Things To Do
in Welkenraedt

Welkenraedt is a charming town located in the Walloon region of Belgium, near the German border. Known for its rich history and picturesque landscapes, the town offers a blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty. The area is characterized by its quaint streets, historic buildings, and proximity to larger cities like Eupen and Verviers.

Visitors can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while exploring local shops, parks, and the stunning surrounding countryside.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Welkenraedt
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local bakery to enjoy fresh croissants and coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the town center, visiting the Church of Saint John the Baptist.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local bistro and then head to Parc de la Basse Campagne for a leisurely walk or a picnic. Explore the nearby historical sites, including the remains of the old castle.

evening
:

Dine at a well-reviewed restaurant, savoring local Belgian cuisine, followed by a visit to a cozy bar for a taste of local beers.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, then take a short trip to the nearby Hautes Fagnes Nature Reserve for breathtaking views.

afternoon
:

Return to Welkenraedt for lunch. Post-lunch, visit the local museum to learn about the town's history and culture.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with dinner at a traditional Belgian restaurant, indulging in a few local dishes, and experience the local nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-25
Coffee$3-5
🍺Local beer$4-7
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel night stay$80-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming and peaceful atmosphere
  • Rich cultural and historical heritage
  • Proximity to nature and outdoor activities
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Less tourist infrastructure compared to larger cities
  • Language barrier for non-French speakers
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est…?" - Where is...?
  • "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Welkenraedt

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc de la Basse Campagne

A serene park with beautiful landscapes, ideal for capturing nature shots.

Church of Saint John the Baptist

A stunning architectural gem in the center of town that offers great photo opportunities.

Historic Town Center

Quaint streets lined with charming buildings, perfect for street photography and capturing local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Welkenraedt

Welkenraedt offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes and beverages that reflect the rich Belgian culture.

Welkenraedt Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Carbonnade Flamande

A traditional beef stew made with Belgian beer, typically served with fries or bread.

Must-Try!

Speculoos

Spiced shortcrust biscuits that are particularly popular in the region, often enjoyed with coffee.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Market on Wednesdays

A vibrant market where locals sell fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and homemade pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Welkenraedt experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 3°C (37°F) in winter to 24°C (75°F) in summer. Rain is common throughout the year, with the wettest months typically being May and August. Snowfall is possible in winter, but it is usually light and doesn't last long.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is the common form of greeting, and using 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' is polite.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating, and keep your hands on the table but elbows off.

Language Respect

French is the primary language; making an effort to speak it, even a few words, is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Welkenraedt is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's advisable to stay alert, especially in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Tipping in Welkenraedt

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring a delightful time to visit. Expect plenty of outdoor activities and local festivals.

Summer

Warm and pleasant, summer is perfect for hiking and outdoor dining. Be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage create a picturesque backdrop for photography and outdoor excursions.

Winter

Cold and occasionally snowy, winter provides a cozy atmosphere with festive markets and warm local dishes.

Nightlife Guide

Welkenraedt at Night

Welkenraedt offers a relaxed nightlife scene with a mix of cozy bars and restaurants. While not overly vibrant, locals often gather in the evenings to enjoy Belgian beers and engage in friendly conversations. A few venues feature live music, and during weekends, you may find a more lively atmosphere in the local pubs.

Hiking in Welkenraedt

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hautes Fagnes Trails

These trails offer various routes through the stunning Hautes Fagnes Nature Reserve, suitable for all levels of hikers.

Les Sentiers de l'Eau

A picturesque hiking route that follows water streams, perfect for nature enthusiasts looking for peaceful walks.

Airports

How to reach Welkenraedt by plane.

Liège Airport (LGG)

Located approximately 40 km from Welkenraedt, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Welkenraedt is a walkable town, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a short distance of each other. The flat terrain makes it easy to navigate on foot, and there are lovely sidewalks and pedestrian areas that enhance the walking experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Welkenraedt's population consists of local Belgian residents, with a mix of Flemish and Walloon cultures.

Immigrant Communities

There is a presence of immigrant communities, particularly from neighboring countries, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the town.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is a popular sport in the region, with local clubs and community participation.

Cycling

Cycling is widely enjoyed, with many trails available for both casual and competitive cyclists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Welkenraedt is typically light, with most residents using bicycles or walking for short distances. Public transportation is available, with buses connecting to nearby cities and towns. For longer journeys, trains are accessible from nearby stations, providing good connectivity to major Belgian cities.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Welkenraedt.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

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

Gluten-Free Choices

Some eateries provide gluten-free meals; however, options may be limited.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Welkenraedt is good, with several clinics and a hospital located within a reasonable distance. Emergency services are available, and residents typically have health insurance that covers medical needs. Pharmacies are also available for over-the-counter medications.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide