The Insider's Guide to Hasselt
Summary: Exploring the Best of Hasselt: Your Guide to Top Sites, Restaurants, Nightlife, and More. From Cultural Experiences to Outdoor Adventures, We'll Help You Make the Most of Your Time in the City.
Welcome to Hasselt! If you're planning to move to Hasselt, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Hasselt has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Hasselt.
Hasselt, the capital of the Belgian province of Limburg, is a charming city with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Tourists and locals alike can enjoy a variety of attractions and activities in this picturesque city. One of the most iconic landmarks in Hasselt is the St. Quentin's Cathedral, a beautiful Gothic church dating back to the 11th century. The cathedral houses a remarkable collection of religious art, including a 15th-century wooden statue of the Virgin Mary and a 17th-century painting of the Last Supper by Flemish artist Gaspar de Crayer.
Another must-visit site is the National Jenever Museum, which celebrates the history and production of jenever, a traditional Belgian gin. The museum is housed in a former distillery and offers visitors the chance to learn about the distillation process, sample different types of jenever, and even purchase a bottle to take home. The Japanese Garden, the largest of its kind in Europe, is another popular attraction in Hasselt. This tranquil oasis features traditional Japanese architecture, a tea house, and a beautiful collection of plants and trees, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Art enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Z33 House for Contemporary Art, which showcases innovative and thought-provoking exhibitions by local and international artists. The Modemuseum Hasselt, or Fashion Museum, is another must-see for fashion lovers, featuring a vast collection of clothing and accessories from the 18th century to the present day. History buffs will appreciate the Herkenrode Abbey, a former Cistercian monastery that now serves as a cultural center and event venue.
For those looking to explore the great outdoors, the Kiewit Nature Domain offers a variety of walking and cycling trails, as well as a petting zoo and a playground for children. The Bokrijk Open Air Museum is another popular destination, featuring a collection of historic buildings and demonstrations of traditional crafts and trades.
The restaurant and nightlife scene in Hasselt is diverse and lively, offering a wide range of options for visitors to enjoy. One of the most popular restaurants in the city is De Kwizien, which serves innovative and delicious dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Another favorite is Vous Lé Vous, a fine dining establishment that offers a unique gastronomic experience in a cozy and elegant setting.
For a more casual dining experience, visitors can head to De Goei Goesting, a trendy brasserie that serves a variety of Belgian and international dishes. The Century, a popular café and bar located in a beautiful Art Deco building, is the perfect spot for a drink and a bite to eat. Café Latino is a lively bar and restaurant that offers a taste of Latin America, with delicious cocktails, tapas, and live music on weekends.
When it comes to nightlife, Hasselt has plenty to offer. The Forty Five Club is a popular nightclub that hosts local and international DJs, while the Labyrinth Club is known for its underground techno and house music events. For a more laid-back atmosphere, visitors can head to the Irish Times Pub, a cozy and authentic Irish bar with live music and a great selection of beers.
Recreational activities in Hasselt cater to a wide range of interests and preferences. The Kapermolenpark is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering walking and cycling paths, a large playground, and a swimming pool. The Plopsa Indoor Hasselt is a popular amusement park for families, featuring a variety of rides and attractions for children of all ages.
For those interested in sports, the Grenslandhallen Sports Complex offers facilities for tennis, squash, and badminton, as well as a fitness center and a climbing wall. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at the Flanders Nippon Golf & Business Club, a beautiful and challenging course located just outside the city.
Finally, the Kinepolis Hasselt is a popular cinema complex that screens the latest movies in a comfortable and modern setting. With so many recreational activities to choose from, visitors to Hasselt are sure to find something to suit their interests and preferences.
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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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Insider Tips from Expats in Hasselt: Making the Most of Life and Connections
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.