Bucket List: Top 12 Best Things to See and Do in Tongeren, Belgium

Tongeren is Belgium’s oldest town, with a number of historical attractions that are well worth a visit. Tongeren is currently noted for its tranquil countryside beauty, a little town with historical jigsaw pieces strewn throughout its peaceful streets. Its rich history and size make it an ideal holiday getaway place. When you visit Tongeren, you’ll see its credentials right in front of your eyes: first-century city walls and a fourth-century Roman archeological site. Furthermore, this charming Limburg town is certainly proud of its history.

Here are the top 12 things to do in Tongeren if you’re planning a visit to the historic town!

1. Explore the historical art of Tongeren in Gallo-Romeins Museum

Discover the fascinating history of man in Limburg, from prehistory until the end of the Roman era. There are more than 2,000 pieces from the museum’s own collection, which are elegantly displayed in a set designed by Niek Kortekaas and De Gregorio & Partners. Exhibitions filled with vivid photos by art photographer Marc Lagrange, enthralling writings by Roman writers, and artifacts about the history and conundrums of feminine beauty.

2. Shop at Tongeren Flea Market

Belgium’s oldest town begins to turn into a massive, nearly medieval marketplace early in the morning. Around 40 prominent antique stores and 350 professional stallholders will be displaying centuries-old antiques, second-hand, design, vintage, and unique collections of items. This monthly premier antique event attracts thousands of people from all over the world. The vibrant ambiance and historic location are famous. You must wake up early in order to get the greatest products on the market if you want to get the most out of it.

3. Learn more about the history of Tongeren at Teseum.

In the Teseum, you may uncover underground archeological mysteries or learn about the magnificent story of religious art treasures. It’s a one-of-a-kind location for learning about Tongeren’s rich past. They feature a variety of activities for individuals of all ages, as well as an archeological site to explore and learn about history’s secrets. The museum is ideal for families with children who want to have fun while learning about Tongeren’s history.

4. Visit the historical church of Basilica Notre Dame

The Basilica of Our Lady, also known as Basilique Notre Dame, is a gothic-style cathedral with a history that predates its current form, with Roman chapels and Merovingian churches once standing on the same site. For those with good eyesight, it’s an inviting church with beautiful stained glass windows and unique architecture. Long before they arrive in Tongeren, visitors may enjoy the Basilica of Our Lady on the Main Market Square. This basilica is one of Belgium’s most stunning Gothic ecclesiastical structures. After the description listed, it’s well worth the visit.

5. Visit the historical city gate of Moerenpoort

There’s actually an interesting backstory behind this tourist attraction, the six city gates were the sole way in and out of the city throughout the Middle Ages. Only the Moerenpoort from 1379 survived totally intact out of the six. It has been renovated into a historical museum where visitors may learn all about Tongeren’s military history. The sturdy tower also provides an unimpeded view over the beguinage and Tongeren’s city center.

6. Visit the monument of Ambiorix

This tourist spot is a monument to honor the uncanny hero of Tongeren. Ambiorix, the Eburones’ king, is undoubtedly Tongeren’s most renowned citizen. Julius Caesar referred to Belgians as “the bravest of the Gauls” because of him. Although Caesar was severely beaten by the Belgae, the Roman superiority proved to be too great in the end. Ambiorix was able to flee, or to put it another way, he vanished without a trace. His existence has been questioned by historians to the point that they are unsure if he actually existed. Despite the uncertainties, Ambiorix was honored with a statue in 1866.

7. Explore the nature preserve of De Kevie

If you’re looking forward to a peaceful morning in Tongeren, you might as well experience it in De Kevie. Look for the beavers within the meadows and take in the beauty of the flowers. The Beemden, next to Tongeren, are damp meadows that are covered with an extravagant flower pattern every year. The area is filled with whitlow flowers and tuberous saxifrage, yellow dots of great rattle alternate with pink patterns of actual cuckoo flower and spotted orchid.

8. Experience an exquisite dinner at Brasserie Infirmerie

In the old beguinage hospital, immerse yourself in history. The Infirmerie is delighted to welcome you to one of Tongeren’s most magnificent buildings. A one-of-a-kind historical setting with a modern feel. For both large and small groups, Infirmerie is delighted to provide a personalized proposal.

9. Have a relaxing afternoon at Cafe Gerechtshof

Café Gerechtshof is located in the heart of Tongeren, near to the Gallo-Roman museum, with a view of our lovely Tongeren basilica, locals and visitors frequent the cafe. Take a break from the bustle and relax in our pleasant café or on our patio, which overlooks the Het Vrijthof square. Café Gerechtshof is noted for its friendly environment as well as its quick and inexpensive meals! The numerous customer reviews attest to this.

10. Escape room at Break Free Tongeren

This activity is a fun experience with your friends and coworkers. You have 60 minutes to get out of the escape room and look around the room for clues, solve puzzles, collaborate with your group, and unlock the door on time. Break Free Tongeren is appropriate for all ages. You’ve come to the perfect spot with our escape game if you’re searching for a thrilling team-building activity, an innovative bachelor activity, a fun birthday outing, or just an hour of brainstorming with friends.

11. Have fun at the adventure sports center of Mangata Adventure

Mangata Adventures strives to encourage individuals of all ages to spend more time in nature. To learn about diverse aspects of nature or to discover them in a new way. Bringing local adventure closer to people. Mangata Adventure assures that everyone may embark on an adventure in an accessible and high-quality manner that fits into their own schedule with their adventure library/lending service. Here, sustainability is a key guiding principle. Unlike other outdoor activities, you are in charge of a big portion of your own journey, with a little aid from others.

12. Visit the status symbol of the city, the Roman Walls.

The Roman Wall was not intended to serve as a defense wall but used to symbolize the status of the prominent city. Parts of the wall are still intact. The Roman wall was built far back in the second century and was more than 1,500 meters.

Our Top Hotel Picks for Tongeren, Belgium

Boutique hotel Huys van Steyns [check rates and availability] – Set in a redbrick mansion, this intimate hotel is a 4-minute walk from Tongeren train station and a 9-minute walk from Gallo – Romeins Museum.

Searching for the best hotels, resorts, tour packages, and affordable flights in Tongeren, Belgium, and nearby cities? Check out our list of cheap Tongeren hotels and resorts via Agoda and Booking.

Tongeren Travel and Tour Packages

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