Things To Do
in Tongeren
Tongeren is Belgium's oldest city, founded in Roman times, and sits along the Jeker River in the Limburg province. Its compact center preserves medieval and Roman relics, making wandering its narrow streets feel like stepping back in time. The town is famous for its weekly antique market and the rich collection housed in the Gallo-Roman Museum.
It’s a walkable, friendly destination that rewards curious visitors with history, culture, and Belgian hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Tongeren and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh pastries and coffee. Take some time to stroll through the picturesque streets, admiring the quaint architecture.
Visit the Tongeren Antique Market, which is known for its rich history and fantastic array of vintage items. Explore the various stalls and engage with local vendors who are eager to share stories about their wares. Take your time to discover hidden gems that reflect the town's heritage.
Dine at a traditional Belgian restaurant, where you can savor dishes like stoofvlees and fries. After dinner, take a peaceful walk through the town square, soaking in the serene atmosphere as the sun sets. End your day with a nightcap at a local bar, enjoying a glass of Belgian beer.
Start your day with a visit to the Tongeren’s Gallo-Roman Museum, where you can explore artifacts that date back to Roman times. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the city’s rich history. Don't forget to check the museum's program for any special exhibitions.
Head to the Basilica of Our Lady, an impressive structure that showcases remarkable architecture and art. Take a moment to appreciate the serene ambiance inside, and if time permits, climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. Feel free to engage in a moment of reflection in this historic site.
Stroll along the city’s cobbled streets, discovering charming shops and inviting cafes. Treat yourself to a sweet Belgian waffle from a local food stall. For dinner, explore a new restaurant specializing in local cuisine, experiencing the cozy atmosphere and friendly service.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Three-course meal for two | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transport daily pass | $6-10 |
| 🖼️Museum or historic site entry | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and compact, walkable center
- High-quality museums and a famous Sunday antiques market
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Smaller pace may feel quiet for some travelers
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Tongeren
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful medieval façades and the Renaissance Town Hall provide classic Belgian town square photography, especially at dawn or dusk.
A striking church with towers and stained glass that make for dramatic interior and exterior shots.
The museum’s architecture and surrounding remnants offer contrast between ancient and modern tones.
A tranquil medieval courtyard and stone houses ideal for intimate, historic photography.
Walkable ramparts with views over the old town and river valley, great for sunset photography.
Food in Tongeren
Tongeren Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Limburg cherry pie with a crumbly crust; found in most bakeries around the Grote Markt.
Must-Try!
Beer-braised beef stew served with Belgian fries; a staple at local brasseries.
Belgian mussels with fries, typically available in season and in many eateries along the town center.
Warm waffles with toppings like sugar, chocolate, or fruit; widely available in cafes and stalls around the market.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Famous weekly market bordering Tongeren’s historic streets with antiques, crafts, and occasional local snacks.
Seasonal bites including fries, waffles, and regional snacks along the central square.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake and eye contact are common; use Belgian Dutch greetings like 'Goedemorgen' or 'Goeie dag'.
Be calm and patient; avoid loud behavior in churches and public spaces; queue politely.
Safety
Tipping in Tongeren
Ensure a smooth experience
In Belgium, service charge is often included; if not, a 5-10% tip is customary in restaurants for good service. Round up taxi fares.
Credit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is always handy for smaller shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming fruit trees in Hespengouw; great for orchard walks and photography of blossoms.
Long days with comfortable temperatures and lively market life; expect outdoor dining and walks by the Jeker.
Harvest season in Hespengouw; golden light and colorful foliage along country lanes and vineyards.
Chillier with a chance of rain; indoor museums and cozy cafés are ideal, and the town lights glow during holidays.
Tongeren at Night
Hiking in Tongeren
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A historical hike around the old town walls offering views of the river valley and town skyline.
A scenic rural route through fruit orchards and farmland in the Hesbaye region, best in spring and autumn.
A riverside hiking route linking Tongeren to nearby towns with lush scenery and pausing points.
Airports
How to reach Tongeren by plane.
Approximately 40-60 km from Tongeren; convenient for European flights and road connections via the E25.
About 25-40 km away; good option for regional travel with car or bus links.
Around 90-110 km away; major international hub with rail and road connections.
A longer drive but accessible for budget flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Main language group in Tongeren; a mix of families, retirees, and students in a small city setting.
Smaller communities from nearby regions and Europe contributing to cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across Belgium; local clubs and amateur leagues are common in the province.
A staple Belgian pastime with nearby rural routes and scenic cycling paths.
Community courts and clubs are available for recreational play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tongeren.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Belgian brasseries offer vegetarian dishes or can adapt classic recipes; ask for cheese and mushroom options or fresh salads.