Alost / Aalst, Aalst Travel Guide

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Discover Aalst, Belgium: A historical transit hub with rich heritage, vibrant culture, and easy access to major Flemish cities.

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Alost / Aalst

Aalst, a city in East Flanders, Belgium, functions as a key transit point, offering visitors a blend of historical architecture and modern conveniences. Known for its annual Carnival and strategic location on the Dender River, Aalst provides easy access to nearby cities like Brussels and Ghent.

A brief summary to Alost / Aalst

Aalst, BE

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Check local train and bus schedules in advance for efficient travel planning.
Explore the city center on foot to best experience Aalst's charm and architecture.
Visit during the Carnival season for a lively celebration of culture and community.
Sample local delicacies at nearby cafes and restaurants.

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Explore Alost / Aalst on the Map

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Getting There

Walking

From Aalst train station, exit onto Stationsplein and head towards the city center. Walk straight along Kouter street, which leads directly to Grote Markt, the main square. The walk is approximately 500 meters and takes about 5-10 minutes. The route is well-signposted and offers a direct path to the heart of Aalst.
Public Transport

From Aalst train station, several buses connect to various points in the city. Check the De Lijn app or information boards at the station for the most suitable bus route to your destination. A single bus fare costs approximately €2.40. Buses depart frequently from the station, providing convenient access to different areas of Aalst.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available outside Aalst train station. A short taxi ride to the city center typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and the specific destination. The journey takes approximately 5-10 minutes. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available in Aalst.

Discover more about Alost / Aalst

Aalst, also known as Alost in French, is a city and municipality situated on the Dender River in the Flemish Region of Belgium. Located approximately 31 kilometers (19 miles) northwest of Brussels, it serves as a significant transit hub and a gateway to exploring the East Flanders province. The city boasts a rich history dating back to the 9th century when it was first mentioned as Villa Alost, a dependency of the Abbey of Lobbes.During the Middle Ages, Aalst grew into a prominent town and port, strategically positioned where the road from Bruges to Cologne crossed the Dender. Its historical significance is reflected in landmarks such as the Town Hall, which began construction in the 12th century and is considered the oldest surviving town hall in Belgium. The 15th-century Belfry, adjacent to the Town Hall, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and houses a 52-bell carillon, the oldest in the country.Aalst is also known for its vibrant Carnival festivities, a UNESCO-recognized event held annually before Lent. This lively celebration features colorful parades, elaborate costumes, and traditional events like the "throwing of the onions" from the Town Hall belfry. The city's artistic heritage is showcased in St. Martin's Collegiate Church, which houses a painting by Rubens and sculptures by Hiëronymus Duquesnoy the Elder.Travelers passing through Aalst can explore its historical center, enjoy local cuisine, and easily access nearby cities such as Brussels and Ghent via frequent train and bus services. The blend of historical landmarks, cultural events, and modern amenities makes Aalst a unique and captivating destination for a brief stopover or a longer visit.