PlizioGo

Aalst

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

City

PlizioGo —°2 21 1

ℹ️

Practical info — Aalst

▾

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

Start at the Grote Markt to admire the oldest alderman's house in the Low Countries and the UNESCO-listed belfry.
The Aalst Carnival (Feb/Mar) is world-famous for its satirical floats and onion-throwing, but expect massive crowds if you visit then.
Step into St. Martin's Church to see an authentic Rubens painting without the heavy tourist traffic found in bigger cities.
The locals are fiercely proud of their city and its distinct dialect, but practically everyone speaks English and is happy to help.

🍽 Food

🍽

Aalsterse Vlaai

A dense, sweet traditional flan unique to the area. Pick up a slice at any bakery around the town center.

🍽

Ondineke Beer

Taste this local craft beer, named after a famous literary character from Aalst, in the traditional pubs near the market square.

🍽

Frituur snacks

Grab authentic thick-cut Belgian fries from a local 'frituur' for a quick and satisfying lunch.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍

Saturday Market

Head to the Grote Markt on Saturday morning for a lively market selling fresh produce, cheeses, and local goods.

🛍

Kattestraat

The main pedestrian shopping street is lined with a mix of independent boutiques and familiar brands.

🧘

Osbroek Nature Reserve

Right next to the city park, this wilder area provides peaceful walking trails through marshlands and woods.

🧘

Stadspark (City Park)

A beautifully landscaped park with ponds and old trees, handy for a quiet afternoon break.

Highlights of 2026

2026-11-28Rock

Jan Smit - 30th Anniversary Tour

Jan Smit brings his greatest hits to Aalst to celebrate three decades of success in Flanders with his loyal fans.

Carnival

Aalst Carnival

A three-day carnival around Shrove Monday with satirical floats and the Voil Jeanetten parade, one of Flanders' best-known carnival traditions.

Aalst is an appealing Flemish city on the banks of the Dender River, renowned primarily for its highly bustling and satirical carnival, which is recognized as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity by UNESCO. Every year before Lent, the city transforms into a colorful spectacle as humorous and often sharp-witted floats parade through the streets. Historically, Aalst was a nationally significant center for hop cultivation and trade, which is why hop cones still adorn the city's coat of arms today. The historic heart of the city is the Grote Markt, home to the oldest surviving alderman's house in Belgium, dating back to the 13th century and crowned by an impressive belfry. In the adjacent late Gothic St. Martin's Church, visitors can admire not only splendid architecture but also an authentic painting by the master Peter Paul Rubens depicting Saint Roch.

Location: Belgium
Top sights: De Brigge · Speelveld Klein Parksken · De Speelerij
Nearby: Liedekerke (9 km)
Population: ~77.534

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	3	3	6	10	13	16	18	18	15	11	7	4
Rain mm	69	60	55	38	59	64	76	81	57	67	73	79

Geography

Population

77,534

Coordinates

50.93740, 4.03550

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Liedekerke9 km · SEExplore →

Ninove11 km · SExplore →

Dendermonde11 km · NEExplore →

Lennik16 km · SExplore →

Lokeren19 km · NExplore →

Castle of Gaasbeek20 km · SEExplore →

Meise Botanical Garden20 km · EExplore →

Durme River21 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

A day in the city

Pick weather + travel mode, get a concrete day plan.

09:00→15:121.8 km walk6 places0/6

Day budget: ≈ 19–25 €Entries 22€ · Transport 0€

Start at the Grote Markt with the 15th-century UNESCO belfry. Learn about the origins of printing at the Dirk Martens statue. Midday, the Sint-Martinuskerk offers Gothic architecture and a Rubens painting. In the afternoon, dive into carnival history at 't Gasthuys museum, ending with a relaxing walk in the Stadspark.

← swipe for more places →

📍

09:10 · 47'

Grote Markt

Look for the statue of Dirk Martens on the square.

🧭 Go here

🚶 3'0.02 km

📍

10:00 · 47'

Dirk Martensbeeld

Monument to the first book printer of the Southern Netherlands.

🧭 Route

🚶 4'0.04 km

📍

10:51 · 47'

Belfort van Aalst

The UNESCO-protected tower dates back to the 15th century.

🧭 Route

🚶 7'0.22 km

📍

11:45 · 47'

Sint-Martinuskerk

Gothic church housing an original painting by Rubens.

🧭 Route

🚶 15'0.6 km

📍

12:47 · 47'

't Gasthuys

City museum focusing on carnival traditions and history.

🧭 Route

🚶 21'0.91 km

📍

13:55 · 47'

Stadspark Aalst

A park established in 1915 with ponds and wooded paths.

🧭 Route

09:00→15:121.8 km walk6 places0/6

Day budget: ≈ 19–25 €Entries 22€ · Transport 0€

Rainy Aalst starts at the Grote Markt, using the historic facades for cover. The morning is spent inside the Belfry and the grand St. Martin's Church, avoiding the heaviest showers. At noon, the 't Gasthuys museum provides a deep dive into local lore in a dry environment. We wrap up at the City Park, where the wet paths offer a unique, moody atmosphere before heading to a cozy tavern.

← swipe for more places →

📍

09:10 · 47'

Grote Markt

Use the shop entrances and arcades around the square as temporary rain cover.

🧭 Go here

🚶 3'0.02 km

📍

10:00 · 47'

Dirk Martensbeeld

Quick photo stop; the statue has a unique metallic sheen in the rain.

🧭 Route

🚶 4'0.04 km

📍

10:51 · 47'

Belfort van Aalst

Well-suited for rain: explore the interior of this UNESCO-listed belfry tower.

🧭 Route

🚶 7'0.22 km

📍

11:45 · 47'

Sint-Martinuskerk

A dry sanctuary featuring impressive paintings by Rubens.

🧭 Route

🚶 15'0.6 km

📍

12:47 · 47'

't Gasthuys

Stay longer in the exhibits if there is a heavy downpour outside.

🧭 Route

🚶 21'0.91 km

📍

13:55 · 47'

Stadspark Aalst

The paved paths are less muddy and better for walking in the rain.

🧭 Route

09:00→15:121.8 km walk6 places0/6

Day budget: ≈ 19–25 €Entries 22€ · Transport 0€

Winter in Aalst is all about finding cozy indoor gems. After a brisk start at Grote Markt, seek warmth inside the grand St. Martin's Church. Spend the afternoon at 't Gasthuys museum, where history keeps you entertained and dry. As sunset hits around 5 PM, enjoy the atmospheric lighting of the City Park before retreating to a warm local pub or cafe.

← swipe for more places →

📍

09:10 · 47'

Grote Markt

Pop into the surrounding cafes for a quick warm beverage.

🧭 Go here

🚶 3'0.02 km

📍

10:00 · 47'

Dirk Martensbeeld

Quick stop only; steps may be slippery if there is frost.

🧭 Route

🚶 4'0.04 km

📍

10:51 · 47'

Belfort van Aalst

The indoor exhibits provide shelter from the winter chill.

🧭 Route

🚶 7'0.22 km

📍

11:45 · 47'

Sint-Martinuskerk

A peaceful spot to warm up while admiring sacred art.

🧭 Route

🚶 15'0.6 km

📍

12:47 · 47'

't Gasthuys

Well-suited for spending the coldest part of the afternoon indoors.

🧭 Route

🚶 21'0.91 km

📍

13:55 · 47'

Stadspark Aalst

Enjoy the winter silence; dress in warm layers for the walk.

🧭 Route

09:00→14:553 km ride6 places0/6

Day budget: ≈ 29–39 €Entries 22€ · Transport 12€

Start at the historic Statieplein and bike to Netwerk Aalst along the Dender riverbanks. Midday, visit the central Grote Markt and the nearby Sint-Martinuskerk. In the afternoon, explore history at 't Gasthuys before ending the day with a relaxing ride through the Stadspark.

← swipe for more places →

📍

09:10 · 47'

Statieplein

The station square features typical 19th-century architecture.

🧭 Go here

🚲 6'0.57 km

📍

10:03 · 47'

Netwerk Aalst

Contemporary art center near the Dender river.

🧭 Route

🚲 7'0.65 km

📍

10:57 · 47'

Grote Markt

The historic center, great for a coffee break.

🧭 Route

🚲 5'0.28 km

📍

11:49 · 47'

Sint-Martinuskerk

Gothic splendor, bicycle parking nearby.

🧭 Route

🚲 7'0.6 km

📍

12:43 · 47'

't Gasthuys

Cultural museum with an easily accessible courtyard.

🧭 Route

🚲 8'0.91 km

📍

13:38 · 47'

Stadspark Aalst

First-rate for a relaxing ride on the wooded paths.

🧭 Route

09:00→14:553 km ride6 places0/6

Day budget: ≈ 29–39 €Entries 22€ · Transport 12€

Cycling through Aalst in the rain requires waterproof gear. Start at Statieplein and head to Netwerk Aalst for some indoor culture. After Grote Markt, seek cover in St. Martin's Church. The 't Gasthuys museum is the perfect afternoon sanctuary. Finish the loop at the City Park, staying on paved paths and being careful of slippery road markings in the wet.

← swipe for more places →

📍

09:10 · 47'

Statieplein

Covered bike racks are available right at the station entrance.

🧭 Go here

🚲 6'0.57 km

📍

10:03 · 47'

Netwerk Aalst

Park your bike close to the entrance to get indoors quickly.

🧭 Route

🚲 7'0.65 km

📍

10:57 · 47'

Grote Markt

Brake carefully on the wet and slippery cobblestones.

🧭 Route

🚲 5'0.28 km

📍

11:49 · 47'

Sint-Martinuskerk

Use this stop for a short drying-off break inside the church.

🧭 Route

🚲 7'0.6 km

📍

12:43 · 47'

't Gasthuys

Secure bike parking spots are located in the courtyard or out front.

🧭 Route

🚲 8'0.91 km

📍

13:38 · 47'

Stadspark Aalst

Stick to the main paths to avoid large puddles and mud.

🧭 Route

09:00→14:553 km ride6 places0/6

Day budget: ≈ 29–39 €Entries 22€ · Transport 12€

Cycling Aalst in winter is refreshing if you are dressed in layers. Head from Statieplein to the warmth of Netwerk Aalst. The Grote Markt looks particularly scenic in the winter light. We spend extra time at St. Martin's Church and 't Gasthuys museum to escape the cold. The City Park offers crisp winter air before the tour ends at the station as darkness falls.

← swipe for more places →

📍

09:10 · 47'

Statieplein

Check your tire pressure; it often drops slightly in cold weather.

🧭 Go here

🚲 6'0.57 km

📍

10:03 · 47'

Netwerk Aalst

A great place to warm up with contemporary art and coffee.

🧭 Route

🚲 7'0.65 km

📍

10:57 · 47'

Grote Markt

Watch out for icy patches between the cobblestones.

🧭 Route

🚲 5'0.28 km

📍

11:49 · 47'

Sint-Martinuskerk

Park securely; cold weather drains e-bike batteries faster.

🧭 Route

🚲 7'0.6 km

📍

12:43 · 47'

't Gasthuys

Use the cloakroom to drop off heavy winter gear during your visit.

🧭 Route

🚲 8'0.91 km

📍

13:38 · 47'

Stadspark Aalst

After sunset (around 5 PM), it gets very cold in the park quickly.

🧭 Route

09:00→15:372.9 km drive7 places0/7

Day budget: ≈ 23–31 €Entries 26€ · Transport 1€

Your driving tour through Aalst connects three main clusters. Start at the station area near Keizershallen and walk to Statieplein. Then drive to the central Grote Markt, exploring the belfry and Sint-Martinuskerk on foot. In the afternoon, drive to the southern cluster for the 't Gasthuys museum and a walk in the Stadspark.

← swipe for more places →

📍

09:10 · 47'

Keizershallen

Event hall, park your car nearby here.

🧭 Go here

🚗 5'0.5 km

📍

10:02 · 47'

Statieplein

Walk to the station square featuring 19th-century architecture.

🧭 Route

🚗 5'0.6 km

📍

10:54 · 47'

Grote Markt

Drive to a parking lot near the center.

🧭 Route

🚗 3'0.06 km

📍

11:44 · 47'

Belfort van Aalst

The belfry is just a short walk from the market.

🧭 Route

🚗 4'0.22 km

📍

12:35 · 47'

Sint-Martinuskerk

Continue walking to the church featuring the Rubens painting.

🧭 Route

🚗 5'0.6 km

📍

13:27 · 47'

't Gasthuys

Use the car to reach the southern museum cluster.

🧭 Route

🚗 6'0.91 km

📍

14:20 · 47'

Stadspark Aalst

A pleasant walk from the museum to the park.

🧭 Route

09:00→15:372.9 km drive7 places0/7

Day budget: ≈ 23–31 €Entries 26€ · Transport 1€

Exploring Aalst by car is a breeze in the rain. Use central parking garages like Keizershallen or Hopmarkt as your base. Major sights like Grote Markt and the Belfry are just a short dash from your vehicle. Spend a dry afternoon at St. Martin's Church and 't Gasthuys museum. Finish with a quick drive-by or short walk at the City Park before heading out.

← swipe for more places →

📍

09:10 · 47'

Keizershallen

Spacious parking; a convenient starting point to get indoors quickly.

🧭 Go here

🚗 5'0.5 km

📍

10:02 · 47'

Statieplein

Short-term parking zone; stop for a quick photo of the station.

🧭 Route

🚗 5'0.6 km

📍

10:54 · 47'

Grote Markt

Park at the nearby Hopmarkt garage for the shortest walk to the square.

🧭 Route

🚗 3'0.06 km

📍

11:44 · 47'

Belfort van Aalst

It is only a 2-minute walk to the Belfry from the Hopmarkt garage.

🧭 Route

🚗 4'0.22 km

📍

12:35 · 47'

Sint-Martinuskerk

You can leave your umbrella in the car if parking at Hopmarkt (very close).

🧭 Route

🚗 5'0.6 km

📍

13:27 · 47'

't Gasthuys

Limited street parking nearby; a parking garage is a safer bet in the rain.

🧭 Route

🚗 6'0.91 km

📍

14:20 · 47'

Stadspark Aalst

The parking lot at Desmetstraat provides direct access to the park.

🧭 Route

09:00→15:372.9 km drive7 places0/7

Day budget: ≈ 23–31 €Entries 26€ · Transport 1€

Winter in Aalst by car means minimizing time spent in the freezing air. Park centrally to see the festively lit Grote Markt. St. Martin's Church provides a quiet, sheltered sanctuary. An afternoon at 't Gasthuys museum is the perfect way to stay warm. Before dark, drive to the City Park for a brisk winter stroll, then enjoy the car's heater on the way home.

← swipe for more places →

📍

09:10 · 47'

Keizershallen

Often less crowded than the Hopmarkt garage; convenient for winter.

🧭 Go here

🚗 5'0.5 km

📍

10:02 · 47'

Statieplein

The illuminated station building is a great photo subject in winter.

🧭 Route

🚗 5'0.6 km

📍

10:54 · 47'

Grote Markt

Park at Hopmarkt to be immediately in the heart of the city.

🧭 Route

🚗 3'0.06 km

📍

11:44 · 47'

Belfort van Aalst

Take advantage of the short walk from your car to avoid the cold.

🧭 Route

🚗 4'0.22 km

📍

12:35 · 47'

Sint-Martinuskerk

The interior is sheltered from the wind, but still dress warmly.

🧭 Route

🚗 5'0.6 km

📍

13:27 · 47'

't Gasthuys

The museum is well-heated; first-rate for a longer indoor break.

🧭 Route

🚗 6'0.91 km

📍

14:20 · 47'

Stadspark Aalst

Watch out for icy spots in the parking lot next to the park.

🧭 Route

Sights in the town Aalst (21)

De Brigge 👨‍👩‍👧 family

An indoor family activity center with a climbing wall and trampolines in Aalst.

Speelveld Klein Parksken 👨‍👩‍👧 family

Speelveld Klein Parksken has a well-kept area for play and exercise in Aalst.

De Speelerij 👨‍👩‍👧 family

De Speelerij in Aalst invites children to enjoy diverse outdoor play activities.

Kasteel Terlinden 🏰 castle

Terlinden Castle is an impressive castle in Aalst surrounded by a pretty park. It is a significant architectural heritage of the region and a beautiful destination for strollers.

Roodkapje 🏺 historical

The Little Red Riding Hood monument in Aalst is an appealing statue commemorating the well-known fairy tale character. It is a popular photo spot and a symbol of the city's cultural diversity.

Sint-Martinuskerk ⛪ religious

The Saint Martin's Church is a significant religious building in Aalst, known for its impressive Gothic architecture. Inside, it houses valuable artworks, including a painting by Peter Paul Rubens.

Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van Bijstandkerk ⛪ religious

The Church of Our Lady of Assistance in Aalst is a prominent place of worship with a rich history. It is a place of quiet and prayer, and its tower defines the city's skyline.

Kapel Sint-Antonius van Padua ⛪ religious

The Chapel of Saint Anthony of Padua is a small, peaceful place of prayer in Aalst. It is used by many locals for short moments of reflection and remembrance.

Honegem 🌿 nature

Honegem is an idyllic nature reserve near Aalst, known for its diverse flora and fauna. Hiking trails invite visitors to explore the peaceful landscape and wet meadows.

Kasteel van Regelsbrugge 🏰 castle

The Regelsbrugge Castle is a historical estate in Aalst. The building is surrounded by greenery and represents an important testament to the aristocratic living culture in the region.

Toneel Atelier Aalst 🎭 culture

The Toneel Atelier Aalst is a local theatre offering a wide range of performances and workshops. It is an important cultural meeting point for theatre enthusiasts in the city.

Stadspark 🌳 park

The Stadspark of Aalst provides an extensive green space for recreation and outdoor walks. It is a popular meeting point for nature lovers in the middle of the city.

Stedelijk Museum 't Gasthuys 🏛 museum

Stedelijk Museum 't Gasthuys is housed in a former hospital building in Aalst. It presents exhibitions on the city's rich history and heritage.

Kasteel van Ronsevaal 🏰 castle

Kasteel van Ronsevaal is an impressive castle in the vicinity of Aalst. The structure and its surrounding gardens are an example of a local noble seat.

QuARTier A 🏛 museum

QuARTier A is an art gallery in Aalst that showcases contemporary works by local and international artists. Art lovers can visit rotating exhibitions here in a modern setting.

🌐 quartiera.com

De ijskelder van Overhamme 🏺 historical

De ijskelder van Overhamme is a historic ruin in Aalst that was formerly used for ice storage. This architectural remnant recalls past methods of food preservation.

Het Neuzeken 🏺 historical

Het Neuzeken is a monument in Aalst commemorating a local event or personality. It is located in a publicly accessible square within the city.

De Bathyscaaf (VZW Theater Pact)🎭 culture

De Bathyscaaf is a small theatre in Aalst operated by VZW Theater Pact. It provides an intimate setting for local stage performances and cultural events.

