Things To Do
in Binche
Binche is a charming town located in the Hainaut province of Belgium. It is best known for its famous carnival, which is recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The town is also home to a beautiful medieval castle, the Château de Binche, which is a popular tourist attraction.
Binche has a rich history and a vibrant community, making it a wonderful destination to explore.
- "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 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Binche Royal Museum of the Mask and Carnival. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the historic center and take in the beautiful architecture.
Grab lunch at a local café, sampling authentic Belgian cuisine. Spend the afternoon at the Grand Place, soaking up the local atmosphere and observing the stunning town hall.
Dine at a charming restaurant, enjoying local specialties such as carbonnade flamande. After dinner, take an evening stroll through the illuminated streets.
Begin your morning at the impressive Binche Citadel, where you can explore the ramparts and enjoy panoramic views. Capture the sights of this medieval fortress as the sun rises.
Visit the Musée de la Ducasse for insight into the region's festive traditions. Have lunch at a nearby eatery and explore local shops.
Enjoy a cozy dinner at a traditional Belgian brasserie. Conclude your day by attending a local theater performance, if available.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, including the famous Binche Carnival.
- Beautiful architecture and picturesque streets.
- Access to local artisanal products and cuisine.
- Close proximity to larger cities like Brussels and Mons, providing additional amenities.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger urban areas.
- May not have as many job opportunities as bigger cities.
- Small-town atmosphere may not appeal to everyone.
- Cold winters and unpredictable weather conditions.
Best Activities in Binche
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Attend the famous Binche Carnival, a UNESCO-recognized event known for its colorful parades and traditional Gilles costumes.
Explore the Ravel de Binche, a scenic cycling and walking path offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Visit Parc de la Binchoise to enjoy nature, walking trails, and outdoor picnics in a peaceful environment.
Tours
Uncover the best of Binche with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Binche
Visit one of these nice places.
The Town Hall offers a great view of the Grand Place and surrounding picturesque buildings, perfect for photography.
The Belfry provides panoramic views of Binche and the surrounding area, offering excellent photo opportunities of the town and its historic landmarks.
The castle grounds and gardens offer stunning views and photo opportunities, especially during the spring and summer seasons.
Food in Binche
Binche Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This refreshing salad features a delightful mix of local greens, walnuts, apples, and Binchoise cheese, dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. It can be savored at La Binchoise, a popular local restaurant.
Must-Try!
A Belgian classic, these golden crispy croquettes are a staple in Binche. They are often served as a side dish in many local eateries, including Chez Vero.
This hearty beef and onion stew is a beloved dish in Binche. Its tender, slow-cooked meat and flavorful sauce can be enjoyed at Au Blé Noir, a cozy restaurant in the city center.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Binche better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Every Sunday, the Binche Market comes alive with stalls offering a variety of fresh local produce, cheeses, and artisanal products. Visitors can also indulge in street food like crispy frites and waffles from vendors dotted around the market square.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to respect the traditions and customs associated with the Binche Carnival, such as the wearing of the iconic Gilles costume and the participation in the parade.
Residents of Binche value politeness and courtesy in their interactions. It is important to greet people with 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' and to use 's'il vous plaît' (please) and 'merci' (thank you) in daily interactions.
When dining in Binche, it is important to respect the local cuisine and dining customs. This includes savoring traditional dishes like the famous 'Gilles pies' and following table manners, such as keeping hands above the table during meals.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Binche with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Binche
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Binche, Belgium is not mandatory but appreciated. It is common to round up the bill or leave a 5-10% tip for good service at restaurants, cafes, and bars.
In Binche, Belgium, cash is widely accepted, and major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are also commonly used. It's important to carry some cash, especially in smaller establishments, as they may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Binche.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Binche to experience the famous Carnival of Binche which takes place in February or March.
Ideal for exploring the town's parks, gardens, and outdoor cafes in the pleasant weather.
Great for enjoying the changing colors of the surrounding forests and sampling seasonal local cuisine.
Perfect for experiencing the festive Christmas markets and cozy atmosphere of the town.
Binche at Night
Hiking in Binche
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic forest area near Binche offering various walking and hiking trails through lush greenery.
A beautiful natural park located nearby, featuring diverse landscapes, wildlife, and well-marked hiking paths.
An easy hiking trail that follows the old mills along the river, perfect for a peaceful nature walk.
A vast forest area with numerous trails for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the natural surroundings.
A scenic area perfect for hiking along the river Scarpe, offering picturesque views and a tranquil environment.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Binche through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Binche by plane.
The largest airport in Belgium, located approximately 50 km from Binche, serves as the main international gateway to the country.
Also known as Brussels South Charleroi Airport, located about 30 km from Binche, it primarily handles low-cost flights and is a hub for several budget airlines.
Situated around 70 km from Binche, it is known for cargo traffic but also offers passenger flights, particularly charter services.
Located about 80 km from Binche, this airport primarily serves regional flights and is a smaller international airport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Binche consists of Belgian citizens, primarily of Walloon descent.
There are various immigrant communities in Binche, including individuals from North Africa, Eastern Europe, and other parts of the world.
A significant proportion of the population is made up of senior citizens, reflecting the aging demographic trends in many Belgian towns.
Young adults and students are present, often attending educational institutions in and around Binche.
Children and adolescents make up a notable portion of the population, influenced by local families and schools.
The Soul of Binche
Discover the essence of Binche through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Binche, with numerous local clubs and a strong community following.
Cycling is a popular activity in Binche, especially due to its scenic routes and proximity to various cycling events in Belgium.
Basketball has a growing following in Binche, with local teams participating in regional leagues.
Athletics is well-practiced in Binche, with events and clubs encouraging participation in running, jumping, and throwing.
Rugby is becoming increasingly popular in the region, with clubs promoting the sport and organizing youth training sessions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Binche.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Binche offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with La Petite Goinfre being a standout for its delectable vegan offerings.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable options at Le Coq Hardi, which prides itself on catering to diverse dietary needs with its gluten-free menu.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Binche with these cultural adventures.
