Mons is probably not the first city that comes to mind when you think of holidaymaking in Belgium. Yet this city, known as Bergen to the Dutch, is well worth a trip. Enjoy the mediaeval square, the countless museums or spend a day shopping.
The area that Mons currently occupies was already inhabited in Roman times and slowly grew into a city. Both the town hall and the Sint-Waltrudiskerk, for example, were built in the 15th century and both are still in the centre of town. Their mediaeval architecture is absolutely fabulous!
Start your visit at Grand-Place, a mediaeval square full of historic buildings which include the town hall. If you look closely at the facade you will discover the Guardhouse Monkey, an iron statue that has become a symbol of the city. Continue your day with a visit to the 87 metre high Belfry. Take the glass lift to the top for a spectacular view of the city. If you're looking for a special museum, BAM (Musée des Beaux-Arts) is home to a magnificent art collection with work from several movements. Well worth a visit is the beautiful Kasteel van Havré, a very old castle with a flower garden and moat.
The city is pretty small making it easy to explore on foot. Longer distances can be covered by bus, which is also a great way to get around if it's raining or you want to see parts of the city you would otherwise miss. If you're travelling by car, you can park fairly cheaply in one of the parking garages or on the street. After a night on the town, one of the cabs that are conveniently located at the train station will get you back to your hotel safe and sound.
If you're travelling to Belgium by car, Mons is about a 2 hour drive from the Calais Ferry terminal. Alternatively you can reach it by taking the Eurostar and changing trains at Lille. Flying into Brussels? You can catch a train from the airport. Or if you’re arriving by train from the Netherlands, you will have to change trains at Bruxelles-Midi.
Discover this hidden gem close to the Belgian-French border and experience a taste of Wallonia.
