MUSEUMS & Culture

Step into 600 years of history at Herkenrode Abbey. Discover the fascinating stories of the women who lived here—from times of wealth and splendour to moments of war, illness, and hardship. At the Experience Centre, history comes alive with interactive displays.

Prefer the outdoors? Wander through the Herb and Inspiration Garden, where a guide explains how people across cultures and centuries have used herbs.

💡 Tip: Fancy a tour with humour and anecdotes? Join Joséphine de Gondrécourt, the abbey’s very last abbess, on a one-of-a-kind walk!
More info on group visits

Step into the largest Japanese Garden in Europe—right here in Hasselt. A serene oasis where bridges, waterfalls, and cherry blossoms immerse you in authentic Japanese culture. The perfect spot to slow down, reflect, and enjoy nature at its most tranquil.

Awaken your senses at the Jenever Museum! See, hear, smell, and taste the passion for Belgium’s centuries-old spirit. Wander through interactive displays, enjoy films and soundscapes, and discover a rich collection of jenever glasses, posters, and bottles. Before you know it—you’ll be a true connoisseur.

Het Kunstuur offers a magical experience with masterpieces by Belgian artists from 1850–1950. Well-known Flemish personalities share their personal connection to each painting, making every visit both intimate and inspiring. The works are displayed in the historic old city hall on Groenplein—an unforgettable encounter with art.Info & tickets: hetkunstuur.com/hasselt

Group visits: hetkunstuur.com/formules-voor-groepen-hasselt

Hasselt is known for its taste—not only in food and drink, but also in fashion. At the Fashion Museum, explore the history of Western fashion from 1750 to today, told through an impressive collection of clothing and accessories. Instead of a permanent display, the museum presents two must-see exhibitions each year, with both local and international flair.
See current exhibitions | Group visits

A city without a past is like a book without letters. At Het Stadsmus, Hasselt’s city museum, you’ll uncover the city’s rich history and explore special collections—from Hasselt ceramics to contemporary art. Still curious? Discover the changing exhibitions and events that keep Hasselt’s story alive.

From bold graffiti murals to hidden gems, Hasselt’s street art brings colour and creativity to the city centre. Want to see it all? Download the free Street Art Cities app and set off on foot or by bike, or use the handy street art map.

Step into a world of stories and imagination at Villa Verbeelding. Writers and illustrators invite you to wander through their creations, inspiring you to see, think, and dream beyond the everyday. A magical experience for both young and old.
Current exhibitions | Group visits

Z33

Since 2020, Z33 has stood out as Hasselt’s newest architectural landmark. Behind its diamond-shaped brick façade lies a dynamic arts centre dedicated to contemporary art, design, and architecture. Designed by Francesca Torzo, the building plays with proportions, light, and perspectives—inviting visitors to explore both open spaces and intimate corners. Step inside and experience exhibitions, research, and collaborative projects that push the boundaries of creativity.
See exhibitions | Group visits

The Trixxo Arena is where big names perform—hosting concerts and shows for up to 20,000 visitors. Next door, the Trixxo Theatre offers a more intimate setting for theatre, musicals, and cultural events.

Welcome to Landcommanderij Alden Biesen—once one of the most powerful headquarters of the Teutonic Order. For centuries, this fairytale castle estate shaped history. Eight centuries later, it continues to inspire and impress visitors from around the world.

Nestled in the green woodlands of Bokrijk lies the famous open-air museum. Curious where our everyday customs and traditions come from? Discover a rich collection of historical buildings and objects, combined with living heritage and stories that bring the past to life. Explore four fascinating museum zones—each with its own theme and unique experience.

Embark on an underground adventure at C-mine. Your expedition begins in the Energy Building before you descend six metres below ground. Along the way, you’ll encounter surprising installations, lifelike stories, holograms, and special effects that bring the mining past into the present.

Just 20 minutes from Hasselt, in Belgium’s oldest city Tongeren, the Gallo-Roman Museum takes you on a journey through time. From prehistoric Neanderthals and ancient Greeks to the grandeur of Rome—discover how Europe’s past shaped the world we know today.