Hasselt - Discovering Belgium

Travelling to Hasselt

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Hasselt, a pretty good destination in Belgium (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Hasselt and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Hasselt, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Belgium, here's everything to know about Hasselt for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Hasselt

Hasselt is a city located in the northeastern part of Belgium, specifically in the province of Limburg. It is the capital of the province and has a population of around 78,000 people. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, including the St. Quentin Cathedral and the Virga Jesse Basilica. Hasselt is also famous for its fashion, art, and food scenes, as well as for the nearby nature reserves and forests that offer great opportunities for outdoor activities. Additionally, Hasselt hosts many festivals throughout the year, such as the Jenever Festival and Pukkelpop Music Festival.

What to visit in Hasselt

Sure, Hasselt is a lovely city in Belgium with many great tourist attractions that visitors can explore. Below are some of the popular tourist attractions in Hasselt along with some brief information: 1. Japanese Garden: This beautiful garden contains a serene pond, traditional Japanese bridges, and many other elements inspired by Japanese culture. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk, admire the carefully curated scenery, and take great photos.
2. Hasselt Fashion Museum (MoMu Hasselt): Art and fashion lovers should not miss this museum which offers a stunning display of fashion items that are unique to Hasselt. The exhibits showcase the evolution of fashion over the years, along with the cultural and societal factors that influenced fashion trends.
3. Virga Jesse Basilica: This iconic basilica is considered to be one of the most stunning baroque-style churches in Europe. The awe-inspiring architecture and beautifully crafted religious artworks inside highlight Hasselt’s rich history and cultural heritage.
4. Jenever Museum: This museum offers an exciting walkthrough of the history of Jenever, a popular Belgian liquor that has been locally produced for centuries. Visitors can learn about its production, sample different varieties, and pick up a bottle or two to take home.
5. Hasselt Market Square: The Market Square in Hasselt is a bustling hub of activity where visitors can shop for local crafts, pick up some delicious Belgian treats, or try out the many restaurants and cafes located in the square. The square also serves as a venue for many cultural events throughout the year.
6. Plopsa Indoor Hasselt: This amusement park is perfect for families with children. The park offers a range of indoor rides, games, and activities that cater to both younger and older children.
Overall, Hasselt is a great destination for visitors who are interested in history, art, culture, and outdoor activities.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Hasselt.

When to go on holiday to Hasselt

The best time to visit Hasselt, Belgium is during the months of April to September. This is the peak tourist season and the weather is typically mild and pleasant during this time, making it ideal for exploring the city and its surrounding areas. If you are interested in attending festivals and events, then the summer months of June to August are the best time to visit, as there are many cultural festivals and music concerts that take place during this time.
However, if you are looking for a quieter and more affordable trip, you may want to consider visiting Hasselt in the off-season months of October to March. During this time, prices for accommodations and tourist attractions are lower and you can experience the city without the crowds of tourists. Keep in mind that the weather during the off-season can be quite chilly and rainy, so it's important to pack warm clothing and rain gear.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Hasselt

There are several ways to get to Hasselt, Belgium depending on where you are starting from: 1. By plane: The nearest airport to Hasselt is Brussels Airport. From there, you can take a train or a bus to Hasselt.
2. By train: Hasselt has its own train station which is well-connected to other cities in Belgium as well as nearby international destinations. You can check the train schedule and buy tickets on the website of SNCB or NMBS.
3. By bus: There are regular bus services to Hasselt from other major cities in Belgium, such as Antwerp or Brussels. You can buy bus tickets online or at the bus station.
4. By car: If you have access to a car, you can drive to Hasselt. The city is located close to major highways and is easily accessible from other parts of Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Hasselt!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Hasselt, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Hasselt

