About The Port Of Oudenaarde
Oudenaarde sits along the Scheldt River in East Flanders, a compact town long celebrated for the fine tapestries once woven within its walls. Its market square is anchored by an ornate Gothic town hall, and narrow lanes lined with step-gabled houses reflect centuries of Flemish craftsmanship and trade. The town's brewing tradition remains a point of local pride, with several producers still active in the area today.
River cruise calls typically dock within easy walking distance of the historic center, making it simple to explore on foot before continuing along the waterway toward Ghent or Péronnes-lez-Antoing. Visitors often pair a stroll through the old town with a stop at a local distillery or brewery for a tasting. The surrounding countryside, quiet and green, offers a gentle contrast to the architectural density found in Belgium's larger cities.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Oudenaarde.
Admire the Gothic Town Hall
The ornate 16th-century stadhuis anchors the market square and remains one of Flanders' finest examples of civic Gothic architecture. Just steps from the river, it's an easy first stop on foot.
Discover the Tapestry Legacy
Oudenaarde's looms once rivaled Brussels' finest, and displays around town trace this craft's centuries-old history. Look for surviving tapestry fragments in the town hall and local museum exhibits.
Sample a Local Brew or Spirit
The region's brewing tradition runs deep, with small producers still crafting distinctive Flemish ales nearby. A short tasting at a local brewery or distillery pairs well with a walk through the old quarter.