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Belgium🇧🇪 | townsHasseltJenever museums, Japanese garden, shopping streets | things to do and best time to go

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Backpacking in Hasselt
🌟 Highlighttown ranked #10
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 14, 2026

Everyone talks about Hasselt for the gin museum and jenever bars, but the real question for a backpacker is whether this small Flemish city actually earns a stop on your route. It sits in Limburg, in the east of Flanders, between Brussels and Liège, and it feels more like a laid‑back regional hub than a must‑see city. The compact center is easy on your feet, with brick streets, a Japanese garden, and enough cafés to linger over cheapish coffee, but nightlife is modest and hostels are limited, so it skews more local than backpacker‑social. Trains make it a smooth, safe, mid‑priced base for day trips into Limburg’s cycling country or as a calm pause between louder Brussels and more industrial Liège.

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✨ Why go?
Ranked #10 town in BelgiumWhat sets this place apart

Backpackers flock to Hasselt for its strategic location and charming atmosphere. Nestled between hiking trails and cultural sites, it serves as a convenient base for exploring the Belgian countryside. You can easily access the Hoge Kempen National Park for a day of hiking, or hop on a train to nearby cities like Antwerp or Bruges.

The streets are walkable, lined with small-scale hostels and guesthouses that foster a friendly vibe. You’ll find cozy spots to enjoy local dishes, like Hasselt’s famous jenever, which adds a unique flavor to your experience.

Travelers often stay a couple of days, soaking in the laid-back charm while mingling with fellow adventurers. It’s perfect for slow travelers and solo backpackers looking for a quiet retreat or a small group seeking a home base. The balance … read more 👉
Backpackers flock to Hasselt for its strategic location and charming atmosphere. Nestled between hiking trails and cultural sites, it serves as a convenient base for exploring the Belgian countryside. You can easily access the Hoge Kempen National Park for a day of hiking, or hop on a train to nearby cities like Antwerp or Bruges.

The streets are walkable, lined with small-scale hostels and guesthouses that foster a friendly vibe. You’ll find cozy spots to enjoy local dishes, like Hasselt’s famous jenever, which adds a unique flavor to your experience.

Travelers often stay a couple of days, soaking in the laid-back charm while mingling with fellow adventurers. It’s perfect for slow travelers and solo backpackers looking for a quiet retreat or a small group seeking a home base. The balance of social interaction and peaceful exploration makes Hasselt a rewarding stop on your journey.
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💡 HighlightsThe experiences that define the visit

  • Japanse Tuin (Japanese Garden) — One of Europe’s largest authentic Japanese gardens; perfect for slow walks, koi ponds, stone lanterns and a proper sense of calm that feels miles away from the city bustle.
  • Nationaal Jenevermuseum (National Jenever Museum) — The place to learn how Belgian jenever is made, taste different styles, and get why Hasselt is famous for this spirit; hands-on and surprisingly fun for a dull-weather afternoon.
  • Modemuseum Hasselt (Fashion Museum) — Compact but smartly curated shows on historical and contemporary fashion; great if you like design, textiles, or people-watching from the museum café afterward.
  • Basiliek van Onze-Lieve-Vrouw Virga Jesse (Virga Jesse Basilica) — A pilgrimage church with rich interiors and a centuries-old Virgin statue; visiting during a
… read more 👉
  • Japanse Tuin (Japanese Garden) — One of Europe’s largest authentic Japanese gardens; perfect for slow walks, koi ponds, stone lanterns and a proper sense of calm that feels miles away from the city bustle.
  • Nationaal Jenevermuseum (National Jenever Museum) — The place to learn how Belgian jenever is made, taste different styles, and get why Hasselt is famous for this spirit; hands-on and surprisingly fun for a dull-weather afternoon.
  • Modemuseum Hasselt (Fashion Museum) — Compact but smartly curated shows on historical and contemporary fashion; great if you like design, textiles, or people-watching from the museum café afterward.
  • Basiliek van Onze-Lieve-Vrouw Virga Jesse (Virga Jesse Basilica) — A pilgrimage church with rich interiors and a centuries-old Virgin statue; visiting during a quiet moment makes the atmosphere memorable.
  • Abdijsite Herkenrode (Herkenrode Abbey) — Ruins, restored buildings, exhibitions and peaceful abbey gardens in the Kuringen quarter — a real step back in time without leaving the city limits.
  • Provinciaal Domein Kiewit — Big green space for biking, walking, a small petting farm and playgrounds; the Japanese Garden is nearby, so you can make a whole relaxed-day outing of it.
  • Het Stadsmus (Hasselt City Museum) — Local history presented in an engaging, modern way; rotating exhibits mean repeat visits often reveal something new about Hasselt life and traditions.
  • Begijnhof (Beguinage) — A quiet, well-preserved historic quarter with narrow lanes and small courtyards; great for a slow stroll and to see the city’s older residential fabric up close.
  • Grote Markt & Stadhuis (Main Square and City Hall) — The social heart of Hasselt: terraces, seasonal markets and the town hall’s historic façade — best enjoyed with a coffee or a glass of jenever on a sunny bench.
  • Z33 — House for Contemporary Art, Design & Architecture — Changing exhibitions that push creative boundaries; good for anyone interested in modern art, design experiments and striking temporary shows.
Nearby day-trip picks: Bokrijk’s open-air museum (traditional Limburg life), the ancient town of Tongeren, and the hiking areas of Hoge Kempen National Park — all easy to reach from Hasselt.
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🏘️ NeighborhoodsWhere things are and how it's laid out

