Spa
,Spa is a picturesque town located in the Ardennes region of Belgium, known for its natural mineral springs and thermal baths. The town has a rich history as a popular wellness destination, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Besides its spa facilities, Spa also offers charming architecture, lush green landscapes, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
Spa is also famous for its Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit, Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, which hosts races and events throughout the year.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Morning Bliss
morning
:Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session at a local wellness center. Follow it up with a healthy breakfast at a nearby café, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee.
afternoon
:Spend the afternoon exploring the historic sites of Spa, including the beautiful Parc de Sept Heures. Consider visiting the Thermal Centre for a soothing bath experience.
evening
:In the evening, dine at a cozy restaurant known for its Belgian cuisine. End the day with a leisurely walk around the main square, soaking in the charming atmosphere.
Nature Escape
morning
:Begin your morning with a refreshing hike in the surrounding Ardennes forest. Breathe in the fresh air and admire the beautiful landscape.
afternoon
:In the afternoon, visit a local artisan shop to purchase handmade crafts. Afterward, relax at the spa with a luxurious massage treatment.
evening
:Enjoy dinner at a bistro that offers local specialties, accompanied by fine Belgian beers. Take some time to enjoy the live music at a nearby venue.
Highlights
Good
- Scenic natural beauty and picturesque landscapes
- Famous for its thermal springs and health spas
- Rich history and cultural heritage, including architecture and museums
- Variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and cycling trails
- Strong culinary scene with local specialties and fine dining options
Bad
- Can be expensive due to its status as a spa destination
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
- Tourist crowds during peak season may detract from the experience
- Public transportation options may be limited in some areas
- Weather can be unpredictable, impacting outdoor activities
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the Ardennes
Explore the scenic trails of the Ardennes region, known for its beautiful forests, hills, and wildlife. Various paths cater to different skill levels.
Biking around Spa
Enjoy cycling through the picturesque countryside and taking advantage of the cycling routes available in and around Spa.
Visit the Spa Francorchamps Circuit
Experience the thrill of motorsports at one of the most famous racetracks in the world, which often hosts exciting racing events.
Relax at Thermes de Spa
Indulge in outdoor wellness activities at the thermal baths, enjoying the natural mineral waters in a serene environment.
Fishing at Lake de Warfaaz
Spend a relaxing day fishing or picnicking by the scenic Lake de Warfaaz, surrounded by nature.
Adventure Park
Participate in various outdoor activities such as zip-lining and obstacle courses at the adventure park located near Spa.
Golfing at Golf & Country Club Spa
Play a round of golf at one of the oldest golf clubs in Belgium, featuring beautiful landscapes and challenging holes.
Visit the Coo Waterfalls
Take a short drive to the nearby Coo Waterfalls to enjoy the natural beauty and the sound of rushing water, along with various hiking trails.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Spa with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Lake Warfaaz
A serene lake surrounded by lush forests, offering beautiful reflection of the trees and sky, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Parc des Sept Heures
A picturesque park with panoramic views of Spa and the surrounding hills, perfect for capturing nature and cityscape photos.
Rue de la Sauvenière
This charming street offers quaint buildings and a cobblestone path, providing a romantic backdrop for photography.
Coo Waterfalls
Located nearby, these beautiful waterfalls are a stunning sight and offer great opportunities for dynamic water photography.
Franchimont Castle
The ruins of this medieval castle provide both historical context and sweeping views of the valley below, ideal for dramatic photographs.
Spa Town Center
The town square and surrounding architecture showcase traditional Belgian style, perfect for vibrant street photography.
Mont des Brumes
A hill that offers spectacular vistas of the surrounding countryside, especially during golden hours for breathtaking landscape shots.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Belgian Waffles
Indulge in crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside Belgian waffles, often topped with powdered sugar, whipped cream, and fresh fruits. Try them at Maison Halleux located at Rue Xhrouet.
Must-Try!
Waterzooi
A traditional Flemish stew made with fish or chicken, vegetables, and creamy broth. Savor this classic dish at Le Quai 23, a cozy restaurant situated by the Spa river.
Fries with Andalouse Sauce
Though known as French fries, they originated in Belgium. Pair them with a generous dollop of tangy Andalouse sauce. Enjoy this iconic snack at Friture René in the heart of Spa.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Spa better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Spa Market
Visit the Spa Market to sample a variety of local produce, cheeses, and artisanal chocolates. You'll also find stalls offering freshly prepared street food such as crispy fritkots and delectable crepes.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
In Spa, it is customary to greet people with a handshake. A friendly 'Bonjour' in French or 'Hallo' in Dutch can help establish a positive rapport. Always greet others when entering shops or restaurants.
Dining Etiquette
When dining, wait for the host to start before beginning your meal. It is polite to keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) and to say 'Bon appétit!' before eating. Tipping is appreciated, usually around 10% for good service.
Dress Code
Belgians generally dress well and maintain a smart casual appearance. When visiting restaurants or events, it’s advisable to wear tidy attire. Avoid overly casual clothing like flip-flops or gym wear unless at a specific casual setting.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Spa with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Spa, Belgium, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to round up the bill or leave a small amount of change, especially in restaurants and cafes. A tip of around 5-10% is considered polite if the service was satisfactory. In bars, rounding up the tab is also a typical practice.
Payment
Payments in Spa can be made using cash or card, with most establishments accepting major credit and debit cards. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors or markets. Many places also accept contactless payments. Additionally, some restaurants may automatically include a service charge in the bill, so checking the receipt is recommended.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Spa.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring in Spa (March to May) offers mild temperatures and blooming nature. It's a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the local gardens. Expect fewer tourists and the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Summer
Summer (June to August) is warm and lively, with temperatures often reaching the low 20s °C (70s °F). This is peak tourist season with numerous festivals, outdoor events, and vibrant nightlife. Ideal for visiting thermal spas and enjoying local outdoor cafes.
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler weather and stunning foliage as the leaves change color. This is a wonderful time for scenic walks and photography. The number of tourists decreases, making it a peaceful time to enjoy the historical sites and spas.
Winter
Winter (December to February) can be quite chilly, with temperatures often below 5 °C (41 °F). However, Spa's famous thermal baths offer a perfect retreat from the cold. Expect festive decorations and holiday markets if visiting during December, creating a cozy atmosphere.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hautes Fagnes Nature Reserve
A beautiful nature reserve located near Spa, featuring a network of trails through moors, peat bogs, and forests, ideal for all levels of hikers.
Signal de Botrange
The highest point in Belgium, offering stunning views and several hiking routes through picturesque landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
Franchimont Castle Trail
A scenic hiking trail that leads to the historic Franchimont Castle, providing panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Rond des Vignobles
A circular hike that takes you through beautiful vineyards and rolling hills, showcasing the scenic beauty of the region.
La Warche Valley
A serene hiking spot featuring trails along the Warche River, with opportunities to enjoy the local flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Spa through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Spa by plane.
Liège Airport (LGG)
An international airport located in Liège, Belgium, approximately 45 kilometers from Spa. It primarily serves cargo traffic but also accommodates passenger flights.
Brussels Airport (BRU)
The main international airport serving Brussels, located about 120 kilometers from Spa. It is one of the busiest airports in Europe and offers flights to destinations worldwide.
Charleroi Airport (CRL)
Also known as Brussels South Charleroi Airport, it is located approximately 85 kilometers from Spa. It primarily serves low-cost airlines and offers a variety of European routes.
Antwerp International Airport (ANR)
Located about 90 kilometers from Spa, this airport mainly serves domestic and regional flights and focuses on business travel.
Eindhoven Airport (EIN)
Situated around 120 kilometers from Spa, in the Netherlands, Eindhoven Airport serves as a hub for low-cost airlines and offers various international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Belgian Nationals
The majority demographic group, comprising native citizens of Belgium, which includes local residents and their families.
European Union Citizens
A significant minority consisting of citizens from other EU member states who have moved to Spa for work or residency.
Immigrants from Non-EU Countries
A smaller group of residents originating from various countries outside the EU, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
Tourists
Visitors from various countries drawn to Spa for its thermal baths, historical sites, and wellness tourism.
The Soul of Spa
Discover the essence of Spa through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cycling
Due to the scenic routes and hilly terrain, cycling is a popular sport in Spa. The region hosts various cycling events and attracts cyclists for its beautiful landscapes.
Formula One Racing
Spa is home to the famous Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, which hosts the Belgian Grand Prix. The circuit is renowned for its challenging layout and scenic setting.
Football (Soccer)
Football is a widely enjoyed sport in Spa with local clubs and youth leagues participating at various levels, fostering community spirit.
Swimming
With several pools and natural spring waters in the region, swimming is both a recreational activity and a competitive sport for locals.
Golf
Spa offers beautiful golf courses that attract both enthusiasts and professional players, making it a popular sport in the area.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian
Many restaurants offer delicious vegetarian dishes such as stuffed peppers, hearty salads, and vegetable gratins.
Vegan
While traditional Belgian cuisine can be meat and dairy-heavy, there are eateries in Spa that cater specifically to vegans, offering plant-based versions of local classics.
Gluten-Free
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy gluten-free versions of Belgian favorites like waffles, fries, and stoofvlees at select restaurants and cafes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Spa with these cultural adventures.
