Things To Do
in Bilzen

Bilzen is a charming town located in the province of Limburg, Belgium, known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. It features stunning architectural sites, including the historic Bilzen Castle and several picturesque churches. The town serves as a gateway to exploring the surrounding natural parks and cycling routes.

With a welcoming atmosphere and vibrant local culture, Bilzen is an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Bilzen
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Bilzen Castle, where you can learn about the history of the region and stroll through its beautiful gardens.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market to sample some fresh produce and artisan goods. After that, explore the nearby nature reserve, where you can hike and enjoy the scenic views.

evening
:

Dinner at a local restaurant to try traditional Belgian dishes, followed by an evening walk through the town center to enjoy the ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the local museum to learn about the culture and history of Bilzen, followed by a coffee break at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Take a bike ride along the scenic cycling paths that surround the town, exploring the countryside.

evening
:

Enjoy a casual dinner at a bistro, then check out a local pub for some live music or a quiet drink.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$5
🚇Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel night$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some attractions may require advance planning.
  • Public transport can be infrequent in less busy times.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I don't speak Dutch

Places to Visit in Bilzen

Visit one of these nice places.

Bilzen Castle

An iconic landmark with stunning architecture and gardens, perfect for capturing beautiful photos.

Nature Reserve De Wijers

A picturesque area with lakes and greenery, ideal for nature photography.

St. Martin's Church

A stunning historic church with beautiful stained-glass windows, perfect for architectural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bilzen

Bilzen offers a delightful culinary experience with a focus on local ingredients and traditional Belgian flavors.

Bilzen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoofvlees

A hearty beef stew cooked slowly in Belgian beer, often served with fries.

Must-Try!

Waterzooi

A creamy stew made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and herbs, perfect for a comforting meal.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bilzen Market

A weekly market where you can find fresh local produce, cheese, and artisan bread.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bilzen experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter conditions in summer. Visitors should be prepared for changing weather, especially in spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time, and it’s polite to greet with 'Bonjour' or 'Hallo'.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before beginning to eat, and keep hands on the table (but not elbows).

Punctuality

Being on time is valued, particularly for social gatherings and appointments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bilzen is generally a safe town, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take the usual precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance.

Tipping in Bilzen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A service charge is usually included in the bill, but rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and exploring gardens.

Summer

Expect warm weather ideal for cycling and outdoor dining, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

A beautiful season with colorful foliage, perfect for hiking and enjoying the local harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold temperatures may occur, but the town's festive atmosphere during Christmas is enchanting, with markets and lights.

Nightlife Guide

Bilzen at Night

Bilzen has a lively nightlife scene with a mix of cozy pubs, trendy bars, and local clubs. The town's pubs often feature live music and a friendly atmosphere, making them great places to unwind. For a more energetic night, local clubs host events and dance parties, while the café culture allows for relaxed evenings with friends over drinks. Overall, there's something for everyone, whether you prefer a quiet night out or a vibrant party scene.

Hiking in Bilzen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trail in Nature Reserve De Wijers

A serene hiking trail that winds through picturesque landscapes and offers opportunities to see local wildlife.

Hiking Route at Bokrijk

A scenic route that takes you through beautiful forests and along lakes, perfect for a day out in nature.

Airports

How to reach Bilzen by plane.

Liège Airport (LGG)

Located about 30 km from Bilzen, Liège Airport is the closest airport, offering a variety of flights to European destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bilzen is a walkable town with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are easily accessible on foot. The compact layout makes it convenient for visitors to explore without the need for a car, although cycling is also a popular option.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Bilzen's population is predominantly Belgian, with a mix of various cultural backgrounds contributing to the local community.

Students

The presence of nearby educational institutions brings a youthful demographic, with students contributing to the town's vibrant atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored pastime in Bilzen, with many trails and paths catering to both leisure riders and competitive cyclists.

Football (Soccer)

Football is hugely popular, with local clubs fostering community spirit and offering matches for fans to enjoy.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bilzen is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation includes buses that connect Bilzen to nearby towns and cities, but services may be limited during off-peak hours. It's advisable to check local schedules in advance for the most convenient travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bilzen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available in some restaurants; however, it’s advisable to inform the staff about dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Bilzen is reliable, with several local clinics and pharmacies available to serve residents and visitors. In case of emergencies, hospitals in nearby larger towns can be reached quickly. It's advisable for visitors to have travel insurance that covers medical needs.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide