Things To Do
in Diest
Diest is a charming city located in the Flemish region of Belgium. It is known for its well-preserved historic architecture, including the impressive Saint Sulpitius Church and the picturesque Beguinage. Diest also boasts a tranquil atmosphere, with its scenic parks and gardens perfect for leisurely strolls.
The city offers a rich cultural heritage, with museums, galleries, and annual events that showcase its vibrant past.
- "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 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by visiting the historical city center of Diest, where you can admire the beautiful architecture. Stop by the St. Sulpitius Church to appreciate its stunning Gothic design.
Head to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample some Belgian delicacies. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll in the nearby city park for some relaxation.
Wind down your day by dining at a cozy restaurant serving traditional Belgian cuisine. Enjoy a local beer while reflecting on your day's adventures.
Visit the Beguinage of Diest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about its rich history. Spend time exploring the peaceful gardens and quaint buildings.
Explore the nearby castle ruins of the old Diest castle for picturesque views. Take photographs of the historical landscape and enjoy a picnic on the grounds.
Dine at a restaurant that features historical decor to match your day's theme. Share stories about your explorations while tasting local dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with well-preserved medieval architecture.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and green spaces.
- A vibrant community with various cultural events and festivals.
- Accessibility to major cities like Brussels and Antwerp for day trips.
- A relatively peaceful and quiet atmosphere ideal for families.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Public transport options may be less frequent and reliable.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to urban areas.
- Potentially higher cost of living due to its attractive location.
- Limited international exposure and diversity.
Best Activities in Diest
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the charming streets of Diest by renting a bike and cycling around the city. Take in the historical architecture and picturesque surroundings while enjoying a leisurely ride.
Embark on a scenic hike in the natural reserve of Webbekoms Broek, located near Diest. Discover diverse fauna and flora as you wander through the beautiful wetlands and wooded areas.
Experience the city from a different perspective by taking a relaxing canal tour. Glide along the tranquil waterways, taking in the sights and learning about Diest's history and culture.
Tours
Uncover the best of Diest with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Diest
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the city and a great spot for photos
Provides panoramic views of Diest and its surroundings, perfect for photography
A historic windmill with beautiful views over the countryside
Food in Diest
Diest Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Stoofvlees met friet, or beef stew with fries, is a beloved Belgian dish that can be found in many local brasseries and restaurants in Diest. The tender beef stew cooked in beer and served with crispy Belgian fries is a must-try for visitors.
Must-Try!
Witloof met kaassaus en hesp, or endives wrapped in ham and baked in a creamy cheese sauce, is a classic Belgian dish that showcases the country's love for hearty and comforting cuisine. Look for this dish in traditional Belgian eateries in Diest.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Diest better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Diestse verckensmarkt is a vibrant food market that offers a variety of local produce, cheeses, meats, and artisanal products. Visitors can sample delicious street food such as Belgian waffles, oliebollen (Belgian doughnuts), and frietjes (fries) from the stalls scattered throughout the market.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Diest, Belgium, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others during conversations or interactions.
Punctuality is highly valued in Diest, so it is respectful to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings.
When dining in Diest, it is polite to wait until the host indicates where to sit and to keep hands visible on the table during meals.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Diest with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Diest
Ensure a smooth experience
In Diest, Belgium, tipping is not obligatory as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, leaving a small tip for excellent service is appreciated, typically rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% of the total.
In Diest, Belgium, cashless payments are widely accepted, including credit and debit cards. However, it's advisable to carry some cash as smaller establishments might prefer cash payments. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Diest.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Springtime is a lovely season to visit Diest, with blossoming flowers and pleasant temperatures. It's a great time for leisurely strolls and enjoying outdoor activities.
Summer is a popular time to visit Diest, offering warm weather and an abundance of festivals, outdoor markets, and cultural events. It's perfect for exploring the city and taking day trips to nearby attractions.
Autumn brings beautiful foliage and a comfortable climate, making it a delightful time to visit Diest. The city is less crowded, and visitors can enjoy charming autumnal scenery and seasonal culinary delights.
Winter in Diest is enchanting, especially during the holiday season. Visitors can experience festive decorations, Christmas markets, and cozy atmospheres. The city's history and architecture are particularly captivating in the wintertime.
Diest at Night
Hiking in Diest
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful area featuring well-marked hiking trails through natural landscapes, vineyards, and forests, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
A large forest area near Leuven that offers several hiking paths, picnic spots, and a serene natural environment.
A scenic park with walking paths, gardens, and historical buildings located in Leuven, perfect for a leisurely hike.
Various marked routes in and around Tienen that showcase the picturesque agricultural landscapes of Belgium, suitable for hikers of all levels.
A vast forest area with diverse trails, peaceful atmosphere, and opportunities to spot wildlife, located near Oud-Heverlee.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Diest through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Diest by plane.
The largest international airport in Belgium, located approximately 40 kilometers from Diest. It serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
An international airport located about 60 kilometers from Diest, primarily serving low-cost airlines and offering flights to various European destinations.
A smaller international airport located around 60 kilometers from Diest, primarily offering regional and charter flights.
Located about 70 kilometers from Diest, this airport handles both passenger and cargo flights and is known for its role in freight services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Diest consists of Belgian nationals, including native Flemish speakers.
A significant number of residents come from other EU countries, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the population.
A notable demographic group with a history of migration, particularly since the mid-20th century.
Another established group with roots in migration during the late 20th century, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Includes smaller populations from various regions, contributing to the diversity of the town.
The Soul of Diest
Discover the essence of Diest through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football, or soccer, is one of the most popular sports in Diest, with various local clubs and a strong community involvement.
Cycling is widely practiced in Diest, both as a competitive sport and a recreational activity, thanks to the scenic routes in the surrounding countryside.
Basketball has gained popularity in Diest, with several local teams and participation in youth leagues.
Athletics, including running and track events, is a favored sport, supported by local athletic clubs and events.
Volleyball is played in schools and clubs throughout Diest, promoting teamwork and fitness in the community.
Swimming is a popular activity, with facilities available for both recreational swimming and competitive swimming events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Diest.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Belgium is known for its hearty meat dishes, many restaurants and cafes in Diest offer vegetarian and vegan options. Look for dishes like vegetarian stoofvlees or vegan-friendly salads and soups on the menus.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free alternatives to traditional Belgian dishes in some eateries in Diest. Many establishments are accommodating and willing to modify recipes to cater to gluten-free dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Diest with these cultural adventures.
