Things To Do
in Oudenaarde
Oudenaarde is a historic Flemish city perched along the Scheldt, known for its medieval architecture, rich tapestry heritage, and a lively market life. It serves as a convenient gateway to the Flemish Ardennes, offering gentle hills, scenic bike routes, and easy day trips. The city blends centuries of culture with a welcoming, compact center that is exceptionally walkable.
Visitors can immerse themselves in art, beer culture, and authentic Belgian cuisine within a few hours of exploring Oudenaarde itself.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Town Hall of Oudenaarde, a stunning blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. After touring the building, wander through the quaint streets to admire the beautifully preserved medieval buildings. Don’t forget to stop by a local bakery for a traditional Belgian pastry to fuel your exploration.
In the afternoon, head over to the MOU Museum, where you can discover the rich history and art of the region. The museum features a variety of exhibitions that showcase both historical artifacts and contemporary art pieces. Take your time strolling through the galleries and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
As the sun begins to set, enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant, sampling local specialties such as Flemish stew and artisanal beers. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the River Scheldt, where the peaceful ambiance allows for relaxation. End the evening with a glass of locally brewed beer at a nearby pub.
Rent a bicycle and set off early to explore the picturesque countryside surrounding Oudenaarde. The scenic cycling paths lead you through beautiful fields, lush forests, and typical Flemish villages. Remember to bring your camera; the views are breathtaking.
Stop for lunch at a charming café in a nearby village, where you can indulge in local dishes made from fresh ingredients. After refueling, continue your cycling adventure, making your way to the iconic Tour of Flanders monument. This landmark is a tribute to the famous cycling race held annually in the region.
Return to Oudenaarde and enjoy a tranquil evening walk in the historic center. Choose a restaurant offering outdoor seating to savor your dinner while basking in the warm glow of the sunset. Let the vibrant energy of the town’s nightlife captivate you as you sip on a local ale.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket (single trip) | $3-4 |
| 🏨1-night in mid-range hotel | $90-150 |
| 🧁Pastry / snack | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city center with rich heritage
- Excellent access to the Flemish Ardennes for outdoor days
- Strong tapestry and beer culture with excellent museums
- Small nightlife scene compared to bigger cities
- Limited high-end dining options within the city core
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Alstublieft" - Please
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Spreek je Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Oudenaarde
Visit one of these nice places.
The ornate Town Hall and the lively market square provide classic Flemish architectural scenes, especially at dawn or twilight.
Exterior and interior photography opportunities with tapestries and regional artwork; capture rich textures and lighting.
Historic beguinage with serene courtyards and white-washed facades; ideal for symmetry and quiet composition.
Golden-hour reflections on the water, bridges, and city silhouettes make for dramatic landscape shots.
Elevated views of rolling hills and farmland just outside the city; great for panoramic photography.
Food in Oudenaarde
Oudenaarde Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rich Flemish beef stew served with fries or bread, a staple favorite across Flanders.
Must-Try!
Creamy chicken or fish stew with vegetables, typically served with bread or potatoes.
Mussels cooked in white wine or beer, served with thick Belgian fries.
Seasonal soups or puff pastry pastries filled with creamy ragout, common in colder months.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market on the central square offering local produce, cheeses, pastries, and street snacks.
Seafood and fresh produce stalls along the market streets; ideal for fresh tastings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; when addressing strangers, use the formal 'u' unless invited to use the informal 'jij/je'.
Keep elbows off the table, wait for everyone to be served before starting, and try a French- or Dutch-language phrase when ordering.
Stay in designated bike lanes when available; yield to pedestrians on shared paths; use hand signals when turning.
Safety
Tipping in Oudenaarde
Ensure a smooth experience
Belgian service charges are often included; if not, rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is customary.
Credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; keep some euros on hand for small purchases or markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and bright bloom season; great for outdoor strolling and early-market visits.
Warm days with long daylight; ideal for cycling and riverside dining; occasional showers are common.
Harvest time with colorful foliage and seasonal markets; perfect for scenic walks and photography.
Cold but festive; Christmas markets appear in and around town; occasional snowfall adds charm to historic streets.
Oudenaarde at Night
Hiking in Oudenaarde
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside hiking path along the Scheldt with varied scenery and opportunities for sunset views.
Loop trails with gentle climbs and panoramic countryside vistas just outside Oudenaarde.
Seasonal trekking routes through pastoral landscapes and small villages within a short drive.
Airports
How to reach Oudenaarde by plane.
Primary international gateway; about 60–90 minutes by train or car to Oudenaarde, depending on connections.
Convenient regional option; typically a 60–90 minute transfer to Oudenaarde by rail or car.
Accessible option for travelers from northern France; roughly 1.5–2 hours to Oudenaarde via train or drive.
Coastal airport with trains and roads linking to Oudenaarde; travel times vary around 2 hours.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of local families with a strong sense of community and good local facilities.
A steady presence from nearby universities and regional businesses; comfortable for short- and long-term stays.
Traditional Flemish communities with cultural continuity and local events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Sporting culture is strong in the region, with multiple local routes and proximity to famous Flemish cycling routes.
Popular local and regional matches; community clubs and recreational leagues are common.
Public and club tennis facilities are available for all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oudenaarde.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable-forward dishes, salads, and dairy-based options; most restaurants can adapt meat dishes to include mushrooms or legumes. Beer lists and non-meat appetizers are often reliable choices; always ask about broth-based sauces.