Oud-Turnhout
,Oud-Turnhout is a charming municipality located in the province of Antwerp in Belgium. It is known for its picturesque rural landscapes, with plenty of green spaces and forests to explore. The town also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with historic sites such as the Castle of Zevendonk and the Sint-Bavokerk church.
Oud-Turnhout offers a peaceful and serene setting for those seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- "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 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Nature Walks and Local Delights
morning
:Start your day with a refreshing walk through the beautiful nature trails in Oud-Turnhout. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and the sound of birds chirping as you explore the lush landscapes.
afternoon
:Grab some lunch at a local café and savor traditional Belgian dishes. Afterward, visit the local market to discover handmade crafts and local produce.
evening
:Wind down with a leisurely stroll through the town center, taking in the charming architecture. Dine at a cozy restaurant and finish your day with a piece of authentic Belgian chocolate.
History and Culture Exploration
morning
:Visit the historical landmarks of Oud-Turnhout to immerse yourself in the rich culture of the area. The morning is perfect for exploring museums and appreciating historical artifacts.
afternoon
:Enjoy lunch at a quaint bistro and then head to nearby castles or monuments to continue your cultural journey. Take guided tours to learn more about the stories behind these places.
evening
:Relax with a coffee or drink at a local pub, where you can chat with the friendly locals. Consider attending a cultural event or concert to experience the vibrant local arts scene.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage with historical architecture.
- Strong community spirit and family-friendly environment.
- Access to beautiful parks and nature for outdoor activities.
- Convenient location with good transport links to larger cities.
Bad
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Potential for high cost of living in certain areas.
- Public transportation options may be less frequent.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the Turnhoutse Heide
Explore the beautiful heathlands of Turnhoutse Heide, which offer various hiking trails through scenic landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.
Cycling along the banks of the Nete River
Enjoy a leisurely cycling trip along the picturesque Nete River, with well-maintained paths that provide stunning views of the surrounding nature.
Visit the Kasteeldomein de Haatland
Discover the historical Kasteeldomein de Haatland, which features beautiful gardens and park areas ideal for walking and picnicking.
Birdwatching at Kleine Nete
Engage in birdwatching activities at Kleine Nete, where you can spot various bird species in their natural habitat.
Participating in local markets
Visit local markets held in Oud-Turnhout to enjoy fresh produce, handmade products, and local delicacies while enjoying the outdoors.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Oud-Turnhout with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Kasteel Oud-Turnhout
The medieval castle offers picturesque views of the surrounding gardens and landscape, making it a perfect backdrop for photographs.
Sparrenbos
A beautiful forested area with walking trails and scenic viewpoints, ideal for nature photography and serene captures.
Oud-Turnhout Church
The historic church features stunning architecture and provides a charming setting for photos, especially during sunset.
Nete Valley
The valley along the river Nete offers breathtaking landscapes and opportunities to capture the natural beauty of the region.
Turnhoutseheide
A nature reserve with open heathland and unique flora, perfect for wildlife photography and capturing vast open spaces.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Stoofvlees met friet
A Belgian classic, stoofvlees met friet is a succulent beef stew slow-cooked in beer and served with crispy fries. This dish can be savored at De Drie Linden, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Flemish fare.
Must-Try!
Waterzooi
Waterzooi is a creamy fish or chicken stew enriched with vegetables and herbs. To indulge in an authentic rendition of this dish, head to Het Draakje, a cozy eatery renowned for its impeccable preparation of local specialties.
Speculaas
A beloved Belgian treat, speculaas are spiced shortcrust biscuits with a delightful crunch. These can be found at Patisserie De Lareau, a favored spot for indulging in sweet delights.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Oud-Turnhout better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Turnhoutse Snack
Explore the Turnhoutse Snack market for an assortment of delectable street food offerings, from crispy frites to savory waffles. This vibrant market is a great place to sample local snacks and soak in the bustling atmosphere of the town.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
In Oud-Turnhout, a firm handshake is a common way to greet someone. Friends often greet each other with a kiss on the cheek, but it is best to wait for cues before doing so. Always maintain eye contact during greetings, as it shows respect and attentiveness.
Dining Etiquette
When dining in Oud-Turnhout, it is polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat. Additionally, keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) during the meal. Saying 'Smakelijk' (enjoy your meal) before eating is a nice touch.
Punctuality
Being punctual is highly valued in Oud-Turnhout. Arriving on time for social events and appointments demonstrates respect for others' time. If you anticipate being late, it is courteous to inform the host or person you are meeting.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Oud-Turnhout with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Oud-Turnhout, Belgium, tipping practices generally reflect those of the broader Belgian culture, where tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. In restaurants, it is common to round up the bill or leave small change (around 5-10% of the total bill) if the service was satisfactory. Tips are often seen as a reward for exceptional service rather than an obligation. In cafes and bars, customers may also leave small coins as a gesture of appreciation. In other service industries, such as taxis, rounding up the fare is a common practice. Overall, while tipping is appreciated, it is not expected.
Payment
In Oud-Turnhout, payment practices primarily involve cash and card transactions. The euro is the accepted currency, and most establishments, including shops and restaurants, accept credit and debit cards. Contactless payment options are also widely available. Many people in the area prefer to use bank cards for convenience. Additionally, mobile payment options like Payconiq are gaining popularity, allowing users to make payments through their smartphones. Overall, while cash is still in use, digital payment methods are increasingly favored for their ease of use.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Oud-Turnhout.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Oud-Turnhout. The weather starts to warm up, with temperatures averaging between 10°C to 18°C. You can expect blossoming flowers and greenery, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring local parks.
Summer
Summer (June to August) brings warm temperatures, ranging from 18°C to 25°C. This is the peak tourist season, perfect for enjoying festivals and events. Outdoor dining and local markets thrive during this time, so expect a lively atmosphere.
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) offers mild temperatures, typically between 10°C to 20°C. Visitors can enjoy stunning fall foliage and various harvest festivals. The cooler weather is great for hiking and exploring the scenic countryside.
Winter
Winter (December to February) is colder, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 7°C. While it may be chilly, holiday markets and festive decorations create a cozy atmosphere. Expect to see winter sports and beautiful snowy landscapes, making it a picturesque time to visit.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Natuurreservaat De Kalmthoutse Heide
A vast nature reserve featuring heathlands, forests, and diverse wildlife, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.
Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide
A cross-border park with extensive hiking trails, offering beautiful landscapes and the chance to explore both Belgium and the Netherlands.
Zwarte Nete Recreation Area
A scenic area along the Zwarte Nete river, with numerous trails and paths suitable for walking and hiking.
Park Groot Schijn
A park with beautiful trails through woodlands and fields, perfect for leisurely hikes and walks.
Merksplas Woodland
A forested area with various trails, known for its serene environment and opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Oud-Turnhout through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Oud-Turnhout by plane.
Brussels Airport (BRU)
The main international airport serving Brussels and located about 45 km from Oud-Turnhout.
Antwerp International Airport (ANR)
Located approximately 30 km from Oud-Turnhout, this airport serves mainly domestic and European flights.
Eindhoven Airport (EIN)
Located in the Netherlands, about 70 km from Oud-Turnhout, serving a variety of international and low-cost airlines.
Charleroi Airport (CRL)
Also known as Brussels South Charleroi Airport, this airport is about 80 km from Oud-Turnhout and primarily serves low-cost carriers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Dutch-speaking residents
The majority of Oud-Turnhout's population speaks Dutch, reflecting the linguistic demographic of Flanders.
Elderly residents
A significant portion of the population consists of elderly individuals, which influences local services and community activities.
Young families
Oud-Turnhout has a notable demographic of young families, contributing to local schools and child care facilities.
Middle-aged adults
This group includes working professionals and contributes to the local economy and workforce.
Immigrant communities
While smaller in number, there are diverse immigrant groups that add to the cultural fabric of Oud-Turnhout.
The Soul of Oud-Turnhout
Discover the essence of Oud-Turnhout through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer
A popular team sport played in various local clubs in Oud-Turnhout, attracting many young athletes.
Cycling
Cycling is a favored pastime and competitive sport in the region, supported by scenic routes and trails.
Basketball
Basketball has a growing following with local leagues and teams, especially among youth.
Volleyball
Volleyball is played recreationally and competitively, with several clubs and community events.
Running
Running is widely enjoyed, with various local events and organized runs taking place throughout the year.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
In Oud-Turnhout, many eateries cater to vegetarian and vegan preferences, ensuring a delightful gastronomic experience for those with dietary restrictions. Look out for the 'V' symbol on menus to indicate vegetarian-friendly dishes.
Gluten-Free Dining
Visitors with gluten intolerance can savor a range of gluten-free offerings at various establishments. Keep an eye out for gluten-free alternatives such as bread and pastries at select bakeries and cafes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Oud-Turnhout with these cultural adventures.
