Things To Do
in Mons
Mons is a historic city in Belgium known for its beautiful architecture and rich cultural heritage. It is home to the impressive Belfry of Mons, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which offers panoramic views of the city. Mons also has a lively culinary scene, with cozy cafes and restaurants serving delicious Belgian cuisine.
The city hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, attracting visitors from all over the world.
- "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 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 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 stunning Grand Place, the heart of Mons. Grab a coffee at one of the local cafes and enjoy the beautiful architecture around you.
Head to the Mundaneum, a unique museum dedicated to the history of information. Spend your afternoon exploring its fascinating exhibits about knowledge and communication.
Dine at a traditional Belgian restaurant and savor local cuisine. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets of the city.
Climb the iconic Belfry of Mons for breathtaking views of the city. The experience is both invigorating and a rewarding start to your day.
Visit the nearby Hôtel de Ville, an architectural gem with a rich history. Enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery showcasing local specialties.
Experience the local nightlife at a cozy bar in the city center. Join locals for a drink and try some famous Belgian beers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural heritage, including historical sites like the Belfry of Mons and the Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church.
- A vibrant arts scene with festivals, museums, and galleries that celebrate local culture.
- A welcoming and diverse community with a mix of residents from different backgrounds.
- Access to beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and nearby countryside for outdoor activities.
- Educational opportunities with several institutions for higher learning.
- Relatively high cost of living compared to other regions in Belgium.
- Public transportation may not be as extensive or convenient as in larger cities.
- Job opportunities can be limited, especially in specialized fields.
- Weather can be quite variable, with a lot of rain, which may not appeal to everyone.
- Some areas may experience social challenges like youth unemployment or housing shortages.
Best Activities in Mons
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic hike through the Bois de Boussu forest with its picturesque trails and beautiful natural surroundings.
Explore the Parc du Waux-Hall, a lovely urban park with walking paths, a small lake, and green spaces ideal for leisurely outdoor activities.
Take a refreshing bike ride along the Ravel L94, a peaceful cycling route that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Tours
Uncover the best of Mons with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Mons
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic square with picturesque architecture and lively atmosphere.
Iconic medieval tower offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding area.
Hilltop location with stunning views of Mons and the surrounding countryside.
Food in Mons
Mons Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty beef stew slow-cooked in beer with onions and spices, typically served with frites (Belgian fries). One of the best places to try this iconic dish is at Le Saint -Preud'homme.
Must-Try!
A creamy Belgian soup or stew made with fish or chicken, vegetables, and seasoned with herbs. Maison Dandoy is highly recommended for experiencing this delicacy.
Belgian waffles, known for their light, crispy texture and often topped with powdered sugar, fruit, or chocolate. For some of the best gaufres, head to Maison Pirson.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Mons better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide array of fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, and other specialties. It's an ideal place to sample regional street foods like mitraillette, a hearty baguette sandwich filled with meat, fries, and sauce.
A market located in the midst of the old town offering a diverse range of local street food including escargot, Belgian chocolate, and artisanal cheeses.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
1. Greetings: It is important to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, depending on the level of familiarity. 2. Punctuality: Being on time is highly valued in Belgian culture, so it's important to be punctual for appointments and meetings. 3. Dining etiquette: Table manners are important in Belgian culture, such as keeping your hands on the table during a meal and waiting for everyone to be served before starting to eat.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Mons with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Mons
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Mons, Belgium. In restaurants, a service charge is often included in the bill, so it is not customary to leave an additional tip. However, leaving a small amount as a gesture of appreciation for exceptional service is not frowned upon.
Payment in Mons, Belgium is commonly done using cash, credit, or debit cards. Most establishments accept major credit cards, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller shops or markets. Contactless payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular in Mons.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Mons.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Mons is in spring, particularly in April and May when the city comes alive with blooming flowers and pleasant weather. Expect to see colorful gardens, outdoor events, and festivals during this time.
Summer is also a great time to visit Mons, with warm temperatures and longer days. Visitors can expect to enjoy outdoor activities, music festivals, and lively street performances during this season.
In autumn, Mons is adorned with beautiful fall foliage, making it a picturesque time to visit. Expect milder temperatures, cultural events, and harvest festivals during this season.
Winter in Mons may be chilly, but the city's festive atmosphere and holiday markets make it a charming time to visit. Expect to see Christmas decorations, traditional winter markets, and seasonal delicacies during this time.
Mons at Night
Hiking in Mons
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic natural park featuring walking and hiking trails, perfect for nature lovers looking to enjoy a relaxing day outdoors.
A beautiful natural park located nearby, offering a variety of trails through forests and across hills, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
This region offers multiple marked hiking routes with stunning views of the rolling hills and landscapes, suitable for all skill levels.
A lovely forest area with numerous walking trails, perfect for family hikes and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Delimited trails lead you through the natural environment around the caves, providing a unique combination of hiking and exploration.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Mons through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Mons by plane.
The largest airport in Belgium, located approximately 80 km from Mons, serving as a major international hub.
Situated around 54 km from Mons, this airport primarily serves low-cost airlines and regional flights.
Located approximately 95 km from Mons, it is one of Belgium's key cargo airports and also handles passenger flights.
About 75 km from Mons, this airport mainly serves regional flights and is close to the city of Antwerp.
Roughly 83 km from Mons, situated in France, this airport is a convenient option for flights to various destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Mons speaks French, making it the primary language and cultural influence in the city.
A smaller segment of the population speaks Dutch, reflecting the bilingual nature of the region, particularly in the context of the larger Wallonia and Flanders area.
Mons has a diverse demographic that includes various immigrant groups, particularly from North Africa and other parts of Europe, contributing to the multicultural landscape.
With the presence of higher education institutions, a significant number of university students, including both local and international students, contribute to the demographic makeup of the city.
A noteworthy portion of the population consists of senior citizens, reflecting the aging demographic trend prevalent in many European cities.
The youth demographic, including teenagers and young adults, forms an essential part of the community, often engaged in cultural and social activities.
The Soul of Mons
Discover the essence of Mons through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is highly popular in Mons, with local clubs and a strong following among fans.
Basketball is played at both amateur and professional levels, with teams competing in regional leagues.
Cycling is a favored activity, with many scenic routes around Mons and occasional cycling events.
Athletics is practiced by various clubs in Mons, encouraging participation in events like running and track competitions.
Handball has a growing popularity, with local teams participating in organized competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mons.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in Mons offer vegetarian dishes such as savory tarts, salads, and vegetable stews.
While vegan-specific eateries are limited, many places, especially in the city center, provide vegan options like plant-based burgers, soups, and pasta dishes.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find a variety of gluten-free menu items including soups, fish and meat dishes, and desserts at several restaurants throughout Mons.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Mons with these cultural adventures.
