplomats and short-term residents who work in the capital.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular grassroots sport with local clubs and youth teams; community pitches are common.
Both recreational and competitive cycling are very popular—Flanders is famous for its cycling culture and suitable routes abound.
Common recreational activities in the region with clubs and events accessible from Steenokkerzeel and nearby towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Steenokkerzeel.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are increasingly common—look for vegetable stews, salads, cheese boards and egg-based dishes. Mention dietary needs when ordering; larger nearby towns and Brussels have more dedicated vegetarian/vegan restaurants.
Vegan-specific options are limited in small towns but available in Brussels. Many cafés will adapt dishes upon request; carry a translation card that explains restrictions in Dutch for clarity.
Gluten-free bread and menu options are becoming easier to find; inform staff and ask about cross-contamination in bakeries and fryers.