Citizens of most EU countries do not. Non-EU visitors should check Belgium's visa policy.

What language is spoken?

Dutch (Flemish) is the local language, but French and English are widely understood in tourist areas.

Is credit card widely accepted?

Yes, in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Cash is still preferred at some small markets.

What is the currency?

Euro (€). ATMs are available in the village.

Can I drink tap water?

Yes, tap water is safe and of excellent quality.

Are there public toilets?

Free public toilets are at the tourist office and main square. Some cafés may charge 0.50€ for non-customers.

Is it a family-friendly destination?

Absolutely—quiet streets, parks, and a playground make it great for kids. The nearby forest has walking trails.

What plug types are used?

Type E (two round pins). Voltage 230V, frequency 50Hz. Bring an adapter if needed.

Is there a tourist information office?

Yes, on the main square. Open daily 10am-6pm in summer, reduced hours in winter.

Are there any local dishes I must try?

Try stoofvlees (beef stew), waterzooi, and local artisan cheeses. Pair with a Trappist beer.

Outer

CityFlanders, Belgium

Outer is a CITY in Flanders, Belgium.

Outer is a serene, picture-postcard village in the heart of Belgium, with a population just over 3,200. Cobblestone lanes wind past centuries-old stone houses, a Gothic church spire, and a lively central square where locals gather at cafés. The surrounding countryside offers rolling farmland, quiet cycling routes, and the occasional castle ruin—perfect for slow travel. Despite its size, Outer has a surprising cultural calendar: a spring flower market, a summer folk festival, and a cozy Christmas market. The pace is unhurried; here you can truly disconnect. Local restaurants serve hearty Belgian fare—moules-frites, stoofvlees, and of course, world-class chocolate and beer. The village is an ideal base for exploring nearby cities like Ghent or Brussels by train, while offering a peaceful retreat after a day of sightseeing. Outer feels like stepping into a storybook, where hospitality is warm, and every corner invites you to linger.

Best time to visit Outer

Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September) offer mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and vibrant local events. July and August are warmest but can be crowded with day-trippers. Winter (December-February) is quiet with Christmas markets but cold and rainy.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Cool 7-14°C, rainy

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Autumn colors; indoor attractions recommend.

Know before you go

Getting there

BRU

Brussels Airport

International

55 km away

CRL

Brussels South Charleroi Airport

International

90 km away

ANR

Antwerp International Airport

Domestic/Charter

65 km away

Getting around

"Outer is compact and walkable. Bicycles can be rented at the tourist office for exploring the countryside. A regional bus connects the village to the train station in Nearby Town (every 30 min). The nearest intercity rail station is in Aalst (15 min by bus). Taxis are scarce; pre-book via app or phone. Driving is easy, with free parking at the village edge."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Free Wi-Fi at tourist office and most cafés; not all B&Bs have it.

Local SIM

Local prepaid SIM from Proximus or Orange available at nearby Aalst from €10

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Exceptionally safe village; common sense is enough.

Night safety

8/10

Exceptionally safe village; common sense is enough.

Transport

10/10

Scam risk

2/10

"Outer is very safe. Petty crime like pickpocketing is rare, but standard precautions apply—lock rental bikes and don't leave valuables in parked cars. The village is well-lit at night, and locals are friendly. Scams are virtually non-existent, but be wary of unofficial currency exchange offers. Emergency services respond quickly."

Police

101

Ambulance

112

Fire

100

Entry and health

Health information

"Belgium has excellent healthcare. Outer has a small clinic for minor issues; serious cases are referred to the hospital in nearby Aalst (15 km). EU citizens can use a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for emergency treatment. Non-EU visitors should have travel insurance covering medical evacuation. Pharmacies are well-stocked; bring any prescription medications as local substitutions may differ."

Culture

Local customs

"Belgians value politeness: greet with a handshake or ‘Bonjour’/‘Dag’. Use three kisses on the cheek (alternating cheeks) for acquaintances. Punctuality is appreciated. Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up the bill or leaving 10% for excellent service is common. Dress smart-casual in restaurants. Smoking is banned indoors."

Dutch (official)French (official)German (official)EnglishDutchFrenchGerman

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$12 | a typical local meal with drink costs around $12

Hotels

$60-100 | cozy B&Bs range $60-100/night

Local transport

$2 | local bus ride ~$2

Cost notes

Prices lower than Brussels; great value for a Belgian getaway.

Timezone

Europe/Brussels
Local time 17:02

More facts

Population

3,221

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Oultre, Outer

City