Things To Do
in Oudenaarde
Oudenaarde is a picturesque town in East Flanders, Belgium, known for its historic buildings and beautiful architecture. The town is famous for its tapestries, with the Oudenaarde Town Hall housing a remarkable collection. Oudenaarde is also a popular destination for cyclists, as it is located near the famous climbs of the Tour of Flanders.
Visitors can enjoy exploring the cobblestone streets, visiting the local breweries, and taking in the charming atmosphere of this Belgian gem.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ 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 with a visit to the Oudenaarde Town Hall, a stunning architectural masterpiece. Don’t forget to explore the nearby Market Square and its charming cafes.
Head over to the MOU Museum to delve into the local history and art. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the nearby restaurants.
Stroll along the Scheldt River, enjoying the picturesque views. End your day with a cozy dinner at a local Belgian eatery.
Rent a bike and explore the scenic Flanders countryside surrounding Oudenaarde. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful landscapes as you pedal along designated paths.
Stop for a picnic lunch in the countryside or find a quaint village pub for a meal. Continue your bike ride through the famous Tour of Flanders routes.
Return to Oudenaarde and unwind at a local brewery. Taste some of the region's finest beers and enjoy a hearty dinner.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with well-preserved medieval architecture.
- Picturesque scenery including the river Lys and surrounding countryside.
- Vibrant local culture with various festivals and events.
- Accessibility to other major Belgian cities like Ghent and Bruges.
- Strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation options may be less frequent or convenient.
- Some areas may have a slower pace of life, which may not appeal to everyone.
- Weather can be quite rainy and overcast at times.
- Tourism may impact local lifestyles and property prices.
Best Activities in Oudenaarde
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Oudenaarde is renowned for its cycling routes along the picturesque Scheldt River. It's a great way to explore the scenic landscapes and the rich cycling history of the region.
The Flemish Ardennes, surrounding Oudenaarde, offer numerous hiking trails that lead through stunning countryside, historical sites, and charming villages. It's a perfect way to experience nature and local culture.
The calm waters of the Scheldt River provide an excellent opportunity for canoeing or kayaking, allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful surroundings from a unique perspective.
Tours
Uncover the best of Oudenaarde with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Oudenaarde
Visit one of these nice places.
Provides a picturesque view of the town hall and its surroundings.
Offers scenic views of the river and its bridges.
Features beautiful gardens and a historic castle, providing great photo opportunities.
Museum dedicated to the Tour of Flanders, offering unique photo spots and panoramic views of the region.
Food in Oudenaarde
Oudenaarde Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A velvety soup made with the famous Oudenaarde mustard, often served garnished with crispy bacon or smoked sausage. Must-try at De Fonderie or Brasserie Leffe.
Must-Try!
A classic Flemish beef stew slow-cooked in beer, served with frites. Best enjoyed at De Carillon or 't Peperstraatje.
A semi-hard cheese with a distinctive nutty flavor, perfect for pairing with local beers. Find it at Oudenaarde's weekly market or at Kaashandel Crul.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Oudenaarde better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held in the city center, this market offers a wide array of fresh produce, local cheeses, and baked goods. Don't miss the waffle stands and the famous
This beloved frituur (fry shop) serves up crispy frites with an array of sauces, a quintessential Belgian street food experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Oudenaarde, it is important to greet others with a handshake and direct eye contact, especially in formal situations. It's also customary to say 'hello' or 'good morning' when entering a room or joining a group.
Belgians generally value personal space, so it's important to maintain a respectful distance when interacting with others. Avoid standing too close or touching someone without permission.
When dining in Oudenaarde, it's important to wait until everyone has been served before starting to eat. It's also polite to keep your hands visible on the table and to say 'bon appétit' before beginning the meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Oudenaarde with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Oudenaarde
Ensure a smooth experience
In Oudenaarde, Belgium, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. It is customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip of 5-10% in restaurants and cafes. Tipping is also common for exceptional service in hotels and for taxi drivers.
Cash is widely accepted in Oudenaarde, Belgium, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used, especially in larger establishments. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular. It's important to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in case of any establishments that do not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Oudenaarde.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Oudenaarde, Belgium as the weather is mild and the city comes to life with blooming flowers and colorful gardens. It's also a popular time for outdoor activities and festivals.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Oudenaarde, offering warm weather and long days. It's an ideal time for exploring the city's outdoor attractions, enjoying outdoor cafes, and participating in various events and festivities.
Autumn brings beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures to Oudenaarde, making it a picturesque time to visit. Visitors can enjoy the changing colors of the leaves, as well as autumnal activities such as hiking and exploring the local vineyards.
Winter in Oudenaarde is a quieter time, with colder temperatures and occasional snowfall. The city's festive decorations and Christmas markets create a cozy atmosphere, while indoor attractions such as museums and galleries offer a cultural experience.
Oudenaarde at Night
Hiking in Oudenaarde
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A historic hill and iconic climb, offering scenic views and various hiking trails.
A nature reserve featuring tranquil walking paths along the water and through lush greenery.
A picturesque area with marked trails, perfect for hiking and enjoying the surrounding nature.
A serene environment with various routes for hiking, surrounded by diverse wildlife and plant life.
A blend of heathland and forests, offering a range of trails ideal for both casual walkers and dedicated hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Oudenaarde through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Oudenaarde by plane.
The largest international airport in Belgium, located approximately 80 km from Oudenaarde. It serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
An international airport near Charleroi, about 90 km from Oudenaarde, primarily serving low-cost carriers and charter airlines.
A small international airport approximately 50 km from Oudenaarde, catering mainly to regional flights and business travel.
Located about 115 km from Oudenaarde, Liège Airport is a significant cargo airport that also accommodates passenger flights.
As the main international airport in Belgium, it offers a wide range of flights to various destinations worldwide.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Oudenaarde, comprising a large majority of the population.
A growing demographic group in Oudenaarde, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
Includes citizens from various European countries living in Oudenaarde, contributing to its multicultural landscape.
A smaller yet significant group that adds to the cultural diversity of Oudenaarde.
Includes people from various Asian countries, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the city.
The Soul of Oudenaarde
Discover the essence of Oudenaarde through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Oudenaarde is known for its cycling culture, being the finish line for renowned bike races such as the Tour of Flanders.
Football is a popular sport in Oudenaarde, with local clubs engaging in competitions and fostering community spirit.
Basketball enjoys popularity among youth and adults alike, with various clubs and recreational leagues in the area.
Tennis is played recreationally and competitively, with several tennis clubs available in and around Oudenaarde.
Field hockey is also practiced in Oudenaarde, contributing to the diversity of sports options in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oudenaarde.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Flemish cuisine tends to be meat-centric, many restaurants and cafes in Oudenaarde offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of classic dishes, such as veggie stews and plant-based versions of local specialties.
Several dining establishments in Oudenaarde cater to gluten-free diets, offering options like gluten-free frites and specially prepared meat and fish dishes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Oudenaarde with these cultural adventures.
