Things To Do
in Saint-Ghislain
Saint-Ghislain is a charming town located in the Hainaut province of Belgium. It is known for its historic architecture, including the beautiful Saint-Ghislain Church and the iconic Belfry of Saint-Ghislain. The town is also home to several parks and green spaces, providing a peaceful escape for residents and visitors alike.
Saint-Ghislain is a welcoming community with a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant atmosphere.
- "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 historic town center, where you can admire the beautiful architecture. Don't forget to check out the local bakery for some delicious pastries.
Head to the Sainte-Waudru church to appreciate its stunning Gothic design and rich history. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the town's quaint streets and visit local shops.
Indulge in a traditional Belgian dinner at a local restaurant. Savor the flavors of Belgian cuisine while enjoying the charming ambiance of the town.
Begin with a refreshing walk in the Parc de la Basse Sambre, where you can connect with nature. Enjoy the serene environment and watch the local wildlife.
Visit the nearby nature reserves to explore beautiful walking trails and spot more wildlife. Bring a packed lunch to enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature.
Wind down your day with a sunset view from a local viewpoint. Reflect on your day over a light meal or snack at a cozy café.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with beautiful architecture
- Close proximity to nature and outdoor activities
- Strong sense of community and local culture
- Good transportation links to major cities in Belgium and neighboring countries
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Smaller range of entertainment and nightlife options
- Public transport may not be as frequent as in larger cities
- Weather can be variable and rainy, typical of Belgium
- Smaller population may mean less diversity in amenities and services
Best Activities in Saint-Ghislain
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails and natural beauty of Parc Naturel des Hauts-Pays.
Enjoy cycling along the RAVeL network which offers picturesque routes through the countryside.
Experience a relaxing day of fishing at Étang de Neufvilles, a popular spot for anglers.
Tours
Uncover the best of Saint-Ghislain with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Saint-Ghislain
Visit one of these nice places.
Former coal mining complex now converted into a cultural and recreational space, offering stunning views and great photo opportunities.
The historic architecture of the train station and its surroundings provide picturesque photo opportunities.
This medieval tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, making it a prime spot for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Saint-Ghislain
Saint-Ghislain Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A sweet and sour beef and onion stew, slow-cooked in beer, typically served with frites (Belgian fries). This dish can be found at many local brasseries and traditional restaurants, such as Chez Léon.
Must-Try!
Mussels cooked in white wine or beer, served with a generous portion of crispy frites. La Moule Rit and Chez Léon are renowned for their delicious moules-frites.
A creamy Belgian stew made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and herbs. Le Gril Des Tanneurs is known for its delectable waterzooi.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Saint-Ghislain better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the weekly market in Place de Mesvin to explore an array of local produce, cheeses, and freshly baked goods. You can also find food stalls offering a variety of street foods, like waffles, frites, and Belgian chocolates.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Saint-Ghislain, it's customary to greet people with a handshake, especially when meeting someone for the first time or in formal settings.
Respectful behavior in Saint-Ghislain includes using polite language and addressing people by their appropriate titles, such as 'Mr.', 'Mrs.', or 'Monsieur' and 'Madame' in French.
It's important to be mindful of personal space in Saint-Ghislain, so be sure to maintain an appropriate distance when interacting with others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Saint-Ghislain with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Ghislain
Ensure a smooth experience
In Saint-Ghislain, Belgium, tipping is not required as a service charge is typically included in the bill. However, it is still appreciated to leave a small amount of extra change or round up the bill for good service at restaurants, cafes, and bars.
In Saint-Ghislain, Belgium, cash is widely accepted for small purchases, but credit and debit cards are commonly used for larger transactions. Contactless payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular. It's important to carry sufficient cash when visiting smaller establishments or markets, as they may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Saint-Ghislain.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to see the beautiful cherry blossoms in bloom and enjoy milder temperatures.
Ideal for outdoor activities and festivals, with longer daylight hours and warm weather.
Witness the stunning fall foliage and experience cooler temperatures, perfect for nature walks.
Opportunities for winter sports and festive Christmas markets, but with shorter daylight hours and colder weather.
Saint-Ghislain at Night
Hiking in Saint-Ghislain
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A tranquil forest area with several trails suited for different skill levels, perfect for nature walks and birdwatching.
A beautiful garden located on the Citadel of Charleroi offering scenic views and easy hiking paths.
A picturesque park surrounding a castle, featuring well-marked paths ideal for leisurely hikes.
An old bridle path that has been transformed into a lovely hiking route with stunning countryside views.
A unique hilly area offering varied terrain and a mix of trails that showcase the natural beauty of the region.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Saint-Ghislain through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Saint-Ghislain by plane.
The main international airport serving Brussels, located approximately 49 km from Saint-Ghislain. It is the largest airport in Belgium and serves as a hub for international flights.
An international airport located about 30 km from Saint-Ghislain, primarily servicing low-cost airlines and a major destination for flights across Europe.
Located roughly 58 km from Saint-Ghislain, it is a cargo airport that also handles passenger flights, making it an important facility for both travelers and freight services.
Situated approximately 75 km from Saint-Ghislain, it is a smaller international airport mainly serving regional flights, but it has connections to major cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Saint-Ghislain consists of Belgian nationals, representing the core demographic of the area.
This group includes individuals from various countries who have moved to Saint-Ghislain for work, family, or other reasons.
A significant portion of the community constitutes elderly residents, many of whom are retired and participate in local activities.
Young families making up a growing demographic, seeking education and community resources for their children.
Students attending local schools and universities form a vital part of the community, contributing to its youthful energy.
A subset of the population that experiences economic challenges, often accessing social services.
This includes various cultural and ethnic minorities that add diversity to the local community.
The Soul of Saint-Ghislain
Discover the essence of Saint-Ghislain through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Saint-Ghislain, with local clubs and a strong community following.
Basketball has a growing presence in Saint-Ghislain, featuring local teams that participate in regional leagues.
Cycling is a popular pastime in and around Saint-Ghislain, with many scenic routes for both leisure and competitive cycling.
Athletics, including running and track events, has a dedicated following, supported by local sports clubs and events.
Volleyball is played recreationally and competitively in Saint-Ghislain, with several clubs offering training and matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Ghislain.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Belgian cuisine leans heavily on meat and dairy, many restaurants in Saint-Ghislain offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Places like Le Jardin de Jules and La Table Verte are known for their creative plant-based dishes.
Visitors with gluten sensitivity can find accommodating options at various eateries in Saint-Ghislain, such as Brasserie Diamant and Le Chaudron, which offer gluten-free versions of popular Belgian dishes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Saint-Ghislain with these cultural adventures.
