Things To Do
in Wilrijk

Wilrijk is a charming suburb of Antwerp, Belgium, known for its picturesque parks and family-friendly atmosphere. It boasts a blend of residential areas and local businesses, making it a peaceful retreat just outside the bustling city. With several green spaces, including the beautiful Park van Beervelde, it offers a perfect environment for outdoor activities.

The community is vibrant, featuring local events that celebrate its rich cultural heritage.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market at Wilrijk, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and pick up some fresh local produce.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic St. John's Church, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, followed by a leisurely walk in Park van Beervelde to enjoy the serene landscape.

evening
:

Dine at Restaurant De Vlaschaard, known for its traditional Belgian cuisine, and enjoy a local beer at a nearby pub.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a stroll through the Botanical Garden of the University of Antwerp, located nearby, to see various plant species.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Deurne Park for a picnic and outdoor games, or rent a bike to explore the surrounding areas.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at Bistro De Klok, followed by a visit to a local bar to experience Wilrijk's nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Cappuccino$4
🍺Local beer$5
🚌Public transport ticket$3
🏨Budget hotel (per night)$75

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful parks and green spaces
  • Close proximity to Antwerp with a quieter atmosphere
  • Rich cultural history and local events
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Public transport options can be fewer late at night
  • Some areas may lack tourist infrastructure
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Wilrijk

Visit one of these nice places.

Park van Beervelde

A beautiful park with lush greenery, flower gardens, and serene ponds, perfect for nature photography.

St. John's Church

An architectural gem that offers stunning details and is especially beautiful during golden hour.

Botanical Garden of the University of Antwerp

Features a diverse collection of plants and flowers, providing a vibrant backdrop for stunning photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Wilrijk

Wilrijk offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Belgian dishes and modern cuisine, perfect for food lovers.

Wilrijk Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoofvlees

A rich beef stew cooked slowly in Belgian beer, served with fries.

Must-Try!

Moules-Frites

Mussels served with crispy fries, a classic Belgian dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Wilrijk Market

A weekly market featuring local produce, cheeses, and street food stalls offering delicious snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Wilrijk experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 0°C (32°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer. Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, with moderate temperatures and beautiful scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, and using 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' is polite.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before eating and keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows).

Punctuality

Being on time is valued in Belgian culture, especially for meetings and formal events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Wilrijk is generally a safe suburb, with low crime rates. However, as with any urban area, it's essential to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places. Always keep personal belongings secure and be cautious when walking alone at night, particularly in less busy areas.

Tipping in Wilrijk

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

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

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it ideal for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather encourages outdoor festivals, picnics, and visits to parks, perfect for enjoying the sun.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures bring beautiful fall foliage, making it a picturesque time for walks and photography.

Winter

Cold weather can lead to snow, offering a magical atmosphere, especially in parks; however, be prepared for chilly conditions.

Nightlife Guide

Wilrijk at Night

Wilrijk features a laid-back nightlife scene with a variety of pubs and bars where locals gather to unwind after work. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, with many establishments offering local beers and live music on weekends. For those looking for a more vibrant experience, nearby Antwerp offers nightclubs and late-night venues.

Hiking in Wilrijk

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Beveren Castle Trail

A scenic hiking trail that takes you around the historic Beveren Castle, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking in Deurne Park

This trail offers well-marked paths through lush greenery, ideal for a leisurely day hike or family outing.

Airports

How to reach Wilrijk by plane.

Antwerp International Airport (ANR)

Located approximately 10 km from Wilrijk, this airport offers flights to various European destinations and is convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Wilrijk is quite walkable, with many amenities and attractions within a reasonable distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the community is pedestrian-friendly. Walking paths and parks encourage outdoor exploration, making it easy to enjoy the suburban charm on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Wilrijk has a substantial population of families, drawn to its residential areas, parks, and schools.

Students

With educational institutions nearby, Wilrijk also attracts a younger demographic of students seeking a peaceful environment.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is immensely popular in Wilrijk, with local clubs engaging the community and youth programs available for aspiring players.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored pastime, with many locals enjoying the extensive bike paths and cycling events that take place throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Wilrijk is generally manageable, with local roads connecting smoothly to Antwerp. Public transportation, including buses, is available, and trains from nearby stations provide quick access to Antwerp and other cities. During peak hours, some congestion may occur, but overall, it remains a convenient area for commuting.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Wilrijk.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Wilrijk offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu beforehand.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are becoming more common, so inquire specifically when dining out.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Wilrijk is accessible, with several clinics and hospitals in the nearby Antwerp area. Emergency services are prompt, and pharmacies are available for minor health concerns. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card for medical services, while travelers from other countries should obtain travel insurance.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide