Things To Do
in Zandhoven

Zandhoven is a charming municipality located in the province of Antwerp, Belgium. Known for its scenic landscapes and rich cultural heritage, this small town offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy picturesque views, historical architecture, and a warm community atmosphere.

With its proximity to larger cities like Antwerp, Zandhoven serves as an excellent base for exploring the region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Zandhoven
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local bakery, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the town center to admire the historical buildings.

afternoon
:

Visit the Zandhoven Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Spend some time in the nearby park, enjoying a picnic or just relaxing by the pond.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant specializing in Belgian cuisine, followed by a walk around the town to soak in the night atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Nearby Attractions
morning
:

Head out early for a guided bike tour through the surrounding countryside, soaking up the beautiful landscapes.

afternoon
:

Visit a nearby vineyard for a wine tasting experience and learn about local wine production. Enjoy lunch at a café with scenic views.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a visit to a local brewery, where you can sample a variety of Belgian beers before heading back to Zandhoven.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🚍Public transport ticket$2
🏨Budget hotel per night$70
🍺Local beer$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming small-town atmosphere with friendly locals
  • Proximity to larger cities like Antwerp for day trips
  • Rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Fewer dining options for specific dietary needs
  • Public transport may be less frequent in rural areas
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u" - Thank you
  • "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
  • "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I do not speak Dutch

Places to Visit in Zandhoven

Visit one of these nice places.

Historical Town Square

Capture the essence of Zandhoven with its charming architecture and vibrant local life.

Zandhoven Park

A beautiful park with lush greenery and picturesque ponds, ideal for nature photography.

Local Vineyards

The rolling hills of the vineyards offer stunning landscapes, especially during sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Zandhoven

Zandhoven offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the rich flavors of Belgian cuisine.

Zandhoven Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoofvlees

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

Must-Try!

Waterzooi

A creamy stew made with fish or chicken, vegetables, and herbs.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Farmers' Market

Held weekly, this market features fresh produce, cheeses, and homemade products from local vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Zandhoven experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 1°C (34°F) in winter to about 25°C (77°F) in summer. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in late spring and early autumn. Visitors should be prepared for changeable weather conditions.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

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

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Belgian culture, so it's best to arrive promptly for appointments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Zandhoven is generally a safe area with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should always be taken, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Zandhoven

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

In Belgium, it is customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip (around 5-10%) at restaurants.

Payment Methods

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

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Summer brings warm temperatures, ideal for exploring outdoor markets and enjoying al fresco dining.

Autumn

The fall foliage provides a stunning backdrop for hikes and walks, with cooler temperatures setting in.

Winter

Winters can be cold with occasional snow, but the festive atmosphere and holiday markets make it a charming time to visit.

Nightlife Guide

Zandhoven at Night

Zandhoven has a relaxed nightlife scene primarily centered around local bars and cafés. While not as vibrant as larger cities, it offers a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy Belgian beers and local live music. Some venues host themed nights and events, creating a friendly social environment for both locals and visitors.

Hiking in Zandhoven

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kalmthoutse Heide

This nature reserve offers various hiking trails with stunning heathland and wildlife observation opportunities.

Lierse Heide

A scenic area with well-marked trails, perfect for both casual walkers and serious hikers looking for beautiful views.

Airports

How to reach Zandhoven by plane.

Antwerp International Airport

Located approximately 20 km from Zandhoven, this airport offers flights to various European destinations and is the closest airport to the municipality.

Getting Around

Walkability

Zandhoven is quite walkable, especially in the town center, where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within a short distance. The peaceful streets and well-maintained sidewalks encourage leisurely strolls, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may require a car or bike for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Zandhoven is home to many families who appreciate the tranquil environment and community-oriented lifestyle.

Young Professionals

The proximity to Antwerp attracts young professionals who commute for work while enjoying the quieter life in Zandhoven.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

Cycling is immensely popular in Belgium, with many local clubs and events promoting the sport.

Football

Football (soccer) is a major sport in Belgium, with local teams and a strong following among residents.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Zandhoven is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation options include buses that connect Zandhoven to nearby towns and cities, although the frequency may vary. For more extensive travel, the train station in nearby Antwerp provides connections to major cities.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Zandhoven.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

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

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are becoming more available, but it’s recommended to ask the staff for specific dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Belgium is of high quality, with a public healthcare system that offers excellent services. Zandhoven has several general practitioners and clinics, and for emergencies, larger hospitals are located nearby in Antwerp. Visitors should ensure they have appropriate health insurance and carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if applicable.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide