Things To Do
in Malmédy

Malmédy is a charming town located in the eastern part of Belgium, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the Ardennes region, it offers a unique blend of historical architecture and natural beauty. The town is famous for its vibrant festivals, particularly the Carnaval de Malmédy, which attracts visitors from far and wide.

With its welcoming atmosphere and stunning surroundings, Malmédy is an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Town and Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Malmédy Cathedral, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, followed by a leisurely breakfast at a local bakery.

afternoon
:

Take a stroll through the town's charming streets, visiting the Malmédy Museum to learn about the area's history and culture.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Belgian restaurant and then head to a local bar for some live music.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Spend the morning hiking in the nearby High Fens nature reserve, known for its stunning landscapes and biodiversity.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit the Stavelot Abbey, a historical site that houses art exhibitions and a museum.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a cozy dinner at a local tavern, sampling some of the region's best beers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$2-$4
🍺Local beer$3-$5
🏨Hotel per night$80-$150
🚍Public transport ticket$2-$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited public transport options.
  • Some attractions may have seasonal hours.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
  • "Où est… ?" - Where is…?

Places to Visit in Malmédy

Visit one of these nice places.

Malmédy Cathedral

Capture the stunning Gothic architecture and intricate details of this historic church.

Place Albert

A picturesque square surrounded by charming buildings, perfect for candid street photography.

High Fens

The natural beauty of this nature reserve provides breathtaking landscape shots, especially at sunrise.

Culinary Guide

Food in Malmédy

Malmédy offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing traditional Belgian flavors and local specialties.

Malmédy Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Boulets Liégeois

Meatballs served in a rich sauce, often accompanied by fries.

Must-Try!

Tarte au Riz

A sweet rice pie that is a local favorite dessert.

Ardennes Ham

Cured and smoked ham that's a staple of the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Malmédy Market

Held every Saturday, this market offers fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal products.

Street Food Stalls

Look for vendors selling waffles and frites, perfect for a quick snack while exploring.

Climate Guide

Weather

Malmédy experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. In summer (June to August), temperatures can reach up to 25°C (77°F) during the day, while winters (December to February) can drop to around -1°C (30°F). Rain is common throughout the year, with the wettest months being July and August, so carrying an umbrella is advisable. Spring and autumn offer moderate temperatures and are ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and keep your hands on the table but not your elbows.

Language Respect

While French and German are spoken, making an effort to greet in the local language is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Malmédy is generally a safe town for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to exercise standard precautions like avoiding poorly lit areas at night and being mindful of personal belongings in crowded places. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it is recommended to have travel insurance for added security.

Tipping in Malmédy

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

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

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, although cash is handy for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy blooming flowers and mild weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Expect warmer temperatures; perfect for hiking and enjoying outdoor festivals.

Autumn

Witness stunning fall foliage, making it a great time for photography and nature walks.

Winter

Cold weather with potential snowfall; experience a magical atmosphere, especially during the Christmas market.

Nightlife Guide

Malmédy at Night

Malmédy's nightlife is vibrant, with a mix of pubs, bars, and live music venues. The town comes alive during weekends, especially in the summer months, when outdoor patios are bustling with locals and tourists alike. Popular spots include cozy taverns offering local beers and wine bars featuring selections from Belgium's renowned vineyards. The atmosphere is generally friendly and relaxed, making it easy to mingle and meet new people.

Hiking in Malmédy

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Signal de Botrange

The highest point in Belgium, offering various hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Hautes Fagnes Trail

A scenic trail through the High Fens, known for its unique flora and fauna, suitable for all hiking levels.

Airports

How to reach Malmédy by plane.

Liège Airport (LGG)

Located about 70 km from Malmédy, this airport offers a range of international flights and is the closest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Malmédy is a walkable town with a compact center, making it easy to explore on foot. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within a short walking distance, allowing visitors to enjoy the charming streets and local ambiance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian areas are common, enhancing the walking experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population is a mix of Belgian nationals and expatriates, with a strong sense of community and local culture.

Tourists

Visitors come from both Belgium and abroad, particularly during festivals and holidays, adding to the town's multicultural atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

Cycling is hugely popular in the region, with numerous trails and paths for both leisure and competitive biking.

Football

Football (soccer) is a favorite pastime, with local clubs and community support for the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Malmédy is generally light, especially outside of peak tourist seasons. The town is well-connected by roads, and parking is available but can be limited in the center during busy periods. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns, though schedules may not be frequent, so planning ahead is recommended.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Malmédy.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to ask for options.

Gluten-Free

Some eateries provide gluten-free meals; however, availability may vary.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Malmédy is accessible, with several local clinics and a hospital providing general medical services. Emergency services are efficient, and the town has pharmacies for over-the-counter medications. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance that covers health-related issues, as EU residents can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for necessary treatment.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide