Things To Do
in Waterloo

Waterloo, Belgium, is a historic town best known for the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, which marked the defeat of Napoleon Bonaparte. Today, it serves as a charming destination with a mix of historical significance and modern amenities. Visitors can explore various monuments, museums, and the natural beauty surrounding the area.

Its proximity to Brussels also makes Waterloo a convenient day trip for tourists seeking a blend of culture and history.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring History
morning
:

Visit the Lion's Mound and enjoy panoramic views of the battlefield. Explore the Wellington Museum to learn about the events of the battle.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local café, then head over to the Memorial 1815 for an immersive experience about the battle's history.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Belgian restaurant and take a leisurely stroll through the town square, enjoying the local atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a walk in the Parc de la Hase, a beautiful park perfect for morning strolls. Then, visit the local market to sample fresh produce.

afternoon
:

Explore the local art galleries and boutiques in the town center, followed by lunch at a nearby bistro.

evening
:

Experience local nightlife by visiting a bar or pub for Belgian beers and live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$5
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel night stay$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical significance and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and parks.
  • Convenient access to Brussels and other attractions.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Weather can be unpredictable.
  • Higher costs for dining and accommodations.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
  • "Je ne comprends pas" - I do not understand

Places to Visit in Waterloo

Visit one of these nice places.

Lion's Mound

An iconic monument offering stunning views of the battlefield, perfect for capturing panoramic shots.

Wellington Museum

The museum's historic architecture and exhibits provide excellent backdrops for photography.

Parc de la Hase

A picturesque park with beautiful landscapes, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Waterloo

Waterloo offers a delightful culinary experience with traditional Belgian cuisine and local specialties.

Waterloo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Carbonnade Flamande

A hearty beef stew made with beer, onions, and spices.

Must-Try!

Waterzooi

A creamy stew typically made with chicken or fish and vegetables.

Speculoos

Traditional spiced cookies often enjoyed with coffee.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Waterloo Market

A vibrant market held weekly, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Waterloo experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures can reach up to 25°C (77°F), while winters can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with the wettest months being June and August. Visitors should be prepared for unpredictable weather, especially during transition seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is the common form of greeting. It's polite to greet with 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir'.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating.

Dress Code

Dress smartly when dining out or attending cultural events, as casual attire is often frowned upon.

Safety Guide

Safety

Waterloo is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as in any urban area, it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and it is recommended to have travel insurance for any unforeseen events.

Tipping in Waterloo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A tip of about 10% is appreciated in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

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

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures range from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F). The blooming flowers in parks make it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather with temperatures between 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). Ideal for festivals and exploring the outdoors.

Autumn

Cool temperatures around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) with beautiful fall foliage, making it perfect for photography.

Winter

Chilly temperatures ranging from 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere and local Christmas markets.

Nightlife Guide

Waterloo at Night

Waterloo's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, with a range of bars, pubs, and clubs. Local breweries and pubs serve a variety of Belgian beers, making it a popular spot for beer enthusiasts. Many venues host live music events, creating a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends. The town attracts a friendly crowd, making it easy to socialize and enjoy the local culture.

Hiking in Waterloo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Forêt de Soignes

A beautiful forest area located close to Waterloo, offering various hiking trails amidst lush greenery.

Hiking trails along the Battlefield

Explore historical trails around the battlefield, combining outdoor activities with historical exploration.

Airports

How to reach Waterloo by plane.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Located approximately 30 km from Waterloo, Brussels Airport is the main international gateway to Belgium, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Waterloo is highly walkable, with many attractions, shops, and eateries located within a short distance from one another. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the town's layout encourages exploration on foot. Public parks and pedestrian areas add to the pleasant walking experience, making it easy for visitors to navigate without needing a car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Waterloo boasts a diverse population, with many residents engaged in local businesses and services.

Expats and Tourists

The town attracts a significant number of expats and tourists, especially those visiting from nearby Brussels.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Belgium, with many local clubs and a passionate fan base.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored pastime due to the country's extensive network of bike paths and beautiful countryside.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Waterloo is generally manageable, with peak hours during morning and evening commutes. Public transportation, including buses and trains, connects Waterloo with Brussels and other surrounding areas, making it easy to navigate without a car. Biking is also a popular option, with designated bike lanes available throughout the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Waterloo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for modifications.

Gluten-Free Options

Some establishments provide gluten-free options, but checking in advance is recommended.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Belgium has a high standard of healthcare, and residents have access to public and private hospitals. In case of an emergency, hospitals in the area are equipped to handle various medical situations. Tourists are advised to have travel insurance that covers healthcare costs. Pharmacies are also widely available for minor ailments and over-the-counter medications.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide