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

In Schoten, the top choice is Hotel de Vlaamse Wacht, a boutique hotel with elegant interiors and a prime location steps from the Town Hall and Church of Our Lady. It offers free Wi-Fi, a traditional Belgian breakfast, and rooms featuring vintage furnishings. For a more intimate stay, try B&B De Zonnewijzer, known for its warm hospitality and proximity to local markets. Both properties provide easy access to cultural sites and authentic dining experiences in this charming Flemish town.

The historic city center of Schoten is the most desirable area for travelers seeking tranquility and authenticity. Surrounded by cobbled streets and 15th-century architecture, it’s home to the Town Hall Museum and scenic views of the Church of Our Lady. Accommodations here are typically small, family-run B&Bs or boutique hotels like Hotel de Vlaamse Wacht, offering a peaceful retreat with minimal noise and maximum character. Evening strolls along the central square are especially enchanting, making it perfect for romantic getaways and cultural immersion.

Visitors must attend the weekly Sunday Market, where local artisans sell handmade crafts, fresh produce, and traditional Belgian waffles. The annual Feest van Onze-Lieve-Vrouw (Our Lady Festival) features a religious procession, live folk music, and historic reenactments. Don’t miss the Town Hall Museum, which showcases Schoten’s textile history through antique looms, maps, and archival documents—key to understanding its legacy as a former weaving hub in Flanders.

Try Stoverij, a rich Flemish stew made with wheat flour and spices, traditionally served with mashed potatoes. For a classic bite, visit Frituur De Lantaarn for crispy, golden Belgian fries paired with garlic sauce. Pair your meal with a chilled witbier (white beer) at De Huisman, a cozy tavern using traditional fermentation methods. Local cheese platters with aged Gouda and pickled onions complete the authentic taste of Schoten’s culinary heritage.

Despite being a small town, Schoten boasts excellent connectivity. A short 20-minute train ride from Antwerp Central Station ensures easy access from major cities. Within the town, walking is ideal due to compact layout and pedestrian-friendly streets. Renting a bike is highly recommended—follow the scenic Scheldt River Trail for panoramic views of farmland and historic buildings. This eco-friendly option allows deeper exploration of Schoten’s natural and architectural beauty.

The Kindermuseum Schoten offers interactive exhibits, craft workshops, and a mini farm where kids can feed goats and collect eggs. Weekends feature children’s theater performances and games in the Town Square. Nearby, Zoo Schoten houses native animals like rabbits and sheep, plus picnic areas and a playground. These attractions make it a perfect destination for families seeking educational fun and outdoor engagement in a relaxed setting.

Schoten has a temperate oceanic climate. Spring (April–June) brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers—ideal for sightseeing. Summer (July–August) sees occasional rain but plenty of sunshine, perfect for outdoor events. Autumn (September–November) offers stunning foliage and crisp air, great for photography. Winters are cool and damp, but festive Christmas lights displays transform the town into a magical scene. Pack a light raincoat and layers for unpredictable conditions throughout the year.

Yes, select hotels such as Hotel de Vlaamse Wacht and B&B De Zonnewijzer provide complimentary guided walks led by certified local guides. These tours explore hidden gems like old textile mills and 16th-century private homes, often including storytelling sessions and photo stops. Custom routes like the "Renaissance Trail" or "Taste of Schoten" are also available, allowing guests to experience the town’s history, art, and cuisine through immersive, personalized journeys.

Evenings in Schoten are serene and atmospheric. Enjoy live Flemish folk music at De Huisman tavern, where locals gather around candlelit tables. Stroll the Town Square during seasonal events like the Christmas Light Festival, where illuminated trees and lanterns create a dreamy ambiance. For a quiet moment, sip hot chocolate at Café aan het Meer, overlooking the lake and the historic clock tower—perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking a peaceful end to the day.

Shopping in Schoten centers on artisanal craftsmanship and local brands. Along Hoofdstraat, discover boutiques like L’Atelier des Fleurs, selling handmade soaps and dried floral arrangements, and De Schilder, showcasing original paintings by regional artists. During weekend markets, vendors offer handcrafted ceramics and wool textiles. As a souvenir, consider handmade chocolates from Chocolaterie Van der Linden, packaged in minimalist design with a story behind every piece—ideal for gifting or personal indulgence.