'Love is there to take in me “ I just am looking for a taker!,
Heinrich von Veldeke “ one of the most famous residents of Hasselt, Belgium “ was the first documented writer to adopt a language other than Latin as a form of written works. Besides this significance, many life lessons dictated by him in many of his notes and books remain classics of Low European literature.
That his name has forever been associated with that of Hasselt is a matter of mutual pride and glory for the parties involved. But he's not alone. Dozens of globally famous artists, philosophers and businessmen have been born and bred by Hasselt over two millennia.
Today, Hasselt is the capital and the largest city of the Limburg Province, and an important cultural, industrial and educational center in the region. Attracting over 1 million tourists each year, a wide range of attractions present in and around Hasselt is something we know our readers (especially those who love take an active interest in art and culture) would love to enjoy.
Much the reason why, we are presenting a short and quick article discussing hotels in Hasselt and alternative lodging options!
Cheap Hotels in and Around Hasselt
Belgium is a country that has always had to live under the shadow of its bigger and more famous neighbors “ France and Germany. But it would do tourists a world of good to note that when it comes to the richness of sites and diversity of attractions, Belgium can stand shoulder to shoulder with any European country you can care to name!
What's even better, unlike in France or Germany, it is much easier to find and book cheap hotels in Belgium! It's a win-win for tourists, is all we can say!
So, talking about cheap hotels, the first pick that rises above a rather listless selection of budget hotels in Hasselt is Dai Hotel. It is more of a boutique cottage than a hotel, but as long as it gets the job done of sheltering the guests in a good measure of comfort and at cheap prices, it doesn't matter what we choose to call it!
If you prefer an even cheaper option, B&B Jo-Li can be chosen. It is a very basic bed and breakfast lodge where you can crash for a night or two. This option is perfectly suited for solo travelers and backpackers.
Looking for Belgian Luxury in Hasselt
Hasselt is a city that is culturally as well as historically rich. Therefore, it only stands to reason that tourists try to make their stay in Hasselt equally rich by preferring to stay at a luxury hotel or a resort over budget lodges and inns.
If you count yourself in that category of tourists, you will definitely be happy to know that over 15 five star Hasselt hotels are all in readiness to host you!
The best of the lot, from various criteria upon which we usually judge a hotel, turns out to be Radisson Blu Hotel, Hasselt. While we do not feel the need to go raving about the hospitality extended towards guests here (more because Radisson Blu is an established brand, than anything), it would be fair to mention that you will get your money's worth if you stay here.
If you've got deeper pockets, Hassotel Hasselt can be a tailor-made choice for you. Luxury and opulence of the highest level imaginable can be found at Hassotel, albeit at prices that one cannot help but call 'prohibitive'.
Top Things to Do and See in Hasselt
As mentioned once or twice before, Hasselt is the cultural capital of the Limburg Province. This tag is often accorded to Hasselt because of the sheer diversity of attraction that it offers the visitors, despite not being a really large city like Brussels.
The central part of the city “ many times referred to as the 'old town' “ is where you will get to witness the best that Hasselt has to offer. Historic buildings and villas that date back hundreds of years are in well-preserved conditions, so much so that some of them are still deemed fit to be occupied. The most popular attraction in the old town is St Quentin's Cathedral, a 16th century cathedral that manifests the high art and architecture of renaissance Europe. Apart from this one, there are over half a dozen beautiful cathedrals, chapels and churches that you can overview during your sightseeing voyage.
Moving on, a more fun attraction may interest the 'young at heart' among our readers who wish to visit Hasselt soon. The National Jenever Museum “ literally, a museum of gin “ is situated at a still-functional 19th century brewery, where you can get to understand how globally renowned Belgian gins and beers are made.
The annual Jenever Festival in Hasselt is attended by thousands of tourists and there are many reasons why. Apart from being the only of its kind in the world, the festival also features a free flow of gin throughout the city!
Getting Around in Hasselt
There used to be a free bus service (where you could just hop on a bus, and get off at your destination point without paying anything) in operation for many years in Hasselt. It was recently shut down, making getting around in Hasselt just a touch more expensive.
The easiest and the cheapest options, however, is exploring Hasselt on foot. Since this is not a big city, it is possible to do so if you are going to stay in Hasselt for three-four days, or longer.
Renting a bicycles (many Hasselt hotels rent bicycles for nominal charges) can be a good idea, as well!
Ideal Time to Visit Hasselt
As far as weather is concerned, the best time of the year to visit Hasselt is during late spring and early summer (April/May). This is when the climate of the city is at its most agreeable, making one's stay quite enjoyable.
You can visit Hasselt during the holiday season of winter to experience the traditional Belgian holidays “ not to mention cheap hotel fares!