Things To Do
in Kalmthout

Kalmthout is a charming village located in the northern part of Belgium, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Nestled near the Dutch border, it offers a serene escape with beautiful parks and nature reserves. The town boasts a blend of historical architecture and modern conveniences, making it an appealing destination for tourists and locals alike.

With its friendly community and vibrant local culture, Kalmthout is perfect for those seeking tranquility and outdoor adventures.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Kalmthoutse Heide, a beautiful heathland where you can enjoy a peaceful walk among the stunning natural scenery.

afternoon
:

Visit the Botanical Garden of Kalmthout, home to an impressive collection of plants and flowers, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at the garden café.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant where you can taste traditional Belgian cuisine, followed by a relaxing stroll through the village center.

day 2
Day 2: Local Experiences and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the local market where you can sample fresh produce and handmade goods from local vendors.

afternoon
:

Take a bike ride through the nearby nature reserves, enjoying the scenic views and wildlife.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a drink at a local pub, experiencing the welcoming atmosphere and possibly enjoying some live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-$25
Coffee$3-$5
🍕Fast Food Meal$8-$12
🚆Public Transport Ticket$2-$5
🛍️Local Market Goods$1-$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings with plenty of outdoor activities.
  • Rich local culture and friendly community.
  • Easy access to nearby cities and attractions.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-Dutch speakers.
  • "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 Kalmthout

Visit one of these nice places.

Kalmthoutse Heide

A vast heathland with stunning natural beauty, ideal for capturing landscapes and wildlife.

Botanical Garden

A beautifully landscaped garden filled with colorful flowers and unique plant species, perfect for vibrant photos.

Historic Town Center

The charming streets of Kalmthout's town center, featuring traditional architecture and lively local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kalmthout

Kalmthout offers a delightful culinary experience with a rich selection of local dishes and international flavors.

Kalmthout Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoverij

A hearty beef stew, slow-cooked with Belgian beer, onions, and spices, often served with fries.

Must-Try!

Moules-frites

Mussels cooked in white wine and herbs, accompanied by crispy fries, a classic Belgian dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kalmthout Market

A vibrant market held weekly, featuring fresh local produce, cheese, and artisan crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kalmthout experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 2°C (36°F) in winter to 24°C (75°F) in summer. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in late summer. Spring and autumn offer moderate temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time; always greet with a smile.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting your meal, and it's polite to say 'bon appétit' before eating.

Dress Code

Dress smartly when dining out or attending events; casual wear is acceptable in most settings but avoid overly casual attire.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kalmthout is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it's wise to keep an eye on personal belongings to avoid petty theft.

Tipping in Kalmthout

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

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

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for markets and smaller shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect blooming flowers, mild temperatures, and plenty of outdoor festivals as nature comes alive.

Summer

Warm weather makes it ideal for outdoor activities, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Enjoy the beautiful fall colors in the forests and parks, along with cooler temperatures and harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold temperatures may bring snow, creating a picturesque winter landscape, perfect for cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Kalmthout at Night

Kalmthout's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, with a selection of cozy bars and pubs where locals gather to socialize. Live music events and seasonal festivals provide entertainment throughout the year. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it easy for visitors to mingle with locals and enjoy an authentic Belgian night out.

Hiking in Kalmthout

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kalmthoutse Heide Trail

A scenic 10 km loop that takes you through the heathland, offering diverse landscapes and opportunities to spot wildlife.

Kalmthout Forest Trail

A 7 km trail that winds through dense forest areas, perfect for a peaceful hike among towering trees and rich fauna.

Airports

How to reach Kalmthout by plane.

Antwerp International Airport

Located approximately 25 km away, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it the nearest major airport to Kalmthout.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kalmthout is a highly walkable village, with most amenities and attractions located within a short distance of each other. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, featuring sidewalks and crosswalks. Walking through the scenic streets and parks allows visitors to fully appreciate the local atmosphere and landscape.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population primarily consists of Belgian residents, with a mix of families, young professionals, and elderly citizens.

Expat Community

Kalmthout is home to a small but growing expat community, particularly among individuals from neighboring countries who appreciate the village's charm.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

Cycling is a favorite pastime in Kalmthout, with numerous bike paths and scenic routes for both leisure and competitive cycling.

Football

Football is popular among locals, with several amateur clubs and youth leagues promoting the sport throughout the community.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kalmthout is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, while trains are accessible from larger nearby stations. Cycling is encouraged, with well-marked paths and bike lanes throughout the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kalmthout.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Kalmthout offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu before dining.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are available in some eateries; however, it's recommended to inform the staff about your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Kalmthout is accessible, with several clinics and pharmacies available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are efficient, and hospitals in nearby larger cities provide comprehensive medical care. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers overseas medical expenses.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide