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.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Hello" - Hallo
- "Goodbye" - Tot ziens
- "Thank you" - Dank u
- "Excuse me" - Pardon
- "Yes" - Ja
- "No" - Nee
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Historic Diest
morning:Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Begijnhof, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a peaceful walk among the historic houses and gardens. Don't miss the charming Cafe 't Stadhuis for a delightful breakfast.
afternoon:Discover the rich history of Diest at the Stadsmuseum De Hofstadt. Explore fascinating exhibits showcasing the city's heritage. For lunch, savour traditional Belgian cuisine at De Refugie.
evening:Experience Diest's vibrant nightlife at Bar Castel. Enjoy great music, cocktails, and a lively atmosphere perfect for a night-out.
Nature and Relaxation
morning:Embrace the tranquility of Webbekoms Broek Nature Reserve. Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic trails and immerse yourself in nature. Treat yourself to a delightful brunch at Cafe Den Herberg.
afternoon:Spend the afternoon at Park Cerckel, a serene green space with picturesque ponds and beautiful flora. Enjoy a picnic amidst the peaceful surroundings.
evening:Unwind at Bistro Bij De Nonnen for a delectable dinner before enjoying a pleasant evening walk in the Diest city center.
Cultural Exploration and Shopping
morning:Explore the unique collections at the Diestse Stadswinkel and discover local crafts and artworks. Don't miss the chance to indulge in a delightful breakfast at Brasserie Den Hertog.
afternoon:Stroll through the charming streets of Diest and explore the various boutiques and specialty stores. Enjoy a tasty lunch at Taverne Rubbens.
evening:Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Markt Diest, bustling with cafes and bars, offering the perfect setting for an enjoyable evening with friends.
Culinary Delights
morning:Indulge in a delightful breakfast at De Smidse and savor a variety of freshly baked goods and artisanal treats. Take a leisurely stroll to explore the historic Grote Markt and its picturesque surroundings.
afternoon:Experience a wonderful gastronomic journey at De Luytervelde, renowned for its delectable Belgian cuisine and charming ambiance. Enjoy a leisurely lunch amidst a delightful setting.
evening:Relish the evening with a gourmet dinner at De Watermolen, known for its exquisite culinary creations and elegant dining experience.
Diest Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Stoofvlees met friet
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
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.
Photography Spots in Diest
Locations for the best views and photo opportunities
Seasonal Advice
Best times to visit and what to expect in different seasons
Spring
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
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
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
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.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Diestse verckensmarkt
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.
Things to do in Diest
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Diest
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!