bigtravelbuzzEast Flanders (Oost-Vlaanderen) is one of the ten provinces in Belgium, located in the northern part of the country. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, historical cities, and cultural attractions. Here are some highlights and key aspects of East Flanders:
Ghent (Gent): The capital city of East Flanders, Ghent is a vibrant and dynamic city with a rich history dating back to medieval times. It boasts stunning architecture, including the famous Gravensteen Castle, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and picturesque canals. Ghent is also known for its lively atmosphere, cultural events, and vibrant nightlife.
Bruges (Brugge): Although Bruges is the capital of the neighboring province of West Flanders, it is a popular destination and easily accessible from East Flanders. Known as the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage city with well-preserved medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and romantic canals.
Aalst: Aalst is a historic city in East Flanders known for its annual carnival, which is recognized as a UNESCO Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The city also has beautiful historic buildings and a charming city center.
Dendermonde: Located on the River Dender, Dendermonde is a picturesque city with a rich cultural heritage. The town’s historic buildings, such as the City Hall and the Beguinage, make it a delightful place to explore.
Geraardsbergen: Known for its iconic hill, the “Muur van Geraardsbergen” (Wall of Geraardsbergen), this city attracts cycling enthusiasts who come to tackle the challenging cobbled climb. The city is also known for its traditional Mattentaart pastries.
Sint-Niklaas: Sint-Niklaas is the largest city in East Flanders and is known for its central square, the Grote Markt, which hosts various events and markets.
Museum Dhondt-Dhaenens: Located in Deurle, this museum showcases modern and contemporary art in a beautiful setting, surrounded by gardens and sculptures.
Nature and Countryside: East Flanders offers picturesque countryside and nature areas, including the Flemish Ardennes, the Meetjesland, and the Scheldt and Dender river valleys, which are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
Local Cuisine: East Flanders is known for its culinary delights, including regional dishes like Waterzooi (a creamy chicken or fish stew), Grey Shrimp Croquettes, and Flemish asparagus.
East Flanders is well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to explore the various cities and attractions within the province. Whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or cuisine, East Flanders offers a diverse range of experiences to visitors.
Places to Visit in East Flanders (Oost-Vlaanderen)
East Flanders (Oost-Vlaanderen) is a province in Belgium with a rich cultural heritage, historical cities, picturesque landscapes, and charming towns. Here are some top places to visit in East Flanders:
Ghent (Gent): Explore the vibrant city of Ghent, known for its medieval architecture, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere. Visit Gravensteen Castle, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, Graslei, Korenlei, and the medieval Patershol neighborhood.
Bruges (Brugge): Although located in the neighboring province of West Flanders, Bruges is easily accessible from East Flanders and is a must-visit city. Explore its well-preserved medieval architecture, canals, and iconic landmarks like the Belfry of Bruges and the Markt Square.
Aalst: Discover the historic city of Aalst, known for its annual carnival celebration, recognized as a UNESCO Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Visit the City Hall, St. Martin’s Church, and the Beguinage.
Dendermonde: Explore Dendermonde and its historic landmarks, including the City Hall, St. Alexander’s Church, and the Grote Markt. Don’t miss the Grote Markt square, which hosts various events and markets.
Geraardsbergen: Visit Geraardsbergen, known for the iconic Muur van Geraardsbergen (Wall of Geraardsbergen), a challenging cobbled climb famous in cycling. Enjoy panoramic views from the top and explore the city’s other attractions.
Sint-Niklaas: Discover Sint-Niklaas, the largest city in East Flanders, and explore its central square, the Grote Markt, where events and markets take place. Visit the Church of Our Lady and the Mercator Museum.
Deurle: Visit Deurle, a charming village known for its art heritage. Explore the Museum Dhondt-Dhaenens, showcasing modern and contemporary art, and enjoy the beautiful gardens and sculptures.
Flemish Ardennes: Experience the scenic beauty of the Flemish Ardennes, a hilly region popular among cyclists and hikers. Enjoy nature walks, bike rides, and stunning views.
Meetjesland: Discover the picturesque region of Meetjesland, known for its scenic landscapes, charming villages, and historical sites like the Castle of Poeke.
Scheldt and Dender River Valleys: Explore the picturesque valleys of the Scheldt and Dender rivers, offering scenic bike routes and beautiful nature spots.
Waasland: Visit the region of Waasland, known for its nature reserves, castles, and charming villages.
Flemish Diamond: Explore the urban region of the Flemish Diamond, which includes cities like Ghent, Antwerp, and Brussels, offering a mix of culture, history, and modernity.
East Flanders offers a diverse range of experiences, from historical and cultural attractions to natural beauty and outdoor activities. Whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or culinary delights, East Flanders has something to offer every traveler.
Best Time To Visit East Flanders (Oost-Vlaanderen)
The best time to visit East Flanders (Oost-Vlaanderen) depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels. Here are some considerations for each season:
Spring (March to May): Spring is a lovely time to visit East Flanders as the weather starts to warm up, and the region comes alive with blossoms and greenery. It’s an excellent season for outdoor activities like exploring historic cities, cycling through the countryside, and enjoying the blooming landscapes.
Summer (June to August): Summer in East Flanders brings warm temperatures, making it a popular time for tourists. It’s a vibrant season with various cultural events, festivals, and outdoor activities. However, it can get crowded, especially in tourist hotspots like Ghent and Bruges.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn offers pleasant temperatures and stunning fall foliage, creating a picturesque setting in the countryside. It’s an excellent time for sightseeing, visiting museums, and enjoying local delicacies.
Winter (December to February): Winter in East Flanders can be cold, but it brings a festive atmosphere with Christmas markets and holiday lights in cities like Ghent and Bruges. It’s a great time to enjoy cozy indoor activities, taste Belgian winter specialties, and explore the charm of historical towns.
Overall, the months of April to October are popular for visiting East Flanders due to milder weather and a variety of events and outdoor activities. However, each season has its own unique charm, and your preference for weather and activities will determine the best time for your visit. If you prefer a quieter experience with fewer tourists, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn.
Things to Do in East Flanders (Oost-Vlaanderen)
East Flanders (Oost-Vlaanderen) is a beautiful region in Belgium with a rich cultural heritage, historic cities, and picturesque countryside. Here are some things to do in East Flanders:
Ghent: Explore the vibrant city of Ghent, known for its medieval architecture, picturesque canals, and lively atmosphere. Visit Gravensteen Castle, St. Bavo’s Cathedral with the famous Ghent Altarpiece, and enjoy the local cuisine and beer in the numerous cafes and restaurants.
Bruges: While Bruges is technically in West Flanders, it’s easily accessible from East Flanders and definitely worth a visit. Discover the well-preserved medieval city center, take a boat tour along the canals, and indulge in delicious Belgian chocolate.
Antwerp: Another city located close to East Flanders, Antwerp is famous for its fashion, art, and diamond trade. Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, and stroll around the trendy neighborhoods like Het Zuid.
Dendermonde: Explore the historic city of Dendermonde, known for its beautiful market square and the impressive Saint Alexius Beguinage. Take a walk along the River Dender and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Aalst: Experience the vibrant carnival culture of Aalst, especially if you visit during the famous Aalst Carnival, a UNESCO-recognized event. The city also boasts impressive historical buildings and a lively local scene.
Hiking and Cycling: East Flanders offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. Explore the Flemish Ardennes, the Zwalm region, or the Scheldeland area by hiking or cycling through the picturesque landscapes.
Ghent Floralies: If you’re lucky to visit during the Ghent Floralies (held every five years in Ghent), you’ll be treated to an extraordinary flower and plant exhibition in the city’s iconic Floraliënhal.
Brewery Tours: Belgium is famous for its beer culture, and East Flanders is no exception. Take a brewery tour to learn about traditional Belgian beer production and, of course, sample some local brews.
Graslei and Korenlei: Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei streets in Ghent, lined with beautifully preserved historic buildings, restaurants, and cafes.
Sint-Niklaas: Visit Sint-Niklaas to see the largest market square in Belgium, Grote Markt, and the iconic Art Nouveau City Hall. The city also hosts various cultural events throughout the year.
Oudenaarde: Explore Oudenaarde’s town center, visit the Oudenaarde City Museum, and learn about the region’s brewing history at the Roman Brewery.
Lokeren: Enjoy the charming town of Lokeren, known for its green spaces, parks, and outdoor markets.
These are just a few of the many things you can do in East Flanders. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or simply indulging in Belgian delights, this region has something to offer for every type of traveler.
How to get around in East Flanders (Oost-Vlaanderen)
Getting around in East Flanders (Oost-Vlaanderen) in Belgium is relatively easy, thanks to the region’s well-developed transportation infrastructure. Here are some common modes of transportation you can use:
Public Transportation: East Flanders has an extensive network of buses and trains operated by De Lijn (public bus service) and NMBS/SNCB (national railway service). You can easily travel between cities and towns using these services. Trains are especially convenient for longer distances, while buses cover more local routes.
Trams: Some cities in East Flanders, such as Ghent and Antwerp, have tram systems that offer a convenient way to move around within the city.
Biking: Cycling is incredibly popular in Belgium, and East Flanders is no exception. Many cities have dedicated bike lanes and paths, making it a pleasant and eco-friendly way to explore the region.
Car: If you prefer driving, renting a car is an option. However, keep in mind that traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hours in cities.
Taxi and Ridesharing: Taxis are available in urban areas, and ridesharing services like Uber might also operate in larger cities.
Walking: Most cities and towns in East Flanders are pedestrian-friendly, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian zones.
For tourists, it’s essential to have a transportation card called the “MOBIB Card.” It allows you to use different forms of public transportation seamlessly with a single card.
If you plan to use public transportation frequently during your stay, consider purchasing a “Go Pass” or “Rail Pass” for discounted travel on trains.
Before traveling, it’s a good idea to check schedules and plan your routes using online tools or mobile apps provided by De Lijn, NMBS/SNCB, or other transportation services, to ensure a smooth and efficient journey around East Flanders.
Where to eat in East Flanders (Oost-Vlaanderen)
East Flanders (Oost-Vlaanderen) in Belgium offers a diverse culinary scene with a wide range of dining options, from traditional Belgian cuisine to international fare. Here are some places where you can enjoy a delicious meal in East Flanders:
Ghent: As one of the major cities in East Flanders, Ghent has numerous restaurants and eateries to explore. Head to Patershol, a charming neighborhood known for its many restaurants serving both traditional and contemporary Belgian dishes. Don’t miss trying waterzooi (a local stew) or Gentse neuzen (cuberdon), a cone-shaped sweet candy.
Antwerp: Though not entirely in East Flanders, Antwerp is nearby and renowned for its vibrant food scene. Visit the city center or ‘t Zuid area to discover a mix of trendy cafes, fine dining restaurants, and international eateries.
Bruges: While Bruges is located in West Flanders, it’s worth mentioning due to its popularity among tourists. The city has lovely restaurants, particularly around the Markt and Burg squares, where you can savor Belgian classics like moules-frites (mussels and fries).
Aalst: This city is known for its annual carnival celebrations and also offers a variety of places to eat, from traditional Belgian brasseries to international cuisine.
Dendermonde: A historic city along the river Scheldt, Dendermonde has charming cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy local dishes and soak in the atmosphere.
Sint-Niklaas: Explore the central market square and surrounding streets to find several restaurants offering both Belgian and international menus.
Kortrijk: While Kortrijk is located more toward West Flanders, it’s worth mentioning for its dining options. The city center has a selection of restaurants with different culinary influences.
When in Belgium, trying out the local specialties is a must. Look for eateries that serve Flemish stews, frites (fries), waffles, chocolates, and a wide range of Belgian beers.
Remember that the best way to find hidden gems and local favorites is often by exploring the smaller streets and asking locals for recommendations. Tripadvisor and other online review platforms can also be helpful in discovering popular dining spots in East Flanders.
Famous street stalls in East Flanders (Oost-Vlaanderen)
While East Flanders (Oost-Vlaanderen) in Belgium is known for its vibrant food scene, street stalls might not be as prevalent as in some other countries. However, you can still find some popular street food vendors and food markets offering delicious treats. Here are a few famous ones:
Ghent: The city of Ghent has various food markets and stands that offer a range of tasty delights. Look out for “Gentse Neuzen” (cuberdons), a cone-shaped candy with a fruity filling, which is a popular local delicacy. Additionally, during festivals and events, you might find temporary street stalls selling traditional Belgian snacks like waffles, frites (fries), and hot dogs.
Antwerp: As mentioned earlier, Antwerp is not in East Flanders, but it’s nearby and worth mentioning for its culinary offerings. The city has several food markets where you can sample local products and street food. The “Vlaamse Primitief” street food market, for example, often hosts various food trucks and stalls serving diverse dishes.
Bruges: Though not in East Flanders, Bruges is a well-visited tourist destination with some street food options. In the Markt and Burg squares, you might find vendors selling Belgian waffles, ice cream, and other treats.
Christmas Markets: During the festive season, many cities in East Flanders, including Ghent, Antwerp, and Bruges, set up Christmas markets with numerous stalls offering seasonal snacks, mulled wine, and sweets.
Local Events and Festivals: Keep an eye out for local events and festivals in cities and towns across East Flanders. During these gatherings, you’re likely to find temporary street stalls offering regional specialties and delicacies.
While East Flanders may not have the same type of bustling street food culture as some other places, it makes up for it with a rich culinary tradition. Instead of street stalls, you’ll often find charming cafes, brasseries, and restaurants offering a variety of mouthwatering dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
Where to stay in East Flanders (Oost-Vlaanderen)
Luxury accommodation
In East Flanders (Oost-Vlaanderen), you can find luxury accommodation options that offer a high level of comfort and top-notch amenities. Some of the best areas to consider for luxury stays include:
Ghent: Ghent, being one of the major cities in East Flanders, has a range of luxury hotels and boutique accommodations. Look for hotels located near the historic city center or along the banks of the rivers Lys and Scheldt for picturesque views.
Bruges: While Bruges is not entirely in East Flanders, it’s nearby and is a popular tourist destination known for its romantic ambiance. The city boasts charming luxury hotels in historic buildings, providing an unforgettable experience.
Antwerp: Again, Antwerp is not in East Flanders, but it’s close enough to be mentioned. As Belgium’s fashion capital, Antwerp offers luxurious accommodation options in and around the city center, catering to discerning travelers.
Gentse Leiestreek: The region of Gentse Leiestreek, known for its beautiful countryside and picturesque towns, has some luxurious hotels and castles converted into high-end accommodations.
Waasland: This region has some upscale hotels and resorts, often located amidst scenic landscapes and offering a tranquil setting.
When searching for luxury accommodation, consider factors such as proximity to attractions, amenities offered (such as spa facilities, fine dining restaurants, and concierge services), and the overall ambiance that suits your preferences.
Popular booking platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, and TripAdvisor can help you find and compare luxury hotels in East Flanders based on your specific dates and preferences. Always check guest reviews and ratings to ensure the hotel meets your expectations.
Where to stay in East Flanders (Oost-Vlaanderen)
Budget accommodation
East Flanders (Oost-Vlaanderen) in Belgium offers a range of budget-friendly accommodation options for travelers looking to save on lodging. Here are some areas and types of places to consider for budget stays:
Hostels: Ghent, Antwerp, and other larger cities in East Flanders have hostels that provide affordable dormitory-style or private room accommodations for budget-conscious travelers. Hostels are an excellent choice for solo travelers, backpackers, and those seeking a social atmosphere.
Guesthouses and Bed & Breakfasts: Many towns and villages in East Flanders offer budget-friendly guesthouses and B&Bs. These smaller establishments often provide a cozy and homey experience, along with a more personal touch from the hosts.
University Accommodations: In cities with universities like Ghent or Leuven, some university dormitories offer budget rooms for tourists during the summer months when students are away.
Camping: If you enjoy the outdoors, consider camping in one of the campgrounds or caravan parks located throughout the region. Camping is a cost-effective way to experience the natural beauty of East Flanders.
Budget Hotels and Motels: Look for budget hotels and motels in cities like Ghent, Aalst, Sint-Niklaas, and other urban centers. These hotels often offer basic amenities at more affordable rates compared to luxury hotels.
Online Accommodation Platforms: Use websites like Booking.com, Hostelworld, Airbnb, or Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodation options across East Flanders. These platforms allow you to filter and sort properties based on your budget and preferences.
When booking budget accommodation, consider the location’s accessibility to public transportation, proximity to attractions, and the overall safety of the neighborhood.
Remember that prices may vary depending on the season and demand, so booking in advance can often secure better deals. Additionally, some cities in East Flanders levy a tourist tax on accommodation, so keep this in mind while budgeting your stay.
Travel Tips East Flanders (Oost-Vlaanderen)
Traveling to East Flanders (Oost-Vlaanderen) can be an enriching experience, as the region offers a blend of historical charm, picturesque landscapes, and a vibrant culinary scene. Here are some travel tips to make the most of your trip:
Explore the Cities: East Flanders is home to several charming cities like Ghent, Antwerp, Bruges, Aalst, and Sint-Niklaas. Each city has its unique character and attractions, so make sure to explore their historic centers, museums, and local markets.
Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the opportunity to sample traditional Belgian dishes such as waffles, moules-frites (mussels and fries), and various Belgian beers. Seek out local restaurants, brasseries, and street vendors for an authentic culinary experience.
Discover the Countryside: Beyond the cities, East Flanders has beautiful countryside with picturesque towns, lush green landscapes, and historic castles. Consider renting a bike to explore the scenic routes along rivers and canals.
Learn Some Dutch Phrases: While many people in East Flanders speak English, learning a few basic Dutch phrases can be helpful and appreciated by locals. They will likely be more willing to engage with you if you make an effort to speak their language.
Pack for the Weather: Belgium’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack clothing suitable for various conditions. Bring an umbrella or raincoat, especially if you’re traveling in the colder months when rain is more common.
Use Public Transportation: The public transportation system in East Flanders is well-developed and efficient. Trains and buses connect cities and towns, making it easy to get around without a car.
Respect Local Customs: Be aware of local customs and etiquette. For example, it is polite to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek (for friends and acquaintances) when meeting them.
Visit Local Markets and Festivals: East Flanders hosts various markets and festivals throughout the year. Check the local events calendar to see if any festivals or special events coincide with your visit for a more immersive experience.
Carry Cash: While credit cards are widely accepted, it’s a good idea to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller shops or paying for public transportation.
Stay Safe: East Flanders is generally a safe region for travelers, but as with any destination, be cautious with your belongings and avoid poorly-lit or isolated areas, especially at night.
By following these travel tips, you’ll be well-prepared to explore and enjoy the beauty and culture that East Flanders has to offer.