Weekend getaway Vilvoorde

City trip Vilvoorde with Eurocity Direct

A fresh breeze is sweeping through Vilvoorde. Former factories have been transformed into trendy hotspots filled with colourful street art. The city feels young, diverse and surprisingly international: nearly half of its residents have roots abroad. You can taste this diversity in Spanish eateries, North African bakeries and at the weekly market, bursting with exotic flavours. Looking for an original city break close to Brussels? Vilvoorde will surprise you.

What can you do in Vilvoorde in two days?

Day 1: City, water and art

Start your day with a walk along the Brussels–Scheldt Canal. Stroll from the Steenkaai at 4 Fonteinen towards the city centre and discover former factories where artists now create and showcase their work.

Tip 1

Vilvoorde is home to more than seventy murals by international street art artists. Facades across the city tell stories from all over the world, making this an ideal way to explore Vilvoorde at your own pace.

Tip 2

In the afternoon, head to the Asiat Park. Once an industrial site, it has been transformed into a creative hub with cafés, workshops and sunny terraces.

_{Photo Julien Janssens}

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Lunch or diner

• If you would like to experience local traditions, head to De Kuiper or Horse House. Both restaurants have been around for many years and are well known for their classic dishes.
• In and around Asiat Park, you can enjoy a more informal bite or drink, for example at Bar Bâtard.

Stylish accomodation

• The Lodge Vilvoorde. This hotel is located in part of the old Tuchthuis, a former prison complex.. You stay in rooms with a historic atmosphere, in a quiet and distinctive setting.
• Prefer something modern and practical? Voco Brussels City North and Campanile Vilvoorde are both great options.

Day 2: Green, history and tranquillity

Start your day at a relaxed pace in Park Drie Fonteinen. Take a leisurely walk through the park and visit the Japanese Garden. Located close to the city, the park nevertheless feels like a peaceful green oasis.

Tip 1

Visit the old Tuchthuis Vilvoorde, a historical prison. Discover the city’s past and see how contemporary art brings this history to life today.

Tip 2

Take your time to stroll through the city centre. Order a Pjeirefretter, a locally brewed craft beer from Vilvoorde — or simply sit back and enjoy the atmosphere of the city.

_{Photo André Thys}

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From Brussels to Vilvoorde by Waterbus

Travel from Brussels to Vilvoorde in a different way! From Brussels-North station, walk about 20 minutes to Akenkaai or Havenlaan and take the waterbus. Get off at Park Drie Fonteinen or Vilvoorde city centre.

More information about 48 hours in Vilvoorde
_{Photo main image is by Lander Loeckx}