Things To Do
in Péruwelz
Péruwelz is a small Walloon town in Belgium near the French border, rooted in a mix of industrial heritage and riverside scenery. It sits in the province of Hainaut, with easy access to the historic city of Tournai and the cross-border buzz of Lille. The town center offers a charming blend of markets, cafés, and architectural pockets that reflect Flemish and French influences.
It serves as a quiet, authentic base for exploring the broader Scarpe-Escaut region and its green escapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a visit to the local market, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and indulge in fresh produce and artisanal goods. After exploring the market, head to the nearby park for a leisurely walk, soaking in the beauty of the local flora. Take some time to appreciate the charming architecture of the small town as the morning sun shines down.
In the afternoon, visit the historical Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste, where you can delve into the rich history of the area through its stunning stained glass windows. Enjoy lunch at one of the quaint cafes, sampling traditional Belgian dishes while chatting with friendly locals. Post-lunch, explore the shops lining the cobblestone streets, picking up unique souvenirs.
As twilight approaches, unwind in one of the local bistros for dinner, enjoying dishes made from seasonal ingredients paired with fine Belgian craft beers. After your meal, take a stroll through the town square, where you can witness occasional live music or local performances. End your evening with dessert at a nearby patisserie, indulging in delicious Belgian chocolates and pastries.
Begin your day by visiting the local art gallery, showcasing contemporary works from both local and international artists. Engage with the exhibits and reflect on the artistic expressions that capture the essence of Belgium. Afterwards, meander through the town's charming streets, taking in the warm morning light.
In the afternoon, be sure to visit the Cultural Center that often hosts workshops and exhibitions. Participate in a local craft workshop where you can learn traditional techniques from skilled artisans. Later, savor a leisurely lunch at a restaurant known for its creative twists on classic Belgian cuisine.
Conclude your day with a visit to the town’s small cinema, catching a local film or documentary. Enjoy a relaxing drink at a nearby pub, mingling with the locals as you share your experiences of the day. Let the enchanting evening atmosphere wrap around you as you take in the sights and sounds of the town at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12–$20 |
| 🚌Public transit single ticket | $2–$3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $85–$120 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $3–$6 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $4–$7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, safe, authentic Belgian town experience
- Proximity to nature and nearby cities like Tournai and Lille
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Fewer high-end dining options in the town center
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "S’il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est… ?" - Where is…?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "L’addition, s’il vous plaît" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Péruwelz
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic square framed by classic Belgian architecture—a top spot for dawn or golden-hour shots.
Scenic riverside views with bridges, boats, and reflections ideal for tranquil photography.
A striking church with Gothic elements, great for architectural photography.
Picturesque canal-side bridge and waterway that capture the northern Belgian–French landscape.
Food in Péruwelz
Péruwelz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich Flemish beef stew slowly cooked in beer, best enjoyed with fries or bread.
Must-Try!
Meatballs with a savory sauce, commonly served with Belgian fries.
Mussels steamed with aromatics, paired with crispy fries.
Creamy, comforting stew featuring chicken or fish and vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and regional specialties—great to sample ingredients.
Golden Belgian fries with mayo or specialty sauces.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; address people with formal 'Monsieur/Madame' unless invited to use first names.
Keep hands visible; wait for everyone to be served before starting; paying is often done separately in cafés.
Polite conversation in French; attempt basic phrases; avoid loud talking late at night in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Péruwelz
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% in restaurants if service is good; some places include a service charge.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash is useful in markets; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, often warm with occasional showers; great for outdoor markets, river walks, and al fresco dining.
Colorful foliage and harvest events; cooler temps and comfortable conditions for hikes and strolls.
Shorter days with potential cold spells; festive lights in town and cozy interiors in cafés and restaurants.
Mild temperatures and blooming gardens; markets reopen and nature trails are especially inviting.
Péruwelz at Night
Hiking in Péruwelz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of trails through the Scarpe-Escaut Regional Natural Park, spanning Belgium and France.
Gentle day hikes along forested trails and the Scheldt riverbanks.
Airports
How to reach Péruwelz by plane.
Approximately 40 minutes by car or rail; convenient for regional connections.
Major international hub about 1.5 hours by train or car; broad connections.
Less than 2 hours away; accessible for budget flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Stable, family-oriented community with schools and parks.
Residents employed in small businesses, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Significant share of retirees; quieter residential areas.
People commuting to nearby towns for work or study.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among locals with local clubs and weekend matches.
A common pastime given flat countryside and scenic routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Péruwelz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include seasonal salads, veggie stews, cheese plates; many places can adapt sauces and prepare vegetarian fries.