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

In Vilvoorde, the top choice for families is Hotel de l'Abbaye, a boutique hotel housed in a restored 13th-century abbey. It offers spacious family rooms, children’s welcome kits, and nearby access to St. John's Cathedral and green parks. The hotel also hosts seasonal kids’ workshops, making it ideal for travelers seeking comfort and cultural immersion in a quiet Flemish town setting.

The city center of Vilvoorde is the prime district for lodging, offering easy access to Town Hall Square, the Old Market, and authentic Belgian cafés. Surrounded by historic buildings and peaceful streets, this area is perfect for visitors who enjoy walking and local charm. Many hotels here blend modern amenities with traditional architecture, ensuring a comfortable and immersive stay in a quintessential Belgian small-town atmosphere.

Visitors to Vilvoorde can participate in the annual Spring Flower Market and Autumn Craft Fair, both held at Town Hall Square. During summer, the Flemish Heritage Festival features traditional costume parades, folk music, and village dances, showcasing regional identity. Locals also gather along the Waal River trails on weekends for picnics, reflecting the Belgian love for nature and community life.

St. John's Cathedral is Vilvoorde’s most iconic landmark, featuring 13th-century Gothic architecture, stunning stained-glass windows, and intricate stone carvings. Nearby, the Old Town Hall now houses a local history museum. Nature lovers should visit the Waal River Pathway, a scenic trail ideal for walking or cycling, offering peaceful views and opportunities to spot native birds and wildflowers.

For couples seeking romance, Le Jardin des Murs is an exceptional choice—a hidden gem in a renovated 19th-century farmhouse. Its flower-filled courtyard, private terraces, and vintage furnishings create an intimate ambiance. Some suites feature hot tubs, and just a 5-minute walk leads to a riverside bench perfect for stargazing under the soft glow of city lights.

Don’t miss Carbonade Flamande (Flemish beef stew with beer and potatoes) and frites with mustard sauce—local staples served in cozy taverns like De Vlaamse Kruik. Try freshly baked Belgian waffles and almond pralines at the weekly market. These dishes, paired with locally brewed beer, offer a true taste of Flemish culinary tradition.

Take a direct SNCB regional train from Brussels South Station to Vilvoorde Station, a 25-minute journey. Alternatively, use De Lijn shared shuttles from Brussels Central Station, which are affordable and convenient. Once arrived, the city center is a 10-minute walk away. Consider purchasing a Belgian Rail Pass to save on transport costs and enable easy travel to nearby towns.

Yes, Vilvoorde is highly suitable for self-drive trips. The city has well-planned roads, ample parking, and scenic routes to surrounding villages. Renting an electric or hybrid vehicle helps reduce emissions. Along the way, explore Aarschot’s chocolate factory or Leuven’s historic university quarter. With dedicated bike paths, combining driving and cycling offers a flexible, eco-friendly way to experience rural Flanders.

Capture the vibrant colorful façades and arched bridges of the old town, especially during golden hour when sunlight enhances textures. The cathedral spire and town hall clock tower form a classic silhouette. Don’t miss the wooden footbridge over the Waal River and the vine-covered café walls—perfect backdrops for artistic photography.

Vilvoorde has a temperate maritime climate—mild and rainy year-round. Summer (June–August) averages 18–22°C, ideal for outdoor exploration; winter (December–February) is cool and damp, occasionally snowy. Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket and umbrella. Spring and autumn offer the best weather for sightseeing, with lively markets and festivals creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the city.