Things To Do
in Waterloo
Waterloo is a historic town located in Belgium, known for being the site of the famous Battle of Waterloo in 1815. The town features several monuments and museums commemorating the battle, including the Lion's Mound and the Wellington Museum. Waterloo is also home to beautiful parks and gardens, providing a peaceful getaway from city life.
The town has a charming atmosphere with quaint streets lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants for visitors to explore.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your trip with a visit to the famous Lion's Mound for panoramic views of the battlefield. Take a guided tour to learn about the events of the Battle of Waterloo.
Explore the Wellington Museum which offers insights into the Duke's war strategies and artifacts from the battle. Enjoy lunch at a local café, sampling traditional Belgian fare.
Stroll through the picturesque streets of Waterloo and enjoy a leisurely dinner at a bistro. Wind down by visiting a nearby bar and sampling some local beers.
Visit the Interactive Visitor Center for an engaging presentation on the Battle of Waterloo. Utilize multimedia exhibits to immerse yourself in the historical context.
Head to the Farm of Mont-Saint-Jean for an authentic meal that was served to the soldiers. Explore the surrounding area and take in the views of the battlefield.
Dine at a cozy restaurant within the village. Finish the day with a quiet walk in the park, reflecting on the day’s experiences.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical significance, being the site of the Battle of Waterloo, which has shaped European history.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and countryside ideal for outdoor activities.
- Strong community spirit with various local events and traditions celebrated throughout the year.
- Proximity to major cities such as Brussels and Antwerp, allowing for easy access to urban amenities.
- Good educational institutions and a supportive environment for families.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Smaller job market with fewer employment opportunities in certain sectors.
- Can be tourist-heavy during peak seasons, which might affect the local charm.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with frequent rain and overcast days.
- Higher property prices in central areas due to its historic significance.
Best Activities in Waterloo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A historic site offering stunning views of the battlefield and surrounding area.
An opportunity to learn about the historic battle and enjoy the beautiful countryside.
A serene forested area with scenic trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Waterloo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Waterloo
Visit one of these nice places.
A raised artificial mound located on the battlefield of Waterloo, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Historic farm with beautiful gardens and views, providing a glimpse into the battlefield history.
The site of the Battle of Waterloo, offering expansive views and photo opportunities to capture the historical significance of the location.
Food in Waterloo
Waterloo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Belgian dish of mussels and fries, usually served with delicious sauces. Look for authentic versions in local brasseries such as Chez Léon.
Must-Try!
A rich beef stew made with beer, onions, and spices, served with a side of frites. Try this comforting dish at La Sucrerie or La Table du Boucher.
When in season, indulge in fresh and flavorful asparagus prepared in Waterloo's traditional style, often served with creamy sauces and delicately cooked meats. Visit Les 4 Saisons for a superb rendition.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Waterloo better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Discover a variety of fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal goods at the Waterloo Market, held on Sundays. Look out for food stalls offering freshly prepared waffles, Belgian chocolate, and other sweet treats.
Join the lively Street Food Festival in Waterloo, where you can sample a range of local and international street foods. From frites with mayo to fusion food creations, this event offers a great opportunity to taste diverse flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Waterloo, Belgium, it is important to be punctual for meetings and social gatherings as a sign of respect for others' time.
When meeting someone for the first time, it is customary to address them using their title and last name, showing a respect for formalities and hierarchy.
Being mindful of language etiquette is important in Waterloo, with locals primarily speaking French. Learning a few basic French phrases can show respect for the local culture and language.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Waterloo with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Waterloo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Belgium, including Waterloo. However, it is appreciated to leave a small tip as a token of gratitude for good service, typically rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% of the total amount.
In Waterloo, Belgium, payment methods commonly accepted include cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Contactless payment and mobile payment methods are also increasingly popular, especially in larger establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Waterloo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (April to June) is a great time to visit Waterloo, Belgium. The weather is starting to warm up, and the famous flowers of Belgium are in bloom, creating beautiful landscapes.
Summer (July to September) is another popular time to visit Waterloo. The weather is warm, and there are various outdoor events and festivals to enjoy, including the annual reenactment of the Battle of Waterloo.
In Autumn (October to November), the weather begins to cool down, but the fall foliage in the region is stunning, making it a picturesque time to visit Waterloo.
Winter (December to February) is the quietest time in Waterloo, with fewer tourists. The chilly weather creates a cozy atmosphere, and visitors can explore indoor attractions such as museums and historic sites.
Waterloo at Night
Hiking in Waterloo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque park featuring winding trails through forested areas, ideal for leisurely hikes and nature walks.
A scenic walking trail offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and opportunities to observe local wildlife.
Part of the RAVEL network of recreational paths, this trail follows a former railway line and is perfect for walking, cycling, and enjoying the landscape.
A large, ancient forest located just outside of Waterloo, featuring numerous trails that cater to both casual hikers and serious trekkers.
A historical site with hiking paths that offer a mix of history and nature, surrounded by war memorials and lush greenery.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Waterloo through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Waterloo by plane.
The main international airport serving Brussels, located approximately 30 km from Waterloo.
A secondary airport serving Brussels, located about 50 km from Waterloo, primarily for low-cost airlines.
A small international airport located about 60 km from Waterloo, mainly serving domestic and European flights.
An international cargo airport with passenger services, located around 90 km from Waterloo.
An airport located approximately 130 km from Waterloo, serving regional and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic, consisting of citizens born in Belgium or holding Belgian nationality.
Residents from other EU member countries who have moved to Waterloo for work, study, or family reasons.
Individuals who have migrated from various African countries, contributing to the multicultural aspects of the town.
Residents originating from diverse Asian nations, representing a smaller but significant part of the population.
A collective group of individuals from countries outside of the aforementioned groups, including North America, South America, and other regions.
The Soul of Waterloo
Discover the essence of Waterloo through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Waterloo, with numerous local clubs and a strong community following.
Cycling is a favored pastime due to the scenic routes available in and around Waterloo, often seen as a leisure activity and competitive sport.
Basketball has a growing presence in Waterloo, with local leagues and teams actively participating in regional competitions.
Tennis is popular among residents, with several clubs offering facilities for players of all ages and skill levels.
Running events and community runs are common in Waterloo, promoting health and fitness among residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Waterloo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Waterloo offer vegetarian and vegan menu items, with options like plant-based burgers, salads, and creative vegetable-based dishes. Look for symbols or ask the staff for recommendations.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find accommodating options in various eateries, including gluten-free pastries, pasta dishes, and specialized menus. Notify the staff about any dietary requirements for a tailored dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Waterloo with these cultural adventures.
