Things To Do
in Turnhout
Turnhout is a compact Flemish city in the Kempen region of Belgium, known for its historic center and friendly, laid-back vibe. The Grote Markt and surrounding lanes are lined with cafés, markets, and a mix of old houses and modern boutiques. The city serves as a gateway to forests and heathland trails that weave through the Kempen landscape.
With weekly markets, museums such as Taxandria, and easy rail connections to Antwerp and beyond, Turnhout makes for a convenient Flemish city break.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Turnhout Castle, which dates back to the 12th century. Enjoy a guided tour that will unveil the rich history and architecture of this beautiful landmark. Don't forget to take a stroll around the castle grounds to appreciate the picturesque scenery.
After lunch, explore the Turnhout town center, where you can visit charming shops and cafes. Make a stop at the local museum, where you can dive deeper into the history and culture of the region. Head to the nearby ‘Sint-Pieterskerk’ to admire its impressive architecture and artwork.
As evening falls, indulge in dinner at a local bistro that serves traditional Belgian cuisine. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Turnhout as you sip on local beers and savor the delicious flavors. Wrap up your day with a leisurely walk around the town, taking in the beautiful evening lights.
Begin your day at the Turnhout Museum, where you can explore exhibitions dedicated to the arts and local heritage. The museum's engaging displays will provide insight into the creative history of Turnhout. Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in any workshops or guided tours offered.
After the museum, visit the nearby local art galleries to support local artists and discover unique artworks. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, where you can sample delicious pastries and coffee while soaking in the artistic ambiance. Spend the afternoon admiring public sculptures and street art scattered throughout the city.
In the evening, attend a performance at the local theater or a concert if there’s an event scheduled. Experience the vibrant cultural scene of Turnhout as you interact with locals and immerse yourself in the performing arts. End the night at a cozy pub with live music, enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (0.5L) | $1-2 |
| 🚆One-way ticket on local transit | $2-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $90-140 |
| ☕Coffee at café | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact center with a pleasant, walkable historic core
- Gateway to Kempen nature and outdoor trails
- Not as large as major Belgian cities
- Can feel quiet in off-peak periods
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much is this?
- "Waar is de Markt?" - Where is the market?
- "Een tafel voor twee, alstublieft." - A table for two, please.
- "Het toilet is waar?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Turnhout
Visit one of these nice places.
The central square with historic gables, the spire of the Sint-Pieterskerk nearby, and bustling market scenes.
A tranquil historic complex of white-washed buildings and a quiet courtyard ideal for architectural photography.
A cultural hub with a distinctive facade and well-tended grounds great for street photography.
Calm water reflections along the historic canals near the Markt provide serene composition opportunities.
Food in Turnhout
Turnhout Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Belgian beef stew simmered until tender, served with thick-cut fries and a rich gravy.
Must-Try!
A hearty sandwich featuring regional smoked ham and cheese, often with pickles and mustard.
Mussels cooked in a light broth or white wine, typically served with Belgian fries and dipping sauces.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market on market days where you can taste fresh regional produce, cheeses, baked goods, and street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake; use polite forms (u) with strangers and older people until invited to switch to informal 'jij'.
Keep hands visible on the table; wait for everyone to be seated before starting a meal; tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
Be punctual for appointments and public events; lateness is usually avoided in formal settings.
Safety
Tipping in Turnhout
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; if not, rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common practice.
Cards are widely accepted; cash is always useful for small shops and markets; keep small change for tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming gardens; great for outdoor markets and city walking tours.
Long days with warm weather; ideal for riverside strolls, outdoor dining, and park picnics; expect occasional showers.
Colorful foliage and cooler days; perfect for forest walks around De Liereman and heathland trails.
Chillier, with cosy cafés and festive lights around the Markt; some attractions may have shorter hours.
Turnhout at Night
Hiking in Turnhout
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive heath-and-forest trails just north of Turnhout with scenic vistas and wildlife.
Forested trails and meadows in Oud-Turnhout area offering tranquil hikes and birdwatching.
A network of forest paths weaving through the Kempen region suitable for day hikes and short treks.
Airports
How to reach Turnhout by plane.
Major international hub; roughly 1 to 1.5 hours by train or car from Turnhout.
Regional airport with connections to European destinations; quick rail/road links to Turnhout.
Netherlands-based airport serving multiple European destinations; about 1.5 hours by car/train.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-standing residents with roots in the Kempen region.
People traveling to and from Antwerp or smaller towns for work or study.
A small but growing group attracted by the Kempen lifestyle and proximity to larger cities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A beloved activity in the Kempen region with many dedicated bike paths and forest routes.
Local clubs play in regional leagues; football is a popular pastime in community sports.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Turnhout.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Turnhout spots offer vegetarian options; ask for dairy-free and egg-free adaptations, and look for salads, veggie plates, and veggie-based mains.