Things To Do
in Soignies

Soignies is a charming town located in the Walloon region of Belgium, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. The town is famous for its impressive Gothic church, the Collegiate Church of St. Vincent, which dates back to the 13th century. Soignies is surrounded by lush landscapes, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Additionally, the town hosts various local festivals throughout the year, showcasing its vibrant culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Soignies
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Collegiate Church of St. Vincent, where you can admire its stunning architecture and learn about its history.

afternoon
:

Head to Place de Soignies for lunch at one of the local cafés, followed by a stroll through the charming streets, visiting the local shops.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Belgian restaurant and take a leisurely walk around the town to soak in the evening atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Soignes Forest, taking in the beautiful scenery and fresh air.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market (if it’s a Thursday) to taste local delicacies and buy some souvenirs.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local brewery for a tasting of some famous Belgian beers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local Beer$5
🚌Public Transportation Ticket$2
🏨Hotel Night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Some language barriers for non-French speakers.
  • Less public transportation connectivity.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Soignies

Visit one of these nice places.

Collegiate Church of St. Vincent

An iconic landmark with stunning Gothic architecture, perfect for capturing intricate stonework and stained glass.

Place de Soignies

A picturesque square surrounded by charming buildings, ideal for capturing the essence of the town.

Soignes Forest

A serene natural area with lush greenery and tranquil paths, perfect for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Soignies

Soignies offers a delightful culinary experience, blending traditional Belgian flavors with local specialties that are sure to please any palate.

Soignies Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Carbonnade Flamande

A hearty beef stew made with Belgian beer, onions, and mustard, often served with fries.

Must-Try!

Speculoos

A spiced shortcrust biscuit that is a local favorite, often enjoyed with coffee.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Soignies Market

A vibrant local market held every Thursday, where you can find fresh produce, cheeses, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Soignies experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 3°C (37°F) in January to 23°C (73°F) in July. Rainfall is common throughout the year, so packing an umbrella is advisable. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, while summer can bring occasional heatwaves.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, along with a friendly smile.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows).

Punctuality

Being on time is valued in Belgian culture, so it’s best to arrive promptly for appointments or meetings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Soignies is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, it's always wise to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure, and avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas.

Tipping in Soignies

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A tip of around 10% is customary in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash on hand for markets and small cafes is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers and local festivals celebrating the season.

Summer

Warm temperatures are ideal for outdoor activities, with many locals enjoying picnics and leisure walks.

Autumn

Fall brings vibrant colors to the trees, making it a beautiful time for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold temperatures may bring snow, creating a picturesque winter landscape, perfect for cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Soignies at Night

Soignies has a relaxed nightlife scene, with a few local bars and cafés where you can enjoy a drink and socialize. While it may not be bustling with clubs, the atmosphere is friendly, making it easy to meet locals. Many establishments host live music events or themed nights, ensuring a fun evening for visitors.

Hiking in Soignies

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Chemin des Moulins

A scenic trail that offers beautiful views of the countryside and is suitable for hikers of all levels.

Sentier des Coteaux

This trail provides a more challenging hike with stunning vistas and diverse flora and fauna, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Soignies by plane.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Located approximately 30 km from Soignies, Brussels Airport is the main international gateway, offering numerous flights to destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Soignies is quite walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a reasonable distance from each other. The town features well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may be hilly, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of the population consists of Belgian locals who are proud of their cultural heritage and traditions.

Tourists

Soignies attracts visitors looking for a blend of history, culture, and nature, contributing to the town's vibrant atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a beloved sport in Soignies, with local teams that engage the community and foster local pride.

Cycling

Cycling is popular due to the town's scenic routes and access to beautiful landscapes, making it a favored pastime.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Soignies is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include local buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, providing a convenient way to explore the region. However, during peak hours, some congestion may occur, so planning ahead is advisable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Soignies.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Soignies offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, so inform the restaurant staff of your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Soignies is readily available, with several clinics and pharmacies located throughout the town. The healthcare system in Belgium is of high quality, and emergency services can be reached by dialing 112. For non-emergency situations, it is advisable to have travel insurance to cover medical expenses.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide