Things To Do
in Boussu
Boussu is a small Belgian municipality in the Wallonia region, part of the Hainaut province, located just west of Mons. It blends remnants of its coal-mining industrial heritage with green spaces and a village-like atmosphere. The town’s compact center makes it easy to explore on foot, while nearby Mons and the Borinage countryside offer cultural attractions.
With accessible public transport and a friendly, laid-back pace, Boussu serves as a convenient base for a relaxed Belgian countryside visit.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Brussels Airport and take a train to Boussu, enjoying picturesque views along the way. Once you settle in your accommodation, take a leisurely stroll to explore the charming streets of the town. Visit the local baker to taste fresh Belgian pastries for breakfast.
After lunch at a cozy cafe, head to the nearby Parc de Boussu where you can enjoy a peaceful walk and possibly spot local wildlife. Explore the historical buildings and learn about the town's rich history. Don't forget to visit the Church of Saint-Martin, a stunning example of local architecture.
As dusk falls, experience a traditional Belgian dinner at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like carbonnade flamande. Wind down with a walk through the illuminated streets of Boussu, taking in the serene atmosphere. End your day with a local beer at a pub, immersing yourself in the warm community vibe.
Begin your day with breakfast at your accommodation before embarking on a historical tour of Boussu. Visit the Maison des Cultures et de la Cohésion Sociale, where you can learn about the region's cultural heritage. Take a guided tour to understand the significance of several historical sites in the vicinity.
After enjoying a traditional lunch, visit the nearby Château de Boussu, a picturesque castle that dates back to the medieval times. Explore its beautiful grounds and gardens while imagining the history that unfolded within its walls. Take your time to appreciate the intricate architecture and immerse yourself in its stories.
For dinner, discover a restaurant known for regional cuisine, perhaps trying some local cheese and charcuterie. Afterward, attend a community event or concert at a local venue for an authentic experience of Boussu's cultural life. Close your evening by chatting with locals and sharing travel stories over a drink.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧃Cup of coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $2-3 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $70-120 |
| 🧀Local specialty item or snack | $5-9 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact town center ideal for walking
- Good access to Mons and Borinage countryside
- Affordable meals and drinks
- Friendly, laid-back atmosphere
- Limited nightlife and major attractions within Boussu itself
- Some services close on weekends or holidays
- Weather can be changeable in shoulder seasons
- "Bonjour" - Hello (daytime)
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "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 Boussu
Visit one of these nice places.
A charming mix of historic façades and street life; best shot during the golden hours with street activity and soft light.
A historic church with a tall steeple and detailed stonework; ideal for architectural photography.
Gentle greenery along nearby waterways offering reflections and birdlife for tranquil compositions.
Quiet hedged lanes and fields; excellent for seasonal landscape photography.
Food in Boussu
Boussu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A jellied meat terrine made from poultry and pork, typically served cold with bread or fries.
Must-Try!
A rich beef stew slow-cooked in beer with onions, usually served with fries or bread.
Mussels cooked in a beer- or cream-based broth, paired with a generous portion of fries.
A mild white sausage often served with potatoes or bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheese, regional pastries, and ready-to-eat street foods.
Lively market in Mons with stalls for fries, waffles, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat items.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
French is dominant in Boussu; greet with 'Bonjour' during the day and 'Bonsoir' in the evening. A handshake is common on introductions.
Polite manners, queueing, and calm conversations in public spaces are valued; dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Tipping is modest; sharing dishes is common, and it’s polite to wait for everyone at the table to be served.
Safety
Tipping in Boussu
Ensure a smooth experience
In Belgium, rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is common in restaurants; many places include a service charge, so tipping is optional but appreciated.
Credit cards are widely accepted; Bancontact and other mobile payments are common. Keep some cash for markets and smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming trees; ideal for outdoor markets, parks, and short hikes.
Warm days with occasional rain; enjoy outdoor cafés, longer daylight, and bike rides.
Cooler weather and colorful foliage; harvest markets and scenic countryside views.
Cold and often overcast; town centers brighten with lights, but expect shorter outdoor activities.
Boussu at Night
Hiking in Boussu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic rural loop featuring farmland, hedgerows, and small villages; accessible for a half-day hike.
Forest and park trails on the edge of the city providing shaded routes and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Boussu by plane.
Major international hub; broad connections across Europe and beyond; ~60–90 minutes by rail or car to the Mons area depending on transit.
Low-cost carrier hub with good access to the Mons region; convenient for European travel; transfer options to Mons via train or bus.
Nearby French airport offering several European connections; roughly 1.5–2 hours by road/train from Boussu.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly French-speaking Belgians including families, long-term residents, students, and retirees; a mix influenced by nearby Mons and regional industry.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed; local clubs and recreational leagues are common in the region.
Popular for both road cycling and commuting; the flat to gently rolling countryside provides pleasant routes.
Public courts and local clubs available in parks and community spaces.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Boussu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Belgian dishes feature meat, but vegetarian options are commonly available in most restaurants; look for veggie plates, salads, or cheese/egg-based dishes and ask for substitutions when needed.