Things To Do
in Kapellen
Kapellen is a charming Flemish municipality in Antwerp province, located just northwest of Antwerp city. It sits amidst green farmland, with easy access to forests, rivers, and quiet rural lanes that invite leisurely exploration. The town offers a welcoming, small-town atmosphere, historic architecture, and local cafés that showcase Belgian hospitality.
Its proximity to the Dutch border makes short day trips to the Low Countries effortless.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Kapellen and check into your cozy accommodation. Spend some time settling in and refreshing after your journey. Take a leisurely stroll to get your first glimpse of the charming streets and local shops.
Explore the small yet vibrant local market, where you can sample fresh produce and homemade goods. Visit the nearby Capuchin monastery for a serene walk in the tranquil gardens. Engage with the friendly locals to learn more about the community.
Dine at a traditional Belgian brasserie, enjoying local delicacies such as stoofvlees and a glass of Belgian ale. Enjoy an evening stroll along the Kapellenbeek River, soaking in the beautiful sunset views. Embrace the relaxed atmosphere as you wind down for the night.
Start the day with a visit to the beautiful Peerdsbos, a vast forested area perfect for an invigorating morning hike. Breathe in the fresh air as you navigate through scenic trails surrounded by lush greenery. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various bird species.
Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch in one of the serene clearings in the woods, perfect for recharging. After lunch, rent a bike and explore the surrounding bicycle paths that meander through the picturesque countryside. Take time to appreciate the peaceful environment and natural beauty.
Return to Kapellen and unwind at a local café with a warm drink and a piece of Belgian chocolate cake. Engage in conversations with fellow travelers or locals, immersing yourself in the community vibe. Round off the day watching the stars from a quiet spot in town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-20 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧀Local grocery item | $2-6 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $100-150 |
| 🚆Local transportation (short ride) | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Antwerp with easy access to urban culture
- Quiet, less crowded than big cities
- Friendly locals and good food
- Good value for a Flemish town
- Limited nightlife within Kapellen
- Transit to larger destinations requires a bit of planning
- Smaller selection of high-end dining compared to Antwerp
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you very much
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is de trein/bus?" - Where is the train/bus?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ik begrijp het niet" - I don't understand
Places to Visit in Kapellen
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic church facade and the lively village square offering golden hour photography.
Pastoral landscapes with canals, hedgerows and seasonal agricultural activity.
Tracks along the Dutch border with scenic views and accessible viewpoints.
Expansive heathlands with vibrant seasons, perfect for wide landscapes and sunrise shots.
Food in Kapellen
Kapellen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-braised beef in beer with onions, typically served with fries or bread.
Must-Try!
Fresh mussels steamed with onions, celery and beer, served with thick fries.
Belgian endive wrapped in ham and melted cheese, a classic comfort dish.
Rich, beer-infused beef stew served with potatoes or bread.
Belgian chocolates and warm waffles for dessert or a quick snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and regional snacks on market days.
Market with street food stalls, baked goods, and local crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch (Flemish) is the local language; a friendly handshake is common when meeting new people. Learning a few phrases in Dutch is appreciated.
People tend to be punctual and reserved in formal situations; avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Kapellen
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; a small 5-10% is common if service is good, though many places include service charge.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash is still used in markets and some local shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days with blooming fields; bring light layers and an umbrella for showers; great for photography and outdoor walks.
Warm temperatures and longer days; occasional rain; comfortable outdoor dining and long evenings.
Colorful forests and harvest markets; layered clothing and rain gear recommended.
Cool and damp; short daylight hours; cozy cafés and festive lights; carry warm clothing.
Kapellen at Night
Hiking in Kapellen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive heathland with boardwalks and forest trails; popular for long walks and sunsets.
Rural lanes and gentle hills suited for day hikes or bike-and-hike trips.
Airports
How to reach Kapellen by plane.
A short drive from Kapellen; serves general aviation and some domestic flights; easy to reach by car or taxi.
Major international hub about 40-60 minutes by road/train from Kapellen; serves global destinations and good transit options.
A further option about 2-3 hours by train/car; frequent international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority language and cultural group; predominantly families and commuters.
People living near Putte and crossing into the Netherlands for work or shopping; some bilingual speakers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular for both leisure rides and longer training routes through Flemish countryside.
Common locally; local clubs and leagues; community matches.
Available at local clubs and public facilities; seasonal courts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kapellen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian options; look for dishes like vegetable stews, cheese plates, salads, and veggie croquettes. Ask for no meat stock and request alternatives such as mushroom sauces or veggie substitutes.