Damme Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, and stay in Damme, a charming town in West Flanders, Belgium. Learn about its hiking and biking routes, cultural attractions, natural wonders, and local customs.


Damme, a picturesque town in West Flanders, Belgium, is tucked away in the peaceful countryside, just a stone’s throw away from the bustling city of Bruges. Blessed with stunning architecture, stunning countryside views, and a history that dates back to the Middle Ages, Damme is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Belgium. In this comprehensive travel guide to Damme, we’ll take you on a journey of exploration, highlighting the best places to visit, eat, and stay while also giving you tips on traveling in and around the town.

List of Places to Visit in Damme

Damme is a treasure trove of places to visit, and it’s a small enough town that it won’t take long to see everything. Here’s a list of the best things to see and do in Damme:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Stadhuis (Town Hall)
  2. Town ramparts
  3. City library
  4. St. John’s Hospital
  5. Museum of Local and Landscape History
  6. Het Vlaemsche Erfgoed (The Flemish Heritage)

Natural Attractions of Damme: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Damme Golf and Country Club
  2. Het Zwin nature reserve
  3. Canal Tour of Damme
  4. Damme’s Secluded Countryside Trails
  5. The Damse Vaart

Hiking/Biking Routes of Damme

Damme is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and there is no shortage of excellent hiking and biking routes. Here are five of the best routes to explore around Damme:

  1. Damme to Sluis Cycling Route
  2. The Jonckershoeve Route
  3. The Canal Trip Route
  4. Damme to Oostkerke Walking Route
  5. The ‘t Nieuwe Blauwe Route

Best Things to Do in Damme: Activities and Tours

There’s an abundance of activities to enjoy in Damme, which makes it a perfect destination for families and groups of friends. Here are some of the best things to do in Damme:

  1. Take a Canal Tour
  2. Take a guided walking tour of the town
  3. Go shopping at the weekend market
  4. Visit a brewery
  5. Explore Het Zwin nature reserve

Week-Long Itinerary for Damme

If you have a week to spend in Damme, here’s an itinerary that will allow you to explore all the highlights of the town and its surroundings:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the old town center and visit the historical landmarks
Day 2 Take a canal tour of Damme
Day 3 Go shopping at the weekend market
Day 4 Visit Het Zwin nature reserve
Day 5 Explore the town’s local cuisine
Day 6 Take a cycling tour of Damme
Day 7 Head to Bruges and explore the city for the day

Food and Drink Scene of Damme

Belgium has long been known for its delicious chocolates, beer, and waffles, and Damme is no exception. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages to enjoy in Damme:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Wild mushrooms with truffle oil
  2. Shrimp Croquettes
  3. Flemish Beef Stew
  4. Belgian Waffles
  5. Mussels

Local Beverages

  1. Belgian Beer
  2. Wines from the Damme vineyards
  3. Hot chocolate with Belgian chocolate

Where to Stay in Damme: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Damme has an array of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Damme:

  1. Hotel Welkom
  2. Hotel Heritage
  3. Hotel Die Swaene
  4. Hotel Ter Polders

What to Buy in Damme: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Damme, be sure to purchase some of the town’s most famous products, such as:

  1. Lacework
  2. Belgian chocolates
  3. Hot Chocolate Spoons
  4. Beer

Local Culture and Customs of Damme

The people of Belgium are friendly and hospitable, and the locals of Damme are no exception. Respect the town’s customs, such as:

  1. Tipping is customary
  2. Shake hands and greet people with a kiss on the cheek
  3. Respect the local customs, including religious customs
  4. Be mindful of littering

Best Time to Visit Damme

The best time to visit Damme is from May to September when the weather is mild, and the town is bustling with activity. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, cultural festivities, and more during this time. December is also an excellent time to visit Damme, as the town is lit up and celebratory during Christmas festivities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Damme

Here are some general do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Damme:

Do:

  1. Dress comfortably
  2. Take note of the opening times of the attractions you wish to visit
  3. Greet people with a smile
  4. Try and learn some basic Dutch phrases

Don’t:

  1. Do not litter
  2. Don’t engage in public displays of affection
  3. Avoid smoking in public places
  4. Don’t try to take pictures of locals without their permission

Safety and Health

Safety in Damme

Damme is a safe and tranquil destination, with low crime rates. As a tourist, be aware of your surroundings and belongings, especially when traveling alone in the evening or at night.

Health in Damme

Belgium has world-class healthcare facilities, and Damme is no exception. Hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies are readily available in the town itself in case of emergencies.

Getting to Damme: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Damme

The two closest airports to Damme in Belgium are Brussels Airport, which is approximately 100 km away. For a more local approach, check out the Ostend-Bruges International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Damme

Damme is served by Bus Line 43 which makes several stops in the town, the bus stations are easily accessible, and visitors can find out timetables online.

Other Options

Visitors can take the train to Bruges and then take a bus to Damme or can rent a car and drive themselves to the town.

How to Get Around in Damme

The town of Damme is relatively small, and visitors can easily walk or cycle around the town. Alternatively, visitors can take bus routes, and taxi services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Damme: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations to explore after your visit to Damme:

  1. Bruges
  2. Ghent
  3. Brussels
  4. Ostend

Conclusion

Damme is a hidden gem in Belgium that offers a wealth of activities, landmarks, and a stunning natural landscape to tourists. With its quaint charming appeal and proximity to major cities, including Bruges, and Ghent, Damme is an excellent destination for a tranquil escape where visitors can enjoy delicious food, visit historical sites, and even participate in outdoor activities such as cycling or walking. Plan your trip to Damme today for an unforgettable Belgian experience.

Damme town hall Damme town hall View of Damme View of Damme Art gallery (kunstgallerij) Hondsdamme Art gallery (kunstgallerij) Hondsdamme Nave and apsis of the Church of Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Hemelvaart (Our-Lady of the Assumption) Nave and apsis of the Church of Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Hemelvaart (Our-Lady of the Assumption)