Things To Do
in Putte
Putte is a small Belgian municipality in the Antwerp province, right at the Dutch border. It sits amid green farmland and quiet country lanes, offering a calm base for border-hopping day trips and easy cycling. The town blends Flemish charm with convenient access to nearby Dutch towns like Breda and Roosendaal.
Nature reserves nearby, such as Kalmthoutse Heide, provide excellent hiking and biking opportunities year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day in Putte by wandering through the quaint, cobblestone streets of the historic center. Visit the charming Church of St. Martin, where you can admire its stunning architecture and intricate stained glass windows. Enjoy a warm pastry from a local bakery as you soak in the atmosphere of this enchanting town.
After lunch at a cozy bistro, take a guided walking tour to learn more about Putte’s rich history and cultural heritage. Explore the local museums and art galleries, showcasing the artistry of the region. Spend some time at the picturesque town square, where you can relax and people-watch as locals go about their day.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional Belgian restaurant for a delightful dinner featuring local specialties like carbonnade flamande or stoofvlees. Pair your meal with a glass of Belgian beer, known for its rich flavors and varieties. Conclude your evening with a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, taking in the beauty of Putte at night.
Start your day with a refreshing walk through the lush green parks surrounding Putte, such as the nearby Kalmthoutse Heide. The fresh air and stunning landscapes will invigorate you as you observe the unique flora and fauna of the region. Bring along a camera to capture the breathtaking views of the heathland and its vibrant colors.
After your nature walk, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the serene scenery, surrounded by chirping birds and gentle breezes. Spend the afternoon cycling along the scenic paths that weave through the countryside, stopping at quaint villages and enjoying the picturesque surroundings. Don't forget to visit local artisan shops, where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs.
As evening approaches, make your way back to Putte for a relaxing dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant. Savor dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and take delight in the seasonal flavors. Wind down your day with a quiet evening walk along the tranquil waterways that surround the town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🚆Local public transport ticket | $2-4 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $4-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy border access to the Netherlands for day trips
- Calm, village feel with quick access to nature and cycling routes
- Proximity to Kalmthoutse Heide and other green spaces
- Walkable and bike-friendly surroundings with scenic countryside
- Limited nightlife and major city amenities within Putte itself
- Public transportation options may require planning or travel to nearby towns
- Smaller scale of services compared with Antwerp or Breda
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Alstublieft" - Please
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Waar is het station?" - Where is the train station?
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Putte
Visit one of these nice places.
Expansive heathland with boardwalks and distant horizons, ideal for sunrise or sunset photography and wide landscape shots.
Rural fields and narrow waterways near the Belgium-Netherlands border provide tranquil, pastoral scenes perfect for composition with lines and symmetry.
Food in Putte
Putte Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, slow-cooked beef stew typically served with fries or bread. A Belgian staple you'll commonly find on menus across the region.
Must-Try!
Fresh mussels steamed with aromatics, often served with a heaping portion of crispy fries and dipping sauce.
A creamy, comforting chicken or fish stew with vegetables and herbs, best enjoyed with crusty bread.
Crisp-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside waffles, perfect with coffee or dessert toppings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small town market offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and local specialties on market days.
Seasonal stalls along border routes offering fries, croquettes, pastries, and quick bites to eat on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite 'Dag' or 'Goedemdag' is typical when entering shops; a handshake is common in formal situations.
Be straightforward in conversations; punctuality is appreciated for appointments and meetings.
Respect local quiet hours in residential areas; keep noise down after late evenings, especially near homes and small cafes.
Safety
Tipping in Putte
Ensure a smooth experience
In Belgium, service charges are sometimes included in the bill. If not included, a tip of about 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and cafes.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is also common. Contactless payments are convenient in most shops and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days ideal for cycling and outdoor cafés. Expect longer daylight hours and occasional short thunderstorms. Stay hydrated and pace outdoor activities during peak heat.
Crisp air and changing leaves make for colorful landscapes. Market stalls highlight harvest produce; layers and rain gear recommended.
Cool to cold with possible frost; daylight hours are shorter. Outdoor activities are still possible in milder spells, but some services may have reduced hours.
Milder temperatures and blooming flora, especially around heathlands. Great for hiking and slow travel along rural routes.
Putte at Night
Hiking in Putte
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Expansive heathland with interconnected hiking trails, boardwalks, and abundant birdlife.
Forest and heath area near Brasschaat offering shaded trails and scenic woodland scenery.
Airports
How to reach Putte by plane.
A small regional airport just east of Antwerp, convenient for short-haul travel and access by car or taxi.
Major international hub about 40–60 minutes by car or train from Putte, with wide flight options.
Popular for low-cost carriers; accessible via cross-border routes and road connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant local population with many cross-border commuters and residents who speak Flemish (Dutch).
Residents who live in Belgium but work across the border in the Netherlands, contributing to a cosmopolitan feel in the region.
A residential community with family-friendly amenities and a slower pace of life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple activity across the region, with many scenic routes along the Belgium-Netherlands border.
Local clubs and recreational leagues are common and provide social options for visitors.
Public courts exist in nearby towns, offering a chance to play or watch local matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Putte.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can usually find salads, cheese-based dishes, and vegetable plates in most cafes. Look for items labeled vegetarisch on the menu or ask for meat-free adaptations; many places can prepare veg-friendly options with regional produce.