Things To Do
in Saint-Ghislain
Saint-Ghislain is a compact Belgian town in the Hainaut province that blends industrial heritage with green spaces. It sits along the Haine river and serves as a calm base for exploring the broader Mons region. The town center offers quaint streets, a few historic buildings, and easy access to nature and bike routes.
Visitors will find a welcoming, family-friendly vibe with convenient day trips to nearby cities like Mons and Tournai.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Saint-Ghislain Church, an architectural marvel with stunning stained glass windows. Take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets lined with traditional Belgian houses, absorbing the rich history of the town. Grab a coffee and a pastry at a local café to recharge for the day's adventures.
Visit the nearby historical site of the Grand Place, where you can admire the stunning town hall and its beautiful surroundings. Afterward, take a guided tour of the local museum to learn more about the history and culture of the region. Don’t forget to browse through the local artisan shops for unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a restaurant that specializes in Belgian cuisine, sampling dishes like waterzooi or moules-frites. After dinner, take a peaceful walk by the canal, where you can soak in the romantic atmosphere of the illuminated town. Cap off the night with a pint of local beer at a nearby pub.
Take a short train ride to the nearby city of Mons and start your day at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica of Saint-Sauveur. Explore the vibrant market in the town square, where you can find fresh local produce and artisanal goods. Enjoy breakfast at a café with a view of the beautiful architecture.
Visit the BAM (Museum of Arts), which features contemporary art exhibitions alongside historical collections. Spend your afternoon wandering through the charming streets, visiting local shops, and enjoying the lively atmosphere. Make sure to stop by the historic Belfry of Mons, offering panoramic views of the city.
After a day of exploration, enjoy dinner in one of Mons's many bistros, where you can taste traditional Walloon dishes. Join a local walking tour that highlights the city's ghost stories and legends, offering a thrilling look at its history. End the night with drinks at a cozy bar, mingling with locals and fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket | $2-4 |
| 🏨One-night in mid-range hotel | $90-150 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with charm and easy access to nature
- Strong Belgian food scene and approachable local culture
- Limited nightlife within Saint-Ghislain itself; larger options require a short trip to Mons or nearby cities
- Smaller urban amenities than bigger Belgian cities
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "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?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Je suis végétarien(ne)" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Saint-Ghislain
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic church with Gothic elements and stained glass, offering a timeless subject against a town backdrop.
Scenic riverfront with old bridges and reflections, especially beautiful at dawn or dusk.
A charming square surrounded by period façades, ideal for street photography and candid shots.
Green space with paths, trees, and seasonal blooms perfect for nature photos.
Food in Saint-Ghislain
Saint-Ghislain Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mussels steamed with herbs and white wine, served with crispy Belgian fries.
Must-Try!
Slow-braised beef in beer with onions and aromatics, usually served with bread or fries.
Belgian endives wrapped in ham, baked with a creamy sauce and cheese.
Creamy chicken or fish stew with vegetables and herbs, a comforting classic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly or seasonal markets in the town center offering fresh produce, cheeses, and small bite-size snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite bonjour or bonsoir; a handshake is common in formal settings. Address people using formal language until invited to use first names.
Keep voices moderate in public; wait to be seated in restaurants; use utensils properly and respect personal space.
Indoor smoking is restricted; outdoor designated areas are common; follow local signage.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Ghislain
Ensure a smooth experience
In Belgium, service charges are often included; if not, rounding up or leaving 5–10% is customary.
Most places accept cash and major credit/debit cards; contactless payments are common; ATMs are widely available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days, blooming parks, and pleasant markets; a great time for outdoor photography and strolls.
Warm days with long evenings; bring sun protection and water for outdoor activities; occasional rain showers.
Colorful foliage and cooler temperatures; good light for photography and comfortable walking conditions.
Chilly with a chance of frost; indoor attractions and cozy cafés are appealing; plan for shorter daylight hours.
Saint-Ghislain at Night
Hiking in Saint-Ghislain
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Several scenic loops along the Haine river and nearby woodlands suitable for day hikes.
Cross-border trails with diverse landscapes; accessible for longer weekend hikes and bike trips.
Airports
How to reach Saint-Ghislain by plane.
Major international hub about 60–75 minutes by car or rail from Saint-Ghislain; offers extensive connections and car rental.
Closer regional airport with many European and low-cost connections; convenient for quick trips.
Cross-border option near Lille, France, within a reasonable drive; good for some European routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly French-speaking Walloon community with a mix of families, professionals, and students from the nearby university town of Mons.
A portion of the population includes students commuting to nearby Mons for higher education.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Belgium; local clubs and pitches are common in and around Saint-Ghislain.
Extensive cycling routes exist in the region, with flat canal towpaths and scenic rural lanes.
Public and club courts are available for recreational play and lessons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Ghislain.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many brasseries offer vegetarian options like vegetable stews, cheese plates, salads, and pasta; communicate dietary needs politely and ask for meat-free versions of regional dishes.