Things To Do
in Geel
Geel is a charming municipality located in the province of Antwerp, Belgium. Known for its unique community-based mental health care system, Geel has a long history of providing care for individuals with mental illnesses in family homes. The town features picturesque cobblestone streets, historic churches, and cozy cafes, creating a quaint and inviting atmosphere for visitors.
Geel's rich cultural heritage and beautiful architecture make it a hidden gem worth exploring in Belgium.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the historic St. Dymphna Church, known for its beautiful stained glass windows. Take a stroll around the surrounding park to enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Head to the Geel Museum to learn about the town's rich history and cultural significance. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café featuring Belgian cuisine.
Relax with a walk along the canals to experience Geel's charming nightlife. Stop by a local pub for a refreshing Belgian beer.
Start your day by visiting the historic St. Dymphna Church, known for its beautiful stained glass windows. Take a stroll around the surrounding park to enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Head to the Geel Museum to learn about the town's rich history and cultural significance. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café featuring Belgian cuisine.
Relax with a walk along the canals to experience Geel's charming nightlife. Stop by a local pub for a refreshing Belgian beer.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with various architectural sites.
- Vibrant local culture and community events throughout the year.
- Convenient transportation links to major cities like Antwerp and Brussels.
- Quality of life with access to parks and recreational areas.
- Strong emphasis on education with several schools and institutions.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Smaller selection of entertainment and nightlife options.
- Potential language barriers for those not speaking Dutch or French.
- Public transport options may be less frequent or versatile.
- Some areas may experience congestion during peak tourist seasons.
Best Activities in Geel
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the picturesque landscape of Geel by cycling on scenic routes.
Enjoy nature and fresh air by hiking in the Geelbos and Averbode Bos en Heide areas.
Experience a round of golf in the beautiful surroundings of Millenniumgolf, located in nearby Lummen.
Tours
Uncover the best of Geel with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Geel
Visit one of these nice places.
Impressive church with a beautiful surrounding square providing great photo opportunities
Natural reserve with picturesque walking paths and scenic views
Lovely forest area with tranquil lakes and stunning landscapes for photography
Food in Geel
Geel Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy Flemish stew made with fish or chicken, vegetables, and herbs. It can be savored in many local restaurants, such as De Gulden Cop, known for its traditional preparations.
Must-Try!
Mussels served with crispy fries, often seasoned with a generous amount of salt and vinegar. To relish this dish, head to 't Kelderke, a charming eatery acclaimed for its exceptional mussel offerings.
A spiced shortcrust biscuit with a distinct caramel-like flavor, often enjoyed with coffee or tea. For an authentic taste, visit Bakkerij van Avondt, a renowned bakery crafting exquisite speculaas.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Geel better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling Geel Market, where you can sample local street foods like warm waffles, crispy frites, and artisanal cheeses. The market is open on Thursdays and features an array of delectable treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Geel, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others during conversations or interactions.
Punctuality is valued in Geel, so it's important to arrive on time for meetings, appointments, and social gatherings.
Cultural norms in Geel emphasize politeness and the use of formal titles when addressing others, particularly in professional or formal settings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Geel with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Geel
Ensure a smooth experience
In Geel, Belgium, tipping is not obligatory and is usually left to the discretion of the customer. In most cases, a service charge is included in the bill at restaurants, cafes, and hotels. If exceptional service is provided, a small tip of 5-10% is appreciated.
Payment in Geel, Belgium is commonly made using cash or credit/debit cards. Contactless payment methods are also widely accepted. It's important to note that some smaller establishments may only accept cash, so it's advisable to inquire about payment options beforehand.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Geel.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a delightful time to visit Geel, with blooming flowers and pleasant weather perfect for exploring the town and its surroundings.
Summer brings warm temperatures and longer days, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and enjoying the local festivals and events.
Autumn in Geel is characterized by beautiful foliage, making it a picturesque time to visit and enjoy scenic walks or bike rides in the surrounding countryside.
Winter can be cold in Geel, but it is a charming time to experience the festive atmosphere, Christmas markets, and cozy indoor activities.
Geel at Night
Hiking in Geel
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful hill with scenic views and well-marked trails, perfect for a day hike.
A vast national park with diverse landscapes and numerous hiking routes for all skill levels.
A large area of forests and heathland offering several hiking trails amidst nature.
A picturesque hiking trail that winds through various terrains and scenic landscapes.
A family-friendly hiking route that showcases the natural beauty around the charming town of Lier.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Geel through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Geel by plane.
The largest airport in Belgium, located approximately 45 km from Geel, serving as the primary international gateway to the country.
Located about 40 km from Geel, this airport mainly serves regional flights and is a hub for city traffic.
Situated approximately 70 km from Geel, this is an important airport for low-cost airlines and serves a variety of European destinations.
Located around 80 km from Geel, primarily serving cargo flight operations but also has some passenger services.
About 90 km from Geel, located in the Netherlands, this airport serves as a base for low-cost airlines and operates numerous international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population speaks Dutch, as it is the official language of the region.
A smaller demographic in Geel speaks French, reflecting Belgium's bilingual nature.
Various immigrant communities reside in Geel, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the city.
An increasing number of elderly residents, influenced by the overall aging population in Belgium.
Young adults, including students and young professionals, form a vibrant part of the community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Geel, with numerous local clubs and a passionate fan base.
Cycling is a favored activity in Geel, both as a sport and a means of transportation, with many cycling paths available.
Basketball enjoys significant popularity in Geel, with local teams competing in various leagues.
Volleyball is practiced by many in Geel, with clubs and recreational play available for all ages.
Athletics, including track and field events, is a popular sport in Geel with facilities for training and competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Geel.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Geel's dining establishments are receptive to vegetarian and vegan diets, with many offering innovative plant-based dishes. Notable venues include De Zalm and Situla, celebrated for their diverse, meat-free selections.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find an array of gluten-free options across Geel. Notable mentions are De Markt and Torenhof, esteemed for their dedication to crafting delectable gluten-free fare.