't Katrientje 🎭 culture

't Katrientje is a local theatre venue in Aalst that hosts various performances. It is an important site for promoting performing arts within the community.

🌐 catharinisten.be

Oliemolen 📍 landmark

Oliemolen is a historic windmill in Aalst that bears witness to traditional industry. Visitors can view the structure to learn more about the milling techniques of the past.

Het Osbroek 🌿 nature

A nature reserve in Aalst, good for walks in the greenery.

Frequently asked questions

What is Aalst particularly famous for?

For its carnival, which is part of UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage.

When does the carnival take place?

It traditionally starts on the Sunday before Ash Wednesday and lasts for three days.

Is there a Belfry in Aalst?

Yes, the Belfry of Aalst is one of the oldest in the Low Countries.

What is the Borse van Amsterdam?

A historic building on the Grote Markt that formerly served as a stock exchange.

Which river flows through Aalst?

The river Dender.

Aalst: where is it located?

Aalst is located in Belgium.

Aalst: what is there to see?

Highlights include De Brigge, Speelveld Klein Parksken, De Speelerij.

Aalst: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Aalst: why is it worth visiting?

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Europe

More places in Belgium →

Aalst

Practical info — Aalst

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

🍽 Food

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

Highlights of 2026

Jan Smit - 30th Anniversary Tour

Aalst Carnival

Best time to visit & climate

Geography

Explore nearby

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Grote Markt

Dirk Martensbeeld

Belfort van Aalst

Sint-Martinuskerk

't Gasthuys

Stadspark Aalst

Grote Markt

Dirk Martensbeeld

Belfort van Aalst

Sint-Martinuskerk

't Gasthuys

Stadspark Aalst

Grote Markt

Dirk Martensbeeld

Belfort van Aalst

Sint-Martinuskerk

't Gasthuys

Stadspark Aalst

Statieplein

Netwerk Aalst

Grote Markt

Sint-Martinuskerk

't Gasthuys

Stadspark Aalst

Statieplein

Netwerk Aalst

Grote Markt

Sint-Martinuskerk

't Gasthuys

Stadspark Aalst

Statieplein

Netwerk Aalst

Grote Markt

Sint-Martinuskerk

't Gasthuys

Stadspark Aalst

Keizershallen

Statieplein

Grote Markt

Belfort van Aalst

Sint-Martinuskerk

't Gasthuys

Stadspark Aalst

Keizershallen

Statieplein

Grote Markt

Belfort van Aalst

Sint-Martinuskerk

't Gasthuys

Stadspark Aalst

Keizershallen

Statieplein

Grote Markt

Belfort van Aalst

Sint-Martinuskerk

't Gasthuys

Stadspark Aalst

Sights in the town Aalst (21)

De Brigge👨‍👩‍👧 family

Speelveld Klein Parksken👨‍👩‍👧 family

De Speelerij👨‍👩‍👧 family

Kasteel Terlinden🏰 castle

Roodkapje🏺 historical

Sint-Martinuskerk⛪ religious

Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van Bijstandkerk⛪ religious

De Brigge 👨‍👩‍👧 family

Speelveld Klein Parksken 👨‍👩‍👧 family

De Speelerij 👨‍👩‍👧 family

Kasteel Terlinden 🏰 castle

Roodkapje 🏺 historical

Sint-Martinuskerk ⛪ religious

Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van Bijstandkerk ⛪ religious

Kapel Sint-Antonius van Padua ⛪ religious

Honegem 🌿 nature

Kasteel van Regelsbrugge 🏰 castle

Toneel Atelier Aalst 🎭 culture

Stadspark 🌳 park

Stedelijk Museum 't Gasthuys 🏛 museum

Kasteel van Ronsevaal 🏰 castle

QuARTier A 🏛 museum

De ijskelder van Overhamme 🏺 historical

Het Neuzeken 🏺 historical

't Katrientje 🎭 culture

Oliemolen 📍 landmark

Het Osbroek 🌿 nature