Things To Do
in Temse

Temse is a quaint municipality located in the province of East Flanders, Belgium, nestled along the banks of the River Scheldt. Known for its charming landscapes and historic architecture, Temse offers a picturesque setting for both locals and visitors alike. The town is characterized by its warm community atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxed pace.

From scenic walks to cultural experiences, Temse presents a unique blend of nature and heritage.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Temse's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Church of St. Nicholas, an architectural gem that showcases stunning Gothic elements.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local café, take a leisurely stroll along the Scheldt River, enjoying the scenic views and the peaceful ambiance.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, trying out some traditional Flemish cuisine, followed by a nightcap at a nearby pub.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Temse Town Hall, where you can learn about the town's history and local governance.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic in the beautiful Park of Temse and explore its walking trails.

evening
:

Attend a cultural event or concert if available, or simply relax at a cozy bistro with a glass of Belgian beer.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at Restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local Beer$5
🚍Public Transport Ticket$2
🏨Hotel Night$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quaint and peaceful atmosphere
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Less public transport connectivity
  • Fewer international dining options
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Waar is de toiletten?" - Where are the restrooms?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I do not speak Dutch
  • "Help!" - Help!

Places to Visit in Temse

Visit one of these nice places.

Scheldt River Promenade

Capture stunning sunset views along the river, where the reflections create a picturesque scene.

Church of St. Nicholas

The intricate architecture and surrounding square make for beautiful photographs.

Temse Town Hall

The historic building and its surrounding gardens provide a perfect backdrop for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Temse

Temse offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the rich flavors of Belgian cuisine. From hearty dishes to sweet treats, there is something to satisfy every palate.

Temse Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Waterzooi

A traditional Flemish stew made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and a creamy broth.

Must-Try!

Stoverij

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

Speculoos

A spiced shortcrust biscuit, perfect with coffee or as a dessert.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Temse Market

A lively market held weekly, offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and homemade goods.

Street Food Stalls

Various food stalls around town offer quick bites like frites (fries) and waffles.

Climate Guide

Weather

Temse experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average temperatures range from 3°C (37°F) in winter to about 24°C (75°F) in summer. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, so it's wise to carry an umbrella or raincoat during your visit.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone new, and it's polite to greet with 'Hallo' or 'Bonjour'.

Dining Manners

Keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) while dining, and wait for everyone to be served before starting.

Punctuality

Being on time is valued, especially for business meetings or social gatherings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Temse is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Temse

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

A tip of around 10% is appreciated in restaurants, but it's not mandatory as service is included.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures are mild, and flowers bloom, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather is ideal for enjoying the riverfront and participating in outdoor events.

Autumn

The fall foliage creates a beautiful landscape, perfect for nature walks and photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures may limit outdoor activities, but festive markets and cozy cafes are inviting.

Nightlife Guide

Temse at Night

Temse offers a laid-back nightlife scene with a mix of local pubs and bars. Many venues feature live music on weekends, creating a lively atmosphere. While not as vibrant as larger cities, the friendly ambiance makes it a pleasant experience to unwind at a local bar or café.

Hiking in Temse

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Langelede Trail

A scenic trail that offers a mix of forest and river views, ideal for a day hike.

Kalken Trail

This trail features rolling hills and beautiful landscapes, perfect for hiking enthusiasts looking for a challenge.

Airports

How to reach Temse by plane.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Located about 30 km from Temse, Brussels Airport is the main international gateway, offering flights to numerous destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Temse is quite walkable, with pedestrian-friendly streets and pathways along the river. Most attractions are located within a short walking distance from one another, making it easy to explore the town on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Temse's population consists of local Flemish residents who have a strong sense of community.

Foreign Visitors

Temse attracts a variety of tourists, particularly from neighboring countries, eager to explore its charm and history.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in the region, with local teams playing in various leagues.

Cycling

Cycling is not only a popular activity for locals but also a common mode of transportation, with many cycling paths available.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Temse is generally light, with most locals using bicycles or walking for short distances. Public transportation includes buses that connect to nearby cities, but services may be limited during off-peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Temse.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for specific options.

Gluten-Free Choices

While gluten-free options are becoming more common, confirming with the staff is recommended.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Temse is accessible, with several clinics and pharmacies available. In case of emergencies, local hospitals provide comprehensive services. It’s advisable to have travel insurance for any unexpected medical needs.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide