Things To Do
in Ath

A slow-cooked beef and onion stew made with Belgian beer; hearty and widely available at brasseries in and around Ath.

Must-Try!

Mussels with fries — a Belgian staple often featured in local restaurants during mussel season; commonly paired with a local beer.

Crisp-on-the-outside waffles, local tarts and pastries from town bakeries are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

Regional cheeses and cured meats sold at market stalls and delis — great for a picnic on a countryside walk.

Held weekly in the town centre (check local schedule); you’ll find fresh produce, cheeses, breads, charcuterie and occasional street-food stalls serving fries and snacks.

Larger market days and seasonal fairs bring more street-food options and local vendors — a good place to sample regional specialties and baked goods.

In Wallonia, greet people with a polite 'Bonjour' (or 'Bonsoir' in the evening) and a handshake in formal situations; personal space is respected and a friendly demeanour is appreciated.

French is the local language; even if you speak English, attempting a few French phrases is polite. Use formal address (Monsieur/Madame) with strangers and service staff.

Belgian towns often value quiet hours in the evening; keep noise moderate in residential areas and be mindful of recycling and trash sorting rules.

Local festivals and religious events are important community moments—observe respectful behaviour, ask before photographing people when in doubt.

Service is usually included in the bill (service compris), but it is customary to round up or leave a small tip (5–10%) for good service in restaurants. For taxis and small services, rounding up is common; café purchases do not usually expect a tip.

Cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in shops, restaurants and hotels. Small markets, local stalls and some rural cafés may prefer cash — carry euros and small notes for convenience. Contactless payments are common.

Mild temperatures, blossoming trees and fewer tourists make spring a pleasant time for walking, cycling and enjoying markets as fresh produce appears.

Warmest months with long daylight hours; ideal for outdoor festivals, cycling and picnics, though occasional heatwaves or thunderstorms can occur.

Cooler weather and colourful foliage in the surrounding countryside; harvest season brings seasonal foods and quieter streets after summer.

Cold and damp is typical, with short daylight hours; some attractions and smaller cafés may have reduced hours, but winter markets and cosy brasseries are charming.

Vegetarian options are available but more limited compared with larger Belgian cities. Look for salads, cheese plates, omelettes and seasonal vegetable preparations; communicate needs in advance at smaller restaurants.

Vegan choices can be scarce in traditional bistros; cafés and bakeries sometimes offer simple vegan options, and supermarkets carry plant-based products. Use phrasebooks or translation apps to confirm ingredients.

Gluten-free options exist but cross-contamination is possible in older kitchens. Larger restaurants and specialty bakeries are likelier to accommodate — always notify staff about allergies.

Dedicated Halal or Kosher venues are limited; look to larger nearby towns (Mons, Charleroi) for more options, or choose vegetarian dishes when in doubt.