Eupen Travel Guide

Explore the cultural and natural attractions of Eupen through this comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the best things to do, where to stay, and where to go next.


Introduction to Eupen

Located in the province of Liège in Wallonia, Belgium, Eupen is a small but charming city in the Benelux region of Europe. With its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and a host of outdoor activities, Eupen attracts tourists from all over the world. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, best things to do, where to stay, and much more!

List of Places to Visit in Eupen

If you’re planning a trip to Eupen, there are plenty of places to explore. Here are some of the top cultural and natural attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Eupen has a rich cultural history, which is reflected in its museums and historical sites. Some of the top attractions include:

  • Musee de la Ville d’Eupen: This museum showcases the history and cultural heritage of the city and has a collection of artifacts that spans several centuries.
  • St. Nicholas Church: This historic church is one of the oldest in the city, dating back to the 12th century. It features stunning Gothic architecture and impressive stained glass windows.
  • Palace of Justice: Another historic site, the Palace of Justice was built in the early 18th century and now serves as a courthouse.

Natural Attractions of Eupen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Eupen is known for its beautiful landscapes and a host of outdoor activities. Here are some of the top natural attractions:

  • Hautes Fagnes Nature Reserve: This protected wilderness area offers a variety of hiking trails, biking routes, and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Barrage de la Gileppe: This picturesque reservoir is a popular spot for picnics, hiking, and cycling. Visitors can also take a boat tour to explore the lake.
  • Kehrweg Stadion: Home to one of the top football clubs in Belgium, KAS Eupen, this stadium is a must-visit for sports fans.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eupen

Eupen is a perfect destination for those who love outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. Here are some of the top trails:

  • GR 573: This long-distance hiking trail passes through Eupen and offers stunning views of the forested hills of the Ardennes.
  • Vennbahn: A popular cycling route, Vennbahn is a former railway track that has been converted into a scenic biking trail that stretches over 125 kilometers.

Best Things to Do in Eupen: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in Eupen. Here are some of the top activities and tours:

  • Eupen City Tour: Take a guided tour of the city to learn about its history and culture.
  • Natura Park: This adventure park offers a range of outdoor activities such as ziplining, climbing, and much more.
  • SnowWorld Landgraaf: This indoor ski resort is just a short drive from Eupen and is perfect for winter sports enthusiasts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eupen

If you have a week to spend in Eupen, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Explore the city center and try some local cuisine
2 Visit the Musee de la Ville d’Eupen and the St. Nicholas Church
3 Hike in the Hautes Fagnes Nature Reserve
4 Take a cycling tour along the Vennbahn
5 Visit Barrage de la Gileppe and enjoy a picnic
6 Visit SnowWorld Landgraaf for some skiing
7 Relax and unwind before the trip back home

Food and Drink Scene of Eupen

Eupen’s cuisine is heavily influenced by the neighboring regions of Germany and the Netherlands. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rhenish-style Sauerbraten: This braised beef dish is a local favorite, served with red cabbage and potato dumplings.
  • Eupener Würstchen: These small sausages are a popular street food and are usually served with mustard and bread.

Local Beverages

  • Eupener Malt: This non-alcoholic malt beverage is one of the most popular in the city.
  • Belgian Beer: No trip to Belgium is complete without trying some of the local beer. Eupen has several breweries that offer a range of delicious beers.

Where to Stay in Eupen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Eupen has several options for accommodation, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the top options:

  • Hotel Restaurant Tychon: This family-run hotel offers comfortable rooms and an on-site restaurant that serves local cuisine.
  • B&B La Petite Roer: This cozy guesthouse features charming rooms and a lovely garden.
  • Eupen Inn Hotel This elegant hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers spacious rooms and modern amenities.

What to Buy in Eupen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring back home, here are some of the top options:

  • Eupen Pottery: This handcrafted pottery is unique to Eupen and makes for a great souvenir.
  • Waffles and Chocolates: Belgium is known for its delicious waffles and chocolates, so don’t forget to stock up on these treats before you leave!

Local Culture and Customs of Eupen

Eupen has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its customs and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Languages: Eupen is a multilingual city, with German, French, and Dutch being the most commonly spoken languages.
  • Religion: The majority of the population is Catholic, so it’s important to respect religious customs and traditions.
  • Greetings: When meeting someone for the first time, it’s polite to shake hands and address them by their last name.

Best Time to Visit Eupen

The best time to visit Eupen is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is mild, and the outdoor activities are in full swing. However, if you’re a winter sports enthusiast, then the winter months (December to February) are the best time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eupen

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Eupen:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions: It’s important to respect the local customs and traditions when visiting a new place.
  • Try local food and drinks: Eupen has a unique cuisine, so be sure to try some of the local dishes and drinks.
  • Explore the outdoors: Eupen is known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities, so be sure to spend some time exploring the natural attractions.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful: It’s important to be respectful towards the locals and their customs and traditions.
  • Litter: Eupen is a clean and beautiful city, so it’s important to keep it that way by not littering.
  • Be too loud: Eupen is a quiet city, so be respectful of the locals and keep the noise levels down.

Safety and Health

Safety in Eupen

Eupen is a safe city with low crime rates. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions when traveling, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding poorly-lit areas at night.

Health in Eupen

Belgium has a high standard of healthcare, and Eupen has several hospitals and clinics that offer excellent medical care. Make sure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies before traveling.

Getting to Eupen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Eupen is well-connected by several modes of transportation, making it easy to get there.

Airports Near Eupen

The nearest airports to Eupen are:

  • Brussels Airport: Approximately 130 kilometers away from Eupen, this is the largest airport in Belgium.
  • Liege Airport: Approximately 40 kilometers away from Eupen, this airport offers flights to several domestic and international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Eupen

Eupen has a bus station that is well-connected to several cities in Belgium and Europe.

Other Options

If you’re traveling from within Belgium, you can also take the train. The nearest train station is located in Welkenraedt, which is approximately 10 kilometers away from Eupen.

How to Get Around in Eupen

Eupen is a small city and can be easily explored on foot. However, if you prefer public transportation, there are several options such as buses and taxis.

Where to Go Next from Eupen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore other nearby destinations, here are some options:

  • Aachen, Germany: This historic German city is located just 25 kilometers away from Eupen and is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history.
  • Maastricht, Netherlands: Located approximately 50 kilometers away from Eupen, Maastricht is a charming Dutch city known for its art, culture, and shopping.
  • Spa, Belgium: This small town is located approximately 20 kilometers away from Eupen and is known for its hot springs and spa resorts.

Conclusion

Eupen is a hidden gem in the heart of Europe, with something to offer for every kind of traveler. From its rich history and culture to its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, Eupen is a destination that you don’t want to miss. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful city!

St. Nicholas Church St. Nicholas Church The view from Moorenhöhe Park The view from Moorenhöhe Park