Things To Do
in Waterloo
Waterloo, Belgium, is a historic town just south of Brussels famous for the 1815 Battle of Waterloo and its commemorative landmarks. Today it blends leafy suburbs, a charming town center, and easy access to the Belgian capital, making it a perfect day trip or quiet weekend base. The town features the Lion's Mound, the Wellington Museum, and scenic cycling and walking routes through surrounding farmland.
Visitors enjoy Belgian cuisine, village markets, and the proximity to the Soignes Forest for outdoor exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the iconic Lion's Mound, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views of the battlefield. Afterward, stroll through the quaint streets of Waterloo, stopping by local bakeries to enjoy fresh pastries and coffee. Visit the nearby Memorial 1815 museum to immerse yourself in the history of the Battle of Waterloo.
In the afternoon, head to the Wellington Museum, housed in the former headquarters of the Duke of Wellington. Explore the exhibits that detail the events leading up to the famous battle, including artifacts and personal accounts. After your museum visit, enjoy lunch at a charming café, savoring traditional Belgian dishes.
As evening falls, unwind at a local beer garden, sampling a variety of Belgian brews. Engage in conversations with locals and fellow travelers while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets of Waterloo, taking in the historic architecture.
Begin your day with a guided tour of the famous Waterloo battlefield, where the events of 1815 unfolded. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, walk the grounds and learn about the strategies and key figures involved in the battle. Make sure to visit the various monuments and memorials scattered throughout the site.
After the tour, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the scenic spots on the battlefield, surrounded by the lush countryside. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Hougoumont Farm, a crucial stronghold during the battle, and delve into its history. Engage with interactive exhibits to gain a deeper understanding of the battle's significance.
As dusk approaches, take a moment to reflect on the history you've learned at the battlefield. Head back to the town center for a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, where you can sample seasonal Belgian cuisine. Spend the rest of the evening enjoying live music at a nearby venue.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🍺Beer at a pub | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-150 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and proximity to Brussels
- Pleasant town center with good dining
- Excellent access to nature and cycling routes
- Friendly locals and safe, walkable streets
- Quiet nightlife compared to Brussels
- Limited high-end shopping and nightlife options in town
- Smaller town feel may require trips to Brussels for some activities
- Seasonal weather can be rainy and unpredictable
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la gare?" - Where is the train station?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Waterloo
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic vantage point overlooking the battlefield with panoramic views over the fields.
Open spaces and historical monuments provide solemn and atmospheric photo opportunities.
Historic interiors and courtyard settings ideal for architectural and period photography.
Rural lanes and fields offering pastoral scenes, especially during golden hour.
Food in Waterloo
Waterloo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh mussels simmered in beer or cream with a side of crispy Belgian fries.
Must-Try!
A rich beef and onion stew slowly cooked in Belgian beer, typically served with bread or potatoes.
Beef stew tenderized in dark beer and herbs, a comforting staple at many brasseries.
Buttery waffles dusted with sugar, often topped with whipped cream or fruit.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market in central Waterloo offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and regional specialties.
Although in Brussels, a short trip can yield diverse street foods like fries, waffles, and croquettes for a day trip flavor.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting in French (Bonjour) or Dutch/Flemish (Goedemorgen/Goedemiddag) is appreciated; use formal address with strangers.
Keep hands visible on the table, wait to be seated, and avoid loud conversations in quiet restaurant spaces.
When visiting Battle of Waterloo sites, treat monuments with respect and follow guidance from signs and staff.
Safety
Tipping in Waterloo
Ensure a smooth experience
In Belgium, a service charge is often included; if not, leaving around 5-10% for good service is common.
Cash and most major credit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some small cafes may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures and blooming countryside make outdoor walks and market visits enjoyable.
Long daylight hours, occasional showers; great for outdoor cycling, picnics, and day trips to Brussels.
Colorful foliage and harvest markets; comfortable temperatures for hiking and strolling the town.
Cool, often damp weather; Christmas markets and warm cafés provide a cozy contrast to historic sites.
Waterloo at Night
Hiking in Waterloo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of marked trails through the Soignes Forest, perfect for day hikes and birdwatching.
Scenic loop with viewpoints over the fields and battlefield history.
Countryside trails around nearby Nivelles with hedgerows and small lakes.
Airports
How to reach Waterloo by plane.
Major international gateway located about 20-25 minutes by car/train from Waterloo; direct rail connections to central Brussels and nearby towns.
Smaller regional airport about 40-60 minutes away by road; serves budget airlines with connections to major European cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families with school-age children; the town offers playgrounds, parks, and family-friendly events.
A significant portion of residents commute to Brussels or Leuven for work, thanks to fast rail connections.
Nearby universities and language schools attract students who study in Brussels and the surrounding region.
Visitors come for the battlefield heritage, nature, and Belgium cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Belgium’s beloved activity; scenic country routes around Waterloo are popular with local cyclists.
Popular spectator sport; local clubs and community fields are common in the region.
Public courts and clubs around Waterloo are common for recreational play.
Nearby courses offer relaxed rounds with countryside scenery.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Waterloo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer meat-free options; you can ask for vegetarian mains or salads, and many places can accommodate dairy-free needs.
Vegan dishes are available at several eateries or can be arranged with substitutions; consider calling ahead for vegan options.
Gluten-free bread and pasta options are available in various venues; inform staff of gluten restrictions when ordering.