Things To Do
in Hoogstraten
Hoogstraten is a charming municipality located in the province of Antwerp in Belgium. It is known for its historic buildings, picturesque streets, and rich cultural heritage. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
Hoogstraten also hosts a popular weekly market where locals and visitors can enjoy fresh produce and goods.
- "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 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Hoogstraten Castle. Enjoy a stroll through the surrounding gardens and soak in the picturesque scenery.
Head to the local market to sample fresh produce and regional delicacies. Don’t forget to visit some artisan shops for unique souvenirs.
Dine at a cozy restaurant in the town center. Try some traditional Belgian dishes while enjoying local craft beers.
Visit the Church of Saint Clement to admire its stunning architecture and beautiful interiors. Take your time to appreciate the history it represents.
Join a guided walking tour to learn about the town’s rich history and notable landmarks. Engage with the locals and gain insights into their culture.
Relax at a nearby café and indulge in some Belgian chocolates and desserts. Enjoy the tranquility of the town as it winds down for the night.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with well-preserved architecture
- Beautiful natural surroundings including parks and green spaces
- Strong sense of community and local culture
- Proximity to larger cities like Mechelen and Antwerp for additional amenities
- Good public transport links facilitating travel
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger urban areas
- Higher cost of living in certain parts of the town
- Fewer entertainment and recreational options than bigger cities
- Potential language barrier for non-Dutch speakers
- Limited healthcare facilities and services available locally
Best Activities in Hoogstraten
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful landscapes and countryside around Hoogstraten by taking a cycling tour.
Discover the natural beauty of Hoogstraten by exploring its hiking trails and nature reserves.
Visit local fruit farms and orchards to experience fruit picking activities, especially during the harvest season.
Enjoy peaceful and relaxing fishing experiences at the various lakes and ponds in and around Hoogstraten.
Tours
Uncover the best of Hoogstraten with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Hoogstraten
Visit one of these nice places.
The castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the town of Hoogstraten.
The church's tower provides stunning views of Hoogstraten and the surrounding area.
The Markt is a picturesque location with historic buildings and offers great photo opportunities.
Food in Hoogstraten
Hoogstraten Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This dish features white asparagus served with hard-boiled eggs, parsley, steamed potatoes, and a rich butter sauce.
Must-Try!
A succulent roasted chicken, often marinated with flavorful herbs and spices, typically found at local rotisseries and markets.
Hoogstraten is renowned for its strawberries, known for their sweet and juicy flavor. They are best enjoyed freshly picked or incorporated into desserts.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Hoogstraten better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Hoogstraten Market is a great place to experience the local food culture. Here, you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and various street food stalls offering traditional snacks and treats.
This bustling street is lined with charming food stalls offering delectable street food such as waffles, frites (fries) served with a variety of sauces, and artisanal chocolates.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Hoogstraten is a small town in Belgium known for its rich cultural heritage and historic architecture.
In Hoogstraten, it is important to respect personal space, maintain a comfortable distance while engaging in conversations, and avoid standing too close to others.
Greeting people with courtesy is important in Hoogstraten. A handshake, with direct eye contact and a smile, is the common way to greet others.
Being punctual is valued in Hoogstraten. Whether it's for social gatherings or business meetings, it is considered respectful to arrive on time.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Hoogstraten with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Hoogstraten
Ensure a smooth experience
In Hoogstraten, Belgium, tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, if you've received exceptional service, it's customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip as a token of appreciation.
Cash is widely accepted in Hoogstraten, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular. It's advisable to check whether a particular establishment accepts card payments before making a purchase.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Hoogstraten.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for blooming flowers, particularly the famous Hoogstraten strawberries
Warm weather perfect for outdoor activities and visiting local farmers' markets
Great for experiencing the harvest season and enjoying the beautiful fall colors
Ideal for exploring cozy indoor activities and traditional holiday festivities
Hoogstraten at Night
Hiking in Hoogstraten
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful nature reserve with a variety of trails, offering stunning views of heathland and diverse flora and fauna.
This area features peaceful walking routes through forests and along rivers, perfect for a relaxing hike.
A park with well-maintained paths and scenic gardens, ideal for leisurely hikes and enjoying nature.
A nature reserve known for its wetlands and rich biodiversity, featuring various hiking trails suitable for all levels.
A recreational area with hiking paths, around a large lake, offering opportunities for both walking and enjoying water activities.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Hoogstraten through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Hoogstraten by plane.
The main international airport serving Brussels and one of the busiest in Europe, located approximately 45 km from Hoogstraten.
A smaller international airport located about 40 km from Hoogstraten, primarily serving regional flights.
Also known as Brussels South Charleroi Airport, located around 70 km from Hoogstraten, primarily serving low-cost airlines.
Another name often used for Brussels Airport, this hub connects to various international destinations, approximately 45 km away from Hoogstraten.
Located about 100 km from Hoogstraten, Liège Airport primarily serves cargo flights but also has some passenger services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Hoogstraten, primarily Dutch-speaking.
A smaller population primarily speaking French, represented in various regions across Belgium.
A growing demographic, including individuals from Eastern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
Elderly residents who form a significant part of the demographic structure in Hoogstraten.
School-aged children and young adults, a vital demographic for local educational services.
The Soul of Hoogstraten
Discover the essence of Hoogstraten through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is highly popular in Hoogstraten, with several local clubs and a strong community support.
Cycling is a favorite pastime due to the scenic routes available in and around Hoogstraten, making it popular among both locals and visitors.
Athletics, particularly track and field events, are enjoyed by various sports clubs in Hoogstraten and frequently feature in local competitions.
Basketball has a growing following in Hoogstraten, with youth teams and community leagues promoting the sport.
Volleyball is played recreationally in Hoogstraten, with local teams participating in regional competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hoogstraten.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Hoogstraten cater to vegetarians and vegans, offering creative dishes centered around fresh produce and local ingredients.
Visitors with gluten intolerances can find accommodating options at various dining establishments, with gluten-free breads, pastries, and carefully curated menus.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Hoogstraten with these cultural adventures.
