Evergem(Belgium) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Avelgem, the top choice for historic charm is Hotel de la Cour, a beautifully restored 17th-century manor nestled in the heart of the old town. Its exposed timber beams, original stone walls, and period furnishings evoke authentic Flanders heritage. Guests enjoy a traditional Belgian breakfast featuring local cheeses and house-made pastries. Nearby, De Gouden Klok offers a unique experience in a former farmstead, complete with a private garden and handcrafted décor. Both hotels are steps away from St. Mary's Church and the bustling Market Square, ideal for travelers seeking culture, tranquility, and authenticity in a quintessential Belgian village setting.

The historic center of Avelgem is the most ideal district for first-time visitors. It’s within walking distance of key landmarks like the Town Hall, St. Mary’s Church, and the Market Square, where weekend farmers’ markets feature fresh produce and handmade crafts. The area is quiet, safe, and rich in atmosphere, with cobbled streets and colorful facades. Staying near Bredestraat offers easy access to cozy cafés, local breweries, and scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Public transport links are also excellent, with trams connecting to Ghent and Bruges just minutes away, making it a perfect base for exploring East Flanders.

Avelgem offers several distinctive cultural experiences, including traditional Flemish textile workshops at the Old Mill Museum (Museum van de Molen), where visitors can weave fabric on century-old looms and take home a handmade scarf. Another highlight is the annual Lantern Festival (Lanternefeest) in spring, when thousands of handcrafted lanterns illuminate the town, accompanied by folk music and night parades. For art lovers, the Clock Restoration Workshop allows guests to learn how master craftsmen repair antique timepieces—a rare insight into Belgium’s precision engineering legacy. These immersive activities provide deep connections to local heritage and craftsmanship.

Must-try dishes in Avelgem include slow-cooked beef stew with mashed potatoes (Stoverij met aardappelpuree), served at De Vlaamse Keuken, using locally sourced beef and rich herbal broth. Don’t miss chocolate pancakes (Chocoladepannenkoeken)—a warm, crispy-on-the-outside, gooey-on-the-inside treat made with melted Belgian chocolate, often prepared live at the market. For beer enthusiasts, visit Brouwerij De Bokke, a microbrewery offering limited-edition ales and wheat beers paired with regional cheeses. Each dish reflects the region’s agricultural roots and culinary pride, blending tradition with modern flair.

From Avelgem, explore the Beeklinbos Forest, a serene woodland trail perfect for hiking and cycling, where wildflowers bloom in summer and fireflies appear at dusk. Just outside town, the Saint John’s Abbey Ruins offer a glimpse into 14th-century monastic life, with well-preserved Gothic arches and ancient gravestones. Take a boat ride along the Ghent Canal Pathway to see riverside villages and historic brick buildings. For a longer trip, drive 25 minutes to Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage site with cobblestone streets, towering belfries, and medieval architecture—ideal for a full-day escape.

Avelgem’s Windmill Festival (Windmolenfeest) in June is one of Belgium’s most authentic local celebrations. Three historic windmills are powered up, while villagers in period costumes perform folk dances, puppet shows, and craft demonstrations. Visitors can join the procession, taste homemade bread and apple cider, and even try their hand at spinning wool. The Winter Light Festival transforms the town into a magical landscape, with dynamic light projections on the Town Hall facade, narrating Avelgem’s evolution from agrarian roots to industrial progress. These events blend storytelling, tradition, and community spirit in unforgettable ways.

Yes, Family Hotel De Sint-Pieter is a standout option for families, offering spacious rooms, a children’s playroom, and hands-on cooking classes using local ingredients. The hotel features a small farm where kids can feed goats and chickens, fostering a connection with nature. Many hotels provide free bicycles for family rides along the Avelgem River Trail, complete with rest stops and scenic viewpoints. Restaurants across town welcome children with high chairs, kid-sized menus, and fun snacks. With its peaceful environment and child-centric amenities, Avelgem is an ideal destination for multi-generational travel.

Public transport in Avelgem is highly convenient. The Tram Line 10 connects directly to Ghent (20 minutes) and Bruges (35 minutes), with frequent departures throughout the day. The town center is compact and walkable, with all main attractions within a 10-minute stroll. Local buses operated by De Lijn serve surrounding villages, and tickets can be purchased via smartphone apps or at kiosks. For those driving, ample free parking is available near the town center, and the A12 highway is accessible in just 5 minutes, making it easy to reach other parts of Belgium.

For authentic souvenirs, visit Bredestraat’s independent boutiques like Oude Tijd, which sells handmade ceramics, vintage glassware, and artworks by local artisans. Every Saturday, the Market Square hosts a craft fair with stalls run by regional makers—perfect for finding custom leather goods, wool scarves, and natural soaps. La Maison du Chocolat is a must-stop for gourmet treats, offering limited-edition Belgian chocolates and seasonal flavors like lavender-hazelnut and orange-rose. Consider purchasing embroidered canvas bags or vintage-style postcards printed with the town’s historic map—each item tells a story of Avelgem’s enduring character.

Avelgem has a temperate maritime climate with mild temperatures year-round. Spring (March–May) brings blooming gardens and pleasant weather—ideal for sightseeing and photography. Summer (June–August) averages 20–24°C, though brief showers occur; pack a light raincoat. Autumn (September–November) features golden foliage and crisp air, perfect for forest walks. Winter (December–February) is cool and foggy, but the Christmas markets glow warmly with lights and festive cheer. Dress in layers: wear windproof outerwear in spring and autumn, sunscreen in summer, and insulated clothing in winter. Overall, Avelgem is enjoyable year-round, with spring and autumn being the most favorable seasons for outdoor exploration.