Hasselt Travel Guide

Nestled in the heart of Belgium's Flanders region, Hasselt is a city that encapsulates the charm and sophistication of a modern European city while preserving its historical allure. Known for its vibrant culture, Hasselt offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary attractions, making it an inviting destination for travelers.

Hasselt is renowned for its picturesque city center, characterized by cobbled streets and quaint boutiques. The Grote Markt, the central square, is surrounded by impressive heritage buildings and is a focal point for social gatherings and events. The St. Quentin's Cathedral, with its stunning architecture, stands as a testament to the city's storied past and is a must-visit landmark.

One of Hasselt’s most notable features is the Jenever Museum, dedicated to the history of the locally distilled juniper-flavored spirit, jenever. Here, visitors can learn about the distillation process and even sample various types of this traditional Belgian liquor. The city's connection to jenever is also celebrated annually during the lively Jenever Festivities.

For nature enthusiasts, the Japanese Garden in Hasselt is the largest of its kind in Europe. It provides a serene and authentic experience of Japanese landscape design, complete with a tea house, koi ponds, and cherry blossoms that create a tranquil oasis away from the urban bustle.

Hasselt is also a hub for fashion and design, with the Modemuseum Hasselt showcasing a rotating collection of haute couture and fashion history. Shoppers will delight in the city's array of stylish boutiques and the bustling weekly market where local artisans sell their wares.

In addition to its cultural offerings, Hasselt prides itself on being a 'Taste Capital,' with a culinary scene that ranges from traditional Belgian eateries to gourmet restaurants. Local specialties such as speculaas (spiced cookies) and Hasseltse koffie (a coffee cocktail) are not to be missed.

Accessibility is another of Hasselt's strengths, as it offers a free public transportation system within the city center, making it an eco-friendly and convenient city to explore for both residents and tourists alike.