Things To Do
in Heusden

Heusden is a charming municipality located in the province of Antwerp, Belgium. Known for its picturesque canals and well-preserved medieval architecture, it offers a glimpse into the region's rich history. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a perfect destination for both cultural exploration and outdoor activities.

Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere that Heusden provides, along with its friendly local community.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Heusden
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic Heusden Castle, where you can explore its beautiful gardens and learn about its history.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the old town, and stop by the local artisan shops for handmade crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Belgian dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a walk along the canals to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a bicycle ride through the surrounding countryside, taking in the stunning landscapes and fields.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn more about the cultural heritage of Heusden and the surrounding areas.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife by visiting a cozy pub for some Belgian beer and live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$5
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel night$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming medieval architecture and scenic canals.
  • Rich cultural heritage with local festivals.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • Less variety in dining options for specific dietary needs.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I do not speak Dutch

Places to Visit in Heusden

Visit one of these nice places.

Heusden Castle

A picturesque castle surrounded by moats and gardens, perfect for capturing stunning landscape photos.

The Old Town Square

An iconic spot featuring medieval buildings and charming cafes, ideal for street photography.

Canal Views

The scenic canals provide beautiful reflections of the town's architecture, particularly at sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Heusden

Heusden offers a delightful culinary scene that showcases the best of Belgian cuisine. From hearty stews to exquisite pastries, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Heusden Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoofvlees

A traditional Belgian beef stew cooked with beer, typically served with fries.

Must-Try!

Moules-frites

Delicious mussels served with crispy fries, a staple in Belgian cuisine.

Speculoos

Spiced shortcrust cookies that are a local favorite, often enjoyed with coffee.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Heusden Market

A weekly market offering fresh local produce, meats, and artisanal goods, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Heusden experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, so it's wise to carry an umbrella regardless of the season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and keep your hands on the table but not your elbows.

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Belgian culture, especially for social and business meetings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Heusden is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure.

Tipping in Heusden

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather allows for leisurely canal walks and outdoor dining, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Experience beautiful fall foliage and harvest festivals, a great time for photography and enjoying local produce.

Winter

Expect colder temperatures and the possibility of snow, with cozy indoor activities and holiday markets.

Nightlife Guide

Heusden at Night

Heusden's nightlife is cozy and inviting, with several pubs and bars that offer a relaxed atmosphere. Many locals enjoy gathering in these establishments to socialize over Belgian beers and local wines. Live music and occasional events add to the vibrant scene, making it a great place for visitors to experience local culture.

Hiking in Heusden

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kalmthoutse Heide

A beautiful nature reserve with diverse landscapes, offering trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels.

Ruggeberg

A scenic hiking area featuring wooded paths and stunning views, ideal for nature enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Heusden by plane.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Located about 50 km from Heusden, it's the main international airport in Belgium, offering flights to numerous destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Heusden is highly walkable, with its compact size and well-maintained sidewalks. The town center is easily navigable on foot, allowing visitors to explore shops, cafes, and historical sites without the need for a vehicle.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of residents are Belgian locals who take pride in their cultural heritage and community.

Expat Community

There is a small but growing expat community, attracted by the town's charm and proximity to larger cities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a beloved sport in Heusden, with local teams fostering community spirit and engagement.

Cycling

Cycling is not just a mode of transportation but a popular sport, with many residents participating in cycling events and races.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Heusden is generally light, making it easy to navigate. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby cities, though frequencies may vary, so it's advisable to check schedules ahead of time.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Heusden.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free

While not common, some establishments cater to gluten-free diets; inquire with staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Heusden has access to healthcare facilities, including general practitioners and pharmacies. In case of emergencies, larger hospitals are located in nearby cities and can be reached by public transport.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide