Palmenmarkt (Funfair)
One of the region's largest funfairs: five days around Palm Sunday with about 130 attractions, an opening by the mayor and fireworks.
PlizioGo
A local beer, try it in a pub near the market square.
Local heart-shaped cookies, available at traditional bakeries in the center.
Grab authentic fries at a friterie (frituur) around the main square.
Visit the main square for fresh produce and local goods.
The city's main shopping street for boutiques and clothing stores.
A quiet nature reserve that is excellent for walking.
A peaceful and historically significant place for contemplation.
Water temperature…
Geel is a unique city in the Flemish province of Antwerp, famous worldwide for its revolutionary and centuries-old model of family care in psychiatry. The roots of this tradition date back to the 13th century and are closely linked to the legend of Saint Dymphna, the patron saint of the mentally ill. Pilgrims seeking healing at her shrine were taken into the homes of Geel's citizens; this system of open, family-based placement of patients exists to this day and has earned the city the title of "Merciful City." In the center of the city stands the majestic St. Dymphna's Church, which houses magnificent Renaissance carvings. Furthermore, Geel is an important educational and agricultural center in the Kempen region and features a photogenic market square, a hospital museum, and extensive nature reserves in the surrounding area.
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 2 | 3 | 6 | 10 | 14 | 17 | 19 | 18 | 15 | 11 | 7 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 69 | 62 | 56 | 40 | 60 | 63 | 74 | 79 | 54 | 61 | 68 | 77 |
Notable places around
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Start your day in Geel's lively market square, the heart of the city. In the morning, explore the Gothic splendor of Saint Amand's Church and the deeper history of Saint Dymphna's Church, which is central to the city's identity. The afternoon is dedicated to culture. Delve into Geel's unique social history at the Gasthuis Museum. Conclude your walk with a look at modern creativity at the CC de Werft cultural center, enjoying the city's peaceful atmosphere.
Start your morning at the rainy Market Square, where cafes provide shelter. Geel's churches are ideal refuges from the showers. In the afternoon, the Gasthuis Museum offers a dry and fascinating journey through time. Spend the evening at CC de Werft, forgetting the rain with some culture.
A frosty morning at the illuminated Market Square starts the day. The warmth of the church naves offers a spiritual contrast to the cold. After a hot lunch, the museum warms the soul with local history. The early sunset bathes the cultural centre in a soft, winter light.
Start from the market square and cycle to the historic Mill of Larum for a touch of rural charm. In the morning, return to the center to discover the spiritual significance of Saint Dymphna's Church. After lunch, a pleasant bike ride takes you to the Domein de Putten nature reserve, perfect for a green break. The afternoon concludes at the Gasthuis Museum, where you can soak up the city's fascinating history.
A refreshing ride through the Kempen region despite the rain. The Larum Mill looks particularly imposing in the gray light. We seek shelter in St. Dymphna's Church before a quick pass through the nature reserve. The day ends safely in the museum, away from the wet trails.
A winter fairytale on two wheels through the flat Flemish landscape. The wind at Larum Mill is icy, but the visibility is clear. We visit St. Dymphna's for inner reflection. The nature reserve appears frozen and peaceful before we warm up in the museum.
Start the day outside the center with a visit to the Mill of Larum and the tranquil Domein de Putten. In the late morning, drive to the center, park your car, and explore the historic core. A walk will take you from the market square to the impressive Saint Dymphna's Church. The afternoon is entirely dedicated to the Gasthuis Museum, which offers a deep insight into Geel's unique culture before you return to your car.
In a comfortable car, we explore Geel and its surroundings during the rain. The Larum Mill is just a short sprint away. We admire the De Putten nature reserve almost dry from the parking lot. In town, we park at the square to quickly reach the warm churches and museum.
Safely and warmly, we glide through the winter Kempen region. The Larum Mill stands proud in the frost. At De Putten, we observe winter birds from the warmth of the car. The city tour takes us to impressive churches and the cozy, heated museum.
Gallery L.o.L.a., a gallery of contemporary art in Geel.
Kunsthuis Yellow Art, an art house in Geel exhibiting modern works.