Hasselt, Belgium, is a charming blend of history and modernity, perfect for backpackers seeking both culture and comfort. Here’s how to navigate its neighborhoods:

City Center: This is the heartbeat of Hasselt. With cobblestone streets and vibrant cafés, it’s ideal for first-timers. You’ll find affordable eateries and shops, all within walking distance. The nightlife here is lively but not overwhelming, making it suitable for both short and longer stays. Public transport is easily accessible, connecting you to other parts of Belgium.

Jenever District: Known for its distilleries, this area offers a unique local experience. The scent of juniper wafts through the air, inviting you to sample the local spirit. It’s quieter than the City Center, perfect for those looking to unwind after a day … read more 👉
Hasselt, Belgium, is a charming blend of history and modernity, perfect for backpackers seeking both culture and comfort. Here’s how to navigate its neighborhoods:

City Center: This is the heartbeat of Hasselt. With cobblestone streets and vibrant cafés, it’s ideal for first-timers. You’ll find affordable eateries and shops, all within walking distance. The nightlife here is lively but not overwhelming, making it suitable for both short and longer stays. Public transport is easily accessible, connecting you to other parts of Belgium.

Jenever District: Known for its distilleries, this area offers a unique local experience. The scent of juniper wafts through the air, inviting you to sample the local spirit. It’s quieter than the City Center, perfect for those looking to unwind after a day of exploring. Walkability is excellent, and you can easily spend a few days soaking in the local culture.

Hasselt Park: A green oasis in the city, this area is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The park’s tranquility contrasts with the urban buzz, making it a great spot for relaxation. While it’s not a nightlife hub, it’s close enough to the City Center for easy access to evening activities. Ideal for short stays, especially if you want a breather from the hustle.

⌛️ 1 daySeeing the highlights in 24 hours

Hasselt, Belgium, is a charming town that often flies under the radar, but it’s a treasure trove of local culture, delicious food, and vibrant streets. The air here carries the sweet scent of jenever, the local gin, and the cobblestone streets invite you to explore their stories.

Start your morning at the bustling **Hasselt Market Square**. Grab a fresh pastry from a nearby bakery—try the “speculaas” for a spicy kick. As you sip your coffee, take in the stunning architecture of the **St. Quentin Cathedral**. The stained glass glows in the morning light, creating a serene atmosphere that sets the tone for your day.

Afterward, wander over to the **Japanese Garden**, a peaceful oasis that’s often overlooked by tourists. The gentle sound of water and the meticulously arranged flora offer a moment … read more 👉
Hasselt, Belgium, is a charming town that often flies under the radar, but it’s a treasure trove of local culture, delicious food, and vibrant streets. The air here carries the sweet scent of jenever, the local gin, and the cobblestone streets invite you to explore their stories.

Start your morning at the bustling **Hasselt Market Square**. Grab a fresh pastry from a nearby bakery—try the “speculaas” for a spicy kick. As you sip your coffee, take in the stunning architecture of the **St. Quentin Cathedral**. The stained glass glows in the morning light, creating a serene atmosphere that sets the tone for your day.

Afterward, wander over to the **Japanese Garden**, a peaceful oasis that’s often overlooked by tourists. The gentle sound of water and the meticulously arranged flora offer a moment of tranquility. It’s a perfect spot to reflect on your journey so far.

In the afternoon, head to the **Z33 Art Museum**. This contemporary space showcases innovative works and often hosts local artists. The atmosphere buzzes with creativity, and you might even catch a workshop or event. Afterward, stroll through the **Hasselt’s old town**, where you can pop into quirky shops and local boutiques. Don’t miss the **Jenever Museum** for a taste of the region’s spirit.

As evening falls, find a cozy restaurant in the **Koningin Astridstraat**. Order a hearty Flemish stew and pair it with a local beer. The ambiance is warm, and the laughter of locals fills the air.

End your day with a leisurely walk along the **Albert Canal**, where the sunset paints the sky in hues of orange and pink. This day in Hasselt, with its blend of culture, cuisine, and community, will leave you feeling enriched and inspired.
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🌤️ When to go?Best time to visit Hasselt


  • Weather: Hasselt’s best weather lands between late spring and early autumn. May to September offers mild to warm days, ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F), perfect for wandering without overheating or freezing.

  • Daylight Hours: Long summer evenings stretch well past 9 PM, giving you extra daylight to explore the town’s cafes and parks. Winters, by contrast, shrink daylight to just 8 hours, making sightseeing feel rushed.

  • Crowds: Peak tourist season hits July and August, especially during local festivals. Visiting in May or September means fewer crowds but still pleasant weather, so you get Hasselt’s charm without elbowing through groups.

  • Seasonal Activities: Spring brings blooming Japanese gardens and outdoor markets; autumn offers harvest festivals and cozy beer tastings. Winter
… read more 👉

  • Weather: Hasselt’s best weather lands between late spring and early autumn. May to September offers mild to warm days, ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F), perfect for wandering without overheating or freezing.

  • Daylight Hours: Long summer evenings stretch well past 9 PM, giving you extra daylight to explore the town’s cafes and parks. Winters, by contrast, shrink daylight to just 8 hours, making sightseeing feel rushed.

  • Crowds: Peak tourist season hits July and August, especially during local festivals. Visiting in May or September means fewer crowds but still pleasant weather, so you get Hasselt’s charm without elbowing through groups.

  • Seasonal Activities: Spring brings blooming Japanese gardens and outdoor markets; autumn offers harvest festivals and cozy beer tastings. Winter is quieter but can be magical with Christmas markets if you don’t mind the chill.

  • Price Fluctuations: Accommodation and transport costs spike in summer. Booking in shoulder seasons like late spring or early fall often nets better deals and more availability.


Pro-tip: Aim for late May or early September—when the light softens, the air smells of fresh blooms or fallen leaves, and Hasselt feels like it’s sharing a secret just with you.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: fair for travelingFEBFebruary: fair for travelingMARMarch: good for travelingAPRApril: good for travelingMAYMay: excellent for travelingJUNJune: highly recommended for travelingJULJuly: highly recommended for travelingAUGAugust: highly recommended for travelingSEPSeptember: excellent for travelingOCTOctober: highly recommended for travelingNOVNovember: good for travelingDECDecember: good for traveling
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🛏️ Where to stay?Best areas to stay in Belgium

In Hasselt, backpackers find their sweet spot around the city center, where the pulse of local life beats strongest. This area is compact, making it easy to wander on foot and stumble into lively cafés, quirky shops, and the famous jenever bars without the hassle of transport. The streets here carry a gentle hum of conversation and clinking glasses well into the evening, perfect for solo travelers craving social vibes without the tourist overload.

Compared to the quieter residential neighborhoods on the outskirts, the center offers a safer, more engaging atmosphere where you can meet fellow travelers … read more 👉
In Hasselt, backpackers find their sweet spot around the city center, where the pulse of local life beats strongest. This area is compact, making it easy to wander on foot and stumble into lively cafés, quirky shops, and the famous jenever bars without the hassle of transport. The streets here carry a gentle hum of conversation and clinking glasses well into the evening, perfect for solo travelers craving social vibes without the tourist overload.

Compared to the quieter residential neighborhoods on the outskirts, the center offers a safer, more engaging atmosphere where you can meet fellow travelers and locals alike. Hostels tend to cluster here, providing budget-friendly beds and a communal spirit that’s hard to find elsewhere in Hasselt. The light filtering through the leafy squares in the afternoon casts a warm glow, inviting you to linger over a beer or a book. Staying here means you’re not just passing through; you’re stepping into the city’s rhythm, where every corner has a story waiting to unfold.
Best hostels in Belgium


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🚌 Getting aroundHow to get around Hasselt

Hasselt moves at a pace that feels like a well-rehearsed jazz set—there’s a rhythm, but it’s loose enough to let you catch the unexpected notes. The streets hum with a gentle buzz, where locals drift between cafés and shops without the rush of a metropolis, yet the town’s layout and transit options keep you grounded in a reliable flow. It’s not a place where you’ll find chaotic crowds or frantic schedules, but neither is it rigid or overly formal. Instead, it’s a blend of calm intuition and practical timing, where knowing the right way to get around unlocks a smoother, more immersive experience.


  • Walking: Hasselt’s compact center is a walker’s dream, with most attractions, shops, and eateries within a 15-20 minute stroll. The cobblestone streets and leafy squares invite you to slow down,
… read more 👉
Hasselt moves at a pace that feels like a well-rehearsed jazz set—there’s a rhythm, but it’s loose enough to let you catch the unexpected notes. The streets hum with a gentle buzz, where locals drift between cafés and shops without the rush of a metropolis, yet the town’s layout and transit options keep you grounded in a reliable flow. It’s not a place where you’ll find chaotic crowds or frantic schedules, but neither is it rigid or overly formal. Instead, it’s a blend of calm intuition and practical timing, where knowing the right way to get around unlocks a smoother, more immersive experience.


  • Walking: Hasselt’s compact center is a walker’s dream, with most attractions, shops, and eateries within a 15-20 minute stroll. The cobblestone streets and leafy squares invite you to slow down, soak in the scent of fresh pastries, and catch the soft chatter of locals. Walking costs nothing and offers the richest sensory connection to the town’s pulse.


  • City Bus: Operated by De Lijn, buses run regularly from early morning (around 6:00 AM) until about 10:00 PM. A single ticket costs roughly €2.50, valid for an hour, making it a budget-friendly option for reaching neighborhoods beyond walking distance. Buses are punctual and comfortable, with clear stops near major points like the train station and shopping districts.


  • Bicycle Rental: Hasselt is famously bike-friendly, with dedicated lanes and flat terrain. Renting a bike costs about €10-€15 per day, and you can pick one up at several spots near the station or city center. Cycling lets you cover more ground than walking but still keeps you close to the scents, sounds, and sights that cars or buses miss.


  • Train: For trips outside Hasselt, the train station connects you to larger cities like Antwerp and Brussels. Trains run roughly every 30 minutes during the day, with tickets starting around €7. The station is a 10-minute walk from the center, so it’s best paired with a short walk or bus ride. Trains are fast and reliable but less useful for getting around within Hasselt itself.


  • Taxi: Taxis are available but pricey compared to other options, with fares starting around €5 for short rides. They’re best reserved for late-night returns or when you’re carrying heavy gear. The quiet streets mean you can often hail one without pre-booking, but expect a slower pace and a higher cost.

👛 Costs (as of 8 January 2026)How expensive it really is

Backpacking through Hasselt, Belgium, means balancing quaint charm with practical costs. Here’s what you’ll typically spend day-to-day, broken down so you can plan like a pro.
  • Dorm Accommodation: Expect to pay around €25 to €40 per night for a bed in a shared dorm. Hasselt’s hostels are modest but clean, often tucked into quiet streets where the scent of fresh bread from nearby bakeries drifts in the morning. Booking ahead can snag you the lower end of this range, especially outside weekends.
  • Meals: Budget about €15 to €25 daily if you mix it up. A hearty Belgian waffle or a sandwich from a local café costs around €3 to €5, while a sit-down meal at a casual bistro runs €10 to €15. Grab fresh fruit or pastries from markets to keep costs down and enjoy the local flavors without the fuss.
… read more 👉
Backpacking through Hasselt, Belgium, means balancing quaint charm with practical costs. Here’s what you’ll typically spend day-to-day, broken down so you can plan like a pro.
  • Dorm Accommodation: Expect to pay around €25 to €40 per night for a bed in a shared dorm. Hasselt’s hostels are modest but clean, often tucked into quiet streets where the scent of fresh bread from nearby bakeries drifts in the morning. Booking ahead can snag you the lower end of this range, especially outside weekends.
  • Meals: Budget about €15 to €25 daily if you mix it up. A hearty Belgian waffle or a sandwich from a local café costs around €3 to €5, while a sit-down meal at a casual bistro runs €10 to €15. Grab fresh fruit or pastries from markets to keep costs down and enjoy the local flavors without the fuss.
  • Local Transport: Hasselt is compact, so walking covers most ground. For longer hops, a single bus ticket costs about €2.50. A day pass, if you plan multiple trips, is around €6. The air smells crisp and the streets are calm, making walking not just cheaper but a sensory part of the experience.
  • Basic Activities/Entry Fees: Museums and attractions usually charge between €5 and €10. The Japanese Garden, a highlight, is about €6. Many spots offer discounts for students or combined tickets, so keep an eye out to stretch your euros further.
  • Miscellaneous Expenses: Factor in around €5 to €10 for things like bottled water, snacks, or a coffee break. Hasselt’s cafés often fill with the aroma of roasted beans, making a quick stop a small luxury worth budgeting for.

All told, you’re looking at roughly €55 to €90 per day to cover the essentials without skimping on the experience. Hasselt’s charm is in its approachable scale and the ease of slipping into local rhythms—knowing where to save and where to spend lets you soak it all in without the stress.


source: visitlimburg.be
⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🚌 Day tripsBest day trips from Hasselt

Hasselt, Belgium, is a backpacker’s dream base for exploring the region. With its central location and efficient transport links, you can dive into the heart of Flanders without breaking a sweat. Here are some day trips that pack a punch.

Maastricht
Just a 30-minute train ride away, Maastricht offers a blend of Dutch charm and vibrant culture. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, where the scent of fresh stroopwafels wafts through the air. Check out the historic Vrijthof square and the stunning Basilica of Saint Servatius. The total cost for a day trip, including train fare and a meal, is around €30. Spring is ideal, as the city buzzes with outdoor festivals. A common mistake? Skipping the local markets—don’t miss the chance to grab some artisanal cheese.


Tongeren
Only 20 minutes … read more 👉
Hasselt, Belgium, is a backpacker’s dream base for exploring the region. With its central location and efficient transport links, you can dive into the heart of Flanders without breaking a sweat. Here are some day trips that pack a punch.

Maastricht
Just a 30-minute train ride away, Maastricht offers a blend of Dutch charm and vibrant culture. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, where the scent of fresh stroopwafels wafts through the air. Check out the historic Vrijthof square and the stunning Basilica of Saint Servatius. The total cost for a day trip, including train fare and a meal, is around €30. Spring is ideal, as the city buzzes with outdoor festivals. A common mistake? Skipping the local markets—don’t miss the chance to grab some artisanal cheese.


Tongeren
Only 20 minutes from Hasselt, Tongeren is Belgium’s oldest town, rich in Roman history. The atmosphere here is palpable; you can almost hear the whispers of ancient traders. Visit the Gallo-Roman Museum and the impressive Basilica of Our Lady. Expect to spend about €25 for the day, including transport and lunch. Autumn is particularly lovely, with the leaves turning golden. First-timers often overlook the Sunday antiques market—arrive early to snag unique finds.
👉 Explore Tongeren

Genk
A quick 15-minute train ride lands you in Genk, where nature and industry collide. The C-Mine cultural complex is a must-see, showcasing art in a former coal mine. The surrounding parks offer a refreshing escape, perfect for a picnic. Budget around €20 for the day. Summer is the best time to enjoy outdoor events. Many visitors miss the chance to explore the nearby Bokrijk Park, a living history museum that brings the past to life.


Aarschot
About 40 minutes by train, Aarschot is a quieter option with a rich tapestry of medieval architecture. The town’s centerpiece is the stunning St. Rumold’s Church, where you can soak in the intricate details. Expect to spend around €25 for a day trip. Late spring is ideal, as the gardens bloom beautifully. A common oversight is not taking the time to wander the riverside paths—these offer a peaceful retreat from the town’s bustle.
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🛡️ SafetyTraveler Safety Guide

Hasselt, Belgium, is generally a safe haven for backpackers, but like any place, it has its quirks. The town’s charm lies in its cobblestone streets and vibrant café culture, but keep your wits about you, especially in crowded areas like the market square. Here, pickpockets can be a concern, particularly during busy events or festivals. Stay aware of your belongings, and consider using a crossbody bag that you can easily check.

If you’re traveling solo, the evenings can be delightful, but stick to well-lit areas. The nightlife is lively, with bars and restaurants buzzing with locals and visitors alike. However, avoid wandering too far off the beaten path after dark. Trust your instincts; if a street feels off, it probably is.

Scams aren’t rampant, but be cautious of overly friendly strangers … read more 👉
Hasselt, Belgium, is generally a safe haven for backpackers, but like any place, it has its quirks. The town’s charm lies in its cobblestone streets and vibrant café culture, but keep your wits about you, especially in crowded areas like the market square. Here, pickpockets can be a concern, particularly during busy events or festivals. Stay aware of your belongings, and consider using a crossbody bag that you can easily check.

If you’re traveling solo, the evenings can be delightful, but stick to well-lit areas. The nightlife is lively, with bars and restaurants buzzing with locals and visitors alike. However, avoid wandering too far off the beaten path after dark. Trust your instincts; if a street feels off, it probably is.

Scams aren’t rampant, but be cautious of overly friendly strangers who might approach you with a sob story or ask for money. A polite but firm “no” usually suffices. Also, be wary of anyone offering unsolicited help with directions; they might expect a tip.

Everyday annoyances can crop up, like the occasional language barrier. While many locals speak English, a few basic phrases in Dutch can go a long way in building rapport. A simple “dank u” (thank you) can turn a mundane interaction into a warm exchange.

In terms of transportation, the bus system is reliable, but be mindful of your ticket. Failing to validate it could lead to fines, which can be a frustrating surprise.

Overall, Hasselt is a place where the beauty of the experience is earned through a little awareness and common sense. Embrace the local rhythm, and you’ll find that the town welcomes you with open arms.
Check Country Safety

Other Belgian towns near Hasselt

Explore more nearby:

  • Bokrijk—Open-air museum, rural landscapes, cycling paths| 6 km away
  • Tongeren—Roman ruins, antique markets, basilica square| 19 km away
  • Herve—Cheese markets, orchard hills, rural festivals| 46 km away

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We 💚 feedbackParting advice and final tips

Hasselt’s charm lies in its rich jenever culture. Strolling through the cobblestone streets, you can almost taste the history in the air, especially when you pop into a local distillery. But be ready for the quiet vibe; it’s not a party town. If you’re seeking nightlife, you might feel a bit let down. Embrace the slower pace, and you’ll find the beauty in the details.

✈️ When did I visit Belgium?
Belgium being my neighbour country, I have visited it many times, mainly for weekend city trips.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Belgium, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.



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👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

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