Things To Do
in Sint-Niklaas

Sint-Niklaas is a vibrant city located in the heart of Belgium, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It features the largest square in Belgium, the Grote Markt, surrounded by stunning architecture and lively cafes. The city is also famous for its annual carnival and various local festivals that attract visitors from across the region.

With a blend of modern amenities and historical charm, Sint-Niklaas offers a unique experience for tourists and locals alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Heart of Sint-Niklaas
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through the Grote Markt, enjoying the architecture and the bustling atmosphere. Visit the Sint-Nikolaaskerk (St. Nicholas Church), a beautiful Gothic church with impressive stained glass.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market to sample some Belgian delicacies, followed by a visit to the city's historical museum to learn about its past. Don't forget to check out the local shops for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets of the city. If time allows, catch a local performance or cultural event.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit Park De Dijk for a refreshing morning walk or a bike ride, enjoying the green spaces and beautiful landscapes.

afternoon
:

Explore the local art scene by visiting galleries and studios. Take a break at a cozy café and try some local pastries.

evening
:

Dine at a popular brasserie and then head to a pub to experience the local nightlife, enjoying some live music or trivia night.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Beer$5
🚕Taxi Ride$10
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Lively local festivals and events.
  • Walkable city with beautiful parks.
  • Weather can be unpredictable.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may have limited frequency.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
  • "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I do not speak Dutch

Places to Visit in Sint-Niklaas

Visit one of these nice places.

Grote Markt

The central square, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for capturing the essence of Sint-Niklaas.

Sint-Nikolaaskerk

This Gothic church is a beautiful backdrop for photos, especially during sunset.

Park De Dijk

A scenic park with lovely pathways, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sint-Niklaas

Sint-Niklaas offers a delightful culinary experience, blending traditional Belgian flavors with modern cuisine. From street food to fine dining, there are plenty of options to satisfy every palate.

Sint-Niklaas Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoverij

A hearty beef stew slow-cooked in beer, often served with fries.

Must-Try!

Moules-frites

Mussels served with fries, a classic Belgian dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sint-Niklaas Market

A vibrant weekly market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal products.

Street Food Festival

An annual event featuring various food trucks and stalls offering local and international street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sint-Niklaas experiences a temperate maritime climate. Summers (June to August) are warm and pleasant, averaging 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winters (December to February) can be cold and damp, ranging from 0-5°C (32-41°F). Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with mild temperatures and occasional rain.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and keep both hands on the table.

Punctuality

Being on time is valued in business and social settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sint-Niklaas is generally a safe city for tourists, but it's essential to take standard precautions. Avoid poorly lit areas at night, keep an eye on personal belongings, and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.

Tipping in Sint-Niklaas

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Culture

Tipping is not mandatory in Belgium, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to have some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather with events like outdoor concerts and food festivals; perfect for exploring the city.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors; ideal for photography and local harvest events.

Winter

Cold and often snowy; enjoy holiday markets and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Sint-Niklaas at Night

Sint-Niklaas offers a lively nightlife scene, with various pubs, bars, and clubs catering to different tastes. The city comes alive in the evenings, with many establishments featuring live music, dance floors, or quiet lounges for conversation. Local events and festivals often contribute to the vibrant nightlife atmosphere.

Hiking in Sint-Niklaas

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kalkenberg Trail

A scenic trail offering moderate hiking through beautiful landscapes and forests.

Langelede Nature Reserve

A well-marked hiking area with diverse flora and fauna, perfect for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Sint-Niklaas by plane.

Antwerp International Airport (ANR)

Located about 30 kilometers from Sint-Niklaas, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sint-Niklaas is a highly walkable city, with many attractions located within walking distance of each other. The city features well-maintained sidewalks, pedestrian zones, and plenty of green spaces, making it pleasant for strolling. Biking is also a popular mode of transportation, with dedicated bike paths throughout the city.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic, attracted by job opportunities and a vibrant urban lifestyle.

Families

Many families choose to live in Sint-Niklaas for its community feel, parks, and schools.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is immensely popular in Sint-Niklaas, with local clubs and a strong fan base.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored sport and mode of transport, with many cycling events held throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sint-Niklaas is generally manageable, with peak hours during the morning and evening commutes. Public transportation includes buses and trains, providing easy access to nearby cities. Biking is a popular alternative, with dedicated paths making it safe and convenient.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sint-Niklaas.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-Free

Some places cater to gluten-free diets; look for specific labels or ask the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Sint-Niklaas is accessible and of high quality, with several hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and many doctors speak English. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses during their stay.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide