Things To Do
in Duffel

Duffel is a charming town located in the province of Antwerp, Belgium, known for its rich history and picturesque scenery. The town is particularly famous for its textile industry, historically producing high-quality fabrics. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, with beautiful parks and waterways that invite leisurely strolls.

Duffel also serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby cities such as Antwerp and Mechelen.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Duffel
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market at the town square, where you can sample fresh produce and pastries.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely walk along the Duffer canal, enjoying the serene views and stopping at the nearby parks.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, followed by a relaxing stroll through the illuminated streets of Duffel.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Antwerp
morning
:

Travel to Antwerp (about 15 minutes by train) and visit the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady.

afternoon
:

Explore the vibrant district of the Meir for shopping and art galleries.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a trendy bistro and consider catching a performance at the Royal Theatre.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍕Pizza$10
🍺Local Beer$5
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming small-town atmosphere with beautiful scenery.
  • Rich cultural heritage and local cuisine.
  • Close proximity to major cities like Antwerp and Mechelen.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport options may be less frequent.
  • Fewer tourist attractions within the town itself.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I do not speak Dutch

Places to Visit in Duffel

Visit one of these nice places.

Park Duffel

A picturesque park that offers beautiful landscapes and tranquil water views.

Duffer Canal

The scenic canal is perfect for capturing sunset photographs and reflections.

Town Square

A vibrant hub where you can capture the essence of local life and historic buildings.

Culinary Guide

Food in Duffel

Duffel offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects Belgian traditions and local flavors. From savory dishes to sweet treats, there's something to satisfy every palate.

Duffel Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoofvlees

A hearty beef stew cooked in Belgian beer, often served with fries.

Must-Try!

Moules-frites

Mussels cooked in white wine and garlic, served with crispy fries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Duffel Market

A local market held weekly, offering fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods.

Street Frituur

A popular spot for enjoying traditional Belgian fries with various sauces.

Climate Guide

Weather

Duffel experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 0°C (32°F) in January to 25°C (77°F) in July. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with summer months being slightly wetter. Visitors should be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Language Consideration

While Dutch is the primary language, using basic French phrases can be appreciated.

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone new, and it's polite to greet with 'Hallo' or 'Bonjour'.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before eating; it’s customary to keep hands on the table, not in your lap.

Safety Guide

Safety

Duffel is considered a safe town for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions are advised, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. It’s also recommended to familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers.

Tipping in Duffel

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Service charges are often included in the bill, but rounding up or leaving a small tip is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; however, it's good to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather attracts visitors, perfect for enjoying outdoor dining and festivals.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with beautiful fall foliage, ideal for scenic walks.

Winter

Cold weather with occasional snow, creating a charming winter atmosphere, especially around Christmas.

Nightlife Guide

Duffel at Night

Duffel has a relaxed nightlife scene, with cozy bars and cafés that offer a friendly atmosphere. Locals often gather at pubs to enjoy Belgian beers and socialize. While there are not many nightclubs, the nearby city of Antwerp provides a vibrant nightlife option for those looking for more entertainment.

Hiking in Duffel

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kalmthout Heath

A beautiful nature reserve offering various trails through heathlands and forests, perfect for hiking.

Mechelen Canal Trail

A scenic walking path along the canal, ideal for leisurely hikes with picturesque views of the water.

Airports

How to reach Duffel by plane.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Located about 30 km from Duffel, it's the main international airport in Belgium, offering flights to numerous global destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Duffel is highly walkable, with most attractions, parks, and dining options within a short distance from each other. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the laid-back pace encourages leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Duffel's population consists of Belgian locals, predominantly Dutch speakers.

Expat Community

There is a small but growing expat community, primarily consisting of individuals from neighboring countries and students.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is extremely popular in Belgium, with local teams attracting enthusiastic crowds.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored pastime, both for sport and daily transport, with many well-maintained paths.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Duffel is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation is available, with trains connecting to major cities like Antwerp. Buses are also accessible, but services may be limited during off-peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Duffel.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for specific options.

Gluten-Free

Some establishments provide gluten-free choices; however, it's recommended to notify staff about dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Duffel is quite good, with local clinics and hospitals available for residents and tourists. In case of emergencies, the nearest hospital is in nearby Mechelen. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while visiting Belgium.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide