West Flanders Travel Guide
Plan your visit to West Flanders, Belgium with this comprehensive travel guide including information on places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations.
- Introduction to West Flanders
- List of Places to Visit in West Flanders
- Hiking/Biking Routes of West Flanders
- Best Things to Do in West Flanders: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for West Flanders
- Food and Drink Scene of West Flanders
- Where to Stay in West Flanders: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in West Flanders: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of West Flanders
- Best Time to Visit West Flanders
- Do’s and Don’ts of West Flanders
- Safety and Health
- Getting to West Flanders: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in West Flanders
- Where to Go Next from West Flanders: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to West Flanders
West Flanders is a beautiful region located in Flanders, Belgium. It is situated in the northwestern part of the country and is surrounded by the North Sea, the Netherlands, and France. West Flanders is known for its breathtaking landscapes, picturesque towns and villages, cultural heritage, and culinary delights. It is a perfect destination for travelers seeking a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. In this guide, we will take a closer look at the best places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations.
List of Places to Visit in West Flanders
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
West Flanders is home to a number of museums and historical places that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. These include:
- In Flanders Fields Museum
- Yper Museum
- Kortrijk 1302
- Groeningemuseum
- Belle Epoque Center
- Gravensteen Castle
- Belfry of Bruges
- The Begijnhof
Natural Attractions of West Flanders: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
In addition to its cultural heritage, West Flanders is also known for its outdoor adventures and scenic views. These include:
- The Belgian Coast
- De Zoom - Kalmthoutse Heide National Park
- Damme Canal
- Zwin Nature Park
- De Hoge Dijken
Hiking/Biking Routes of West Flanders
West Flanders is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers a number of hiking and biking routes that allow visitors to explore its natural beauty. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in West Flanders are:
- The Belgian Coast Route
- The Flemish Ardennes Cycle Route
- The Pajottenland Cycle Route
- The Kempen Route
Best Things to Do in West Flanders: Activities and Tours
Apart from visiting the cultural and natural attractions of West Flanders, there are many other things to do in the region. Some of the popular activities and tours in West Flanders are:
- Visit a local brewery and taste some of the region’s best beers
- Take a hot air balloon ride over the Belgian countryside
- Explore the region’s culinary delights through a food tour
- Visit one of the local markets in Bruges or Ypres
Week-Long Itinerary for West Flanders
If you’re planning a week-long trip to West Flanders, here’s a sample itinerary:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Brussels and travel to Bruges |
| Day 2 | Explore Bruges, take a canal tour, and visit the Belfry |
| Day 3 | Visit Ypres, explore the Yper Museum, and take a somber visit to the World War I battlefields |
| Day 4 | Visit the Belgian Coast and enjoy some beach time |
| Day 5 | Take a bike ride through the Flemish Ardennes |
| Day 6 | Visit Kortrijk and explore the city’s history |
| Day 7 | Return to Brussels and depart for home |
Food and Drink Scene of West Flanders
Must-Try Dishes
West Flanders is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes regional specialties like:
- Flemish Carbonades
- Waterzooi Chicken or Fish
- Asparagus with Mousseline Sauce
- Shrimp Croquettes
- Belgian Waffles
Local Beverages
Belgium is known for its beer, and West Flanders is no exception. The region is home to some of Belgium’s best breweries, and visitors can taste a variety of local beers, including:
- Westvleteren
- Rodenbach
- Brugse Zot
- Straffe Hendrik
- Duvel
Where to Stay in West Flanders: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
West Flanders offers a variety of accommodation options for travelers of all budgets. Some of the best places to stay in West Flanders are:
- Hotel Dukes’ Palace Bruges
- Hotel de Tuilerieen
- Hostellerie Klokhof
- ‘T Rentierhof Guesthouse
- Parkhotel Kortrijk
What to Buy in West Flanders: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home from West Flanders, here are some ideas:
- Belgian chocolates
- Lace from Bruges
- Belgian beer
- Belgian waffles
- Handmade pottery
Local Culture and Customs of West Flanders
The people of West Flanders are proud of their cultural heritage and traditions. Some of the local customs and traditions include:
- Festival of the Golden Spurs in Kortrijk
- The annual Ypres Cat Parade
- The annual Groote Stooringe Pageant in Oostende
- The International Peace Memorial Service in Ypres
Best Time to Visit West Flanders
The best time to visit West Flanders is between April and September, when the weather is mild and most of the outdoor attractions are open. July and August are the peak tourist season months, so it is advisable to book your accommodation in advance.
Do’s and Don’ts of West Flanders
Do:
- Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites and churches.
- Try the local cuisine and beer.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
Don’t:
- litter or harm the environment.
- Wear inappropriate clothing when visiting religious sites and churches.
- Spectacle the solemnity of the World War I battlefields.
Safety and Health
Safety in West Flanders
West Flanders is a safe region to visit, but it is advisable to take normal safety precautions, such as not leaving your belongings unattended and being aware of your surroundings at all times.
Health in West Flanders
Belgium has a good healthcare system, and visitors can expect high-quality medical care. It is advisable to get travel insurance before you travel.
Getting to West Flanders: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near West Flanders
The nearest airports to West Flanders are Brussels Airport and Ostend-Bruges International Airport.
Bus Stations Near West Flanders
The main bus stations in West Flanders are in Bruges, Kortrijk, and Ypres.
Other Options
Travelers can also use taxis and trains to get around the region.
How to Get Around in West Flanders
The best way to get around West Flanders is by car, but travelers can also use public transport, biking, or hiking.
Where to Go Next from West Flanders: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
If you still have time and want to explore more destinations after visiting West Flanders, here are some nearby destinations:
- Brussels
- Ghent
- Antwerp
- Amsterdam
Conclusion
West Flanders is a charming and beautiful region of Belgium, offering visitors a perfect blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and modern amenities. It is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the best of what Belgium has to offer. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip to West Flanders with ease and confidence.
