Things To Do
in Herstal

Herstal is a vibrant municipality in the Walloon Region of Belgium, located just east of Liège. It is known for its rich industrial heritage and cultural diversity, as well as its proximity to the River Meuse. The town features a mix of modern amenities and historical architecture, making it an interesting destination for visitors.

With beautiful parks and a welcoming atmosphere, Herstal offers a unique glimpse into local life in Belgium.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Herstal
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Parc de la Boverie, a beautiful park that offers walking paths and scenic views. Enjoy a coffee at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Musée des Transports de Wallonie to learn about the region's transportation history. Afterward, explore local shops and boutiques.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Belgian restaurant and enjoy local specialties, followed by a stroll along the Meuse River.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the historic church of Saint Martin in the heart of Herstal, admiring its stunning architecture.

afternoon
:

Take a short train ride to Liège and explore the lively city center, including the famous Place du Marché.

evening
:

Return to Herstal for dinner at a local bistro, followed by enjoying the nightlife at a local pub.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍺Beer$5
🚕Taxi ride (within town)$10
🏨Hotel night (3-star)$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited English proficiency in some areas.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • Some attractions may have limited opening hours.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Herstal

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc de la Boverie

This park offers picturesque landscapes and beautiful views of the Meuse River, perfect for nature photography.

Herstal Town Hall

The historic architecture of the Town Hall provides a stunning backdrop for photos.

Saint Martin Church

The impressive facade of this church is a great spot for capturing architectural beauty.

Culinary Guide

Food in Herstal

Herstal boasts a delightful culinary scene influenced by Belgian traditions. Visitors can savor local specialties that highlight the region's flavors.

Herstal Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Boulets Liégeois

Meatballs served in a rich and flavorful sauce, typically made with beer and served with fries.

Must-Try!

Tarte au Riz

A delicious rice pie that is a local specialty, often enjoyed as a dessert.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Herstal Market

A vibrant weekly market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Herstal experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 1°C (34°F) in winter to 24°C (75°F) in summer. Rainfall is common throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, offering comfortable temperatures.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake and maintaining eye contact is customary when greeting someone.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating and avoid speaking with your mouth full.

Punctuality

Being punctual is valued in Belgian culture, especially for business meetings and social gatherings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Herstal is generally a safe place for visitors, with low crime rates. However, common safety precautions should be observed, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places.

Tipping in Herstal

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Belgium; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is common.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for markets and smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and park visits.

Summer

Summer is warm and lively, with outdoor festivals and events, perfect for enjoying the local culture.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage in parks and is a great time for hiking and enjoying local harvests.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, but it's also when festive markets appear, offering a cozy atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Herstal at Night

Herstal's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, featuring a mix of local pubs, bars, and occasional live music venues. The atmosphere is generally friendly, and many locals enjoy socializing over drinks after work. Popular spots include cozy pubs where you can try local beers and wine, as well as clubs that host a variety of music genres.

Hiking in Herstal

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trail at Parc de la Boverie

This trail offers a scenic route through the park, featuring beautiful views of the river and well-maintained paths.

Montagne de Bueren

A challenging trail that provides stunning views over the city of Liège and the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Herstal by plane.

Liège Airport (LGG)

Located about 15 km from Herstal, Liège Airport is the main airport serving the area, offering both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Herstal is a walkable town with pedestrian-friendly streets and numerous parks. The compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot, with most attractions and amenities within a reasonable distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and walking along the river adds to the charm of the experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Herstal is home to a diverse population, primarily consisting of Belgian nationals with a mix of ethnic backgrounds.

Students

The presence of nearby educational institutions attracts a significant number of students to the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Belgium, with local teams competing in various leagues.

Cycling

Cycling is a beloved pastime in Belgium, with many residents using bikes for commuting and leisure.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Herstal is generally manageable, with peak hours seeing moderate congestion. Public transportation options include buses and trains, providing convenient connections to nearby cities like Liège. Cycling is also a popular mode of transport, supported by bike lanes throughout the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Herstal.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Herstal provide vegetarian meals, but it's advisable to check the menu ahead.

Gluten-Free Choices

While gluten-free options are limited, some restaurants offer dishes that cater to this dietary need.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Belgium has a high standard of healthcare, and visitors can access medical services through hospitals and clinics. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide