Waterloo - Discovering Belgium

Travelling to Waterloo

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Waterloo, a pretty good destination in Belgium (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Waterloo and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Waterloo, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Belgium, here's everything to know about Waterloo for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Waterloo

Waterloo is a municipality located in the province of Walloon Brabant in Belgium. It is most famous for the Battle of Waterloo, which took place on June 18, 1815, and saw Napoleon Bonaparte defeated by the British and allied forces. Today, Waterloo is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world to see the sites and learn about the historical event. The area also boasts beautiful parks and gardens, museums, and restaurants serving delicious Belgian cuisine. The town is located about 15 kilometers south of Brussels, and is easily accessible by car, train, or bus.

What to visit in Waterloo

Sure, I'd be happy to help you with the tourist attractions in Waterloo, Belgium! 1. The Battle of Waterloo Site: - This historical site commemorates the famous battle of Waterloo which took place in 1815.
- Visitors can explore the battlefield and learn more about the events that took place on that fateful day.
- The site includes a museum, a memorial, and a reenactment show.
2. Wellington Museum: - Housed in the former headquarters of the Duke of Wellington who led the British forces in the Battle of Waterloo.
- The museum features an extensive collection related to the battle and the life of the Duke of Wellington.
- Visitors can see weapons, uniforms, letters, and other artefacts from the era.
3. Lion's Mound: - Located at the center of the battlefield, this is a man-made hill with a statue of a lion on top.
- The Lion's Mound was built to commemorate the spot where the Prince of Orange was wounded during the battle.
- Visitors can climb to the top of the hill for a panoramic view of the battlefield.
4. La Sucrerie: - A historic sugar refinery that has been converted into a cultural center.
- The building houses a concert hall, art exhibitions, and other cultural events.
- Visitors can tour the refinery and learn about the history of sugar production in Belgium.
5. Chateau de la Hulpe: - A beautiful castle surrounded by a large park.
- The castle was built in the 19th century and features a striking neoclassical design.
- The park includes walking trails, ponds, and gardens.
6. Ferme de Mont-Saint-Jean: - A restored farm that was used as a field hospital during the Battle of Waterloo.
- The farm now houses a museum dedicated to the medical aspects of the battle.
- Visitors can see the original surgical instruments, bandages, and other medical equipment used during the battle.
These are some of the main tourist attractions in Waterloo, Belgium. I hope this helps you plan your trip!

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Waterloo.

When to go on holiday to Waterloo

The best time to visit Waterloo (Belgium) is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city. Additionally, these months coincide with the famous reenactment of the Battle of Waterloo, which takes place annually on 18th June. If you prefer cooler temperatures and smaller crowds, consider visiting in the spring or fall, when the weather is still mild and there are fewer tourists. However, be aware that winter can be cold and rainy in Waterloo, so it's not the best time to visit if you want to enjoy outdoor activities.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Waterloo

There are different ways to get to Waterloo, Belgium depending on your starting point.
If you are coming from Brussels, the easiest way is to take the train from Brussels' main railway stations (Brussels Midi, Brussels Central, or Brussels North) to Braine-l'Alleud station. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to Waterloo.
If you are coming from other parts of Belgium or Europe, you can take a train to Brussels and then follow the same steps.
Another option is to drive, as Waterloo is easily accessible by motorway. There are also buses that connect Waterloo to other main cities in Belgium.
Finally, if you are arriving by plane, the closest airport is Brussels Airport, from where you can take a train, bus or taxi to Waterloo.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Waterloo, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Waterloo

Here are some typical foods of Waterloo, Belgium along with their descriptions: 1. Waterloosaus or Sauce Waterlooise - A famous sauce made with mayonnaise, onions, capers, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. It is often served as a dip for fried food like croquettes, fries or chips.
2. Vol-au-vent - A savory pastry with a flaky crust stuffed with creamy chicken or fish ragout, mushrooms and vegetables. 3. Endives au gratin - A dish made of endives stuffed with ham, cheese and bechamel sauce, and then baked in the oven until golden-brown.
4. Stoemp - A side dish made of mashed potato, cabbage, and other vegetables. It is usually served with sausages, meatballs or bacon.
5. Carbonnades flamandes - A hearty beef stew cooked in beer, onions, and spices until the meat is fork-tender. It is often served with fries or mashed potatoes.
6. Waffles - A sweet and crispy pastry made of fluffy batter cooked in a hot waffle iron until golden brown. It can be served with whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or fruits.
7. Speculoos - A crunchy and spiced biscuit made with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It can be eaten on its own or used as a crust for cheesecakes, pies, or tarts. These are just some of the typical foods of Waterloo, Belgium. There are many more dishes and delicacies that you can discover and enjoy while you are there!
You can find general info about typical foods in Belgium here.

