Antwerpse Kempen, Belgium Travel Guide

Discover Antwerpse Kempen, where enchanting forests, serene lakes, and charming villages create an idyllic escape rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage.

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Antwerpse Kempen

Antwerpse Kempen, located in the northern part of Belgium, is a captivating region known for its lush forests, tranquil lakes, and charming villages. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The region is dotted with picturesque trails that wind through dense woods and serene meadows, providing ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and bird-watching. The Hoge Mouw, a prominent hill, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. For those interested in water activities, the numerous lakes and rivers in the area are perfect for kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Cultural attractions abound in Antwerpse Kempen. The quaint villages are home to historic churches, traditional Flemish architecture, and inviting cafes where you can savor local delicacies. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Postel Abbey, a stunning monastery with a rich history dating back to the 12th century. The region also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating its vibrant heritage and traditions.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Antwerpse Kempen.

Visit in the spring or fall for the best weather and fewer crowds.
Rent a bike to explore the scenic trails at your own pace.
Try the local beer and cheese, especially those made by the monks at Postel Abbey.
Bring binoculars for bird-watching in the nature reserves.
Check the local calendar for festivals and events to experience the culture.

Explore Antwerpse Kempen: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Antwerpse Kempen

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Stadspark

Explore the lush beauty of Stadspark, Antwerp's urban oasis filled with vibrant gardens, serene ponds, and cultural events.

4.2

KMSKA - Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp

Explore the rich tapestry of Flemish art at KMSKA, the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp, where history and creativity converge.

4.6

Voetgangerstunnel naar rechteroever

Experience Antwerp's Voetgangerstunnel: A Historic Pedestrian Passage Connecting Two Vibrant Riverbanks.

4.4

Plopsa Station Antwerp

Experience the magic of adventure at Plopsa Station Antwerp, a thrilling amusement park perfect for families and kids of all ages.

3.8

Best landmarks in Antwerpse Kempen

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Grand Place

Discover the stunning Grand Place in Brussels, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases exquisite architecture and vibrant cultural experiences.

4.7

Atomium

Explore the Atomium, Brussels' iconic landmark that combines modern architecture with cultural exhibitions and breathtaking views of the city.

4.4

Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert

Explore the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert, a stunning shopping arcade in Brussels filled with luxury boutiques, cafés, and historical charm.

4.5

Citadelle de Dinant

Discover the breathtaking Citadelle de Dinant, a historic fortress offering stunning views and rich history in the heart of Belgium.

4.5

Best restaurants in Antwerpse Kempen

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Elfde Gebod

Experience exquisite Belgian cuisine and captivating decor at Elfde Gebod, one of Antwerp's must-visit restaurants.

4.2

The Jane

Discover unparalleled fine dining at The Jane in Antwerp – where innovative cuisine meets breathtaking ambiance.

4.6

De Peerdestal | Restaurant Antwerpen

Experience authentic Belgian and French cuisine at De Peerdestal in Antwerp—where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.

4.3

RAS

Discover the culinary gem of Antwerp at RAS - where local flavors meet stunning riverside views.

4.3

Best bars in Antwerpse Kempen

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Dogma

Experience the finest cocktails in Antwerp at Dogma, where innovative mixology meets a vibrant atmosphere.

4.7

BelRoy’s at Nine

Discover the sophisticated ambiance and exquisite cocktails of BelRoy's at Nine, a must-visit cocktail bar in Antwerp for an unforgettable nightlife experience.

4.5

Bar Chapel

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Antwerp at Bar Chapel, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.

4.6

BAR BASIL

Discover Bar Basil in Antwerp: A lively bar blending exquisite cocktails, specialty coffee, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for socializing.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Antwerpse Kempen

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Red and Blue

Experience the pulsating nightlife of Antwerp at Red and Blue, where dance, drinks, and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable evening.

3.7

Club Lima

Discover the pulsating nightlife at Club Lima, Antwerp's premier night club featuring dynamic DJs and vibrant dance floors.

4.2

The Villa

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Antwerp at The Villa, a unique night club and eclectic restaurant that promises unforgettable evenings.

3.2

Club Vaag

Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Club Vaag, a premier night club in Antwerp, where unforgettable nights and vibrant music await you.

3.6

Best shops in Antwerpse Kempen

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Wijnegem - Shop Eat Enjoy

Experience the ultimate shopping haven at Wijnegem - Shop Eat Enjoy, featuring diverse shops, delightful dining, and fun for the whole family.

4.3

Stadsfeestzaal

Explore the exquisite Stadsfeestzaal in Antwerp, a shopping mall blending luxury brands and cultural experiences in a historic setting.

4.3

Grand Bazar Antwerp

Discover a shopping haven at Grand Bazar Antwerp, where fashion meets culinary delights in the heart of Belgium.

4.1

Shopping Promenade

Explore Shopping Promenade in Kapellen: A vibrant shopping mall with diverse shops, delightful eateries, and a lively atmosphere for every tourist's delight.

3.8

Explore Antwerpse Kempen on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Antwerpse Kempen, mapped for you.

Antwerpse Kempen Essentials

The Antwerpse Kempen region is located in the northern part of Belgium within the province of Antwerp. The closest major city with an international airport is Antwerp, approximately 30 kilometers away. Brussels Airport, the largest airport in Belgium, is around 50 kilometers from the region. From either Antwerp or Brussels, you can take a train or bus to various towns within the Antwerpse Kempen. The train services from Antwerp are frequent and connect to towns like Turnhout, Herentals, and Mol.
Within the Antwerpse Kempen, public transportation is efficient and well-connected. Trains and buses run regularly between the main towns and villages. Renting a bicycle is also a popular option, as the region is known for its extensive network of cycling paths. For longer distances, you can rent a car to explore the area at your own pace. Taxis are available but can be more expensive compared to public transportation.
Belgium uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most shops, restaurants, and hotels. ATMs are readily available in all major towns and villages. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller villages or local markets where card payments might not be accepted.
The Antwerpse Kempen is generally a safe region for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious in crowded areas where pickpocketing can occur. There are no specific areas with high crime rates targeting tourists, but it is recommended to stay vigilant, especially when traveling alone at night.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the general emergency number for police, fire, and medical services in Belgium. Most towns in the Antwerpse Kempen have local police stations and medical facilities. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in all major towns for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Casual wear is generally acceptable, but if you plan to visit churches or attend formal events, dress modestly. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and remain quiet. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trains and buses. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly nod. In more formal settings, use appropriate titles and surnames. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't rush your meal; dining is often a leisurely activity.
To experience the Antwerpse Kempen like a local, visit the weekly markets where you can buy fresh produce and artisanal goods. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the numerous nature reserves and scenic cycling routes. For a unique experience, try the local specialty beers and cheeses, which the region is famous for.

When is the best time to visit Antwerpse Kempen?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Antwerpse Kempen

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Antwerpse Kempen. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHallo
  [HAH-loh]
- GoodbyeTot ziens
  [tot zeens]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNee
  [nee]
- Please/You're welcomeAlstublieft
  [AL-stu-bleeft]
- Thank youDank u
  [dahnk oo]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [sor-ee]
- How are you?Hoe gaat het?
  [hu gat hut]
- Fine. And you?Goed. En met jou?
  [khoot. en met yow]
- Do you speak English?Spreekt u Engels?
  [spraykt oo eng-els]
- I don't understandIk begrijp het niet
  [ik buh-greyp hut neet]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIk zou graag de menukaart zien, alstublieft
  [ik zou khraach duh me-nuu-kaart zeen, al-stu-bleeft]
- I don't eat meatIk eet geen vlees
  [ik eet khayn vleys]
- Cheers!Proost!
  [prohst]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIk zou graag willen betalen, alstublieft
  [ik zou khraach vil-len buh-ta-len, al-stu-bleeft]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Ga weg!
  [ga wekh]
- Call the Police!Bel de politie!
  [bel duh poh-lee-tee]
- Call a doctor!Bel een dokter!
  [bel ayn dok-ter]
- I'm lostIk ben verdwaald
  [ik ben vuhr-dwahld]
- I'm illIk ben ziek
  [ik ben zeek]
- I'd like to buy...Ik zou graag ... kopen
  [ik zou khraach ... koh-pen]
- I'm just lookingIk ben gewoon aan het kijken
  [ik ben khuh-woon ahn het kee-ken]
- How much is it?Hoeveel kost het?
  [hu-vale kost hut]
- That's too expensiveDat is te duur
  [dat is tuh duur]
- Can you lower the price?Kunt u de prijs verlagen?
  [kunt oo duh prays vur-lah-ghen]
- What time is it?Hoe laat is het?
  [hu laht is hut]
- It's one o'clockHet is een uur
  [het is ayn oor]
- Half past (10)Half tien
  [half teen]
- MorningOchtend
  [okhtend]
- AfternoonNamiddag
  [nah-mid-dahkh]
- EveningAvond
  [ah-vohnt]
- YesterdayGisteren
  [khis-tuhr-uhn]
- TodayVandaag
  [vahn-dahkh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [mohr-khen]
- 1Een
  [ayn]
- 2Twee
  [tweh]
- 3Drie
  [dree]
- 4Vier
  [veer]
- 5Vijf
  [vayf]
- 6Zes
  [zehs]
- 7Zeven
  [zay-ven]
- 8Acht
  [ahkh-t]
- 9Negen
  [nay-khen]
- 10Tien
  [teen]
- Where's a/the...?Waar is een/de...?
  [vahr is ayn/de...]
- What's the address?Wat is het adres?
  [vat is hut ah-dres]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kunt u mij laten zien (op de kaart)?
  [kunt oo may laht-uhn zeen (op duh kaart)]
- When's the next (bus)?Wanneer is de volgende (bus)?
  [vay-nuhr is duh fohl-hen-duh (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)Een ticket (naar ....)
  [ayn tik-et (nar ....)]

History of Antwerpse Kempen

The Antwerpse Kempen region has traces of Roman settlements dating back to the 1st century AD. Archaeological finds, including pottery and coins, indicate that this area was part of a vast network of Roman roads and trade routes. The strategic location of the Kempen made it a crucial point connecting various parts of the Roman Empire.
During the Middle Ages, the Kempen region saw the establishment of several abbeys and monasteries, which played a significant role in the area's development. These religious institutions not only provided spiritual guidance but also contributed to agricultural and economic growth. The Abbey of Tongerlo, founded in 1130, is a prime example of the medieval religious architecture and influence in the region.
The Antwerpse Kempen was significantly impacted during the Eighty Years' War (1568–1648) between the Spanish Empire and the Dutch Republic. The region saw numerous skirmishes and battles, and its towns and villages were frequently ravaged by both sides. The war left a lasting imprint on the local culture and architecture, with many fortified structures still visible today.
The Industrial Revolution brought major changes to the Antwerpse Kempen. In the 19th century, the region became known for its burgeoning textile industry. Factories and mills sprang up, transforming the local economy and society. The town of Turnhout, in particular, became a hub for the production of playing cards and other printed goods, a legacy that continues to this day.
During World War II, the Antwerpse Kempen was the site of significant military activity. The Kempen Line, a series of defensive fortifications, was constructed by the Belgian Army to fend off German advances. Although ultimately breached, these fortifications played a crucial role in the early stages of the war. The region also witnessed several key battles during the Allied liberation efforts in 1944.
In the post-war era, the Antwerpse Kempen experienced a cultural revival. Efforts were made to preserve the region's rich heritage while promoting tourism. Today, the area is known for its picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant festivals. The Kempen's cultural significance is celebrated through numerous museums, heritage trails, and cultural events that attract visitors from around the world.