Hoogstraten invites you to discover the historical charm and cultural treasures of Flanders. Explore the cobblestone centre and visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site unique to the Flemish region. Food is a highlight, with everything from award-winning craft beers to handmade chocolate pralines on the menu.
Things to do in Hoogstraten
Cobblestone streets wind through the historic centre and give Hoogstraten a storybook feel. Grote Markt, the central square, is framed by charming buildings and hosts a lively weekly market where locals gather to sell fresh produce and artisanal goods. Cafes overlook the square and are the perfect place to enjoy creamy Belgian hot chocolate and waffles.
Sint-Katharinakerk soars over the town and features a handsome façade built with red-brick and honey-hued sandstone. The Gothic church dates back to the 16th century and is crowned with a 105-metre-tall tower. Light streams into the church through beautiful stained-glass windows and illuminates ornately carved choir stalls and colourful tapestries.
Visit the Beguinage of Hoogstraten, a residential complex with terrace houses and picturesque gardens. The UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse at the Flemish Beguines, women who dedicated their lives to religion yet continued to live in the community. The complex houses Stedelijk Museum Hoogstraten, where you can learn more about the narrative of the town and see a fantastic collection of Flemish artefacts, paintings, pottery and folk costumes.
Dine at local restaurants and try Flemish specialties like “preisoep” leek soup, white asparagus sprinkled with smoked salt and “carbonade” stew cooked with Belgian dark beer. Strawberries thrive in the Hoogstraten countryside and are used to make everything from cookies and tarts to milkshakes and ice cream.
Getting around Hoogstraten
Hoogstraten is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The town is in the Flemish Region, a 45-minute drive from Antwerp. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit Hoogstraten and explore the surrounding countryside at your own pace. Noorderkempen Train Station in Brecht is a 15-minute drive away and offers connections to Antwerp in 15 minutes. Antwerp International Airport is a 45-minute drive away.