Discover Flemish Brabant | A Visitor's Introduction to Flemish Brabant

Why is Flemish Brabant Worth a Visit?

Flemish Brabant is the perfect blend of cultural richness and natural beauty. The province is home to historic cities like Leuven, with its stunning Gothic architecture and thriving student vibe, and smaller towns like Tervuren and Mechelen, which exude charm and tranquillity. Flemish Brabant is also a beer lover’s paradise, known for iconic breweries and abbey beers like the world-famous Stella Artois. For outdoor enthusiasts, the region offers lush forests, serene parks, and the celebrated Green Belt, a network of cycling and hiking trails through scenic landscapes. Its proximity to Brussels makes Flemish Brabant an accessible and rewarding destination.

Flemish Brabant Highlights: Things to See and Do in Flemish Brabant

Leuven

Leuven, the capital of Flemish Brabant, is a vibrant university city known for its striking Gothic architecture and lively atmosphere. Highlights include the ornate Town Hall on the Grote Markt and the UNESCO-listed University Library. The city is also home to Stella Artois, offering brewery tours and tastings. Leuven’s student population ensures a buzzing nightlife, with numerous cafés and bars lining the Old Market Square, famously nicknamed the "longest bar in the world."

Tervuren and the Royal Museum for Central Africa

Tervuren is a tranquil town surrounded by nature. Its crown jewel is the Royal Museum for Central Africa, housed in a palatial building set within the Tervuren Park. The museum offers fascinating insights into Africa’s natural history and cultural heritage. The park itself is perfect for walking or cycling, with lakes, trails, and manicured gardens to explore.

The Green Belt

The Green Belt is a network of cycling and walking routes that wind through the Flemish Brabant countryside. Highlights include the Zenne Valley, known for its rolling hills and picturesque villages, and the Dijleland, home to forests and meandering rivers. The routes often pass by historic castles, charming farms, and inviting local breweries, making for a delightful journey through the province’s landscapes.

Gaasbeek Castle

Gaasbeek Castle, near Lennik, is a fairy-tale fortress surrounded by lush gardens and forests. The castle’s opulent interiors and art collection provide a glimpse into its illustrious past, while the surrounding park is ideal for leisurely walks. Seasonal events and exhibitions add to its appeal.

Abbeys and Breweries

Flemish Brabant is renowned for its monastic brewing tradition. The province is home to several historic abbeys, such as Averbode Abbey and Affligem Abbey, which produce exceptional beers. The nearby town of Hoegaarden is synonymous with its namesake beer, famous for its refreshing wheat-based brews. Many of these breweries offer tours and tastings, making them a must-visit for beer enthusiasts.

Meise Botanic Garden

The Meise Botanic Garden is one of the largest botanical gardens in the world, featuring a vast collection of plants from across the globe. Its tropical greenhouses and seasonal flower displays are a delight for visitors of all ages. The garden’s castle and serene ponds add to its enchanting atmosphere.

Zoniënwoud (Sonian Forest)

The Zoniënwoud is a sprawling ancient beech forest located on the edge of Brussels. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers tranquil walking and cycling paths through towering trees and pristine nature. The forest is a popular escape for those seeking peace and a connection with nature.

Mechelen

Although technically shared with Antwerp Province, Mechelen is a delightful town easily accessible from Flemish Brabant. Known for its carillon culture and stunning St. Rumbold’s Cathedral, it’s an excellent day trip destination. Families will enjoy the Technopolis science museum and the Planckendael Zoo.

Pajottenland

The Pajottenland region, often referred to as "the Tuscany of the North," is known for its rolling hills and pastoral landscapes. It’s the heartland of lambic beer, with breweries like Cantillon and Boon offering a taste of traditional Belgian brewing.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Flemish Brabant is easily accessible from Brussels, with excellent train and bus connections to towns like Leuven, Tervuren, and Mechelen. For drivers, the province is well-served by Belgium’s motorway network, and its compact size makes it easy to explore by car. Cyclists will appreciate the region’s well-maintained cycling paths, which connect major towns and scenic areas.

Getting Around

Public transport is efficient, with frequent trains and buses connecting towns and villages. Renting a bike is a fantastic way to explore the countryside and smaller towns, particularly along the Green Belt. Walking is ideal for exploring compact town centres like Leuven.

Dining

Flemish Brabant is a foodie’s paradise. Traditional dishes include waterzooi (a creamy stew of fish or chicken) and stoofvlees (beef stew), often paired with local beers. Leuven’s Old Market Square and Tervuren’s town centre are filled with restaurants offering Flemish cuisine. Don’t miss tasting waffles, pralines, and the province’s renowned beers.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying Flemish Brabant’s parks, gardens, and cycling routes. Autumn offers a quieter charm, with colourful foliage enhancing the landscapes. Winter, though colder, brings cosy atmospheres to its towns and festive markets to Leuven and other cities.

Events and Festivals

Flemish Brabant hosts a variety of events, from Leuven’s Zythos Beer Festival in April to the Dijle Valley’s open-air concerts in summer. Tervuren’s Christmas market and seasonal events at Gaasbeek Castle add festive cheer to winter visits.

Exploring Beyond Flemish Brabant

Flemish Brabant’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring Belgium. Brussels is on its doorstep, offering world-class museums, historical landmarks, and a cosmopolitan vibe. The medieval cities of Ghent, Bruges, and Antwerp are all within easy reach by train or car, providing endless opportunities for day trips.