Things To Do
in Oudenaarde

Oudenaarde is a charming town located in East Flanders, Belgium, known for its rich history and stunning architecture. It boasts a vibrant tapestry of medieval buildings, including the iconic Town Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town is also famous for its lace-making tradition and as a center of the Belgian beer culture.

With beautiful landscapes along the Scheldt River, Oudenaarde offers a serene escape for travelers seeking both culture and nature.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring History and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Oudenaarde Town Hall, known for its intricate facade and impressive architecture. Afterwards, take a stroll through the historic center of Oudenaarde, enjoying the quaint streets and local shops.

afternoon
:

Visit the MOU Museum, which showcases the art and history of the region. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café serving traditional Flemish dishes.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant known for its craft beers and regional cuisine. End your day with a leisurely walk along the banks of the Scheldt River.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Oudenaarde Market Square, where you can explore local vendors and fresh produce. Grab a coffee at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby nature reserve for hiking and exploring the scenic landscapes. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature.

evening
:

Return to Oudenaarde for dinner at a bistro. Experience local nightlife at a pub or bar, sampling some of the region's finest beers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Mid-range Restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍺Local Beer$5
🚕Taxi Start$4
🚌Bus Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical heritage with stunning architecture.
  • Vibrant local culture and friendly residents.
  • Excellent local cuisine and craft beers.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Public transportation may have limited schedules.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Alstublieft" - Please
  • "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Oudenaarde

Visit one of these nice places.

Oudenaarde Town Hall

A stunning example of Gothic architecture, perfect for capturing intricate details and grand views.

Scheldt Riverbanks

Beautiful riverside views, ideal for sunset photography and capturing the serene landscape.

MOU Museum

The modern architecture of this museum contrasts beautifully with the historical buildings nearby, providing unique photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Oudenaarde

Oudenaarde is a gastronomic delight, offering a variety of local dishes and beverages that reflect its rich culinary heritage.

Oudenaarde Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Carbonnade Flamande

A traditional Flemish beef stew made with beer, onions, and spices, often served with fries.

Must-Try!

Oudenaarde Cheese

A locally produced cheese known for its creamy texture and rich flavor.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Oudenaarde Market

A lively market held weekly, where visitors can find fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Oudenaarde experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from about 3°C (37°F) in January to 22°C (72°F) in July. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, making it essential to pack an umbrella or raincoat regardless of the season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is a common form of greeting, and it is polite to greet shopkeepers upon entering and leaving.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat. It's also polite to keep your hands on the table, but not your elbows.

Punctuality

Being on time is valued in Belgian culture, whether for social or professional occasions.

Safety Guide

Safety

Oudenaarde is considered a safe destination for travelers. Typical precautions include staying aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and securing your belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and local hospitals provide adequate medical care.

Tipping in Oudenaarde

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A tip of around 10% is appreciated in restaurants, although it is not mandatory. Many locals simply round up the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is still preferred in smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the town.

Summer

Warm weather is ideal for outdoor dining and festivals, but expect more tourists in this season.

Fall

Autumn foliage adds color to the scenery and is perfect for photography. It’s also a great time for local harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold temperatures may deter some outdoor activities, but the town's Christmas market and festive decorations create a magical atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Oudenaarde at Night

Oudenaarde has a vibrant nightlife scene featuring a mix of lively pubs, bars, and traditional taverns. Visitors can enjoy the local beer culture by sampling a variety of craft brews. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, with many venues offering live music and events. For a more relaxed evening, cozy cafés provide a perfect spot for enjoying a quiet drink or dessert.

Hiking in Oudenaarde

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Molenbeek Valley Trail

This scenic trail follows the Molenbeek River and offers picturesque views, ideal for nature lovers and hikers.

Scheldt River Path

A well-maintained path along the Scheldt River, perfect for leisurely hikes and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Airports

How to reach Oudenaarde by plane.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

The nearest major airport, located approximately 70 km from Oudenaarde, offers numerous international and domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Oudenaarde is highly walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The town center features pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are plenty of benches for resting.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Oudenaarde is home to a diverse population, primarily consisting of Flemish, with a blend of other ethnic groups contributing to the local culture.

Tourists

The town attracts a mix of domestic and international tourists, particularly those interested in history, culture, and outdoor activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

Cycling is a popular sport in Oudenaarde, with many local enthusiasts and scenic routes for both casual and competitive riders.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a widely followed sport in the region, with local teams and clubs fostering community spirit and engagement.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Oudenaarde is generally light, making driving and cycling easy. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns. The town is also well-signposted, allowing for easy navigation.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Oudenaarde.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

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

Gluten-Free Choices

Some establishments cater to gluten-free diets, but options may be limited, so inquire beforehand.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Oudenaarde has access to quality healthcare services, including hospitals and clinics. Emergency services are reliable, and pharmacies are widely available. For non-emergency healthcare needs, visitors can find general practitioners and specialists in the area.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide