Herentals

A historic town featuring a striking 14th-century Romanesque church and well-preserved medieval streets centered around the Grote Markt. Herentals serves as an excellent base for exploring the rural Campine region and experiencing authentic Flemish market town life.

Things to do

• St. Waldetrudis Church — Explore this magnificent 14th-century Romanesque church dominating the Grote Markt with its soaring bell tower and ornate interior decorated with Baroque altarpieces.
• Grote Markt Square — Wander the historic central square surrounded by beautifully restored guild houses and Renaissance facades, ideal for soaking in authentic Flemish market town atmosphere.
• Medieval Town Center Walk — Stroll through narrow winding streets lined with timber-framed buildings and hidden courtyards that preserve the medieval character of this 13th-century settlement.
• Herentals Market — Visit the weekly market (typically Wednesday and Saturday) at the Grote Markt where locals sell fresh produce, cheese, and regional specialties in traditional fashion.
• Campine Countryside Cycling — Rent a bicycle and explore the surrounding rural Campine region's flat heathlands, forests, and small villages connected by extensive cycling networks.
• Sint-Lenaarts Abbey Ruins — Visit the remnants of this medieval Cistercian monastery located just outside town, offering insights into the region's monastic heritage.

Food to try

• Herentals Asparagus — Sample the region's prized white asparagus (in season spring), often served simply with butter and fresh bread at local restaurants and markets.
• Flemish Stoemp — Try this traditional mashed potato dish mixed with vegetables and meat, commonly served as a hearty lunch throughout the Campine region.
• Trappist Beer Tasting — Experience local and regional Belgian abbey beers at town cafés, paired with regional cheeses and bread at the market or specialty shops.
• Chicory Endive Dishes — Taste 'witloof' chicory, grown throughout the Campine, prepared classically as endive gratin with ham and béchamel sauce at local restaurants.
• Pâté and Terrine Selection — Purchase artisanal Flemish pâtés and terrines from local butchers, reflecting the region's tradition of charcuterie craftsmanship.

Local customs & good to know

• Market Town Rhythm — Plan your visit around Wednesday and Saturday market days when the Grote Markt buzzes with locals and the town's social life centers on traditional commerce.
• Bicycle Culture — Embrace cycling as the primary local transport mode; most attractions and the countryside are easily accessible by bike, reflecting authentic Flemish practice.
• Café Conversation Etiquette — Locals frequent cafés around the square for extended conversation and coffee; sitting at an outdoor table without rushing is considered normal and welcomed.
• Church Visiting Hours — St. Waldetrudis Church has limited visiting hours outside services; check locally or ask at the tourist office before planning your visit to avoid disappointment.

Nearby

• Lier — 16 km
• Turnhout — 19 km
• Kempen Landscape & Nature — 24 km
• Fashion District & Sint-Andries (Antwerp) — 25 km