Things To Do
in Ronse

Ronse, Belgium is a charming town known for its rich history and beautiful architecture, nestled in the heart of East Flanders. The town is famous for its stunning Gothic church, the St. Hermes Basilica, and its vibrant textile industry that dates back to the Middle Ages. Ronse is surrounded by lush landscapes, making it a perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts.

With a blend of cultural heritage and modern amenities, Ronse offers a unique experience for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Historical Heart
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the St. Hermes Basilica, marveling at its Gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic town square, where you can admire the charming buildings.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café before visiting the Ronse Museum, which showcases the town’s rich textile history. Spend some time walking through the scenic park of the 'Pater Damiën', where you can relax and enjoy nature.

evening
:

Dine at a renowned local restaurant, sampling traditional Flemish cuisine. End your day with a walk through the illuminated streets, taking in the ambiance of the town at night.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local bakery, savoring fresh pastries. Then, head to the nearby 'Lange Eiken' nature reserve for a morning of hiking and birdwatching.

afternoon
:

Afterward, visit the local market to experience the vibrant community life and possibly grab some local delicacies. Spend the afternoon exploring nearby hiking trails.

evening
:

Return to Ronse for dinner at a cozy bistro. For those interested, check out a local pub for some live music or a traditional Belgian beer.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-30
Coffee$3-5
🍺Local beer$4-6
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel per night$70-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings for outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine and friendly atmosphere.
  • Limited public transport options.
  • Some attractions may have limited opening hours.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I don't speak Dutch
  • "Help!" - Help!

Places to Visit in Ronse

Visit one of these nice places.

St. Hermes Basilica

The stunning Gothic architecture and intricate details make it a must-capture photo spot.

Ronse Town Square

The lively square surrounded by historical buildings offers great opportunities for vibrant street photography.

Lange Eiken Nature Reserve

The picturesque landscapes and wildlife provide a beautiful backdrop for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ronse

Ronse offers a delightful culinary experience with a rich selection of local dishes and beverages that reflect the region's heritage.

Ronse Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gentse Stoverij

A hearty beef stew cooked with local beer and served with fries.

Must-Try!

Waterzooi

A creamy stew made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and potatoes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ronse Market

A vibrant market held weekly where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ronse experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 3°C (37°F) in winter to 22°C (72°F) in summer. Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A friendly handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and it's polite to say 'Eet smakelijk' (enjoy your meal).

Punctuality

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

Safety Guide

Safety

Ronse is generally a safe town with low crime rates, but like any other place, it's wise to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Avoid poorly lit streets at night and keep your belongings secure.

Tipping in Ronse

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

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

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring parks.

Summer

Summer is warm and lively, perfect for festivals and enjoying the outdoor café culture.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage and is a great time for hiking and enjoying local harvest festivals.

Winter

Winter can be cold and sometimes snowy, but the festive atmosphere and Christmas markets are enchanting.

Nightlife Guide

Ronse at Night

Ronse has a relaxed nightlife scene with several bars and pubs offering a variety of local beers. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to socialize with locals. There are occasional live music events and cultural performances that add to the vibrant evening experience.

Hiking in Ronse

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kluisberg Trail

A popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys, ideal for both beginners and experienced hikers.

Molenbeek Valley Trail

This trail winds through the picturesque Molenbeek Valley, providing a mix of serene landscapes and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Ronse by plane.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Located approximately 70 km from Ronse, Brussels Airport is the main international airport in Belgium, offering numerous flights to various destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ronse is quite walkable, with many attractions and amenities located within a short distance of each other. The town's compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot, with pedestrian-friendly streets and pathways.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Families make up a significant portion of the population, often engaging in community activities and local events.

Students

With several educational institutions nearby, students contribute to the vibrant culture and social life in Ronse.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

Cycling is extremely popular in the region, with many scenic routes attracting both locals and tourists.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a widely followed sport, with local teams playing in regional leagues, fostering community support.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ronse is generally manageable, with main roads connecting easily to surrounding areas. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns, although they may not run frequently.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ronse.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to ask the chef for special preparations.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available in some restaurants, but it's wise to inquire beforehand.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Ronse has access to quality healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics. Emergency services can be reached easily, and pharmacies are widely available throughout the town.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide