A cycling holiday through Belgium is so more than just a ride through vibrant cities, along meandering rivers, and past rolling green hills. Today, we’re taking you on a culinary journey through Flanders. Those who hop on a bike here are in for a treat, with a diverse cuisine that goes far beyond Belgian waffles. So, let’s raise our forks and say: Eet smakelijk – enjoy your meal!
As one of Belgium’s three regions, Flanders in the north is a popular hotspot for cyclists. With flat, smooth bike paths and well-marked cycling hubs that make getting around a breeze for active travelers, it offers the perfect mix of vibrant city life and peaceful nature. It’s no surprise that countless cycling enthusiasts are drawn here — and the locals proudly say that cycling is in their DNA. So today, let’s take a closer look at this dynamic region and discover what makes it a must-ride destination.
The small yet exquisite region of Flanders, part of the Kingdom of Belgium, offers numerous cultural experiences that can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace. Anwerp, Bruges, Brussels, Dendermonde, Ghent, Kortrijk, Leuven, and Mechelen are just a few examples. But what would a cycling holiday be without culinary delights? In Flanders, good food is an essential part of the culture.
Our culinary journey begins in Belgium’s capital—the political heart of Europe: Brussels.
A stop in the European Quarter, home to the European Parliament, is a must on your sightseeing list. Equally worth a visit is the Atomium, Brussels’ iconic landmark, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city. Another highlight is the Grote Markt, the bustling center of Brussels. Here, ornately decorated guild houses await your discovery. Did you know the square is a UNESCO World Heritage site?
The irresistible aroma of freshly baked waffles fills the air, setting the perfect tone for this deliciously delightful adventure through Flanders. You’ll find them ready to enjoy on nearly every corner.
Mechelen may be less famous than Bruges or Ghent, but it easily holds its own against these well-known cities. The town is especially celebrated for its iconic carillon, whose chimes ring through the narrow streets up to eight times an hour, providing a magical soundtrack to your visit.
We highly recommend a visit to the Het Anker brewery, founded all the way back in 1369. As one of Belgium’s oldest breweries, it offers fascinating tours through its historic halls. Afterwards, you can unwind with a freshly poured glass at the brewery bar, offering an authentic taste of Mechelen’s rich brewing heritage.
Antwerp is one of the world’s leading diamond centers, where glittering gems dazzle in shop windows along the famous Diamond Square Mile. But this vibrant port city is just as celebrated for its rich culinary scene. As you cycle through its streets, the air is filled with the promise of exquisite flavors and tempting treats like pralines, classic Belgian fries, and the regional specialty Anwerpse Handjes — buttery, hand-shaped cookies unique to the area. Nowhere else captures the heart of Belgian cuisine quite like moules-frites, the iconic mussels and fries dish that graces many tables here, inviting you to savor the true taste of Antwerp.
In Gent, medieval charm meets picturesque riverbanks and vibrant street art. A stroll along the Leie offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy an aperitif by the water while soaking in the city’s historic façades. Don’t miss the Graffiti Alley, the most colorful street in Gent, bursting with creative and eye-catching murals.
A culinary highlight here is the traditionally made Ganda ham. This delicately cured ham, aged for 10 months, pairs perfectly with a slice of bread and a dollop of delicious mustard — the ideal treat for a well-deserved cycling break.
Arriving in Bruges by bike is like stepping into a storybook. The medieval old town, a summer magnet for tourists, enchants visitors with its timeless charm and historic architecture throughout the year. A boat ride on the canals reveals the true spirit of Flemish life from the water’s edge, followed by a feast for the senses with the city’s renowned culinary delights.
Bruges is famed as Belgium’s chocolate capital, where patisseries line the streets offering sweet temptations at every turn. And for those who lean toward savory, the city’s legendary fries, perfectly crisp and golden, offer a delicious taste of local tradition.