Sure, here are some typical foods from Hasselt, Belgium: 1. Hasseltse speculaas: These are thin, crispy, spiced cookies with a crunchy texture. They're typically made with cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and other spices.
2. Jenever: This is a traditional Belgian gin-like spirit that's often served in small glasses. It's made with malt wine and distilled with juniper berries and other botanicals.
3. Hasseltse jeneverpaté: This is a type of pâté made with jenever and various meats, such as pork and chicken liver. It's usually served on toast or crackers.
4. Limburgse vlaai: This is a sweet pie typically made with a yeasted crust and filled with fruit, such as cherries or apples. It's often served with whipped cream.
5. Genker zoekgebak: This is a nutty pastry made with puff pastry, hazelnuts, and almonds. It's typically served with coffee or tea.
6. Hasseltse koffie: This is a coffee drink made with jenever, whipped cream, and brown sugar. It's typically served with a cookie or pastry.
Overall, these foods represent the regional flavors and traditions of Hasselt and are often enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
You can find general info about typical foods in Belgium here.

Is Hasselt an expensive destination for tourists?

Hasselt is generally not considered a very expensive destination for tourists. Compared to other major European tourist cities, the cost of accommodations, food, and transportation tends to be relatively affordable. However, like any destination, prices can vary depending on the time of year and the type of experience you are looking for. Generally, you can find a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly to luxury options, and there are plenty of local eateries and bars that offer reasonably priced meals and drinks. Additionally, many of Hasselt's top attractions, such as the Japanese Garden or the Fashion Museum, have affordable admission fees or are even free.

Where to find accomodation in Hasselt

The best areas to find accommodation in Hasselt would be the city center, which is the heart of the city and is home to many of the city's main attractions, shopping areas, and restaurants. Another area to consider is near the train station, which is a convenient location for travelers who want easy access to public transportation. Also, the neighborhoods of Runkst or Kuringen can be good options if you prefer a more residential setting with easy access to public transit.
You can check hotel prices at Hasselt here:
Booking.com

Is Hasselt a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Hasselt is a safe place for tourists, generally. Belgium is known for having a low crime rate, and Hasselt is no exception. However, as with any destination, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary safety precautions, such as keeping your valuables secure and avoiding poorly lit or isolated areas alone at night. It's also recommended to check for any safety updates or advisories from your local embassy or government before travelling to any destination.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Belgium here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Hasselt.

What type of travelers will enjoy Hasselt the most?

Hasselt is a great destination for couples, families, and young people looking for fun. Couples will appreciate the romantic vibe of the city with its charming streets, cozy cafes, and friendly locals. Families with children will find plenty of child-friendly attractions, including the Plopsa Indoor Indoor Theme Park and Kapermolen Park. Young people will enjoy the vibrant nightlife with bars, pubs, and clubs, especially in the weekends. Hasselt also has a diverse range of shopping options that cater to all ages and interests. Overall, Hasselt is an excellent destination that offers something for everyone.

How to get around Hasselt

The easiest way to move around Hasselt is by bus. There is a good bus network that connects different parts of Hasselt and there are frequent buses throughout the day. There is also a small train station in the city center that connects Hasselt to other cities in Belgium, such as Brussels and Antwerp. Additionally, Hasselt is a relatively small city, so it is easy to get around by walking or biking.

What to see around Hasselt

Certainly, there are many beautiful places that you can visit in a one-day trip from Hasselt, some of them are: 1. Tongeren: It is the oldest city in Belgium, famous for its antique markets, museums, and historic buildings.
2. Maastricht: It is located just across the border in the Netherlands and is known for its charming old town, picturesque architecture, shopping and dining.
3. Bokrijk: An open-air museum and park featuring exhibitions of traditional Flemish architecture and crafts.
4. Genk: A vibrant city with a rich history, museums, parks, and a beautiful lakeside walk.
5. Leuven: Known for its rich history and beautiful medieval town, it is home to the world-renowned Stella Artois brewery.
6. Maasmechelen Village: A shopping destination with an extensive range of designer stores.
7. Sint-Truiden: A quaint town located beside some beautiful countryside and featuring several historic buildings.
These are just a few examples of the many beautiful places you can visit on a day trip from Hasselt.
For every travel information about Belgium you can click here.

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