Things To Do
in Oud-Turnhout

Oud-Turnhout is a charming municipality located in the province of Antwerp, Belgium, known for its beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The area is characterized by its lush greenery, historic buildings, and a tranquil rural atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Visitors can explore local attractions, including parks and historical sites, while enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals.

Oud-Turnhout serves as a perfect base for exploring the broader region of Antwerp and beyond.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Turnhout Castle, where you can wander through its picturesque gardens and learn about its historical significance.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local café, head to the Arboretum, a stunning botanical garden with various tree species, ideal for a leisurely stroll.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Belgian restaurant, followed by a relaxed evening walk through the town square to soak in the local atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Local Markets and Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the local market, where you can find fresh produce and artisanal goods, perfect for a light breakfast.

afternoon
:

Rent a bike and explore the surrounding countryside, taking in the scenic views and lush landscapes.

evening
:

Conclude your visit with a meal at a popular bistro, followed by a nightcap at a local pub, enjoying live music if available.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$8
🍺Local Beer$4
Coffee$3
🍽️Dinner for Two$50
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and parks.
  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Friendly local community.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport options may be sparse.
  • Fewer shopping options.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u" - Thank you
  • "Alstublieft" - Please
  • "Ja" - Yes
  • "Nee" - No

Places to Visit in Oud-Turnhout

Visit one of these nice places.

Turnhout Castle

A historic castle surrounded by beautiful gardens, offering stunning views and picturesque backdrops.

Arboretum

A lush botanical garden featuring diverse tree species, perfect for capturing nature's beauty.

Town Square

The heart of Oud-Turnhout, showcasing charming architecture and vibrant community life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Oud-Turnhout

Oud-Turnhout offers a delightful culinary experience, blending traditional Belgian flavors with local specialties. Must-try dishes include hearty stews, fresh seafood, and decadent desserts like speculoos. The town hosts vibrant markets and street food vendors offering local snacks and treats, ensuring that visitors can indulge in the region’s gastronomy. For those with dietary restrictions, many restaurants provide vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan options.

Oud-Turnhout Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoofvlees

A traditional Flemish beef stew, slow-cooked to perfection and often served with fries.

Must-Try!

Moules-Frites

Delicious mussels served with crispy fries, a classic Belgian dish.

Speculoos

A spiced shortcrust biscuit, typically enjoyed with coffee or as a dessert.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Oud-Turnhout Market

A weekly market where locals gather to buy fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods.

Street Food Stalls

Various vendors offering local snacks like frikandel and waffles during festivals and events.

Climate Guide

Weather

Oud-Turnhout experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average temperatures range from 1°C (34°F) in January to 24°C (75°F) in July. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly more precipitation during the summer months. Visitors should be prepared for occasional rain, especially in spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

It is customary to greet with a handshake and to say 'Hallo' or 'Bonjour'.

Dining Etiquette

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

Punctuality

Being on time is valued in Belgian culture, especially for social gatherings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Oud-Turnhout is considered a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take common safety precautions, such as keeping personal belongings secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Tipping in Oud-Turnhout

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

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

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, while cash is also widely used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect blooming flowers and mild weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring parks.

Summer

The warmest season with longer days, ideal for enjoying local festivals and outdoor dining.

Autumn

Experience beautiful fall foliage and harvest festivals, along with cooler temperatures.

Winter

Cold weather with occasional snowfall; a cozy time for indoor activities and enjoying hearty Belgian dishes.

Nightlife Guide

Oud-Turnhout at Night

Oud-Turnhout has a relaxed nightlife scene with several pubs and bars offering a cozy atmosphere. Many venues feature live music or quiz nights, providing entertainment for visitors and locals alike. The nightlife is generally quiet compared to larger cities, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Oud-Turnhout

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kalmthoutse Heide

A stunning nature reserve offering a variety of hiking trails through heathland and forests.

Molenbeek Trail

A scenic hiking trail that follows the Molenbeek river, providing beautiful views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Airports

How to reach Oud-Turnhout by plane.

Antwerp International Airport

Located approximately 40 km from Oud-Turnhout, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Oud-Turnhout is quite walkable, with many attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a short distance of each other. The town features pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot. However, for those looking to venture outside the town center, a bicycle or car may be necessary to access more remote areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Oud-Turnhout is home to many families who enjoy the peaceful environment and community activities.

Young Professionals

An increasing number of young professionals are moving to the area, attracted by its quality of life and proximity to larger cities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is a popular sport, with local clubs and community participation in various leagues.

Cycling

Cycling is highly favored, with numerous routes and trails attracting both leisure and competitive cyclists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Oud-Turnhout is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns, although schedules may be limited, especially on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Oud-Turnhout.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, including salads and pasta.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some eateries provide gluten-free options, especially for bread and desserts.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Oud-Turnhout is accessible with several clinics and pharmacies present in the town. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and the nearest hospital is located in nearby Turnhout. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide