Things To Do
in Aarschot
Aarschot is a charming town located in the Flemish region of Belgium. It is known for its picturesque architecture, including the stunning St. Rombouts Cathedral. The town has a rich history dating back to medieval times, and visitors can explore historic sites such as the moated Aarschot Castle.
Aarschot also boasts a lively cultural scene, with events, festivals, and markets throughout the year.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful St. Martin's Church. Enjoy the intricate architecture and the serene atmosphere.
After lunch, take a stroll in the historic center and visit the Aarschot Castle. Take in the views and learn about the local history.
Conclude your day with dinner at a local bistro. Try some traditional Belgian dishes and relax with a warm atmosphere.
Head to the surrounding nature parks for a morning hike. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park. Relax and watch the wildlife around you.
Return to the city and unwind at a nearby café. Savor some Belgian chocolate while you plan your next adventure.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with medieval architecture and monuments.
- Scenic location along the Demer River, offering beautiful views and outdoor activities.
- A vibrant local community with various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
- Good transportation links to major cities such as Brussels and Antwerp.
- Access to numerous parks and green spaces for recreation and relaxation.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities in Belgium.
- Public transport may not be as frequent as in urban centers.
- Higher reliance on cars for commuting may lead to traffic congestion.
- Potentially limited nightlife and entertainment options for younger residents.
- Cost of living may be higher than in surrounding rural areas.
Best Activities in Aarschot
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful countryside and forests around Aarschot on foot, with a variety of trails and paths to choose from.
Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Demer River, taking in the picturesque landscapes and charming villages along the way.
Experience the waterways of Aarschot by taking a leisurely paddle in a canoe or kayak, allowing you to see the region from a different perspective.
Tours
Uncover the best of Aarschot with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Aarschot
Visit one of these nice places.
A UNESCO World Heritage site with charming houses and a tranquil atmosphere, offering great photo opportunities.
A picturesque park with lush greenery, lakes, and walking paths, providing numerous beautiful views for photography.
Scenic views along the riverbanks, especially during sunrise or sunset, make for stunning photo opportunities.
Food in Aarschot
Aarschot Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich beef stew cooked with beer and served with fries. A must-try at De Gempemolen or 't Wit Paard.
Must-Try!
Indulge in crispy, light Belgian waffles topped with fruit, cream, or chocolate at Waffle House Aarschot.
Try the local specialty, Aarschotse Taart, a delicious pie with almond paste, at Patisserie Cartuyvels.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Aarschot better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the Friday Market in the town center for a range of local produce, cheeses, and snacks.
Enjoy classic Belgian fries with a variety of sauces from this popular local frituur.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Aarschot, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, particularly in formal situations. When meeting someone for the first time, it is polite to use their title and last name unless invited to use their first name.
When dining in Aarschot, it is important to wait for the host to indicate where you should sit. It is considered good manners to wait until the host has started eating before you begin. Additionally, it is customary to keep your hands visible on the table, and to say 'proost' ('cheers') before taking the first sip of a drink.
In Belgium, including Aarschot, personal space is highly valued. It is important to respect others' personal space and avoid standing too close or making prolonged eye contact, particularly with strangers.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Aarschot with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Aarschot
Ensure a smooth experience
In Aarschot, Belgium, tipping is not obligatory and is usually included in the service charge at restaurants and hotels. However, it is still appreciated to leave a small amount of additional gratuity for good service.
Payment in Aarschot, Belgium is mostly done through cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment methods. It is common for businesses to accept major credit cards, but it's always advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and when visiting local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Aarschot.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Aarschot as the weather is mild and the city comes to life with blooming flowers and greenery. It's a wonderful time to explore the outdoor markets and enjoy the local festivals.
Summers in Aarschot are warm and pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring the city's historic sites. Visitors can also enjoy the vibrant summer events and festivals.
Autumn brings beautiful foliage to Aarschot, making it a picturesque time to visit. The weather is still comfortable, and visitors can enjoy the autumn harvest festivals and delicious seasonal cuisine.
Winter in Aarschot is charming with its festive decorations and holiday markets. While the weather is colder, visitors can experience the cozy atmosphere of the city and partake in winter activities such as ice skating and enjoying warm Belgian waffles.
Aarschot at Night
Hiking in Aarschot
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful area with scenic trails that meander along the Kleine Nete River, offering a mix of forest paths and open fields.
A local park surrounding the historic Aarschot Castle, with gentle trails ideal for casual hikes and nature walks.
A tranquil forest area perfect for hiking, featuring diverse flora and fauna along various marked trails.
Unique hiking paths along the former coal mining spoil tips, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
A nature reserve with a network of walking trails through wetlands and heathlands, ideal for observing wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Aarschot through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Aarschot by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in Belgium, located approximately 38 km from Aarschot.
A small international airport located about 55 km from Aarschot, serving mainly regional and some international flights.
Located approximately 70 km from Aarschot, it serves primarily low-cost airlines and destinations.
Located about 80 km from Aarschot, it is mainly a cargo airport but also serves some passenger flights.
Located around 110 km from Aarschot, it offers flights to various European destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Aarschot consists of Belgian nationals, who are primarily of Flemish origin.
A significant portion of Aarschot's population includes immigrants from various countries, especially from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
There is a notable demographic of senior citizens in Aarschot, reflecting the aging population trend seen in many parts of Belgium.
The youth and young adult demographic, including students and young working professionals, represents a vibrant part of Aarschot's community.
Families with children form an important demographic group, contributing to the community's cultural and social life.
Minority groups, including various cultural and ethnic backgrounds, are present in Aarschot, contributing to its diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Aarschot, with several local clubs and a strong community following.
Cycling is a favored activity in Aarschot, with many scenic routes suitable for both road cycling and mountain biking.
Volleyball enjoys popularity among residents, with clubs and community events promoting participation at various levels.
Athletics, including running and track events, is popular in Aarschot, often supported by local sports clubs and events.
Tennis is practiced widely in Aarschot, with several courts available and active membership in local clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aarschot.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many restaurants in Aarschot, including De Lage Kempen and De Plezante.
Several establishments, such as Eetcafé Onder de Toren, offer gluten-free choices on their menus.