· BE

Turnhout

Turnhout, Flanders, Belgium

Step Back in Time and Explore the Charm of Turnhout, Belgium Nestled in the heart of the Kempen region in Flanders, Turnhout offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This charming city, known fo…

#Turnhout#Flanders#Belgium#Historic city#Cultural hub

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Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Turnhout.

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Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Turnhout.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Turnhout, Flanders, Belgium is '45,000'.

Languages

Dutch, Dutch

Average weather

Turnhout

Jan

5°0°

Feb

6°0°

Mar

10°2°

Apr

14°4°

May

18°8°

Jun

21°11°

Jul

23°13°

Aug

23°13°

Sep

19°10°

Oct

14°7°

Nov

9°3°

Dec

6°1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Turnhout.

What people love

Turnhout, located in Flanders, Belgium, has several pros for travelers:

Culture and History: Turnhout has a rich history dating back to the medieval times, with a well-preserved city center featuring historic buildings and landmarks. Travelers can visit the Castle of the Dukes of Brabant, the Beguinage, and the Taxandria Museum to learn more about the city's heritage.
Green Spaces: Turnhout is known for its beautiful parks and green spaces, such as the City Park and the Warande Park. These areas offer a peaceful retreat for visitors to relax, enjoy nature, and have a picnic.
Shopping and Dining: Turnhout has a vibrant shopping district with a mix of local boutiques, shops, and markets. Visitors can explore the city's culinary scene by trying traditional Belgian dishes at local restaurants and cafes.
Location: Turnhout is conveniently located near other popular destinations in Belgium, such as Antwerp, Brussels, and Bruges. This makes it a great base for exploring the region and taking day trips to nearby attractions.
Cycling and Outdoor Activities: Turnhout is a cyclist-friendly city with well-maintained bike paths and routes. Travelers can rent a bike and explore the surrounding countryside or participate in outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking.

Overall, Turnhout offers a mix of culture, history, nature, and leisure activities, making it a great destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Flanders, Belgium.

What to know

Turnhout is a beautiful city in Flanders, Belgium, with many attractions and a rich history. However, like any destination, there are some potential cons to consider when traveling to Turnhout:

Limited public transportation options: Turnhout is a relatively small city, and its public transportation system may not be as extensive or convenient as in larger cities. This could make it more challenging to get around the city and explore nearby areas.
Language barrier: While many people in Turnhout speak English, the primary language spoken in Flanders is Dutch. If you don't speak Dutch, you may encounter some language barriers when communicating with locals or navigating the city.
Weather: Belgium's weather can be unpredictable, with frequent rain and cloudy days. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and pack accordingly.
Limited nightlife options: Turnhout is not known for its vibrant nightlife scene compared to larger cities like Brussels or Antwerp. If you're looking for a bustling nightlife with clubs and bars, you may find Turnhout to be relatively quiet in the evenings.
Limited shopping and dining options: While Turnhout has a charming city center with shops and restaurants, the selection may be more limited compared to larger cities. If you're looking for a wide variety of shopping and dining options, you may find Turnhout to be somewhat limited in this regard.

Overall, Turnhout is a lovely destination with much to offer in terms of history, culture, and natural beauty. By being aware of these potential cons, you can better prepare for your trip and make the most of your visit to Turnhout.

Turnhout, located in the province of Antwerp in Flanders, Belgium, has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. Here's a detailed account of its historical development, significant events, notable figures, and important landmarks:

Early History and Development

Medieval Origins: Turnhout's history can be traced back to the 12th century when it began to develop as a settlement. The town's strategic location on the trade routes between Antwerp and the Rhineland contributed to its growth.
Charter and Growth: In 1212, Duke Henry I of Brabant granted Turnhout a charter, which allowed it to hold markets and fairs, significantly contributing to its economic growth.

Significant Events

Battle of Turnhout (1597): One of the key historical events was the Battle of Turnhout, which took place on January 24, 1597. The battle was part of the Eighty Years' War and was fought between the Spanish forces and the Dutch rebels led by Prince Maurice of Nassau. The Dutch forces defeated the Spanish, contributing to the eventual independence of the Dutch Republic from Spanish rule.
Battle of Turnhout (1789): Another battle occurred in Turnhout on October 27, 1789, during the Brabant Revolution. The local insurgents defeated the Austrian forces, marking a significant event in the revolution against Habsburg rule.

Historical Figures

Saint Dymphna: Although not directly from Turnhout, Saint Dymphna is associated with the region as her story is rooted in nearby Geel. She is venerated as a patroness of mental illness.
Prince Maurice of Nassau: He played a crucial role in the Battle of Turnhout (1597), leading the Dutch forces to victory against the Spanish.

Important Landmarks

Castle of the Dukes of Brabant: Also known as the "Castle of the Dukes," this medieval castle is one of Turnhout's most significant landmarks. It served as a residence for the dukes and played a vital role in the town's defense and administration.
Beguinage of Turnhout: The Beguinage is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its historical and cultural significance. It dates back to the 14th century and reflects the unique religious and social movement of the Beguines.
Saint Peter's Church: This Gothic church is one of Turnhout's most prominent religious buildings, with origins dating back to the 12th century. It houses several important artworks and relics.
National Museum of Playing Cards: Turnhout is known as the "City of Playing Cards," and the museum highlights the town's long-standing tradition of card manufacturing, which began in the early 19th century.

Modern Developments

Economic Growth: In the 19th and 20th centuries, Turnhout became an important industrial center, particularly known for its playing card industry. The town continues to thrive economically with a mix of traditional and modern industries.
Cultural Significance: Today, Turnhout is recognized for its cultural heritage, with numerous events, festivals, and cultural institutions celebrating its rich history and traditions.

Turnhout's blend of historical significance, architectural landmarks, and cultural heritage make it an important town in the Flanders region of Belgium.