Things To Do
in Tervuren

Tervuren is a charming municipality located just outside Brussels, known for its beautiful parks, historical sites, and serene atmosphere. The town is home to the Royal Museum for Central Africa, which showcases the cultural heritage of Africa and is surrounded by lush greenery. With easy access to public transport, Tervuren offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life of Brussels.

Visitors can enjoy scenic walks, delightful cafes, and a friendly local community.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Tervuren Park, where you can stroll through the vast green spaces and admire the beautiful landscaping.

afternoon
:

Head to the Royal Museum for Central Africa to learn about African history and culture, followed by lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a dinner at a local restaurant, experiencing traditional Belgian cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Local Flavors and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the nearby Tervuren market (if it's a Wednesday) to explore local produce and artisanal goods.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon relaxing by the Lake of Tervuren, or enjoy a bike ride along the designated paths.

evening
:

Enjoy a drink at a local bar or café to experience the nightlife and socialize with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🚇Public transport ticket$2
🛒Groceries for a week$50-$80
🏨Night in a hotel$90-$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.
  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Close proximity to Brussels for easy day trips.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Less diverse dining options.
  • Public transport may be infrequent in the evenings.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Oui" - Yes
  • "Non" - No

Places to Visit in Tervuren

Visit one of these nice places.

Tervuren Park

The sprawling park features beautiful landscapes, lakes, and historical buildings, perfect for nature photography.

Royal Museum for Central Africa

The museum's architecture and surrounding gardens provide stunning backdrops for photos.

Lake of Tervuren

A picturesque lake with walking paths and swans, ideal for capturing tranquil scenes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tervuren

Tervuren offers a delightful culinary scene that combines traditional Belgian dishes with contemporary dining experiences.

Tervuren Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Moules-frites

A classic dish of mussels served with fries, often enjoyed with a variety of sauces.

Must-Try!

Carbonnade Flamande

A hearty beef stew made with beer, typically served with bread or fries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tervuren Market

Held on Wednesdays, this market features local produce, cheeses, and baked goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tervuren experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 2°C (36°F) in January to 22°C (72°F) in July. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat, especially in spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is the common greeting; addressing people using 'Mr.' or 'Ms.' followed by their last name is polite.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat; keep hands on the table but not elbows.

Punctuality

Being on time for meetings and social gatherings is highly valued.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tervuren is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and securing personal belongings. Emergency services can be reached by calling 112.

Tipping in Tervuren

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect blooming flowers and mild weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather attracts locals to parks and lakes; enjoy longer days with plenty of sunshine.

Autumn

Fall foliage offers stunning views, and cooler temperatures are ideal for hiking.

Winter

Cold weather may bring snow, creating a serene landscape, but bundle up for outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Tervuren at Night

Tervuren has a laid-back nightlife scene, primarily centered around cozy bars and restaurants. You can find local establishments offering Belgian beers and wines, with some places hosting live music on weekends. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to mingle with locals.

Hiking in Tervuren

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sonian Forest Trails

A network of trails in the nearby Sonian Forest, offering various routes for hiking enthusiasts.

Kraainem Park

A smaller park with trails suitable for leisurely hikes, surrounded by nature.

Airports

How to reach Tervuren by plane.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Located about 20 km from Tervuren, this international airport offers flights to numerous destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tervuren is quite walkable, especially in the town center and parks. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and most attractions are within a reasonable walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Expats

Tervuren has a sizable expat community, particularly from the European Union and international organizations.

Local Families

The town is home to many families, attracted by its peaceful atmosphere and good schools.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

A popular activity in Tervuren, with many scenic paths and trails.

Football (Soccer)

Locally loved, with several clubs in the area offering matches and community engagement.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tervuren is generally light, especially compared to Brussels. Public transportation includes buses and trams that connect Tervuren to Brussels and surrounding areas. It's advisable to use public transport for convenience and to avoid parking hassles.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tervuren.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

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

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free meals can be found in several eateries; always inform the staff of your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Belgium has a high standard of healthcare, with public and private hospitals available. Residents and visitors can access medical services through emergency numbers or local clinics. It's advisable to have travel insurance for coverage in case of health issues.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide