Things To Do
in Beringen

Beringen is a picturesque city located in the Limburg province of Belgium. It is known for its rich mining history, with the Beringen coal mine being a prominent landmark in the city. The city is also home to beautiful nature reserves, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.

Beringen combines historical charm with modern amenities, making it a pleasant destination for visitors.

  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
  • "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $120
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
  • Coffee: $2 - $4
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Beringen
morning
:

Start your day with a bike ride through the scenic nature trails around Beringen. Enjoy the fresh air and picturesque views as you pedal through the countryside.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Beringen Mine Museum to learn about the local mining history. Explore the exhibits and gain insights into the lives of miners in the region.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Belgian cuisine. Take a leisurely stroll around the town to soak in the charming ambiance.

day 2
Nature Retreat
morning
:

Spend your morning hiking in the nearby Heusden-Zolder nature reserve. This area features well-marked trails and diverse wildlife for you to observe.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch and find a lovely spot to enjoy your meal. Relax and take in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

evening
:

Return to Beringen and visit a local café for some delectable Belgian waffles. Unwind with a hot drink as you reflect on your day in nature.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and cultural heritage with historical sites.
  • Beautiful green spaces and parks for outdoor activities.
  • A close-knit community with a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Access to amenities and services in a small-town setting.
  • Proximity to larger cities like Antwerp and Brussels for additional opportunities.
  • Limited public transport options compared to larger cities.
  • Fewer job opportunities within the town itself.
  • Potential language barrier, as Dutch is the primary language.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options for younger residents.
  • Weather can be rainy and grey, particularly in winter months.

Best Activities in Beringen

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Cycling

Explore the beautiful countryside and scenic routes around Beringen on a bike.

Hiking

Enjoy the numerous walking and hiking trails in the area, including the impressive terril landscapes.

Fishing

Relax and fish at the various ponds and lakes in and around Beringen.

Tours

Uncover the best of Beringen with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Beringen

Visit one of these nice places.

Mine site of Beringen

Former coal mine site with panoramic views and industrial heritage for unique photo opportunities

Paalse Plas

Beautiful lake providing stunning views and nature photography opportunities

Todi Dive Center

Underwater photo opportunities in a unique indoor diving center

Food in Beringen

Belgian cuisine is known for its hearty, flavorful dishes that often incorporate beer and chocolate. Beringen, located in the Limburg province, offers a delightful blend of traditional Belgian cuisine with influences from neighboring countries such as the Netherlands and Germany.

Beringen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoofvlees

A rich beef stew made with beer, onions, and spices, usually served with frites.

Must-Try!

Mosselen-friet

Steamed mussels served with crispy Belgian fries, often accompanied by a dollop of mayonnaise.

Konijn met pruimen

Rabbit stewed with prunes and Belgian ale, a classic dish with sweet and savory flavors.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Beringen better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Beringen Weekmarkt

The weekly market where you can find local produce, cheeses, baked goods, and regional specialties.

Frituur 't Eikstraatje

A popular friterie offering delicious fries and a variety of sauces, a quintessential Belgian street food experience.

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as a temperate maritime climate, which features mild summers and cool winters. Average temperatures generally range from around 3 to 8 degrees Celsius in winter and from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius in summer. Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter conditions during the summer months. Rainfall is common, and the area may experience cloudy and humid conditions, particularly in autumn and winter. Snowfall can occur in winter, although it is not typically heavy. Overall, the climate is influenced by the North Atlantic Ocean, leading to moderate temperatures and a relatively stable weather pattern, with variation primarily due to seasonal changes.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space

In Beringen, Belgium, it's important to respect personal space when interacting with others, including using proper greetings and maintaining a comfortable distance.

Punctuality

Being punctual is valued in Belgian culture, so it's important to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings in Beringen.

Table manners

When dining in Beringen, it's customary to wait for the host to start eating, keep your hands above the table, and say 'Bon appétit' before the meal.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Beringen with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in any community can vary based on numerous factors, including crime rates, local law enforcement efficiency, and community engagement. In the context of Beringen, the overall crime rate tends to be lower than in larger urban areas, which can contribute to a feeling of safety among residents. Local authorities are generally proactive in ensuring public safety, with regular patrols and community policing initiatives. Residents often participate in neighborhood watch programs, fostering a sense of community and vigilance. In addition to crime, considerations about safety in the area include traffic regulations and road safety, which are taken seriously with regular awareness campaigns. Public spaces are generally maintained well, contributing to a safe environment for families, children, and outdoor activities. While there may be occasional reports of petty crime, such occurrences are typically dealt with promptly by local law enforcement. Overall, Beringen is considered a safe place for its residents and visitors, making it an inviting community.

Tipping in Beringen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Beringen, Belgium, tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated for good service. It is common to round up the bill or leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation, usually around 5-10% of the total bill.

Payment

The payment practices in Beringen, Belgium, are modern and widely accepted. Credit and debit cards are commonly used, and contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular. Cash is also widely accepted, but it's always good to have some Euros on hand, especially for smaller purchases and at smaller establishments.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Beringen.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a great time to visit Beringen, Belgium. The weather is mild, and the beautiful blossoming flowers and trees create a picturesque setting for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer is another ideal time to visit Beringen. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and enjoying outdoor festivals and events.

Autumn

Autumn brings stunning foliage to Beringen, making it a wonderful time for nature walks and hiking. The weather is cooler, and the city's parks and gardens are particularly beautiful during this season.

Winter

Winter in Beringen is cold but charming. Visitors can enjoy festive holiday markets, ice skating, and cozy indoor activities. The city's historic sites and museums are great places to explore during the winter months.

Beringen at Night

Nightlife in Beringen offers a pleasantly diverse range of activities for both locals and visitors. The town features several cozy bars and pubs where you can enjoy a relaxed evening with friends or family. Many of these establishments serve a variety of Belgian beers, allowing you to sample some of the country's finest brews in a comfortable setting. For those who enjoy a more vibrant atmosphere, there are a few nightclubs and music venues that host live performances and DJ sets, providing an opportunity to dance the night away. The local clubs often feature a mix of music genres, catering to different tastes and ensuring that everyone has a good time. In addition, Beringen's nightlife scene includes cultural events and festivals throughout the year. These events often highlight local traditions, music, and food, contributing to the town's lively and welcoming night culture. Though admittedly smaller and more intimate than the nightlife scenes found in larger cities, it’s precisely this cozy, community-driven vibe that makes nights out in Beringen special. With a range of venues offering both laid-back and lively experiences, there truly is something for everyone.

Hiking in Beringen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kruisberg

A scenic hiking area with well-marked trails and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, located just near Beringen.

Beringer Maas

A picturesque pathway along the Maas River, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature, featuring diverse flora and fauna.

Hoge Kempen National Park

Located a short drive from Beringen, this national park offers a variety of hiking trails through forests, heathlands, and around lakes.

Zwarte Beek

A nature reserve with several walking routes through lush greenery, perfect for a relaxing hike.

Heusden-Zolder

This area features multiple trails that take you through parks and forests, providing a great opportunity for nature walks.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Beringen through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Beringen by plane.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

The largest airport in Belgium, located approximately 40 km from Beringen, serving as a major international gateway.

Antwerp International Airport (ANR)

Located about 50 km from Beringen, this airport mainly serves regional and some international flights.

Charleroi Airport (CRL)

Also known as Brussels South Charleroi Airport, located around 70 km from Beringen, it primarily caters to low-cost airlines.

Liege Airport (LGG)

Located about 38 km from Beringen, it is a cargo airport that also offers some passenger services.

Walkability

This charming town offers a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational areas that enhance walkability. The central neighborhoods are designed to be pedestrian-friendly, featuring sidewalks and traffic-calmed streets that encourage walking. Public transport is accessible, with options that complement walking routes, making it convenient for residents to navigate without relying heavily on cars. Local amenities such as shops, cafes, and parks are often within walking distance, fostering a sense of community and encouraging outdoor activity. The presence of green spaces also contributes positively to the walking experience, providing scenic routes and areas for relaxation. Furthermore, efforts to promote sustainability and reduce vehicular traffic have further enhanced the walkable environment, making it a pleasant area to explore on foot. Overall, residents and visitors alike can enjoy a compact, walkable layout that emphasizes convenience, community interaction, and a healthy lifestyle.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Belgian Nationals

The majority of the population in Beringen consists of Belgian nationals.

European Union Citizens

A significant number of EU citizens, particularly from neighboring countries, reside in Beringen.

Moroccan Community

The Moroccan community is one of the larger immigrant groups in Beringen, contributing to the town's cultural diversity.

Turkish Community

The Turkish population also forms a notable demographic group, with many members involved in local businesses.

Other Immigrant Groups

Includes communities from various countries, contributing to the multicultural aspect of Beringen.

The Soul of Beringen

Discover the essence of Beringen through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Beringen, with several local clubs and a strong community following. Matches are played regularly, and youth programs are common.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored activity in Beringen, known for its scenic routes. Both recreational and competitive cycling are widely practiced.

Athletics

Athletics enjoys popularity in Beringen, with community events and competitions fostering local talent in running, jumping, and throwing events.

Basketball

Basketball is growing in popularity, with local clubs offering training and participation in regional leagues.

Volleyball

Volleyball has a dedicated following in Beringen, with several teams participating in inter-community competitions.

Traffic

Located in the province of Limburg, the town experiences moderate traffic levels typical of a smaller Belgian municipality. The road network is well-connected, with several local roads linking to regional routes. Commuters often use personal vehicles, and during peak hours, traffic congestion can occur, particularly around commercial areas and schools. Public transportation, including buses, is available, providing alternatives for residents. Cycling is also a popular mode of transport in the region, supported by bike paths. Overall, while traffic is manageable, it experiences fluctuations during peak commuting times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Beringen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While traditional Belgian cuisine leans towards meat-heavy dishes, many restaurants in Beringen offer excellent vegetarian and vegan choices, including hearty salads, vegetable stews, and plant-based versions of classic Belgian dishes.

Gluten-Free Options

Visitors with gluten restrictions will find several restaurants and cafes in Beringen that cater to gluten-free diets, offering gluten-free bread, pastas, and other alternatives.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Beringen with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Situated in the Flanders region, the town is equipped with several healthcare facilities that cater to the needs of its residents. The healthcare system here is characterized by a combination of public and private services, ensuring a comprehensive range of medical care. Residents have access to various general practitioners and specialist clinics offering primary healthcare services, as well as more advanced medical treatments. Local hospitals provide emergency, surgical, and specialized care, ensuring that most medical needs can be met within the area. The healthcare providers in the region typically operate within the framework of Belgium's national health insurance system, which covers a significant portion of medical expenses. Patients usually benefit from a high standard of care, with a focus on accessibility and quality. Moreover, there are various support services available, including home care for the elderly or those with disabilities, as well as mental health services. The community is also proactive in promoting health and wellness through various initiatives, educational programs, and preventive care services. Overall, the healthcare environment is conducive to meeting the diverse needs of the population, reflecting the strong public health policies in place in Belgium.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2024 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide