Things To Do
in Tongeren
Tongeren is a charming city in Belgium with a rich history dating back to Roman times. It is known as the oldest town in the country, boasting well-preserved Roman ruins and a beautiful medieval center. The city is famous for its impressive Gothic basilica, quaint cobblestone streets, and vibrant weekly antiques market.
Tongeren also offers a variety of cultural events, delicious cuisine, and picturesque countryside surroundings waiting to be explored.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by visiting the Tongeren Antique Market, which is the largest in Belgium. Browse unique vintage items and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Head to the Gallo-Roman Museum to discover the rich history of the region. Enjoy the exhibits showcasing ancient artifacts and interactive displays.
Relax at a local café with some traditional Belgian beer and enjoy the sunset views at the city park. Savor a delicious dinner at a nearby restaurant featuring regional cuisine.
Start with a visit to the Basilica of Our Lady, an impressive architectural masterpiece. Take a moment to appreciate its stunning interior.
Wander through the charming streets of Tongeren, stopping at local shops and artisan boutiques. Experience the local culture and perhaps pick up a souvenir.
Join a guided evening tour to learn about Tongeren's folklore and legends. Finish with dinner at a cozy bistro where you can sample local dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage, including Roman ruins and medieval architecture.
- Home to one of the largest antique markets in Europe, attracting visitors and collectors.
- Pleasant small-town atmosphere with a friendly community.
- Well-connected by public transport, making it easy to visit other cities in Belgium.
- Picturesque natural surroundings that are ideal for outdoor activities.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields, possibly leading to commuting for work.
- Smaller size may mean fewer entertainment and cultural options compared to larger cities.
- Can be quiet or lack nightlife options, which may not appeal to younger residents.
- Weather can be variable, with a tendency for rain and damp conditions.
- Tourist crowds during antique market days can lead to congestion and noise.
Best Activities in Tongeren
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Tongeren and its surroundings offer scenic cycling routes, perfect for exploring the region's picturesque landscapes.
Explore the city's rich history by taking a walking tour of its well-preserved medieval buildings, ancient city walls, and the famous Basilica of Our Lady.
Discover the natural beauty of Tongeren's surroundings by going for a hike in the peaceful countryside or visiting nature reserves like De Kevie.
Enjoy a leisurely paddle along the tranquil waters of the Jeker River, passing through scenic landscapes and historic landmarks.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tongeren with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tongeren
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.
Houses artifacts and exhibits, includes a rooftop terrace for views of the city.
A historic estate with gardens and scenic viewpoints.
Food in Tongeren
Tongeren Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional blood sausage served with apple sauce, often found at local butchers and markets in Tongeren.
Must-Try!
Rabbit stew with prunes, a beloved dish in Tongeren, frequently featured on menus at local restaurants like De Mijlpaal.
A regional fruit tart that comes in various flavors such as cherry, apricot, and plum, widely available at bakeries like Bakkerij Vangronsveld.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tongeren better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
In addition to antiques, this market offers various street food vendors selling Belgian waffles, frites, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tongeren, Belgium, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, particularly in formal situations. It is also polite to address people using their titles and last names until given permission to use their first names.
Personal space is important in Tongeren, and it is considered respectful to maintain an appropriate distance when engaging in conversations. It is best to avoid standing too close or touching others without their consent.
When dining in Tongeren, it is polite to wait until everyone is seated and the host starts eating before beginning the meal. Additionally, keeping your hands visible on the table, rather than in your lap, is a sign of engagement and openness during the meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tongeren with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tongeren
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tongeren, Belgium, tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. It is customary to leave a 5-10% tip at restaurants if the service was satisfactory.
In Tongeren, Belgium, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in case of any establishments that do not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tongeren.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Tongeren, Belgium. The city is in full bloom with colorful flowers, mild temperatures, and frequent events and festivals.
Warm and pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions. Many cultural events and concerts take place in this season.
Beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures make autumn a great time to visit Tongeren. The city's historic sites and museums are less crowded, and there are food and wine festivals.
Magical atmosphere with holiday decorations, Christmas markets, and traditional winter activities. The city's cozy cafes and restaurants offer warmth and tasty Belgian cuisine.
Tongeren at Night
Hiking in Tongeren
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Sint-Truiden has several scenic trails through the Meuse valley, offering a mix of forest paths and open fields.
Located close to Tongeren, Blandain offers various well-marked hiking routes that take you through picturesque landscapes.
Hasselt features a range of hiking options with trails through parks and along the riverside, suitable for all skill levels.
This area includes a beautiful castle and surrounding parkland, perfect for leisurely hiking and enjoying nature.
A short drive from Tongeren, this national park features various hiking trails through forests and heathlands, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tongeren through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tongeren by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in Belgium, located approximately 81 km from Tongeren.
An international airport serving the Charleroi region, about 63 km from Tongeren.
Located about 27 km from Tongeren, it's primarily a cargo airport but also serves some passenger flights.
An international airport in Germany, situated approximately 122 km from Tongeren.
A major international airport located around 143 km from Tongeren, in Germany.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population, consisting of individuals born in Belgium or who have acquired Belgian nationality.
Citizens from other European Union member countries residing in Tongeren.
Individuals from countries outside the EU who live in Tongeren.
Children and teenagers, representing a significant segment of the demographic structure.
Adults who are typically in the workforce, representing a large portion of the demographic.
Elderly individuals, representing an important demographic group in terms of health and social services needs.
The Soul of Tongeren
Discover the essence of Tongeren through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Tongeren, with various local clubs and teams participating in regional leagues.
Cycling enjoys significant popularity in Tongeren, with many residents participating in both recreational and competitive cycling events.
Basketball has a strong following in Tongeren, with local teams competing in various divisions and offering youth programs.
Athletics is a prominent sport in Tongeren, with many events held throughout the year, including track and field competitions.
Handball has a dedicated community in Tongeren, with teams participating in local and national championships.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tongeren.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Tongeren provide vegetarian and vegan menu items, with places like De Henehoeve offering dedicated plant-based dishes.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy gluten-free meals at eateries like Eethuis Mardaga, which offers a variety of gluten-free choices on their menu.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tongeren with these cultural adventures.
