Things To Do
in Soignies
Soignies is a historic market town in Wallonia, Belgium, set amid gentle countryside and charming streets. Its town center preserves a sense of medieval and early modern architecture, especially around the main square. The town serves as a calm base for exploring Hesbaye and the surrounding countryside, with easy access to larger cities.
Visitors will find a relaxed pace, local markets, and authentic Belgian culture in a compact, walkable setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll around the historic center, admiring the stunning architecture of the Grand Place and the impressive Gothic church of Saint-Vincent. Don’t forget to visit the nearby Maison du Patrimoine, which offers insights into the rich history of Soignies.
In the afternoon, dive deeper into the local culture by exploring the artisan shops dotted around the square. Make your way to the Musée de Soignies to discover the town's artistic heritage and learn about its famous stone-cutting tradition. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a traditional brasserie, sampling some regional specialties like carbonnade flamande.
As evening falls, find a cozy spot at a terrace restaurant overlooking the bustling square. Savor a delicious dinner featuring local Belgian cuisine paired with a refreshing beer brewed in the region. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the charming atmosphere of the historic center.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to Parc de la Dendre, a beautiful natural area just a short walk from the town center. As you wander through the lush greenery and along the serene riverbanks, take in the sights and sounds of nature. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
After a refreshing morning, enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst the park’s tranquil surroundings, surrounded by birdsong and rustling leaves. Spend the afternoon hiking along the marked trails, which offer a variety of difficulty levels for all adventurers. If you're lucky, you may even spot some local wildlife, such as deer or various bird species.
As the sun begins to set, return to Soignies to freshen up before dinner. Select a local restaurant known for its warm ambiance where you can unwind over a comforting meal. To end the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the park to see it transformed under the soft glow of twilight.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧼Groceries for a week for one person | $60-90 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $2-4 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night (mid-range) | $70-150 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town center with historic charm
- Easy access to countryside and regional markets
- Friendly locals and authentic Belgian experience
- Good value for money compared to bigger Belgian cities
- Limited nightlife within the town itself
- Some attractions may be seasonal or require short trips to nearby towns
- Public transport options are moderate; plan around timetable gaps
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est le marché ?" - Where is the market?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does this cost?
- "Je suis végétarien(ne)" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Soignies
Visit one of these nice places.
The market square framed by historic buildings and the silhouette of the church offers classic Belgian cityscape photographs, especially at dawn or dusk.
Quiet streets and colorful façades provide vibrant morning light for street photography and portrait shots.
Rural viewpoints with hedgerows and fields capture the essence of Hesbaye ’s agricultural landscape.
Food in Soignies
Soignies Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed mussels served with crisp Belgian fries, often cooked in white wine and herbs; widely available in town bistros.
Must-Try!
A rich beef stew braised in Belgian beer with onions and spices; pairs well with crusty bread or frites.
A creamy chicken or fish stew with vegetables and herbs; comforting and popular in Belgian towns and restaurants.
Seasonal cheeses from nearby farms served with rustic bread and a selection of pickles.
Sweet treats from local bakeries, perfect for a mid-may dessert or snack while wandering the squares.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and street snacks; a great place to taste local flavors.
Seasonal stalls offering artisanal preserves, dairy, and seasonal specialties from Hesbaye producers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
French is the primary language. A polite hello (bonjour) and thank you (merci) go a long way in shops and cafés.
Be punctual for appointments or meetings; maintain a polite, calm demeanor in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Soignies
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included in restaurants, but leaving a small extra (5-10%) for good service is appreciated. Rounding up cash for taxi drivers or small tips at cafés is common.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is still handy in markets or small cafés.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with mild evenings; occasional rain showers. Great for outdoor markets and long strolls along pedestrian streets; bring a light jacket for cooler nights.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming gardens; ideal for walking tours and photography in rural lanes.
Colors peak in rural areas; enjoy harvest markets, hearty dishes, and fewer crowds. Keep an umbrella handy for rain.
Cool to cold with a chance of snow; charming markets and cozy cafés provide warmth and atmosphere.
Soignies at Night
Hiking in Soignies
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike along former quarry sites and surrounding woodlands just outside the town.
A rural circuit through farmland and hedgerows, suitable for a half-day walk with viewpoints into distant fields.
Airports
How to reach Soignies by plane.
Major international gateway about an hour away by rail or car; frequent connections to European destinations.
Smaller airport with budget-friendly flights, typically reached by train or bus connections from the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, retirees, and professionals typical of a mid-size Belgian town, with a strong sense of local community.
Proximity to Mons and other cities attracts students and travelers seeking a quieter Belgian experience.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in Belgium; local clubs and regional leagues attract families and enthusiasts.
Flat and scenic routes around Hesbaye make cycling a favored activity for locals and visitors alike.
Community sports and outdoor clubs are common in the area, especially in the warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Soignies.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Belgian meat dishes can be replaced with cheese or vegetable options; ask for seasonal vegetarian plates or simple pasta dishes. Most cafés will accommodate dairy and egg needs; vegetarian-friendly salads and veggie burgers are common.