Things To Do
in Ath
Ath is a picturesque city located in the Hainaut province of Belgium. Known for its stunning architecture, Ath boasts several well-preserved medieval buildings, including the impressive Town Hall and the St. Julien Church. The city is also famous for its annual Ducasse d'Ath festival, a lively celebration featuring traditional folklore and a giant procession.
With its charming cobblestone streets and vibrant cultural scene, Ath is a hidden gem that attracts visitors looking to explore a lesser-known part of Belgium.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Castle of La Rocq, a beautiful remnant of the past. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about its rich history and architecture.
Head to the Maison des Mémoires to discover the local heritage through engaging exhibits. Don't forget to explore the surrounding area for charming cafes.
Savor a delicious dinner at a local bistro offering traditional Belgian cuisine. Take a leisurely stroll along the river and enjoy the views.
Visit the Parc de l'Hôpital, where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and lush greenery. Take a relaxing walk or find a nice spot to read.
Head to the nearby Canal du Centre for a scenic bike ride or a leisurely walk along the water. You’ll encounter stunning views and maybe even spot some wildlife.
Dine outdoors at a restaurant with a view of the canal. Enjoy the sunset as you taste local dishes and unwind after a day in nature.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful architecture and historical landmarks, including the famous wooden belfry.
- Rich cultural heritage with various festivals and events throughout the year.
- Charming town atmosphere with a mix of modern and traditional Belgian life.
- Access to beautiful natural surroundings and opportunities for outdoor activities.
- Good public transportation links to nearby cities such as Brussels and Ghent.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities in Belgium.
- May lack some modern amenities and conveniences found in bigger urban areas.
- Can be crowded during tourist seasons, which may detract from the local experience.
- Public services may not be as extensive as in larger municipalities.
- Weather can be unpredictable with long rainy seasons typical of the region.
Best Activities in Ath
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the Pairi Daiza zoo and botanical garden, which is known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse animal species.
Participate in Ath's Carnival, a lively and colorful event featuring parades, music, and local festivities.
Explore the natural beauty of Bois de la Houppe, a forested area offering scenic hiking trails and peaceful surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ath with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ath
Visit one of these nice places.
A botanical garden and zoo known for its beautiful landscaping and animal exhibits, offering great photo opportunities.
A historic tower providing panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside, perfect for capturing scenic images.
An interesting museum featuring giant figures and folklore, offering unique photo opportunities and cultural insights.
Food in Ath
Ath Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic dish featuring locally caught sole, pan-fried in butter and served with a delicious lemon and parsley sauce. Try it at Chez Auguste, a renowned local restaurant known for its excellent seafood dishes.
Must-Try!
A creamy stew traditionally made with fish or chicken, vegetables, and seasoned with herbs. Enjoy an authentic preparation of this dish at Brasserie Le Central, a historic eatery that has been serving traditional Belgian cuisine for decades.
Belgian frites are a must-try street food. These crispy, double-fried fries are served in a cone with a choice of delicious sauces such as mayonnaise, ketchup, or Andalouse. Sample some at Fritkot, a popular local spot known for its mouthwatering frites.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ath better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the Ath Thursday Market and immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere filled with local vendors offering an array of fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and more. Don't miss the opportunity to sample freshly prepared Belgian waffles and other delectable street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ath, Belgium, it is important to be punctual for social and business meetings as it is considered a sign of respect for other people’s time.
Respecting personal space is important in Ath, Belgium. It is customary to maintain a certain distance when communicating, especially with people you are not well-acquainted with.
When dining in Ath, Belgium, it is polite to wait until the host or hostess invites you to start eating. Additionally, keeping your hands on the table and using utensils properly are considered good table manners.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ath with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ath
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Belgium, including Ath. However, if you receive exceptional service at a restaurant or café, it is customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip as a token of appreciation.
In Ath, Belgium, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular, and most establishments, including restaurants and shops, accept major credit cards and mobile payment apps.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ath.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
In spring, Ath experiences mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time to explore the town and its outdoor attractions.
Summer in Ath is warm and pleasant, with longer daylight hours ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the local festivals and events.
Autumn brings beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures, providing a scenic backdrop for exploring the town and its surrounding natural landscapes.
Winter in Ath can be cold, but it is a charming time to experience the festive holiday atmosphere and enjoy indoor attractions such as museums and cozy cafes.
Ath at Night
Hiking in Ath
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful garden area with walking paths offering scenic views and a serene environment for hiking.
A vast forest located near Ath, perfect for hiking, cycling, and enjoying nature's tranquility.
This natural park offers marked trails that lead through diverse landscapes, including hills, villages, and woodlands.
A picturesque park on the outskirts of Brussels, great for nature walks with well-maintained paths.
A network of lakes surrounded by trails, perfect for hiking and enjoying water activities in a natural setting.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ath through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ath by plane.
The main international airport in Belgium, located approximately 50 kilometers from Ath. It serves as a major hub for both international and domestic flights.
Also known as Brussels South Charleroi Airport, it is located about 70 kilometers from Ath. This airport primarily handles low-cost carriers and charter airlines.
Located about 65 kilometers from Ath, this is a smaller international airport mainly serving regional flights and some international connections.
Located approximately 90 kilometers from Ath, Liège Airport is known for cargo traffic but also offers passenger services with some international flights.
Situated around 70 kilometers from Ath, it serves as a base for low-cost airlines, catering mostly to European destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The total population of Ath, Belgium, as of the latest census.
The demographic group representing children and adolescents aged 0 to 14 years.
The demographic group consisting of individuals aged 15 to 64 years, typically considered to be in their working years.
The demographic group categorized as elderly individuals aged 65 years and older.
The demographic group representing individuals who were born outside of Belgium and have settled in Ath.
The demographic group of individuals who are native to Ath or have lived there for a significant period.
The Soul of Ath
Discover the essence of Ath through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Ath, with numerous local clubs and a strong community following. Matches and tournaments are common events in the area.
Cycling is a favored activity in Ath, supported by beautiful landscapes and trails. Both recreational cycling and competitive cycling events are prevalent.
Basketball enjoys popularity among younger generations in Ath, with local clubs and schools actively participating in regional competitions.
Rugby has gained traction in Ath, with clubs forming that promote the sport at various levels, encouraging both male and female participation.
Athletics, including track and field events, is supported by local sports clubs and schools, promoting fitness and competition among residents.
Swimming is a popular sport in Ath, with facilities available for both leisure and competitive swimming, drawing participants of all ages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ath.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Belgian cuisine leans heavily on meat and dairy, many restaurants in Ath offer diverse vegetarian and vegan options. Look for dishes featuring fresh local produce, and don't hesitate to ask the staff for customized offerings to suit your dietary preferences.
Individuals seeking gluten-free options will find several accommodating eateries in Ath. Many restaurants are attentive to dietary needs and can modify dishes to be gluten-free or may offer specific menu items tailored to gluten-free requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ath with these cultural adventures.
