Things To Do
in Spa

Spa, Belgium is a picturesque town known for its natural mineral springs and wellness culture. Nestled in the Ardennes region, it offers lush greenery and serene landscapes, making it a perfect getaway for relaxation. The town is historically significant as the origin of the word 'spa,' referring to health resorts featuring mineral-rich waters.

Visitors can enjoy a mix of historic architecture, vibrant festivals, and friendly locals.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Spa's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Thermes de Spa, where you can enjoy the healing waters and luxurious spa treatments.

afternoon
:

Explore the Grand Place, a charming square surrounded by historic buildings and local shops. Visit the Spa Museum to learn about the town's rich history.

evening
:

Dine at Restaurant La Belle Epoque, known for its exquisite local cuisine, and take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque streets.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Hike the nearby Hautes Fagnes Nature Reserve, where you can witness stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Coo Waterfalls and enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the beautiful scenery.

evening
:

Enjoy the vibrant nightlife at Café Le Royal, where you can sample local beers and enjoy live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$5
🚍Public transport ticket$2
🏨Night in a budget hotel$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historic sites.
  • Relaxing spa experiences with mineral waters.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be less frequent on weekends.
  • Some attractions may have seasonal hours.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Spa

Visit one of these nice places.

Thermes de Spa

An architectural marvel surrounded by beautiful gardens, offering stunning photo opportunities.

Coo Waterfalls

A picturesque natural site perfect for capturing the beauty of nature.

Grand Place

The heart of Spa, featuring charming buildings and lively atmosphere, ideal for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Spa

Spa offers a delightful culinary scene with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and traditional Belgian dishes.

Spa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Waterzooi

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

Must-Try!

Speculoos

Spiced shortcrust cookies, often served with coffee.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Spa Market

Held every Wednesday, featuring fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Spa experiences a temperate climate. Winters are cold with average temperatures around 0°C (32°F), while summers are mild to warm, averaging 20°C (68°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months typically being July and August. Spring and autumn are pleasant, with moderate temperatures and colorful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone new, and it's polite to greet with 'Bonjour'.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and keep your hands on the table.

Public Behavior

Maintain a respectful demeanor, especially in public places, and avoid loud conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Spa is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, like any tourist area, it is advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded places. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it's wise to keep copies of important documents.

Tipping in Spa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a 5-10% tip for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time to explore the outdoors.

Summer

Warm weather perfect for hiking and enjoying outdoor cafes, but be mindful of occasional rain.

Autumn

Beautiful fall colors and harvest festivals; a great time for scenic walks.

Winter

Cold and snowy, ideal for cozying up in cafes or enjoying winter sports in nearby areas.

Nightlife Guide

Spa at Night

Spa offers a relaxed nightlife scene with cozy bars and pubs. Locals enjoy socializing over drinks, particularly craft beers and regional wines. There are occasional live music events, and the atmosphere is friendly and inviting, making it an excellent place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Spa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Forges

A scenic trail that takes you through forests and beautiful landscapes.

Les Hautes Fagnes

Offers diverse terrains and stunning views, suitable for hikers of all levels.

Airports

How to reach Spa by plane.

Liège Airport

Located about 45 minutes from Spa, this airport offers flights to various European destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Spa is a compact town, making it highly walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within a short walking distance. The charming streets and pathways are pedestrian-friendly, allowing visitors to explore at a leisurely pace.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Tourists

Visitors from various countries come to enjoy Spa's thermal baths and natural beauty.

Local Residents

A small but vibrant community that values their cultural heritage and natural surroundings.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

A popular activity in the region, with numerous trails and cycling routes.

Football

Local teams play in regional leagues, and matches are a common social event.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Spa is generally light, especially outside peak tourist seasons. Public transportation options include buses that connect Spa with nearby towns and cities. Cycling and walking are recommended for short distances to avoid parking complications.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Spa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, though options may vary.

Gluten-Free Options

Some establishments provide gluten-free alternatives, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Belgium has a high standard of healthcare, and Spa has access to local medical facilities. Pharmacies are available for minor ailments, and emergency services can be contacted easily. EU residents should carry their European Health Insurance Card for coverage.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide