Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Mons, Belgium

Until 2015, it was uncommon for friends or relatives to mention their plans to visit Mons.

However, after being designated the European City of Culture in that year, Mons has established itself as a notable destination for tourism.

While it may not host as many events as it did in 2015, the city continues to offer an excellent selection for visitors, including a church often likened to the Notre Dame in Paris and several uniquely themed museums.

Coupling these attractions with the classic ambiance, cuisine, and beverages found in other Wallonian cities clearly showcases the appeal of visiting Mons.

Let us delve into the top activities to experience in Mons:

1. St Symphorien Military Cemetery

While a visit to a cemetery may not seem appealing to everyone, the St Symphorien Military Cemetery in Mons offers a distinguished experience beyond that of an ordinary graveyard.

Situated in a serene environment, surrounded by farmland and woodland, this cemetery honors the memories of both German and British soldiers.

A leisurely walk through the grounds typically takes about thirty minutes to one hour, and is conveniently located just a short drive from the center of Mons.

2. Mons Memorial Museum

Although lacking a long history, the Mons Memorial Museum is certainly a valuable destination.

The exhibits cover both World Wars and present a balanced perspective between the experiences of civilians, soldiers’ accounts, and military history.

Its location is significant, as Mons suffered extensively throughout both World Wars, having been occupied by Germany first in the Great War and again twenty-two years later during the Second World War.

3. Strépy-Thieu Boat Lift

A remarkable engineering achievement and an unforgettable attraction in Mons is the Strepy-Thieu Boat Lift.

As the tallest boat lift in the world, it ingeniously employs large bodies of water to elevate boats from one level to another.

Visitors have the option to observe the lift from a distance or pay for a closer experience that includes access to the lift mechanism, an indoor café, and a half-hour video detailing its functionalities and construction.

4. Collegiale Sainte-Waudru

The Collegiale Sainte-Waudru undoubtedly stands as the most visually striking church in Mons.

This 15th-century masterpiece of gothic architecture offers an impressive exterior, accompanied by an array of artifacts and treasures within.

Noteworthy highlights include a small treasury that houses what is believed to be the skull of King Dagobert, purportedly murdered in an attempt to eliminate the bloodline of Jesus Christ.

5. The Silex Museum

The Silex Museum, located just south of Mons, initially appears similar to any other Belgian rural setting, featuring a prominent round steel structure.

This structure serves as an entrance to extensive mines that have been extracted for various resources since Neolithic times.

Mine tours occur three times daily; however, they are highly sought after and should therefore be arranged in advance through the city’s tourism board.

6. Explore the Musee du Doudou

The Musee du Doudou examines the vibrant and fascinating Ducasse festival, celebrated annually in Mons.

This festival encompasses the themes of St. George, dragons, and a captivating array of battle reenactments.

Visitors will also encounter culinary delights and local beverages during the festivities, accompanied by audio guides that explain the events in English, French, and Dutch.

7. The Artotheque Museum

The Artotheque Museum Mons redefines traditional museum experiences with its innovative design, featuring glass displays and interactive exhibits.

With a vast array of objects ranging from prehistoric tools to contemporary art, it encompasses a broad spectrum of media, including canvas and textiles.

Visitors can locate items of interest using interactive screens and then find these objects within the museum for detailed examination.

This museum offers a distinctive experience unlike any other.

8. Hotel De Ville

Another European city boasting a striking Hotel De Ville is Mons.

This town hall is unmistakably the most remarkable and aesthetically pleasing structure located in the Grand Place.

A popular tradition among visitors is to rub the head of a monkey statue situated to the left of the building’s entrance, as it is believed to grant wishes, although it was originally meant to aid expectant mothers.

9. The Beffroi de Mons

Reaching the Beffroi de Mons, also known as the Mons Belfry, requires some effort; nevertheless, the reward is well worth the journey.

The vistas from the summit of the tower are breathtaking, showcasing the restored building’s grandeur and magnificent surroundings.

10. BAM

The modern glass cube structure of BAM immediately captures attention.

This contemporary building, reconstructed in 2015 when Mons was acknowledged as the European City of Culture, elegantly reflects the modern art displayed within.

While the exhibits vary frequently, each year features at least one prominent, groundbreaking exhibition.

11. Musee Francois Duesberg

Just opposite the magnificent Ste-Waudru church lies the impressive Musee Francois Duesberg.

This collection features art objects from the late 18th and early 19th centuries, encompassing rare pottery as well as gold and silver artifacts.

This museum, along with the nearby church, is one of the only attractions in the city to be awarded two stars by the Michelin Tourism Guide.

12. Visit the “paper Google”

The Mundaneum in Mons proudly identifies itself as the “paper Google,” due to its collection of graphs, statistics, and charts that elucidate how research and education were approached prior to the internet era.

The museum’s collections stem from the work of 19th-century thinker Otlet, who posited that information, rather than wealth, served as the fundamental driver of society.

13. Pop into Van Gogh’s House

This modest residence has gained notoriety as one of the places where Van Gogh lived before achieving global acclaim as a painter.

Although the house is relatively small, it features a film and a wealth of information regarding the artist’s time spent here.

Those with an interest in art or Van Gogh would find this site particularly noteworthy.

14. The Sunday Market

A weekly tradition for many residents of Mons is the Sunday market, which is also an excellent spot for tourists.

The market exudes a relaxed atmosphere, with friendly stallholders who do not pressure visitors into unwanted purchases.

Some of the finest products available include preserves and dairy goods, such as cheese, yet many locals visit primarily to enjoy freshly brewed coffee or a cold beer amidst the vibrant surroundings.

15. Food and Drinks

As with all of Belgium’s prominent cities, Mons offers an extensive selection of excellent dining and beverage venues.

One of the premier establishments to experience Belgian beer is La Pompe Benoit, a local pub cherished for its remarkable selection.

Decorated with antique beer trays, the pub provides an excellent backdrop for souvenir photographs.

In the Grand Place, numerous restaurants serve classic Wallonian dishes, such as mussels, steak, and, of course, fries.