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The Ultimate Aalst, Belgium Cheat Sheet: Local Secrets for 2025 Travelers

Local's guide to Aalst, Belgium with insider tips, money-saving hacks, and practical advice for 2025 travelers. Discover the real Aalst beyond the typical tourist spots.

Discovering Aalst’s Hidden Charms

After six visits to Aalst spanning nearly a decade, I still remember my first impression: “Why isn’t this charming city on more travelers’ radars?” I had stumbled upon Aalst by accident while seeking an authentic Belgian experience beyond Brussels. When my train pulled into the station on that rainy March afternoon in 2015, I expected little more than a quick pit stop. Five days later, I was mapping out my return visit.

What struck me immediately was how Aalst offers an untouched slice of Belgian life—where locals actually outnumber tourists, prices haven’t been inflated by tourism, and genuine connections happen naturally. I’ve since become something of an unofficial ambassador for this underrated gem just 19 miles northwest of Brussels.

This guide distills everything I’ve learned about Aalst—from transportation quirks to hidden cafés where old men still debate politics over perfectly poured beers. Whether you’re making Aalst your primary destination or incorporating it into a broader Belgian adventure, I promise you’ll leave with memories more authentic than anything you’ll find in the country’s more famous cities.

Essential Aalst Overview: What You Need to Know

Before diving into specifics, let’s cover the fundamentals that will help you navigate Aalst like a local rather than stumbling around as I did during my first visit.

Aalst at a Glance

  • Local name: Aalst (Dutch) or Alost (French)
  • Population: Approximately 88,000
  • Location: East Flanders province, 30 km northwest of Brussels
  • Language: Dutch (Flemish dialect), though many speak English
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Time zone: Central European Time (CET)

When to Visit Aalst

Aalst truly shines during these specific periods:

  • February/March (Carnival Season): The famous Aalst Carnival is the city’s biggest event—three days of parades, costumes, and celebrations. Book accommodations at least 6 months in advance.
  • May-September: Mild temperatures make this ideal for exploring on foot, with numerous small festivals and outdoor events.
  • December: The Christmas market in the Grote Markt transforms the city center into a winter wonderland with local crafts and food.

Local Tip: Aalst experiences fewer tourists year-round compared to Bruges or Brussels, but weekends from May-September see more visitors. For a truly local experience, visit mid-week when you can have attractions nearly to yourself.

How Long to Stay

I’ve found that 2-3 days is sufficient to explore Aalst thoroughly. This gives you time to see the main attractions, enjoy the local food scene, and perhaps take a half-day trip to nearby Dendermonde or Ghent. If you’re including Aalst as part of a broader Belgian itinerary, even a thoughtful day trip from Brussels can be rewarding.

Getting to and Around Aalst

Reaching Aalst

Most international travelers arrive via Brussels Airport (BRU), which offers excellent connections to Aalst:

  1. Train: The most convenient option. Direct trains run from Brussels Airport-Zaventem to Aalst approximately every hour, with a journey time of about 40 minutes. A one-way ticket costs €10.30 in 2025.
  2. Bus: De Lijn operates bus services, but these are less convenient for airport transfers.
  3. Taxi/Uber: Expect to pay €65-80 for a taxi from the airport—convenient but significantly more expensive than public transport.

Money-Saving Insider Tip #1: Purchase a 10-journey Rail Pass (“Standard Multi”) for €93 if you plan to make multiple train journeys within Belgium. This brings the per-journey cost down to €9.30 and is valid for 1 year. I’ve saved nearly €50 on a week-long trip using this method.

Navigating Within Aalst

Aalst’s compact city center is easily walkable, with most attractions within a 15-20 minute radius on foot. This walkability is one of Aalst’s greatest charms and something I missed when I first arrived, spending unnecessarily on taxis.

  • Walking: The preferred method for the city center. Streets are well-marked and generally flat.
  • Cycling: Aalst is extremely bike-friendly with dedicated lanes. Rent bikes at the train station for €15/day through Blue-Bike (requires registration).
  • Local buses: De Lijn operates services throughout Aalst. A single journey costs €2.50 when purchased on board, or €1.80 when bought via the app.

During my last visit, I rented a bike and discovered parts of the city I’d never seen in my previous five visits, including the peaceful Osbroek nature park just minutes from the bustling center.

Where to Stay in Aalst

Aalst offers fewer accommodation options than larger Belgian cities, but this constraint has actually preserved its authentic character. Here are my recommendations based on different preferences and budgets:

Best Neighborhoods

Neighborhood Best For Atmosphere
City Center (near Grote Markt) First-time visitors, cultural experiences Historic, bustling, accessible
Station Area Convenience, day-trippers Modern, practical, transitional
Mijlbeek Quiet retreats, local living Residential, peaceful, authentic

Accommodation Recommendations

Mid-Range (€80-120/night)

  • Hotel Vermeersch: My personal favorite. Family-run with 12 rooms on Grote Markt. Request room 8 for a lovely square view. Local pastries at breakfast. €98/night.
  • Hotel de Komeet: Modern rooms near the station. Excellent soundproofing despite the location. €85/night.

Budget (Under €80/night)

  • Ibis Aalst Centrum: Reliable chain hotel with small but functional rooms. Great location. From €75/night.
  • Airbnb options: Several apartments available from €60/night. Look in the Mijlbeek area for local experience.

Money-Saving Insider Tip #2: Many Aalst accommodations offer discounts of 15-20% for Sunday through Thursday stays. I’ve also found that emailing properties directly rather than booking through platforms sometimes yields better rates, especially for stays of 3+ nights.

On my third visit, I discovered a charming one-bedroom apartment above a local bakery on Kattestraat through direct contact with the owner. Not only was it €25/night cheaper than comparable Airbnb listings, but waking up to the smell of fresh bread and receiving a complimentary breakfast pastry each morning became a highlight of my trip.

Must-See Attractions and Experiences

Unlike tourist-saturated Belgian cities, Aalst’s attractions offer breathing room and authentic cultural immersion. Here’s what shouldn’t be missed:

Historical and Cultural Sites

  • Belfry of Aalst: This UNESCO World Heritage site towers over the Grote Markt. Dating from the 14th century, it offers stunning panoramic views if you climb the 256 steps to the top (€5 entrance). Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm.
  • St. Martin’s Church: Gothic masterpiece with remarkable 15th-century paintings. Look for Rubens’ “Saint Roch” painting. Free entrance, donations appreciated. Open daily 9am-6pm except during services.
  • ‘t Gasthuys Stedelijk Museum: Housed in a former hospital, this museum documents Aalst’s rich history through interactive exhibits. The carnival collection is particularly fascinating. €5 entrance, free on the first Sunday of each month.

Local Experiences

These authentic activities will give you a true sense of Aalst’s character:

  • Grote Markt on Saturday Morning: The weekly market (7am-1pm) transforms the main square into a bustling hub where locals shop for fresh produce, flowers, and artisanal products. Listen for vendors shouting “Komt dat zien!” (“Come and see!”) as they announce special deals.
  • Brewery Tour at DUB: This microbrewery offers tours every Saturday at 2pm (€15, includes tastings). The brewer’s stories about local drinking customs are as enjoyable as the beer itself.
  • Carnival Museum: Even if you can’t visit during actual Carnival, the Carnival Workshop and Museum offers insight into this UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage. The meticulously crafted satirical masks and costumes are stunning.

Cultural Note: Aalst natives take immense pride in their distinctive East Flemish dialect. While standard Dutch or English will serve you well, learning a few local phrases will earn you instant appreciation:

“Merci zij” (pronounced “MER-see zay”) = Thank you very much
“Tisj goe” (pronounced “Tish hoo”) = It’s good/OK

Off the Beaten Path

My favorite discoveries came after I’d “done” the main attractions:

  • Osbroek Nature Reserve: A serene 86-hectare green space just 15 minutes’ walk from the center. Local families picnic here on Sundays, and the bird-watching opportunities are excellent. Enter via Parklaan for the most scenic approach.
  • Aalst Cemetery: I stumbled upon this unexpectedly fascinating spot while cycling aimlessly. The ornate 19th-century tombstones and mausoleums tell stories of the city’s industrial past. The grave of priest Adolf Daens, a social reformer who fought for workers’ rights, is particularly moving.
  • Pedestrian Tunnel Art: The underground passage near the train station features rotating exhibitions by local artists. What started as an anti-graffiti initiative has become a respected urban gallery space.

Food and Drink: Tasting the Real Aalst

Aalst’s food scene is remarkably good for a city its size, with an emphasis on traditional Flemish cuisine at prices 20-30% lower than Brussels or Bruges. I’ve gradually built a personal catalog of favorite spots:

Local Specialties to Try

  • Ajuinworst: Aalst’s signature onion sausage, traditionally served with stoemp (mashed potatoes with vegetables).
  • Vlaai: Sweet pastry tart, often filled with rice pudding or fruits. The version at Bakkerij Van den Spiegel is outstanding.
  • Dirk beer: Local craft brew named after Dirk Martens, a famous Aalst-born printer.

Best Restaurants by Category

Traditional Flemish

  • De Gordel (Grote Markt 19): My go-to for authentic Flemish classics. The waterzooi (chicken or fish stew) is exceptional. Main dishes €16-22. Closed Mondays.
  • Den Teugel (Kattestraat 7): Where locals celebrate special occasions. The stoofvlees (beef stew with beer) is worth the splurge at €18.50. Reservation essential on weekends.

Budget-Friendly

  • Frituur den Bengel (Vlaanderenstraat 2): The best fries in town with dozens of sauce options. €4.50 for a large portion with sauce. Open until midnight.
  • Dag en Zonne (Nieuwstraat 43): Cozy soup and sandwich shop with daily specials around €9. Perfect for lunch.

Coffee & Pastry

  • Patisserie Frantzen (Molenstraat 26): Fifth-generation family bakery making traditional Vlaamse vlaai. Their cappuccino (€3.40) pairs perfectly with their specialties.

Money-Saving Insider Tip #3: Many restaurants offer a “dagschotel” (dish of the day) at lunchtime for €12-15, often including a drink. The same meal might cost €20+ in the evening. I’ve enjoyed three-course lunches at Brasserie ‘t Gasthuys for just €16.50 on weekdays.

Drinking Like a Local

Belgian beer culture is alive and well in Aalst, with several standout establishments:

  • De Gezellige Brabander (Dirk Martensstraat 16): An authentic brown café with over 100 beers. No music, just conversation. The elderly owner Karel remembers every repeat visitor.
  • Café De Koornbloem (Grote Markt 15): Perfect for people-watching on the square. Their house beer “Koornbier” (€4.20) is brewed locally.

My strangest but most memorable Aalst food experience happened during my second visit when I asked my hotel receptionist where she eats. She directed me to an unmarked door on Korte Zoutstraat where an elderly woman served home-cooked meals in her living room to 10-12 guests seated at a communal table. The three-course meal cost €15, paid in cash, and remains one of the best meals I’ve had in Belgium. While I can’t guarantee this unofficial “restaurant” still operates in 2025, it exemplifies Aalst’s under-the-radar charm.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Aalst offers a satisfying mix of practical shopping and unique souvenirs without the tourist markup common in other Belgian cities. I’ve found some of my favorite Belgian souvenirs here at significantly lower prices.

Shopping Districts

  • Kattestraat and Nieuwstraat: The main pedestrianized shopping streets with a mix of local boutiques and familiar chains. Saturday afternoons are bustling with locals.
  • Molenstraat: More specialized shops including artisanal chocolate makers, independent bookstores, and vintage boutiques.
  • Shopping Center Aalst: Modern mall with 45 stores near the station. Convenient but less characterful than the city center options.

Unique Local Purchases

If you’re looking for memorable souvenirs that actually represent Aalst:

  • Van Hoorebeke Chocolates (Kattestraat 42): Award-winning artisanal chocolate with local touches, like pralines flavored with Dirk beer. A 250g box costs €18—about €10 less than equivalent quality in Brussels.
  • Carnival Masks from Atelier 85 (Dendermondsesteenweg 85): Miniature versions of traditional carnival masks make unique souvenirs with cultural significance. Prices start at €25.
  • Dirk Beer and Glassware: The local craft beer comes in gift packs with matching glasses at De Hoprank (Molenstraat 19) for €15.

Market Highlights

Timing your visit with these markets enhances your shopping experience:

  • Saturday Market (Grote Markt, 7am-1pm): The weekly market is perfect for local foods and flowers. Look for the cheese stand at the northeast corner—their aged Aalst kaas is exceptional.
  • Antique Market (First Sunday monthly, Hopmarkt, 9am-5pm): From furniture to vintage postcards of old Aalst. Arrive early for the best finds.
  • Christmas Market (December, Grote Markt): Less crowded than those in larger cities but equally charming with local crafts and food.

Sustainable Traveler Tip: Most local vendors at the markets will happily use your reusable bag rather than providing plastic. Saying “geen zak, dank u” (no bag, thank you) while showing your own tote will earn appreciative nods.

Day Trips from Aalst

Aalst’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring other parts of Belgium. All of these destinations are within an hour by public transport:

Easy Half-Day Excursions

  • Dendermonde (15 minutes by train): Medieval town with a spectacular belfry and the famous “Ros Beiaard” horse legend. Visit the Grote Markt and climb the belfry for views over the Scheldt river. Return trains run hourly until 11pm.
  • Ghent (25 minutes by train): All the charm of Bruges with fewer tourists. The Ghent Altarpiece alone justifies the trip. Take the 9:15am train to maximize your day.
  • Brussels (30 minutes by train): Belgium’s capital needs no introduction. Trains run twice hourly until midnight.

Nature and Outdoor Trips

When city sightseeing becomes overwhelming:

  • Rozendreef Park (20 minutes by bike): Follow the Dender River north from Aalst to discover this peaceful park with centuries-old oak trees and rose gardens. Rent bikes from the train station.
  • Kluisbos Forest (35 minutes by bus + 10 minute walk): Take bus 91 to the terminus then follow the marked walking path. This mixed deciduous forest offers well-marked hiking trails ranging from 2-8km.

Practical Day Trip Tips

From my experience planning numerous excursions from Aalst:

  • Purchase train tickets via the SNCB/NMBS app for a 5% discount over station prices.
  • Consider the Weekend Ticket option if traveling Saturday or Sunday (50% discount on regular fares).
  • Many museums in Belgium are free on the first Wednesday afternoon of each month—plan accordingly.

My Day Trip Mistake: On my second visit, I planned a day trip to Bruges, not realizing it’s actually faster to reach from Brussels than from Aalst (requiring a connection). I spent nearly 4 hours in transit round-trip. For Bruges specifically, consider an overnight stay rather than a day trip from Aalst.

Practical Information and Safety

Money Matters

  • ATMs: Readily available around Grote Markt and the train station. Most bank ATMs don’t charge fees, but avoid Euronet machines which have poor exchange rates.
  • Cards vs. Cash: While cards are widely accepted, some smaller cafés and the Saturday market vendors may be cash-only. Keep €50-100 in cash for convenience.
  • Tipping: Not expected but appreciated. Rounding up the bill or leaving €1-2 for good service is common practice.

Connectivity

  • Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available in most cafés, restaurants, and the public library. The network “Aalst Free WiFi” offers limited free access in the city center.
  • SIM Cards: Purchase prepaid SIMs at Media Markt near the train station. Orange offers a tourist package with 10GB data for €15 (valid 30 days).

Emergency Information

  • Emergency number: 112 (equivalent to 911)
  • Police station: Beekveldstraat 5
  • Hospital: OLV Hospital, Moorselbaan 164
  • Pharmacy schedule: Check apotheek.be for after-hours pharmacies

Safety Considerations

Aalst is generally very safe, but common-sense precautions apply:

  • The area immediately around the train station can be a bit rough after dark—take the well-lit Stationsstraat route into town.
  • Bicycle theft can occur—use the secure bike parking facilities at the station or Grote Markt.
  • During Carnival, pickpocketing increases significantly—use front pockets or money belts.

Cultural Caution: Aalst Carnival has drawn international criticism for some floats deemed offensive or antisemitic. While the vast majority of the celebration is good-natured fun, be prepared for satirical elements that may push boundaries by international standards.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Aalst Experience

After six visits spanning nearly a decade, I’ve come to appreciate Aalst not as a city of bucket-list attractions, but as a place that rewards slow exploration and genuine connection. It represents what I love most about travel: discovering the authentic character of a place through unhurried wandering and conversations with locals.

Aalst isn’t perfect—some areas need revitalization, and English isn’t as universally spoken as in Brussels—but these imperfections contribute to its genuine charm. You’ll leave with stories and experiences that are uniquely yours rather than carbon copies of every other tourist’s Instagram feed.

Your 5-Step Aalst Action Plan

  1. Start with a morning coffee at Grote Markt, watching the city wake up while planning your day.
  2. Explore one main attraction (Belfry, Museum, or St. Martin’s Church) without rushing.
  3. Find lunch where you see locals eating, preferably somewhere with a “dagschotel” (daily special).
  4. Wander aimlessly through the side streets between Grote Markt and the riverfront, discovering shops and architecture at your own pace.
  5. End each day with a local beer at a brown café, engaging with patrons or the owner about their city.

Follow this simple formula, and I guarantee you’ll develop the same affection for this overlooked Belgian gem that I have. Aalst may never appear on “Top 10 Places to Visit in Belgium” lists, but that’s precisely what makes it special.

Whatever you do, resist the temptation to treat Aalst as merely a cheaper place to sleep while exploring better-known Belgian cities. Give it your full attention for at least one full day, and it will reward you with memories more authentic than anything you’ll find in the tourist centers of Bruges or Brussels.

Frequently Asked Questions About Aalst

Is Aalst worth visiting if I only have a week in Belgium?

If you’re seeking an authentic slice of everyday Belgian life, absolutely yes—dedicate at least a day to Aalst. If your priority is seeing major attractions and landmarks, you might better spend your limited time in Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent. Personally, I’d recommend a 3-3-1 split: 3 days in Brussels, 3 in Bruges/Ghent, and 1 in Aalst for a balanced experience.

Do people speak English in Aalst?

Less universally than in Brussels or Bruges, but you’ll have no trouble in hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions. In more local establishments, younger people typically speak good English while older residents may have limited English skills. Learning a few basic Dutch phrases is appreciated but not essential.

When is the Aalst Carnival held?

The carnival is held during the three days preceding Ash Wednesday (typically in February or early March). In 2025, it will take place February 23-25. If you plan to attend, book accommodation at least 6 months in advance.

Is Aalst suitable for families with children?

Yes, particularly for families seeking a less hectic experience than larger cities offer. The Osbroek park has excellent playgrounds, the puppet museum (Poppen Theater) offers child-friendly tours, and many restaurants warmly welcome children with special menus. During summer holidays, the city organizes free family activities in Grote Markt on Wednesday afternoons.

How much should I budget per day in Aalst?

Aalst is significantly more affordable than Brussels or Bruges. A comfortable daily budget would be:

  • Budget: €80-100 (hostel/budget hotel, casual meals, public transport)
  • Mid-range: €120-150 (decent hotel, restaurant meals, some attractions)
  • Luxury: €200+ (top hotel, fine dining, private tours)

I typically spend about €130/day including accommodation, which would cost me €180+ for an equivalent experience in Brussels.

Is Aalst safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Aalst is generally very safe for solo female travelers. As in any city, take standard precautions after dark, particularly around the train station area. The compact nature of the city center means you’re rarely far from well-populated areas. The women I’ve traveled with have reported feeling comfortable walking alone during evening hours in the central districts.

What’s the best way to get from Brussels Airport to Aalst?

The direct train is by far the most convenient option, taking about 40 minutes and costing €10.30. Trains run approximately hourly from Brussels Airport-Zaventem station, which is directly beneath the terminal. The last train typically departs around 11:30pm, so check the schedule if arriving on a late flight.

References and Further Reading