Oudenaarde(Belgium) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Oudenaarde, the top boutique choice is Hotel De Gouden Kruis, a historic gem located in the heart of the city near St. Nicholas Church and the Town Hall. This elegantly restored 17th-century building blends Flemish architectural charm with modern comforts, featuring cozy rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a charming garden courtyard. The hotel offers locally inspired breakfasts and is ideal for travelers seeking authenticity and quiet elegance. Its central location also provides easy access to markets, museums, and walking trails, making it perfect for cultural explorers and slow travelers alike.

The city center is the best area to stay in Oudenaarde. It’s just steps from the Market Square, St. Nicholas Church, and the Town Hall, offering convenient access to major attractions. With its colorful historic buildings, cozy cafés, and lively weekend markets, the area buzzes with local life. It’s safe, walkable, and well-connected by public transport—ideal for exploring nearby cities like Bruges (25 min) and Ghent (35 min). Staying here ensures you experience the true spirit of Flanders, from morning coffee to evening strolls under warm streetlights.

Don’t miss the weekly market at Vrijdagmarkt, where you can find handmade leather goods, hand-painted ceramics, and fresh regional produce. Join a guided historical walking tour to learn about Oudenaarde’s medieval past and WWII preservation efforts. Art lovers should visit the Museum van Oudenaarde, housing rare 16th–18th century Flemish paintings and religious artifacts. For a true taste of local culture, stop by Brouwerij De Pint, a renowned brewery offering tastings of traditional Belgian ales brewed on-site—perfect for pairing with local cuisine.

Yes, Oudenaarde is highly family-friendly. The city is compact, safe, and full of child-friendly spaces. Visit Oudenaarde Park, featuring playgrounds, a lake, picnic areas, and summer concerts. The Museum van Oudenaarde has interactive exhibits designed for kids, turning history into fun learning. Many restaurants, such as Café de Vlaamse Kasteel, offer children’s menus and high chairs. With quiet streets, green spaces, and welcoming locals, it’s an ideal destination for families seeking a relaxed, enriching vacation in Flanders.

Oudenaarde is very accessible. The train station is just a 5-minute walk from the city center, with frequent services to Bruges (25 min), Ghent (35 min), and Antwerp (50 min). Local buses cover all neighborhoods and surrounding villages. For drivers, highways E40 and E17 intersect near the city, with ample parking available. Bicycles are widely used, and dedicated bike paths connect key sites. Whether arriving by train, bus, or car, reaching Oudenaarde’s main attractions is effortless—making it a perfect base for exploring East Flanders.

Must-try dishes in Oudenaarde include Flemish stew (Carbonade)—a rich beef stew slow-cooked in dark beer with caramelized onions. Try the local specialty Oudenaardse kroket, a crispy fried meatball often enjoyed as a street snack. For dinner, visit De Wijngaard, a restaurant known for authentic Flemish cuisine using fresh local ingredients. Pair your meal with a pint from Brouwerij De Pint, a beloved local brewery offering robust, artisanal ales that perfectly complement the region’s hearty flavors.

Absolutely. Oudenaarde boasts remarkably preserved medieval architecture. The St. Nicholas Church, with its 90-meter-high spire, features stunning 15th-century stained glass and intricate stone carvings. The Town Hall, built in the 15th century, displays symbolic reliefs of trade and civic pride. The Grote Poort city gate remains intact, and climbing its ramparts offers panoramic views of the old town. These landmarks reflect Oudenaarde’s past as a vital trading hub and showcase the refined craftsmanship of Flemish Gothic design—essential stops for history enthusiasts.

Beyond the usual sights, explore St. Janskerk Cemetery, a peaceful, tree-lined burial ground filled with ornate 19th-century tombstones—almost like an open-air sculpture garden. Nearby, De Looi, a restored 19th-century mill, now houses a small museum showcasing traditional grain processing tools. Wander through the alleyways near Vrijdagmarkt to find independent boutiques like Tegels & Tinten, selling handmade ceramics and vintage books. These lesser-known spots reveal the city’s soul, offering quiet moments of discovery and connection to local heritage.

Oudenaarde hosts several vibrant annual events. The Oudenaarde Carnival in February is a highlight—week-long festivities featuring parades, costumes, live music, and street performances. In autumn, the Market of the Masters gathers over 100 artisans at Vrijdagmarkt, showcasing handmade crafts, jewelry, and textiles. During winter, the Christmas Market at City Hall Square lights up the town with festive decor, mulled wine stalls, and Santa visits. These events celebrate community spirit and bring the city’s traditions to life.

The best shopping is along Vrijdagmarkt and its surrounding alleys. Explore L’Étoile du Nord for designer clothing from Belgium and France, and Huisje van de Kunst for original Flemish artwork and prints. Every second Saturday, the antique market at De Gouden Kruis opens, offering vintage watches, silverware, and rare books. For souvenirs, visit Brouwerij De Pint’s shop, where you can buy limited-edition beer gift sets and branded merchandise—perfect keepsakes of your trip to this charming Flemish town.