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

In Lokeren, the Hotel De Vrije Stad stands out as a premier choice, blending historic charm with modern amenities. Located just steps from the Town Hall and St. Mary's Church, it offers elegant rooms with panoramic views of the Braek River. The hotel’s on-site restaurant serves authentic Flemish cuisine, including carbonade flamande with local beer. For luxury seekers, Hotel Lokeren provides a refined experience with a French-style garden courtyard and vintage interior design, ideal for travelers wanting to immerse themselves in East Flanders’ cultural heritage.

The city center of Lokeren is the most recommended district for lodging, offering easy access to key attractions such as the Town Hall, Cathedral, and Lokeren Art Museum. It’s also well-connected by public transport, with frequent buses linking to Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges. The area features safe, well-lit streets and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for walking tours. Additionally, many restaurants, cafes, and boutiques are within walking distance, making it ideal for both leisure and business travelers seeking convenience and authenticity.

Visitors to Lokeren must attend the annual Lokeren Music Festival held in summer at Stadhuisplein, showcasing local and international artists. Explore the Lokeren Historical Museum to learn about the region’s rich textile industry dating back to the 19th century, featuring original looms and handcrafted garments. Don’t overlook the hidden street art scattered across old alleys—created by local artists, these murals reflect contemporary Belgian urban culture and add a creative flair to the city’s historic streetscape.

In Lokeren, try the classic Carbonade Flamande—a slow-cooked beef stew with onions and Belgian beer—best enjoyed at De Grote Oude Kerk, a centuries-old restaurant known for its traditional Flemish flavors. For fresh bread, visit Boulangerie Duval, where daily-baked croissants and rye loaves fill the air with warmth. During the weekly Saturday Market, sample regional cheeses, smoked sausages, and homemade jams. These culinary delights offer a true taste of East Flanders’ rural heritage and artisanal pride.

Lokeren Family Park is perfect for families, featuring child-friendly slides, a mini train ride, and a splash zone. Along the Braek River Trail, parents can enjoy safe bike paths and picnic spots ideal for kids. The nearby Lokeren Nature Education Centre hosts interactive workshops on local wildlife and ecology, making learning fun. For a day out, visit Lindenborg Zoo, just a 15-minute drive away, home to native and exotic animals, offering educational shows and animal encounters.

Yes, Lokeren is well-served by public transit. The central train station connects directly to Antwerp (30 min), Ghent (45 min), and Brussels via NMBS services. Local buses link all major districts, and the city supports green mobility with electric bike-sharing stations near the Town Hall and Central Library. Free parking options like Stadhuis Parking and Groot Zand are available, and access to the A12 highway is just 5 minutes away, making it convenient for both public transit users and drivers.

Head to Vrijmarkt Square for a lively mix of local crafts, vintage clothing, and seasonal flowers. Lokeren Shopping Center houses international brands and independent designers, including exclusive stores for Dries Van Noten and Pierre Cardin. For unique souvenirs, visit the artisan market at the Handwerksmuseum Lokeren, where local potters, woodcarvers, and embroiderers display and sell handmade goods, offering one-of-a-kind keepsakes that reflect Flemish craftsmanship.

Lokeren has a temperate maritime climate with mild temperatures year-round, averaging around 10°C. Best visiting months are May to September, when sunny days prevail. Summer may bring occasional showers—carry a light raincoat. Winters (December–February) are chilly (2–6°C), often foggy, so pack warm layers. If attending events like the Music Festival or Market Days, avoid rainy periods and choose clear weekends for optimal enjoyment.

For couples, stroll along the Braek River Night Walk, where softly lit pathways create a dreamy ambiance. Book a riverside suite at Hotel De Vrije Stad for a private dinner with champagne. Visit the Church Tower at dusk to enjoy a panoramic view of the city’s rooftops and distant hills—a serene moment perfect for reflection. For deeper connection, join a private tour at the Lokeren Art Museum, followed by a candlelit dinner at De Grote Oude Kerk, where every detail speaks of elegance and timeless love.

The peak tourist season in Lokeren runs from May to September, especially during the Lokeren Music Festival (June) and Summer Market Week (August). Events like Easter holidays (April) and Autumn Leaf Festival (October) also draw crowds. For quieter visits and lower rates—up to 30% off—consider traveling in November to March, though expect cooler, damp weather. Ideal for those seeking tranquility and intimate city exploration without the hustle.