Vilvoorde

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Vilvoorde's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Vilvoorde's Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Vilvoorde's charming historic center. Admire the old architecture and visit the St. Martin's Church, a local landmark with stunning stained glass windows. Enjoy a coffee at a nearby café to soak in the peaceful ambiance.

afternoon
:

Head to the Train World museum to dive into Belgium's rich railway history. Explore the impressive collection of vintage trains and interactive exhibits. Grab lunch at the museum's café for a convenient and tasty break.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Belgian restaurant in the town center, savoring local specialties like stoofvlees or moules-frites. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along the Zenne River, appreciating the evening lights reflecting on the water.

day 2
Nature and Park Day
morning
:

Begin with a morning walk at Domain Drie Fonteinen, a beautiful park perfect for nature enthusiasts. Enjoy birdwatching and discover scenic walking paths surrounded by greenery. Bring a light snack or breakfast picnic to enjoy outdoors.

afternoon
:

Visit the Vilvoorde City Park with its well-maintained gardens and playgrounds. Rent a bike to explore the trails and relaxed atmosphere of the park. Have lunch at a nearby brasserie while enjoying views of the park.

evening
:

Head to a cozy bar in the town for local craft beers and appetizers. If there's live music or a local event, immerse yourself in the friendly vibe of Vilvoorde’s nightlife. Alternatively, enjoy a quiet evening by the canal.

day 3
Art and Culture Immersion
morning
:

Start with a visit to the contemporary art gallery in Vilvoorde showcasing local Belgian artists. Explore unique exhibits that reflect the city’s creative spirit. Stop by a nearby bakery for fresh pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Attend a workshop or cultural event if available or visit nearby Brussels for extensive museums and galleries. Have lunch in a trendy café featuring international cuisine. Take time to explore street art in the surrounding neighborhoods.

evening
:

Catch a performance at the local theater or cultural center, ranging from plays to musical concerts. Savor dinner at a restaurant known for its artistic ambience and innovative menu. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the city’s illuminated streets.

day 4
Family Fun Adventure
morning
:

Visit the local playgrounds and interactive kid-friendly spots around Vilvoorde. Enjoy a family breakfast at a cozy café with child-friendly menus. Take a boat ride or visit the nearby recreational lake for outdoor fun.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at a nearby amusement park or recreational center designed for families. Pack a picnic or enjoy casual dining options suitable for all ages. Participate in workshops or simple crafts offered by local community centers.

evening
:

Head to a family-oriented pizzeria or casual restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere. Wind down with a movie night at a local cinema showing family-friendly films. Take a gentle evening walk to enjoy the calm city air before bedtime.

day 5
Gastronomic Exploration
morning
:

Start with a walking tour of Vilvoorde’s markets, sampling fresh produce and local treats. Visit a bakery for traditional Belgian pastries and coffee. Discover small shops selling artisanal chocolates and cheeses.

afternoon
:

Join a cooking class focused on Belgian cuisine and learn to prepare classic dishes like waffles or beer-infused stews. Enjoy your meal along with local beers in a relaxed setting. Explore local delicatessens to gather ingredients for later.

evening
:

Dine at a Michelin-recommended restaurant or a charming bistro known for fusion cuisine. Opt for a wine tasting session paired with exquisite Belgian dishes. End your evening with a stroll through the town’s lively streets or quiet squares.

day 6
Day Trip to Brussels
morning
:

Catch a short train to Brussels, starting at the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the historic square and visit nearby landmarks such as the Town Hall and Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate. Grab a quick snack and fresh coffee at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Magritte Museum and the Royal Museums of Fine Arts to dive into Belgian art history. Enjoy lunch at an authentic Belgian café, sampling dishes like waterzooi or Belgian fries. Take a guided walking tour of Brussels’ neighborhoods filled with art nouveau architecture.

evening
:

Return to Vilvoorde for a relaxed dinner or stay in Brussels for a vibrant nightlife experience. Explore local pubs or cocktail bars offering unique drinks inspired by Belgian flavors. Conclude your day with a peaceful stroll around Vilvoorde’s illuminated streets if back in town.

day 7
Local Markets and Shopping
morning
:

Begin your morning at the Vilvoorde weekly market, exploring fresh produce, local crafts, and street foods. Chat with vendors and discover authentic Belgian products. Sip on fresh juices or coffee from market stalls while browsing.

afternoon
:

Visit boutiques and independent stores in the town center that offer handmade gifts and Belgian fashion. Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a café with outdoor seating to people-watch. Stop by a specialty shop to sample gourmet Belgian chocolates or beer.

evening
:

Enjoy a casual dinner at a bistro known for seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. Attend a local event or street fair if available to experience the lively community spirit. Finish with a visit to a cozy wine bar or café for a nightcap.

day 8
Industrial and Modern Vilvoorde
morning
:

Explore the industrial heritage of Vilvoorde by visiting old factories turned into cultural spaces or creative hubs. Take a self-guided walking tour highlighting the evolution of Vilvoorde’s industrial past. Stop for coffee at a hip café housed in a repurposed industrial building.

afternoon
:

Visit a contemporary art space or attend a workshop focusing on sustainability and innovation in the city. Have lunch at a modern eatery serving fresh, locally-inspired dishes. Explore public art installations and modern architecture around the area.

evening
:

Dine at a trendy restaurant popular with locals who appreciate contemporary cuisine. Experience Vilvoorde’s nightlife at a club or lounge featuring live DJs or music. End your day with a relaxing walk along the canals under the city lights.

day 9
Historic Sites and Museums
morning
:

Start at the Vilvoorde Heritage Museum to understand the rich history of the city and its surroundings. Explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and stories of the past. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby bakery with traditional Belgian treats.

afternoon
:

Visit the Molenbeek Castle ruins and explore surrounding historic areas and parks. Have lunch at a quaint restaurant within walking distance. Discover small galleries or historic homes now converted into museums.

evening
:

Enjoy a dinner featuring traditional Flemish dishes in a historic setting. Take an evening walking tour focusing on Vilvoorde’s legends and ghost stories for a unique experience. Relax with a nightcap in a historic tavern filled with local character.

day 10
Outdoor Sports and Activities
morning
:

Begin with a morning jog or bike ride along the bike-friendly paths in and around Vilvoorde. Enjoy fresh air and scenic views of parks and waterways. Stop at a café afterward for a healthy breakfast smoothie or snack.

afternoon
:

Participate in paddle boating, kayaking, or fishing at nearby lakes or rivers. Arrange a guided outdoor sports excursion or join locals in a game of soccer or tennis. Have a picnic lunch in a scenic spot within one of Vilvoorde’s green spaces.

evening
:

Relax your muscles with a visit to a local wellness center or spa offering massages and treatments. Enjoy dinner at a health-conscious restaurant offering balanced meals made from local organic ingredients. End the day with a peaceful sunset walk along the riverbanks.

Discover Vilvoorde

Read more in our Vilvoorde 2025 Travel Guide.

Vilvoorde Travel Guide