Mons (Bergen) is one of Belgium’s most surprising small cities. It blends medieval charm with modern creativity, offers a warm local atmosphere, and is compact enough to explore in a single day while still feeling rich in culture. Whether you enjoy architecture, food, art or simply wandering through beautiful streets, Mons has something that will catch your attention.

Here’s a complete guide to the best things to do in Mons.

1. Start Your Day with Brunch at Ginger & Rosemary

Ginger & Rosemary is a welcoming brunch café run by a mother and daughter who clearly put their heart into everything they serve. The interior feels warm and personal, almost like stepping into someone’s home. The menu focuses on fresh and seasonal ingredients, which means you can expect dishes that are both comforting and beautifully prepared. Popular choices include fluffy pancakes, avocado toast with creative toppings, homemade granola and a generous brunch formula that keeps you full for hours. The café has a five‑star rating on Google, which reflects how much locals and visitors appreciate the quality and atmosphere. It is the ideal place to begin your day in Mons.

2. Explore Maison Losseau, an Art Nouveau Masterpiece

Maison Losseau is one of the most impressive Art Nouveau houses in Belgium. When you step inside, you enter a world of early twentieth‑century elegance. The home was designed by architects Paul Saintenoy and Henri Sauvage, and every room showcases exceptional craftsmanship. You will find stained‑glass windows that filter the light in soft colors, detailed mosaics, carved wooden panels and refined marquetry. The Interpretation Centre adds another layer to the visit by telling the story of Léon Losseau, his collections and the remarkable discovery of a rare original edition of Rimbaud’s Une Saison en enfer.

Practical information
Maison Losseau is open from Friday to Sunday between 13:00 and 18:00. Tickets cost around €5 to €7 for adults and €3 to €5 for children and seniors. The house is located on Rue de Nimy 37/39. It is an essential stop for anyone who loves architecture, decorative arts or beautifully preserved historic interiors.

3. Touch the Little Monkey at the Town Hall for Good Luck

On the façade of the Town Hall at the Grand Place you will find a small bronze monkey that has become one of the city’s most charming symbols. According to local tradition, touching the monkey’s head brings good luck. The metal has been polished smooth by countless hands over the years, which makes the ritual feel even more special. It is a simple moment, yet it connects you directly to the spirit of Mons and its traditions.

4. Discover Mons Through Its Street Art

Mons has a lively and unexpected street art scene that brings color and creativity to the city. Large murals brighten up building walls, smaller illustrations hide in narrow streets and playful details appear in places you might not notice at first glance. Exploring the city through its street art is a wonderful way to wander without a fixed plan. You naturally come across cafés, boutiques and quiet corners that make the walk even more enjoyable.

If you want to dive deeper into the artworks and their locations, VisitMons has an excellent overview called Art Lives in the City. It explains the stories behind many murals and offers a downloadable map that shows exactly where each piece is located. It is the perfect resource if you want to follow a self‑guided street art route.

5. Visit the Sainte Waudru Collegiate Church

The Sainte Waudru Collegiate Church is an impressive Gothic building that has shaped the skyline of Mons for centuries. The exterior is striking, but the interior is equally captivating. You will find beautifully carved choir stalls, religious artworks and a peaceful atmosphere that invites you to slow down. The church is dedicated to Saint Waltrude, the patron saint of Mons, and plays an important role in the city’s cultural heritage. Even if you do not usually visit churches, this one is worth stepping inside. You can visit it for free.

You will find one of the most important symbols of Mons’ heritage: the Car d’Or, also known as the Golden Carriage. This richly decorated ceremonial carriage dates back to the eighteenth century and plays a central role in the city’s most famous tradition, the Doudou Festival, which is recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. Depending on the time of year, the Car d’Or may be displayed either inside the Sainte‑Waudru Collegiate Church or in the glass pavilion next to it. The city occasionally moves the carriage indoors for exhibitions or preservation, so its location can vary.

6. Go Shopping in Mons and Visit Mooïe

Mons is a great destination for anyone who enjoys shopping in independent boutiques rather than large chain stores. The city has a variety of concept stores, fashion shops and places that sell handmade or carefully curated items. Mooïe is one of the highlights. The boutique offers a thoughtful selection of stylish pieces and beautifully designed objects. It is the kind of shop where you always find something unique, whether you are looking for a gift or treating yourself.

7. See Lucie and the Butterflies

Lucie and the Butterflies is a contemporary sculpture by French artist David Mesguich. It stands on Square Roosevelt in the center of Mons. The artwork shows a young girl surrounded by angular, origami‑like butterflies, a style that reflects Mesguich’s interest in childhood, fragility and transformation. The geometric shapes give the sculpture a modern, almost digital look. Because of its poetic appearance and central location, it has become one of the most photographed pieces of public art in Mons.

8. Relax with Japanese Tea at Cats and Chill

Cats and Chill is the perfect place to take a break during your visit. The tea house serves Japanese teas in a calm and minimalist setting, and the presence of friendly cats adds a playful and relaxing atmosphere. It is a wonderful spot to unwind, especially after exploring the city on foot. The peaceful environment makes it easy to recharge before continuing your day.

9. Climb the Belfry of Mons, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Belfry of Mons is the only baroque belfry in Belgium and has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. Standing on one of the highest points of the city, it offers panoramic views over Mons and the surrounding region. Inside, an interpretation centre explains the history of the tower, its architectural significance and its UNESCO status through multimedia installations. The surrounding park and the nearby Saint‑Calixte Chapel make the visit even more atmospheric.

Practical information
The Belfry is open from Tuesday to Sunday between 10:00 and 18:00, with last entry at 17:15. Tickets cost €10 for adults, €8 for seniors and groups, and €2 for children. The site is located at Rue des Clercs 32. It includes the Belfry, the Belfry Park, the Saint‑Calixte Chapel and the House of UNESCO Heritage (ticket office).

10. Visit the Futuristic Mons Train Station

Designed by Santiago Calatrava, the Mons train station features flowing, futuristic lines that contrast beautifully with the historic centre. Even if you are not travelling by train, it is worth stopping by to admire the architecture.

Practical Tips for Visiting Mons

Mons is compact and easy to explore on foot, which makes it perfect for a relaxed day trip. Most sights are within a short walking distance from each other.

Arriving by train
Mons is very well connected by rail. Direct trains run frequently from Brussels, Ghent, Antwerp and Charleroi. The journey from Brussels takes around 45 minutes. The futuristic Calatrava‑designed station is located just a 10‑minute walk from the historic centre, making it easy to start exploring right away.

Public transport in Mons
If you prefer not to walk, Mons has a network of local buses operated by TEC. They connect the station with the city centre and surrounding neighbourhoods. Tickets can be purchased via the TEC app, ticket machines or directly from the driver. For most visitors, however, walking remains the easiest and most pleasant way to get around.

Good to know
Some museums and churches have limited opening hours, especially on weekdays, so checking schedules in advance is helpful. Mons also has plenty of cafés and restaurants, making it easy to combine cultural visits with food stops throughout the day.

A Perfect Day in Mons

Mons is a city that rewards curiosity. Its mix of heritage, creativity and small‑city charm makes it an easy place to fall in love with. Whether you come for the art, the architecture, the food or simply to wander through its quiet streets, Mons invites you to slow down and enjoy the moment. It’s the kind of destination that stays with you long after you’ve left, and one you’ll want to return to. Find more tips on Visit Mons!