Aalst, Belgium Travel Guide

Discover Aalst: A historic city in Flanders, Belgium, known for its medieval charm, vibrant carnival, and delicious local cuisine.

Nestled in the heart of Flanders, Aalst is a charming city rich with history, culture, and vibrant local life. Known for its medieval architecture and picturesque streets, Aalst offers a unique glimpse into Belgium's storied past. The city's iconic belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands proudly in the Grote Markt, serving as a testament to its historical significance. Every February, Aalst transforms into a lively carnival hub, attracting visitors from all over the world. The Aalst Carnival, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, is a must-see event filled with colorful parades, satirical floats, and lively music. This celebration of creativity and humor is deeply ingrained in the local culture, making it a memorable experience for any visitor. Beyond its historical and cultural attractions, Aalst boasts beautiful parks and gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic. The city is also known for its gastronomy, offering a variety of local delicacies and Belgian specialties. From quaint cafes to fine dining restaurants, food enthusiasts will find plenty to savor in Aalst.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Aalst.

Visit the Aalst Carnival in February for an unforgettable experience.
Explore the Grote Markt and its surrounding medieval architecture.
Try local delicacies at the many cafes and restaurants.
Take a leisurely walk through the city’s parks and gardens.

Explore Aalst: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Aalst

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Best Attractions

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Musical Instruments Museum

Explore the rich musical heritage at Brussels' Musical Instruments Museum, featuring thousands of instruments and stunning city views.

4.4

House of European History

Explore the rich tapestry of European history at the House of European History in Brussels, where engaging exhibits bring the past to life.

4.5

Hallerbos

Discover the enchanting Hallerbos, a national forest in Belgium, famous for its stunning bluebell blooms and tranquil walking trails.

4.6

Arenberg Castle

Explore the enchanting Arenberg Castle in Leuven, a historical treasure showcasing stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, rich in culture and history.

4.6

Best landmarks in Aalst

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St. Michael & St. Gudula Cathedral

Explore the stunning St. Michael & St. Gudula Cathedral in Brussels, a captivating blend of Gothic architecture and rich cultural history, perfect for all visitors.

4.7

Waterloo Battlefield

Discover the historic Waterloo Battlefield, where Napoleon's fate was sealed, and explore Belgium's rich cultural heritage.

4.5

Historic Leuven Town Hall

Discover the stunning Gothic architecture and rich history of Leuven Town Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Belgium.

4.7

Sint-Pietersabdij

Explore the historic Sint-Pietersabdij in Ghent, a serene abbey showcasing centuries of architectural beauty and monastic history.

4.4

Best restaurants in Aalst

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Restaurant Mozart

Discover the exquisite barbecue flavors at Restaurant Mozart in Aalst – where every bite tells a story.

4.5

Café de Paris

Experience authentic Belgian cuisine at Café de Paris, where traditional flavors meet modern elegance in the heart of Aalst.

4.2

Friends Breakfast and Lunch

Discover delicious breakfast, brunch & lunch at Friends Breakfast and Lunch in Aalst - where quality meets comfort in every bite.

4.4

Mister Spaghetti Aalst

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Mister Spaghetti Aalst, where delicious flavors meet warm hospitality in the heart of Belgium.

4.1

Best bars in Aalst

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Piazza

Discover exquisite wines in a cozy atmosphere at Piazza, Aalst's premier wine bar, where every sip tells a story.

4.3

Classics

Discover Classics in Aalst, a lively bar offering a diverse drink selection and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

4.2

't Capucientje

Explore the charming ‘t Capucientje pub in Aalst, where local brews and friendly faces await for a true taste of Belgian culture.

4.3

Den Heiligen Gheest

Discover the lively spirit of Den Heiligen Gheest, a charming pub in Aalst offering a delightful selection of drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Aalst

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Classics

Discover the lively Classics bar in Aalst, a perfect spot for drinks and socializing in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.2

Den Heiligen Gheest

Experience the vibrant nightlife and local culture at Den Heiligen Gheest, a top pub in Aalst offering an extensive drink menu and lively atmosphere.

4.2

The Music Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Music Club in Aalst, where creative cocktails and live music create an unforgettable atmosphere.

4.6

The Milano

Experience the epitome of nightlife at The Milano, Aalst's premier lounge and dance club, where luxury meets vibrant entertainment.

4.4

Best shops in Aalst

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Stadsfeestzaal

Explore Stadsfeestzaal in Antwerp, a stunning shopping mall blending exquisite architecture, diverse retail options, and rich cultural experiences.

4.3

The Tintin shop

Explore the world of Tintin at The Tintin Shop in Brussels - a treasure trove of collectibles and comic book charm.

4.4

Action Aalst

Discover an incredible variety of gifts, DIY supplies, and home essentials at Action Aalst, your ultimate shopping destination in Belgium.

4.1

A.S.Adventure

Discover everything you need for your outdoor adventures at A.S.Adventure in Aalst, from camping gear to stylish beachwear.

4.3

Explore Aalst on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Aalst, mapped for you.

Aalst Essentials

Aalst is conveniently located in East Flanders, Belgium. The nearest major airport is Brussels Airport (BRU), approximately 40 kilometers away. From Brussels, you can take a direct train to Aalst, which typically takes around 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive from Brussels to Aalst via the E40 highway, which takes about 40 minutes.
Aalst has an efficient public transport system. The city is well-connected by buses operated by De Lijn, and taxis are readily available. The train station in Aalst offers frequent services to major Belgian cities, including Brussels, Ghent, and Antwerp. For local travel, cycling is a popular mode of transport, and bike rentals are available. Walking is also a great way to explore the compact city center.
The official currency in Belgium is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available throughout Aalst, so withdrawing cash is convenient. Contactless payment methods, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, are also commonly accepted.
Aalst is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is wise to take usual precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. The city center and tourist areas are generally safe, but be cautious in the vicinity of the train station, where petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number can be used for police, fire, and medical emergencies. The main hospital in Aalst is OLV Hospital, which provides comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are well-distributed throughout the city and can offer over-the-counter medications and advice. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress smartly when dining out or attending cultural events. Casual wear is acceptable for sightseeing. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect religious sites and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and maintain a respectful demeanor. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding buses and trains. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly handshake. In informal settings, two or three kisses on the cheek may be customary. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties such as 'vlaai' (pie) and Aalst beer. Don't be overly loud or disruptive in restaurants, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Aalst like a local, visit the weekly market at Grote Markt on Saturdays, where you can find fresh produce and local delicacies. Participate in the famous Aalst Carnival if you visit in February, a UNESCO-recognized event known for its vibrant parades and lively atmosphere. Explore the scenic Dender River by renting a kayak or taking a riverside walk. Engage with the locals at traditional Belgian pubs and try regional beers for a truly authentic experience.

When is the best time to visit Aalst?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Aalst

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Aalst. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHallo
  [hah-loh]
- GoodbyeTot ziens
  [toht zeens]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNee
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeAlsjeblieft
  [ahls-yuh-bleeft]
- Thank youDank je wel
  [dahnk yuh vehl]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [soh-ree]
- How are you?Hoe gaat het?
  [hoo gaat het]
- Fine. And you?Goed. En met jou?
  [khoot. en met yow]
- Do you speak English?Spreek je Engels?
  [spreyk yuh eng-uhls]
- I don't understandIk begrijp het niet
  [ik buh-khreypt het neet]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIk zou graag de menukaart zien, alstublieft
  [ik zou khrahg duh meh-noo-kahrt seen, ahl-stew-bleeft]
- I don't eat meatIk eet geen vlees
  [ik ayt khayn vleys]
- Cheers!Proost!
  [prohst]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIk zou graag willen betalen, alstublieft
  [ik zou khrahg vil-luhn buh-tah-luhn, ahl-stew-bleeft]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Ga weg!
  [gah wekh]
- Call the Police!Bel de politie!
  [bel duh poh-lee-see]
- Call a doctor!Bel een dokter!
  [bel ayn dohk-tuhr]
- I'm lostIk ben verdwaald
  [ik ben vuhr-dwahlt]
- I'm illIk ben ziek
  [ik ben zik]
- I'd like to buy...Ik zou graag ... kopen
  [ik zou khrahg ... koh-puhn]
- I'm just lookingIk kijk alleen maar
  [ik kayk ahl-ayn mahr]
- How much is it?Hoeveel kost het?
  [hoo-vayl kost het]
- That's too expensiveDat is te duur
  [daht is tuh dyur]
- Can you lower the price?Kan u de prijs verlagen?
  [kahn uu duh prays vuh-rah-ghuhn]
- What time is it?Hoe laat is het?
  [hoo laht is het]
- It's one o'clockHet is een uur
  [het is ayn uhr]
- Half past (10)Half elf
  [hahlf elf]
- MorningOchtend
  [ohk-tuhnt]
- AfternoonNamiddag
  [nah-mee-dahkh]
- EveningAvond
  [ah-vohnt]
- YesterdayGisteren
  [khihs-tuh-ruhn]
- TodayVandaag
  [vahn-dahkh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [mohr-khuhn]
- 1Eén
  [ayn]
- 2Twee
  [tvay]
- 3Drie
  [dree]
- 4Vier
  [veer]
- 5Vijf
  [vayf]
- 6Zes
  [zehs]
- 7Zeven
  [zeh-vuhn]
- 8Acht
  [ahkht]
- 9Negen
  [nay-khuhn]
- 10Tien
  [teen]
- Where's a/the...?Waar is de...
  [vahr is duh]
- What's the address?Wat is het adres?
  [vaht is het ah-drehs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kan je me dat tonen (op de kaart)?
  [kahn yuh muh daht toh-nuhn (op duh kahrt)]
- When's the next (bus)?Wanneer is de volgende (bus)?
  [vahn-ayr is duh vohl-uhn-duh (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)Een ticket (naar ....)
  [ayn ticket (nahr)]

History of Aalst

Aalst, originally known as 'Alost', traces its roots back to the early Middle Ages. The first recorded mention of Aalst dates back to the 9th century, when it was a small settlement along the banks of the Dender River. By the 11th century, it had grown into a fortified town, playing a significant role in the regional defense system of the County of Flanders.
During the 12th and 13th centuries, Aalst became renowned for its thriving cloth industry. The town's strategic location at the crossroads of vital trade routes facilitated its economic growth. Aalst’s cloth halls, known as 'Lakenhalle', were a testament to its prosperity, attracting merchants from all over Europe. This period marked the town's golden age, with the textile trade serving as its economic backbone.
A pivotal moment in Aalst's history occurred in 1491 during the Flemish revolts against Maximilian of Austria. The town found itself at the center of a fierce conflict known as the Battle of Aalst. Despite being heavily fortified, Aalst suffered significant damage. This event underscored the town's strategic importance and its role in the broader political struggles of the time.
The 16th century brought religious upheaval to Aalst, as it did to much of Europe. The town was caught in the crosscurrents of the Reformation and Counter-Reformation. Aalst saw the rise of Protestantism, followed by violent clashes and persecution. The Beeldenstorm (Iconoclastic Fury) of 1566, during which Protestant reformers destroyed Catholic images and relics, left a lasting mark on the town's religious landscape.
The 18th century was a period of reconstruction for Aalst. The town began to recover from the tumultuous events of the previous centuries. Notable architectural projects included the construction of the Baroque-style St. Martin's Church and the restoration of the Town Hall. This era also saw the gradual modernization of the town’s infrastructure, laying the groundwork for future growth.
The 19th century brought the Industrial Revolution to Aalst, transforming it into a bustling industrial town. The introduction of railways and the development of new manufacturing industries, particularly in textiles and machinery, spurred economic growth. Aalst became a hub of innovation, with new factories and an expanding workforce driving the town’s prosperity.
Aalst, like much of Belgium, was significantly affected by both World Wars. During World War I, the town was occupied by German forces, leading to hardship and destruction. In World War II, Aalst again faced occupation and was the site of several resistance activities. The post-war era saw the town's resilience, with efforts to rebuild and modernize, restoring its historical landmarks and infrastructure.
Today, Aalst is a vibrant blend of historical charm and modern innovation. The town celebrates its rich heritage through events like the annual Aalst Carnival, a UNESCO-recognized cultural event known for its satirical floats and lively parades. Aalst continues to thrive as a center of commerce and culture, honoring its past while embracing the future.