Things To Do
in Schoten

Schoten is a charming municipality located just north of Antwerp, Belgium, known for its picturesque landscapes and quaint neighborhoods. With a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, it features beautiful architecture and parks that appeal to both locals and tourists. The town boasts a strong sense of community, making it an inviting place for visitors to experience Belgian culture.

Schoten is also conveniently located, providing easy access to the vibrant city of Antwerp while maintaining a peaceful suburban atmosphere.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Schoten
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the lovely Schoten Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk and admire the natural beauty. Stop by a local bakery for a traditional Belgian breakfast of pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Explore the historical church of St. John the Baptist, followed by a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for handmade crafts.

evening
:

Dine at a cozy restaurant in the town center, then take a stroll through the beautifully lit streets before enjoying a drink at a local pub.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Antwerp
morning
:

Take a short train ride to Antwerp and start your day by visiting the famous Cathedral of Our Lady, home to masterpieces by Rubens.

afternoon
:

Explore the Antwerp Zoo or the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) for a mix of history and culture. Enjoy lunch at a local café.

evening
:

Return to Schoten and unwind at a local bistro, sampling regional dishes and enjoying a relaxed evening.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
🍺Local beer (0.5L)$4
🍕Pizza$10
Coffee$3
🚍Public transportation ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming and peaceful atmosphere.
  • Proximity to Antwerp for additional activities.
  • Rich history and beautiful parks.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may have limited schedules.
  • Less English spoken than in major tourist areas.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u" - Thank you
  • "Alstublieft" - Please
  • "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I don't speak Dutch

Places to Visit in Schoten

Visit one of these nice places.

Schoten Park

A beautiful park with lush greenery, ideal for landscape photography and capturing local wildlife.

St. John the Baptist Church

An architectural gem that showcases stunning Gothic design, perfect for historical photography.

The Village Square

A lively area at the heart of Schoten, featuring charming buildings and local life, great for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Schoten

Schoten offers a delightful culinary experience filled with local Belgian flavors and treats that every visitor should try.

Schoten Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoofvlees

A traditional Flemish beef stew slow-cooked in beer, served with fries.

Must-Try!

Moules Frites

Mussels served with crispy fries, a classic Belgian dish found in many local restaurants.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Schoten Market

A weekly market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Schoten 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 fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months typically being July and August.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Always greet people with 'Bonjour' or 'Hallo' and say 'Merci' or 'Dank u' to show appreciation.

Dining Etiquette

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

Quietness in Public Spaces

Keep noise levels down in public transport and while walking in residential areas to respect the locals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Schoten is generally a safe town with low crime rates. Visitors should take standard precautions such as safeguarding personal belongings and being aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Schoten

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, typically rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10%.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for markets and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities and park visits.

Summer

Summer is warm, with plenty of festivals and outdoor events, ideal for enjoying the local culture.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, and it's a great time for hiking and enjoying local harvest festivals.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, but the festive atmosphere and holiday markets in nearby Antwerp are worth experiencing.

Nightlife Guide

Schoten at Night

Schoten has a relaxed nightlife scene, with several cozy bars and pubs where locals gather. The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back, making it a great place to enjoy Belgian beers and local spirits. For those looking for a livelier scene, nearby Antwerp offers a variety of clubs and music venues catering to different tastes.

Hiking in Schoten

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kalmthout Heath

A scenic nature reserve featuring various trails that wind through heathland and forests, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.

Lier's Hiking Trails

Located not far from Schoten, these trails offer diverse landscapes and are great for both casual walks and more challenging hikes.

Airports

How to reach Schoten by plane.

Antwerp International Airport (ANR)

Located about 10 km from Schoten, this small airport offers flights to several European destinations and is easily accessible by public transport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Schoten is quite walkable, especially in the town center where most amenities are located within walking distance. The flat terrain and pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to explore on foot, with many parks and open spaces to enjoy along the way.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Schoten has a strong family-oriented community with many parks and schools, making it attractive for families to live and visit.

Young Professionals

With its proximity to Antwerp, Schoten attracts young professionals looking for a quieter lifestyle while still being close to a bustling city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is highly popular in the region, with local clubs and community teams actively engaging the youth.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored sport in Schoten, with many residents taking part in cycling events and recreational rides.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Schoten is generally manageable due to its small-town nature, but rush hour can see increased congestion. Public transportation is available, including buses and trains connecting to Antwerp and other nearby cities, making it easy to navigate the region without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Schoten.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

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

Gluten-Free

Some eateries provide gluten-free options, but confirming with the staff is recommended.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Schoten is accessible, with several clinics and hospitals nearby in Antwerp. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for medical services. It is advisable for non-EU travelers to have travel insurance that covers healthcare.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide