Graanmarkt: Aalst's Lively Heart
Discover the vibrant heart of Aalst at Graanmarkt, a historic square brimming with culture, events, and architectural beauty, offering a true taste of Flemish life.
The Graanmarkt in Aalst is more than just a marketplace; it's a vibrant public square steeped in history and local life. Situated in the heart of the city, it serves as a central meeting point and a stage for various events throughout the year. Flanked by historical buildings, including the former Pupillenschool and a war memorial, the Graanmarkt offers a blend of architectural beauty and cultural significance. Whether you're looking to soak in the atmosphere, attend a local festival, or simply relax and watch the world go by, the Graanmarkt provides a quintessential Aalst experience. Its accessibility and central location make it an ideal starting point for exploring the city's many attractions, from the nearby Grote Markt to the charming streets filled with shops and cafes. The square's dynamic energy and historical backdrop make it a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking to understand the spirit of Aalst.
A brief summary to Graanmarkt
- Graanmarkt, Aalst, Arrondissement of Aalst, 9300, BE
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit on Saturday morning to experience the bustling weekly market, offering local produce, crafts, and a taste of Aalst's community spirit.
- Check the local events calendar; Graanmarkt frequently hosts festivals, concerts, and cultural events, especially during the Aalst Carnival.
- Explore the surrounding streets for unique boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, providing a diverse culinary and shopping experience.
Getting There
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Walking
From Aalst Train Station, exit and turn left onto Albert Lienaertstraat. Follow this street until you reach the Graanmarkt, approximately a 10-minute walk. The square will be on your left, easily identifiable by the open space and surrounding historical buildings.
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Public Transport
Several bus lines stop near Graanmarkt. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient route from your location. Alight at a stop near the city center (e.g., 'Aalst Graanmarkt'). A single bus fare within Aalst typically costs around €2.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Aalst Train Station to Graanmarkt will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €8-€12 for the ride. Be aware that availability may vary, especially during peak hours or events.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to 'Graanmarkt, Aalst'. Parking directly on the Graanmarkt is limited and often full. Consider using nearby parking garages such as 'Parking Postsite' (Vaartstraat) or 'Parking Keizershallen'. Parking fees typically range from €2.20 per hour in the city center, with daily rates around €4-€4.50 at Keizershallen.
Discover more about Graanmarkt
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Oud Aelst
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Vredegerecht Aalst
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Monument Ondineke
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A bronze statue on Aalst's Grote Markt, embodying the spirit of a working-class girl from a famous Flemish novel.
Safir
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Werfplein
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Belfort Aalst
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Alost / Aalst
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Grote Markt
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Visit Aalst
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Aalst Jouw Stad
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Tower Hotel
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Monument Koningin Astrid
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Danszaal Gillade
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Monument Boudewijn I
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B&B Hof Beygaert
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Unmissable attractions to see
Oorlogsmonument Aalst
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A solemn war memorial on Aalst's Graanmarkt, commemorating the city's fallen soldiers and civilian victims of both World Wars, serving as a place for reflection and remembrance.
Monument Jozef van Overstraeten
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Monument Alfred Kelders
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Katjen Achterien - katjen weir
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St Martin's Church
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'T Gasthuys - Stedelijk Museum Aalst
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Herdenking wereldoorlog standbeeld
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A moving World War memorial in Aalst honoring civilian victims, featuring an eternal flame and symbolic sculptures on Vredeplein.
Keizersplein
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Carnavalswerkhallen
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Groen Project Dons
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Artistieke bank
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Parktuin Schelfhout
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Sint-Martens plein
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Queen Astrid Park (Small Parkske)
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Kunstwerk bank
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Essential places to dine
Wally Aalst
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Vleesrestaurant De Frigo
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Restaurant Mozart
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De Bevoorrading
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't Herenhuys
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Bistro Korboo
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De Refter
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Friends Breakfast and Lunch
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Purple 15 'The Restaurant'
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Savarin
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Graaf van Egmont
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Ichiban
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Restaurant Steven
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La Locanda
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Borse van Amsterdam
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Detroit Aalst
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Ye-Yao Shopping Markt
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Jules Aalst
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JACK & JONES
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Hema
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Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Isleño fashion & déco
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Dagwinkel / Press shop
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Golden Mart
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Pasco Business & PromoGifts
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All Gifts
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Mini Market - Grocery shop
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s.Oliver
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Oliera Aalst
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Juttu
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pub ‘t Ajuintje - Aalst
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The View
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Bailar cocktail- & gastrobar
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James Cocktails & Fingerfood
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The Mojo
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L'Art Nouveau
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Ravazjol
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Den Heiligen Gheest
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The Music Club
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Barca Bère
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Bless L’Etage Aalst
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Piazza
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ACHT8BAR
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The Milano
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Zeppelin Aalst
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