Spa Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Spa, Belgium with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover its cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, and more.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Spa, Belgium

Welcome to Spa, located in the province of Liège in Wallonia, Belgium. Spa is widely known as a spa town, but there is so much more to discover. From the cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone in this quaint Belgian town. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at all the amazing things to do and see in Spa, Belgium.

List of Places to Visit in Spa

Spa is a must-visit destination for travelers looking for a mix of culture and natural beauty. Below is a list of places you shouldn’t miss during your visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Spa-Francorchamps Circuit
  • Museum of the thermal city
  • Villa Royale

Natural Attractions of Spa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Fagne of the Poleur
  • The Ninglinspo
  • The Nature Park of the Hautes Fagnes - Eifel

Hiking/Biking Routes of Spa

Spa is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an abundance of hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the best routes to check out:

  • Les Sources de la Hoëgne
  • The Hautes Fagnes-Eifel Nature Park
  • The Ninglinspo walk

Best Things to Do in Spa: Activities and Tours

There are several fun activities and tours to enjoy in Spa, such as:

  • Stroll along the historic center of the town
  • Take a dip in the natural thermal water in Les Thermes de Spa
  • Watch a race at Spa-Francorchamps Circuit
  • Enjoy a golf game at the Royal Golf Club des Fagnes

Week-Long Itinerary for Spa

Refer to the table below for a week-long itinerary during your stay in Spa.

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore the town center and visit Villa Royale and Museum of the thermal city
Day 2 Enjoy a hike in Ninglinspo Walk and visit Domaine de Berinzenne
Day 3 Indulge in a relaxing spa session at Les Thermes de Spa
Day 4 Take a guided tour of Spa-Francorchamps Circuit and visit the source of the Salm river
Day 5 Go on a shopping spree and check out the notable souvenir shops
Day 6 Play Golf at Royal Golf Club des Fagnes or go for a trek in Les Sources de la Hoëgne
Day 7 Visit the Nature Park of the Hautes Fagnes - Eifel and witness the beauty of the Poleur high bog

Food and Drink Scene of Spa

Spa happens to be a food enthusiast’s paradise, with a range of must-try dishes and local beverages. Below are our top picks.

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Belgian fries - you won’t find anything like it anywhere else
  • The chocolate - Visitors shouldn’t miss indulging in the local Belgian chocolate
  • The Belgian waffle - Make sure to try the famous Belgian waffles during your visit to Spa

Local Beverages

  • The famous Belgium beer, including Hoegaarden and Leffe
  • Belgium coffee - The perfect caffeine pick-me-up after endless adventures

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

Whether you’re on a tight budget or a high-end traveler, Spa has a range of amazing accommodation options to suit all needs. You can even choose to stay in one of Spa’s many thermal spas.

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

When it comes to buying souvenirs, Spa won’t disappoint. Here are some of the traditional Belgian items you can bring home with you:

  • Belgian chocolate from Leonidas or Neuhaus
  • Handmade Belgian Waffles
  • Speculoos - Belgian spiced cookies
  • Belgian beers like Chimay or La Chouffe

Local Culture and Customs of Spa

Spa’s rich history, beautiful architecture, festivals, and events make it an exciting destination to explore.

Best Time to Visit Spa

The best time to visit Spa is from late spring (April/May) to early fall (September/October).

Do’s and Don’ts of Spa

Do:

  • Do take a thermal bath or spa treatment
  • Do get outdoors and enjoy hiking or biking
  • Do try Belgian cuisine and beers

Don’t:

  • Don’t ignore the cultural attractions and museums in Spa
  • Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes and clothes for walking
  • Don’t forget to immerse yourself in the local culture

Safety and Health

Safety in Spa

Spa is a safe destination, but make sure to keep your belongings safe in crowded areas

Health in Spa

Spa’s natural thermal waters are not only relaxing but perfect for all kinds of physical ailments.

Getting to Spa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Spa

The closest airport to Spa is Brussels airport, which is a little over an hour’s drive away. The airport has plenty of transportation options to reach Spa

Bus Stations Near Spa

Spa has a local bus station which services buses to several destinations in Belgium.

Other Options

The town is quite small and walkable so that visitors can easily get around.

How to Get Around in Spa

Spa is a small town, so walking or renting a bike is the best way to explore the town.

Where to Go Next from Spa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Brussels, the capital city of Belgium
  • Liège, a thriving and exciting city
  • Eupen, a beautiful town with a stunning Gothic town hall

Conclusion

Spa, Belgium is a perfect destination for all kinds of travelers, offering a fusion of natural beauty and culture. From hiking to historic tours, shopping, to indulging in Belgian cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Spa. Plan your visit to Spa today and let yourself get lost in its magical beauty.

Train station in Spa Train station in Spa Bains de Spa Bains de Spa Pouhon Pierre le Grand Pouhon Pierre le Grand ''Villa royale'', now the seat of the city's museum ''Villa royale'', now the seat of the city's museum Aerial view of ''Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps'' Aerial view of ''Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps''