Sint-Niklaas Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Sint-Niklaas? This comprehensive guide covers everything from where to stay and what to see, to the best things to do and eat in this charming Belgian city.


Introduction to Sint-Niklaas

Located in East Flanders, Sint-Niklaas is a charming city in the heart of Belgium. Despite its small size, Sint-Niklaas packs a punch with its rich history, beautiful scenery, and vibrant culture. Known for its historic landmarks and natural beauty, Sint-Niklaas is an ideal destination for travelers who want to experience authentic Belgium culture without the crowds.

List of Places to Visit in Sint-Niklaas

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Stadhuis van Sint-Niklaas - Beautifully preserved city hall dating back to the 16th century.
  • Saint-Nicolas Church - This 19th-century church is known for its stunning stained-glass windows and incredible acoustics.
  • Museum van de Stad Sint-Niklaas - This museum houses a collection of artifacts and art pieces that highlight the cultural heritage of Sint-Niklaas.
  • SteM Speelgoedmuseum - A unique museum dedicated to toys from different time periods and cultures.

Natural Attractions of Sint-Niklaas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Waasland Forest - A serene hike through this lush forest provides idyllic views of the local flora and fauna.
  • Park De Ster - A sprawling public park with a lake, paddleboats, and even a petting zoo.
  • Kieldrechtse Watershed - A popular spot for birdwatching, photography, and nature walks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sint-Niklaas

For those who prefer to explore on foot or bike, Sint-Niklaas has plenty of scenic trails including:

  • Streek-GR Waas- en Reynaertland - This 170-kilometer trail runs through the heart of Sint-Niklaas and provides stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside.
  • Kerkenpad - A 30-kilometer trail that passes by rural chapels and historic churches.

Best Things to Do in Sint-Niklaas: Activities and Tours

  • City Walking Tour - Guided tours showcasing Sint-Niklaas’s history, architecture, and culture.
  • Beer Tasting Tours - Learn about local beer brewing traditions and taste some of the area’s best brews.
  • Local Food Tours - Sample some of the region’s finest cuisine, including Belgian waffles and chocolate.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sint-Niklaas

Day 1: Explore the city center and visit the Stadhuis van Sint-Niklaas and Saint-Nicolas Church.

Day 2: Take a hike through Waasland Forest or embark on a bike tour around the city.

Day 3: Visit the Museum van de Stad Sint-Niklaas and then head over to Park De Ster for a leisurely afternoon.

Day 4: Take a guided tour of the SteM Speelgoedmuseum or explore Kieldrechtse Watershed.

Day 5: Visit local breweries and sample some of the area’s best beer on a beer tasting tour.

Day 6: Sample some of Belgium’s finest cuisine on a local food tour.

Day 7: Take a day trip to Brussels or Ghent.

Food and Drink Scene of Sint-Niklaas

Must-Try Dishes

  • Belgian Waffles - A classic Belgian treat, these waffles are light, crispy, and served with a variety of toppings.
  • Flemish Stew - A hearty beef stew made with beer, onions, and spices.
  • Chocolate - Belgium is renowned for its chocolate, and Sint-Niklaas is no exception.

Local Beverages

  • Jenever - This traditional Belgian spirit is made from juniper berries and is typically served as an after-dinner drink.
  • Belgian Beer - Sint-Niklaas is home to several local breweries that produce some of the finest beer in the country.

Where to Stay in Sint-Niklaas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Serwir - A 4-star hotel located in the city center, offering comfortable rooms and an on-site restaurant.
  • Hotel New Flanders - A budget-friendly option located near local attractions and dining options.
  • B&B Hotel Sint-Niklaas - A cozy guesthouse with well-appointed rooms and friendly staff.

What to Buy in Sint-Niklaas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Belgian Chocolate - Sample some of the region’s finest chocolate and bring some home as a souvenir.
  • Antiques - Sint-Niklaas is known for its antique shops, which offer a variety of unique and interesting finds.

Local Culture and Customs of Sint-Niklaas

  • Language - Flemish is the official language spoken in Sint-Niklaas, although most locals also speak English.
  • Customs - Belgians are known for their punctuality and value personal space and privacy.

Best Time to Visit Sint-Niklaas

The best time to visit Sint-Niklaas is during the spring and summer months when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sint-Niklaas

Do:

  • Dress for the weather.
  • Try local cuisine and beverages.
  • Carry cash as some places don’t accept credit cards.

Don’t:

  • Skip out on a guided tour.
  • Be loud or disruptive in public.
  • Forget to tip at restaurants.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sint-Niklaas

Sint-Niklaas is generally a safe city, but it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions such as staying in well-lit areas at night.

Health in Sint-Niklaas

Belgium has a high standard of healthcare and all travelers are recommended to purchase medical insurance before traveling. Pharmacies are widely available in Sint-Niklaas, and many offer over-the-counter medications.

Getting to Sint-Niklaas: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sint-Niklaas

  • Brussels Airport - 56km from Sint-Niklaas
  • Antwerp International Airport - 21km from Sint-Niklaas

Bus Stations Near Sint-Niklaas

  • Sint-Niklaas Bus Station
  • Antwerp Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train - Sint-Niklaas is well-connected by rail, with frequent trains to and from major cities in Belgium.

How to Get Around in Sint-Niklaas

Sint-Niklaas is easy to navigate on foot, but public transportation including buses and trains are also available.

Where to Go Next from Sint-Niklaas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Antwerp - Just a short train ride away, Antwerp is a bustling city known for its beautiful architecture and art scene.
  • Brussels - Just over an hour from Sint-Niklaas by train, Brussels is Belgium’s capital city and has plenty to offer travelers.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in exploring Sint-Niklaas’s rich history or taking in its stunning natural beauty, there’s something for everyone in this charming Belgian city. With its comfortable accommodations and excellent cuisine and beverages, Sint-Niklaas is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience authentic Belgian culture.