Things To Do
in Ronse
Ronse is a historic Flemish city in East Flanders, perched in the Flemish Ardennes with a compact medieval center and a lively market life. Its red-brick facades, cobbled lanes and the Gothic Saint Hermes Church tell tales of centuries of trade and craft. The town serves as a gateway to forested hills, scenic cycling routes and easy day trips into the Belgian Ardennes.
Visitors enjoy markets, cafés on sunny squares and a relaxed pace that suits urban explorers and nature lovers alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning St. Hermes Basilica, renowned for its intricate architecture and serene atmosphere. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through Ronse's cobblestone streets, soaking in the charming historic buildings and local shops. Don’t forget to stop by a local café for a warm Belgian pastry and a coffee to fuel your explorations.
In the afternoon, delve into the local history at the Ronse Museum, where fascinating exhibits showcase the region's past and culture. Following your museum visit, take a walk to the scenic Parc de la Source, where you can relax by the fountains and enjoy a picnic amidst nature. As the day winds down, explore the artisanal shops for unique souvenirs and local crafts.
End your day with a delightful dinner at a traditional Belgian brasserie, sampling local dishes like carbonnade flamande. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets of Ronse, enjoying the peaceful ambiance. If you're up for it, find a cozy pub to enjoy a local beer and perhaps engage in some lively conversation with the locals.
Kick off your day with a guided nature walk in the nearby Pays des Collines, where you can marvel at the diverse flora and fauna of this lush region. Capture stunning photographs of the rolling hills and vibrant wildflowers as you traverse the scenic paths. Enjoy the fresh air and tranquility before heading back to Ronse for lunch.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby nature reserve of Bourgogne, where you can explore well-marked trails and engage in birdwatching. Bring a field guide to identify the various species you may encounter, and take time to appreciate the natural beauty around you. This is a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene environment, far from the hustle and bustle of city life.
For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at a farm-to-table restaurant, where you can savor seasonal dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients. After your meal, take a short walk to a nearby viewpoint to watch the sunset over the hills, a breathtaking end to a day in nature. Wrap up the evening with a nightcap at a local wine bar, enjoying a selection of Belgian wines.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $40-60 |
| 🛏️Hotel room per night (mid-range) | $70-120 |
| 🥖Loaf of bread | $2-3 |
| 🚆One-way local transit ticket | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact historic center with easy exploration on foot
- Beautiful natural surroundings ideal for outdoor activities
- Friendly locals and good value for money
- Good access to Belgian Ardennes and other towns
- Small nightlife scene compared to bigger cities
- Weather can be unpredictable with frequent rain
- Limited upscale dining options in the immediate town center
- Hilly streets can be challenging for those with mobility issues
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ik begrijp het niet" - I don’t understand
- "Kunt u de rekening geven?" - Can I have the bill?
Places to Visit in Ronse
Visit one of these nice places.
The central square framed by red-brick facades and the ornate Town Hall makes a classic Belgian cityscape.
A medieval church with a dramatic façade and a beautifully lit interior in early morning or late afternoon.
Quiet lanes with traditional Flemish houses and flower boxes provide intimate street photography moments.
Gentle hillside trails offering sweeping views over Ronse and the surrounding countryside, especially at sunset.
Food in Ronse
Ronse Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich Belgian beef stew slow-cooked with beer, often served with pommes frites or bread.
Must-Try!
A warming chicken stew with herbs and vegetables common in Flemish kitchens.
A selection of local cheeses paired with geuze or lambic beer.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market on the main square selling cheeses, bread, produce and local crafts.
Casual bites like croquettes, frites with sauce and regional pastries on sunny days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Handshakes are common; when in doubt, greet with a polite hello and use titles in formal settings.
Dutch is the local language; many people speak French or English in tourist areas.
Be punctual for appointments; queueing and polite etiquette are expected in shops and cafes.
Safety
Tipping in Ronse
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common if service is not included.
Cash and cards (Visa, Mastercard, contactless) are widely accepted; many places support mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, pleasant days with occasional showers; ideal for outdoor markets, café terraces, and hillside hikes.
Colorful foliage and harvest markets; cooler evenings great for cozy dinners and beer bars.
Cold but charming; festive lights in the historic center; some attractions may have reduced hours.
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; excellent for walking and outdoor photography.
Ronse at Night
Hiking in Ronse
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested trails with a viewing tower and scenic viewpoints.
Hill routes offering panoramic views over Ronse and the Ardennes foothills.
Cycling routes that pass through the Flemish Ardennes, suitable for day trips.
Airports
How to reach Ronse by plane.
Major international airport about 1.5 hours by rail or car from Ronse.
Smaller international airport serving the region, reachable by train or road.
Nearby option in France, accessible by road.
Coastal airport within a couple of hours by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Dutch-speaking Flemish residents with a mix of families and an aging population.
Tourists and weekend visitors exploring markets and Ardennes trails.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Flemish Ardennes offer world-class cycling routes and scenic hill climbs.
Local clubs and casual play are common in town.
Extensive forest and hillside trails attract hikers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ronse.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted; ask for vegetable-forward mains, salads, and sides. Belgian restaurants typically offer vegetarian versions.