Southeast Flanders

Zuidoost-Vlaanderen

Plan your trip to Southeast Flanders

Southeast Flanders is a charming region in Belgium centered around the historic city of Tournai, known for its medieval architecture, riverside charm, and proximity to the French border. With a blend of cultural heritage, countryside villages, and authentic Flemish character, it offers visitors a quieter alternative to Belgium's busier tourist destinations. The region rewards leisurely exploration on foot or by bike, making it ideal for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path European experience.

Getting there & around

The nearest major airport is Brussels Zaventem (about 90km away), with onward connections by train or rental car to Tournai. Direct trains run from Brussels and other Belgian cities to Tournai's central station, taking around 1.5 hours from the capital. Driving via the E42 motorway is straightforward if you have a car, and the region is compact enough to explore by local buses or bicycle.

How long to stay

Three to four days is ideal to experience Southeast Flanders properly—enough time to explore Tournai's historic center, visit surrounding villages, and enjoy the countryside without feeling rushed. If visiting as a day trip from Brussels is your only option, you'll see the main sights but miss the region's slower-paced charm.

When to go

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the most pleasant conditions, with mild temperatures perfect for walking historic streets and cycling through villages. Summer is warm but can attract crowds; winter is quiet and atmospheric but rainy, though it's still visitable for those seeking solitude.

Suggested itinerary

Discover Tournai's Medieval Heart — Spend your first day in Tournai exploring its UNESCO-listed cathedral, wandering the narrow cobbled streets of the old town, and visiting the riverside quays along the Scheldt. In the afternoon, climb the iconic Belfry for panoramic views and browse local museums or cafés at a leisurely pace.
Villages and Countryside Cycles — Rent a bicycle or take local buses to explore the charming villages dotting the countryside—stopping at small churches, local shops, and countryside cafés. Visit traditional Flemish hamlets and sample regional produce at farm shops or local markets if timing allows.
Rivers, Art, and Local Culture — Take a scenic walk or boat trip along the Scheldt, visit smaller museums dedicated to local history or contemporary art, and enjoy dinner at a traditional Belgian restaurant. Use your final evening to revisit favorite spots or simply soak in the region's quiet, authentic atmosphere before departing.

Frequently asked questions

How many days do you need in Southeast Flanders?

Three to four days is optimal to see Tournai and surrounding villages without rushing. A full day minimum is needed just for Tournai itself if you want to appreciate the cathedral and museums; anything less is a rushed visit.

Is Tournai worth visiting?

Yes, Tournai is worth visiting for its exceptional medieval cathedral, charming old town, and riverside setting. It's less crowded than major Belgian cities but offers equally rich history and architecture, making it ideal for travelers seeking authentic Flemish character.

What's the best time to visit Southeast Flanders?

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are best, offering pleasant weather for walking and cycling. Summer is also viable but warmer and busier; winter is quieter but often rainy.

Can you visit Southeast Flanders as a day trip from Brussels?

Yes, you can reach Tournai by train from Brussels in about 1.5 hours and see the main sights in a day. However, you'll miss the countryside villages and the region's slower pace; an overnight stay is recommended to fully experience the area.

Do I need a car to explore Southeast Flanders?

A car is helpful but not essential—Tournai has good local bus connections, and cycling is an excellent way to explore the countryside. However, a rental car gives you more flexibility to visit remote villages at your own pace.

History

Southeast Flanders, centered around the city of Ghent and extending into rural Flemish countryside, has deep medieval roots tracing back to the powerful County of Flanders. The region played a crucial role during the Middle Ages as a center of textile production and trade, with Ghent becoming one of Europe's wealthiest cities by the 14th century. During the Dutch Revolt and subsequent conflicts, the area shifted between Spanish, Austrian, and French control before eventually settling as part of the modern Belgian state in 1830. Today, the region reflects centuries of Flemish independence, artistic achievement, and commercial enterprise that shaped both its architecture and character.

Culture

Southeast Flanders embodies the Flemish spirit of resourcefulness, artistic pride, and celebration of local food and drink traditions. The region is known for its distinctive beers, including Trappist ales from local monasteries, and its hearty cuisine featuring waterzooi stew and fresh produce from surrounding farmlands. Festivals throughout the year celebrate everything from medieval history to contemporary art, while the landscape of canals, brick buildings, and small villages maintains a distinctly Flemish identity that feels both historic and vibrant.

Language

Dutch is the official language, spoken with a distinctive Flemish accent and dialect that includes unique vocabulary and pronunciation patterns. Useful local phrases include "Goedemorgen" for good morning, "Dank u wel" for thank you, and "Spreekt u Engels?" to ask if someone speaks English, though English is increasingly common in urban areas.

Best time to visit

Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures for visiting historic sites and countryside villages.

Places to visit

Hasselt — The capital of Limburg province, Hasselt is known for its beautiful medieval city center, impressive cathedral, and vib…
Bokrijk Open-Air Museum — This expansive open-air museum showcases Flemish rural heritage with reconstructed historic buildings, traditional craf…
Genk — Once a mining town, Genk has reinvented itself with the striking C-Mine cultural center built into a former coal mine a…
Tongeren — Belgium's oldest town, Tongeren features impressive Roman walls, a magnificent basilica, and the outstanding Gallo-Roma…
Herk-de-Stad — Known as the beer capital of Limburg, Herk-de-Stad centers around its historic Trappist brewery and serves as a gateway…
Borgloon — This picturesque town is renowned for its fruit farms and orchards, particularly cherry and apple cultivation that defi…
Sint-Truiden — Once among Flanders' most important religious centers, Sint-Truiden retains its magnificent basilica and historic abbey…

Where to eat

De Striep (Belgian, Dendermonde). Order: Stoofvlees (Flemish beef stew).
Zilt & Zoet (French-Belgian, Geraardsbergen). Order: Pan-seared turbot with beurre blanc.
De Bron (Belgian, Oudenaarde). Order: Waterzooi de volaille (creamy chicken stew).
Hostellerie de Pélerin (French, Ronse). Order: Pan-roasted duck breast with cherry gastrique.
De Crest (Belgian, Zottegem). Order: Carbonnade Flamande (Flemish beef in beer).
De Watertuin (Contemporary Belgian, Wetteren). Order: Spring vegetables with aged Gouda and crispy bacon.
Taffel (International, Gavere). Order: Grilled fish with seasonal vegetables.
Aan de Schelde (Seafood, Dendermonde). Order: Grilled North Sea sole meunière.
De Graslei (Belgian, Grammont (Geraardsbergen)). Order: Malt with pork belly.
De Smidse (Belgian, Lierde). Order: Andouille sausage with pickled vegetables.
Savarin (French-Belgian, Oudenaarde). Order: Beef tenderloin with Ardenne ham and truffle sauce.
De Koppelaars (Belgian, Ninove). Order: Paling in 't groen (eel in green herb sauce).
The Mill (Contemporary European, Aalst). Order: Duck confit with apple gastrique and parsnip purée.
De Waterkant (Belgian, Deinze). Order: Mussels in white wine with fries.