Is Waterloo an expensive destination for tourists?

Waterloo (Belgium) is not considered one of the most expensive destinations in Belgium. However, it can be slightly more expensive than other smaller towns, particularly because of its popularity as a tourist destination due to the famous Battlefield of Waterloo. That being said, there are a variety of accommodation options available at different price points, and many restaurants in the town offer reasonably-priced menus. Compared to other major cities in Western Europe, Waterloo is still perceived as relatively affordable.

Where to find accomodation in Waterloo

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Waterloo, Belgium are: 1. Waterloo city center: This area has a mix of hotels, guesthouses, and apartments, making it a great option for all types of travelers.
2. Braine-l'Alleud: This town is located next to Waterloo and has a good selection of hotels and guesthouses, perfect for those who want to be close to the action but not in the middle of it.
3. Wavre: This town is located about 10 km from Waterloo and has a good range of budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses.
4. Louvain-la-Neuve: This university town is located about 15 km from Waterloo and has a good choice of budget-friendly accommodation options.
5. Brussels: If you don't mind staying a bit further away, Brussels is a great option, as it is only a short train ride from Waterloo and has a huge choice of hotels, apartments, and guesthouses.
You can check hotel prices at Waterloo here:
Booking.com

Is Waterloo a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Waterloo is generally a safe place for tourists to visit. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic safety precautions, such as watching your belongings and being aware of your surroundings.
It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local emergency services and know how to contact them in case of an emergency. Additionally, be respectful of local customs and laws, particularly when it comes to alcohol consumption and public behavior.
Overall, Waterloo is a lovely town with a rich history and plenty of attractions for tourists to enjoy. With a little common sense and awareness, you should have a safe and enjoyable visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Belgium here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Waterloo.

What type of travelers will enjoy Waterloo the most?

Waterloo in Belgium is a destination that caters well to different types of travelers, depending on their interests. Historically, Waterloo is significant for its role in the battle that took place in 1815. Below are some types of travelers that will appreciate Waterloo the most: 1. History buffs: Waterloo is an excellent destination for individuals interested in military history. It is home to the famous battlefield where Napoleon Bonaparte was defeated. Visitors can get the full experience by visiting the Waterloo Memorial Museum, which tells the story of the battle, and exploring the battlefield site.
2. Couples: Waterloo is a charming location with picturesque landscapes and a range of outdoor activities for couples to enjoy, such as walking, cycling, and horse riding. The area is surrounded by beautiful countryside, and the town also has a few lovely cafes and restaurants to visit.
3. Families: The town of Waterloo has a lot of fun activities for families, including parks, animal farms, and adventure centers. Kids can also learn about the Battle of Waterloo by visiting museums and interactive experiences such as the Wellington Museum.
Overall, Waterloo is a great destination for visitors looking for historical and outdoor activities.

How to get around Waterloo

There are several transportation options to move around in Waterloo, including buses, taxis, bicycles, and private cars. However, buses are the most commonly used means of public transportation in Waterloo. The TEC bus network offers a range of routes that connect different parts of the city, making it easy to travel to popular tourist attractions, hotels, and restaurants. Additionally, taxis are available for those who prefer a more direct and convenient method of transport. Bicycles are also popular in Waterloo, and there are several rental services available. Finally, many visitors may prefer to rent a car to move around on their own schedule.

What to see around Waterloo

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Waterloo: 1. Brussels: The capital city of Belgium is only a 20-minute train ride away from Waterloo. You can explore its historic landmarks, chocolates, waffles and beers. 2. Leuven: Known for its medieval architecture and prestigious university, Leuven is just 30 minutes by train from Waterloo. 3. Namur: A charming town located at the confluence of two rivers, Namur is about an hour by train or car from Waterloo. 4. Ghent: A vibrant city with a rich history and lively cultural scene, Ghent is around an hour and 15 minutes by train from Waterloo. 5. Antwerp: A bustling port city with a beautiful medieval center and modern fashion scene, Antwerp is about an hour and 15 minutes by train from Waterloo. 6. Bruges: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Bruges is a well-preserved medieval town with romantic canals, delightful architecture, and world-famous Belgian chocolate. It is about an hour and 30 minutes by train or car from Waterloo. 7. Dinant: Located in the picturesque Meuse valley, Dinant is famous for its colorful saxophone-shaped bay windows and impressive citadel. It is about an hour and 45 minutes by train or car from Waterloo. I hope this helps!
For every travel information about Belgium you can click here.

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