Flanders offers a wealth of engaging city tours that appeal to travelers looking for authentic experiences and flexible itineraries. Unlike traditional guided groups, these tours let you explore at your own pace, uncovering hidden stories and local landmarks without the pressure of fixed schedules. We particularly love the e-Scavenger hunt Turnhout, with its inventive mix of puzzle solving and historical insights, which makes wandering around feel like an exciting game. The Hasselt scavenger hunt also stands out with its mix of fun challenges and cultural stops—ideal if you prefer a more playful approach. Both tours are designed to give you a deeper connection to their respective cities, making sightseeing both informative and entertaining.
In this list, we’ve focused on self-guided city adventures that use smartphone apps to navigate and learn about Turnhout and Hasselt. These tours are perfect for independent travelers, families, or groups of friends who want to see the sights at their own speed. Whether you’re interested in exploring UNESCO-listed sites or checking out quirky museums, these options provide a practical and engaging way to enjoy Flanders. Now, let’s dive into the details of each tour to help you decide which is best for your trip.
1. e-Scavenger hunt Turnhout: Explore the city at your own pace
At number 1, the e-Scavenger hunt Turnhout offers a unique blend of sightseeing and puzzle solving. Priced at $35.54 per group (up to 6 people), this self-guided adventure lasts roughly 2 to 4 hours, depending on how much time you spend at each stop. Downloading the game is straightforward—just book online, and you’ll get instant confirmation. The app guides you via GPS, allowing you to control when to pause for coffee, lunch, or photos, making it an ideal choice for flexible explorers.
The tour takes you to some of Turnhout’s top landmarks, starting with the UNESCO-recognized 14th-century beguinage, an atmospheric site that looks like stepping into a fairy tale. The St. Peter’s Church, with its austere exterior and breathtaking interior, is another highlight. You’ll also learn how Turnhout became a global player in playing card production thanks to Philip Jacobus Brepols, who set the industry in motion in 1826. The Taxandria Museum and the Historical Printing Company are perfect for history buffs interested in local crafts and industry, with digitized collections that you can explore online.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for groups of friends or families who enjoy interactive experiences and want to see Turnhout at their own pace. It offers a rich mix of history, architecture, and fun without breaking the bank.
2. e-Scavenger hunt Hasselt: Explore the city at your own pace
Ranked just behind for its lively and well-rated experience, the Hasselt scavenger hunt costs $36.79 per group (up to 6) and takes about the same 2 to 4 hours. This GPS-guided adventure combines city sights with interactive challenges, making it a perfect way to discover Hasselt’s highlights on your own schedule. The app allows you to start, pause, and resume as you like, giving you total control over your sightseeing day.
This tour includes stops at notable sites like the Gin Museum, where you can learn about the art of gin-making, and the St. Quintinus Cathedral, home to a 14th-century statue of Mary of Jesse. You’ll also explore the Modemuseum Hasselt, housed in a beautiful 17th-century building, and the modern Hasselt Town Hall, which opened in 2018. For some lighter fun, the nearby Plopsa Indoor Hasselt, a semi-covered theme park, makes for a playful break. The route offers a well-rounded mix of cultural, artistic, and entertainment venues, suited for those who want a bit of everything.
Review highlight: “This tour made exploring Hasselt so much more engaging and fun,” says one recent traveler. The flexibility and interactive tasks keep you actively discovering instead of just passively viewing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or groups wanting a playful, flexible way to learn about Hasselt’s attractions, all while enjoying the freedom to explore at your own pace.
How to Choose
If you’re trying to decide between these self-guided tours, consider your interests and travel style. The Turnhout scavenger hunt is great if you’re keen on UNESCO sites, historic architecture, and Belgium’s brewing and printing past. Meanwhile, the Hasselt tour suits those interested in local spirits, modern art, or family-friendly attractions like theme parks. Budget-wise, both offer excellent value, especially for small groups, with prices in the $35-$37 range.
Think about logistics: if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to include food breaks, both tours accommodate that. For a more cultural or historic experience, Turnhout’s landmarks are ideal. For a lively, entertainment-filled day, Hasselt’s mix of museums and attractions keeps things lively.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to secure your preferred start time and ensure smooth access to the apps.
Final Thoughts
Both the Turnhout and Hasselt city tours stand out as smart, flexible ways to experience Flanders on your own terms. If history, architecture, and UNESCO sites call to you, then the e-Scavenger hunt Turnhout offers a memorable way to explore at your own pace. For those who want a fun, interactive experience with a dash of local culture, the Hasselt scavenger hunt will satisfy that craving.
For a traveler who values the freedom to explore without a fixed schedule, these tours are a perfect fit. We recommend booking early to guarantee your spot, especially during the busy spring and summer months. Whether you’re a history buff, a family, or just someone looking to see Flanders differently, these self-guided adventures will add a special touch to your Belgian trip.