Soignies(Belgium) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Soignies, the top boutique choice is Hôtel Le Clos des Chênes, nestled near the historic Church of Notre-Dame and surrounded by quiet greenery. This charming hotel offers elegant rooms with period details, a cozy library lounge, and a garden terrace perfect for local-inspired breakfasts. It’s ideal for travelers seeking an authentic experience of Hainaut Province’s heritage, with easy access to the monthly market and nearby Mons UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The historic town center of Soignies is the most walkable and rewarding district. Stroll along cobbled streets leading from the Town Hall to the Place du Marché, where you’ll find artisan shops, cafés, and the 15th-century Notre-Dame Church. The area is pedestrian-friendly, well-lit at night, and filled with architectural charm—perfect for soaking in the authentic French-speaking Belgian atmosphere while discovering hidden courtyards and vintage signage.

Don’t miss the monthly first-week market festival held in the Place du Marché, featuring handmade ceramics, regional sausages, and seasonal produce. For cultural immersion, attend the classical music concerts at Notre-Dame Church, often performed by local choirs. During spring, join the Village Garden Tour, where residents open their restored heritage gardens to the public—offering a rare glimpse into traditional Hainaut rural life.

Try the Belgian meat pie (quiche à la viande) at Boulangerie du Marché, renowned for its flaky crust and slow-cooked filling. Another must is Soyeux-style sausage, served grilled with sour kraut and dark rye bread. For a true local taste, visit Le Petit Jardin, where the daily wild herb stew and house-made apple cider highlight the region’s agricultural roots and culinary craftsmanship.

Absolutely. Soignies lies on the Blue Route Network, a scenic bike path system linking to the Meuse River and the Luxembourg border. Rent an e-bike from Velo-Soye and ride the former railway line through forested trails and riverside villages. Stop at rustic cafés like Le Gîte de l’Étang for a picnic, making it a perfect route for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

Photographers love the Gothic spires and stained-glass windows of Notre-Dame Church, especially at golden hour. The cobblestone alleyways behind the Town Hall and the ancient fountain in Place du Marché offer timeless scenes. For off-the-beaten-path shots, head to the oak groves along the old river path, where autumn light filters through trees—often described as Belgium’s hidden gem for serene, cinematic imagery.

During winter, enjoy the Christmas Market at Place du Marché, featuring handcrafted lights, mulled wine stalls, and live folk performances. Attend the candlelit dinner at the old church hall, a beloved local tradition. If visiting in December, take a short train ride to Mons for the largest snow sculpture festival in Europe, blending art, culture, and seasonal magic.

Soignies is easily accessible via train: just 30 minutes from Liège Station, connecting directly to Brussels and Antwerp. The town has a reliable bus network and offers bike-sharing stations. For deeper exploration of Hainaut Province, renting a car is recommended—ideal for visiting Castel Castle and border towns like Arlon and Durbuy.

Café L’Ombre is a favorite among creatives—a former 19th-century building housing a literary café with second-hand books, hand-painted walls, and jazz playlists. Try their lavender latte and walnut chocolate cake. Another gem is Le Bistrot des Lettres, hosting poetry readings and author talks, offering a deeply immersive experience into the intellectual soul of French-speaking Belgium.

Visit the Church of Notre-Dame, a rare twin-towered Gothic structure dating to the 15th century, with stunning stained glass and carved stone. The Old Town Hall features preserved 17th-century council chambers and a weathered façade. Don’t miss the former convent ruins park, where medieval walls and rose gardens reveal Soignies’ evolution from religious center to administrative hub—key to understanding Hainaut Province’s rich past.