Things To Do
in Arlon
Arlon is Belgium's southern border town, offering a charming mix of history and regional character. It sits near Luxembourg and serves as a cultural hub for the Gaume region. The town blends French and Belgian influences with a relaxed, park-filled atmosphere.
Visitors can stroll historic streets, browse markets, and use Arlon as a gateway to the Ardennes and the borderlands.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Arlon and check into a cozy local hotel. Take time to freshen up before heading out for a light breakfast at one of the charming cafés in the town square. Familiarize yourself with the surroundings as you stroll through the quaint streets adorned with historic buildings.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch featuring traditional Belgian dishes at a bistro. Afterward, explore the ARCHEL museum to take in the rich local history and archaeology that the region has to offer. Spend the late afternoon wandering through Parc de la Wintrie, a beautiful public park perfect for relaxation.
Dine at a local restaurant, sampling the best of Ardennes cuisine. Post dinner, take a leisurely walk in the illuminated town square, soaking in the charming ambiance of the evening. Wind down at a local bar with a craft beer, enjoying the convivial atmosphere.
Start the day with breakfast at a bakery famous for its fresh pastries. Visit the stunning Church of St. Martin, an architectural gem, and spend some time admiring the intricate details of its interior. Afterward, take a guided tour to learn about the church's history and significance in the town.
Head to the town's historical center and enjoy lunch at a terrace café, watching the world go by. Visit the Gate of Germany, a significant historical landmark that dates back to the 18th century. Explore the local shops and boutiques nearby, picking up unique souvenirs.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant that specializes in local specialties such as carbonnade flamande. Take a stroll through the vibrant surroundings to discover street performers and musicians in the square. End the evening with a cultural show or concert if available.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🍽Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $2-3 |
| 🏨1-night hotel (mid-range, double room) | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with a charming historic center
- Close to Luxembourg and Ardennes for day trips
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Good value for money, diverse local cuisine options
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some services can feel tourist-light outside peak season
- Public transport can require planning for border trips
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is...?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "Je voudrais..." - I would like...
Places to Visit in Arlon
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobbled lanes, medieval facades, and a lively central square ideal for street and architectural photography.
A grand façade and surrounding square provide classic urban photography moments, especially in soft morning light.
Calm waters, reflections, and trees along the town’s edge—great for contemplative shots.
A vantage point on the outskirts offering sweeping views of Arlon and the surrounding countryside.
Food in Arlon
Arlon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mussels steamed in white wine, herbs, and shallots, served with crisp Belgian fries.
Must-Try!
Tender beef slow-cooked in beer sauce, typically enjoyed with fries or bread.
Cured ham glazed with local beer, commonly paired with potatoes and vegetables.
Savoy cabbage braised with sausages and potatoes, a hearty Ardennes favorite.
Spiced shortcrust biscuit, perfect with coffee or dessert.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market featuring fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; greet with a polite phrase in French such as 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir.'
Stand in line patiently and keep voices moderate in public spaces; public displays of anger are looked down upon.
Safety
Tipping in Arlon
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common but not mandatory.
Cash and cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight; outdoor cafes are in full swing. Occasional showers; stay hydrated and carry a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Crisp air and colorful foliage; ideal for scenic walks and market visits. Rain is possible, so bring a compact umbrella.
Cool to cold with a chance of freezing temperatures. Some outdoor venues may close early, but indoor museums and cafes are welcoming.
Mild temperatures and budding landscapes; pleasant for outdoor exploring and photography. Rain showers can occur—pack a light rain layer.
Arlon at Night
Hiking in Arlon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic river valley hikes within a short drive, offering lush forests and viewpoints.
Gentle to moderate hikes in rolling woodland near the border.
Forest trails with varied terrain and panoramic outlooks suitable for day trips.
Airports
How to reach Arlon by plane.
Nearest international airport with frequent connections; accessible by car or rail in about an hour depending on border crossing.
Major international hub; about 1.5-2.5 hours by train or car.
Regional airport serving several European destinations; roughly 2 hours by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily French-speaking Belgians with cross-border ties to Luxembourg and France.
People who travel to Luxembourg and nearby areas for work, contributing to a dynamic regional workforce.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Belgians are passionate about football, with local clubs and matches accessible to visitors.
Popular pastime across the region, with scenic routes through the Ardennes and Gaume countryside.
Forested trails and gentle hills attract outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arlon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian options; look for vegetable mains, salads, or cheese boards. You can ask for dishes without lardons or meat and request sauces on the side.