Things to do in Lier

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

#autumn in Lier
Schapenkoppen or the Sheep's Head Monument in Lier, Belgium tells of the interesting and humourous history of Lier. Legend says in the 15th century, Duke John II wanted to thank the people of Lier for their services during his struggle with the people of Mechelen. They could choose their reward, either a cattle market or a university. They chose the cattle market. The Duke's response? "Oh, the sheep heads!" To which the people of Lier are lovingly called this day.
The beguinage at Lier in Belgium is full of surprises and wonderful buildings. Saint Margarita is free to enter and we were the only people exploring the church. If you love historical architecture, you must visit the beguinage's in Belgium. Construction of Saint Margarita began in 1664.
To explore the beguinage at Lier is to step back into the Middle Ages when women who were left behind had to fend for themselves. Many of their husbands and men went to fight in the Crusades and never returned. This led the women to an incredible resiliency where they lived a religious life but were free to leave anytime. People live in these dwellings; however, the streets are serene. A perfect spot for street photography and exploration.
Lier is also referred to as the Bruges of the Antwerp Province, though luckily it's not as discovered as Bruges. The city is surrounded - inside and out - by the river Nete and canals. The Buyldragershuisje is situated next to Het Fortuin and dates back to the 17th century. Back in the day, it was used as a storage space and as a guildhall for the dockers. Today, you can sit down below it on a wooden deck and enjoy the sun and water.
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What to do in Lier

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Lier? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Lier

Mainstage Tomorrowland 2022 festival musique Boom Belgique europe

Tomorrowland

4/5(43 reviews)

Tomorrowland is just one of the places to see in Boom, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Add the area's stunning cathedral or shops to your travel plans.

Tomorrowland
Antwerp Market Square showing a city, street scenes and heritage architecture

Antwerp Market Square

4.5/5(267 reviews)

Spend an hour or two people watching beneath 16th-century buildings in Antwerp’s cultural heart.

Antwerp Market Square
"China Light" in the Antwerp Zoo. A Chinese love story depicted with light-artworks. #TroveOnTuesday #Colorful #Culture

Antwerp Zoo

4/5(43 reviews)

Why not meet the animals who live at Antwerp Zoo during your trip to Antwerp? While you're in the area, find time to visit its shops.

Antwerp Zoo
Fin de journée sur le Mas à Anvers

Port of Antwerp

4.5/5(22 reviews)

Explore the waterfront in Antwerp with a trip to Port of Antwerp. While you're in the area, find time to visit its shops.

Port of Antwerp
Museum Aan de Stroom featuring a city, a bay or harbor and a marina

Museum Aan de Stroom

4.5/5(23 reviews)

Learn about Antwerp’s history and culture at this stunningly designed museum, perched next to the seafront and offering 360-degree views of the city.

Museum Aan de Stroom
Cathedral of Our Lady featuring a church or cathedral, a city and night scenes

Cathedral of Our Lady

4.5/5(316 reviews)

The tallest church in Belgium is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and houses a number of European masterpieces.

Cathedral of Our Lady
The Zoo is the best place for nature photographer to see animals in real, analyse the movements of the animals and to test the gear before to see them in the real environment. More pictures in Instagram @thierryroyls_nature

Planckendael Zoo

Why not visit the native and exotic animals who live at Planckendael Zoo during your trip to Muizen? Discover the area's live music and cathedral.

Planckendael Zoo
The mainstage all lit up.

De Schorre Provincial Park

You can take time to visit De Schorre Provincial Park during your travels to Boom. While you're in the area, find time to visit its shops.

De Schorre Provincial Park
Probably the most beautiful example of a renaissance building in Flanders: The Antwerp cityhall.

Antwerp City Hall

4.5/5(62 reviews)

Antwerp City Hall is just one of the places to see in Antwerp, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? While you're in the area, find time to visit its shops.

Antwerp City Hall

 

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Popular day trips from Lier

A (hidden) Art Nouveau gem. In 1841 the Ursuline nuns started a school for young girls (from rich families) in Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Waver. Pretty soon after its establishment, the Ursuline Institute gained international fame. Around the turn of the century almost a quarter of the students in this renowned boarding school were of foreign origin. In 1900 the institute built a beautiful winter garden in Art Nouveau. The architect is (still) unknown. The winter garden served as a reception room for the visitors of the hundreds of girls living in the boarding school. https://visit.mechelen.be/en/wintertuin Art Nouveau (or Jugendstil) is an art movement that was popular in various places in Europe between 1890 and 1914, mainly as a reaction to form-blurring impressionism. The movement experienced a short but intense flowering period, which mainly expanded during the Belle Epoque. #Architecture #LocalSecrets #Trovember

Sint-Katelijne-Waver

Churchill in the center of Putte

Putte

Cathedral of Our Lady featuring a city, a church or cathedral and heritage architecture

Antwerp

Ris and Shine ! Zonsopkomst op de Kesselse Heide. #nature #sun #sunrise #mist #early #morning

Nijlen

Frequently asked questions

Is Lier worth visiting?
From shopping to history and outdoor pursuits, there are many interesting things to do in Lier. Don't forget to experience the area's blend of cool sights, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Lier?
Antwerp Zoo and Planckendael Zoo are two good places to start your vacation adventures. Be sure to explore the retail and dining options in Lier while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Lier?
The top tourist attraction in Lier is Antwerp Zoo, so don't forget to put it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Lier?
Three days is plenty for a quick escape to Lier — you'll hit the main sights and get a good feel for the place. But if you really want to soak it all in, book for at least a week or more to explore some nearby hotspots too.
Is Lier a walkable city?
If touring on foot sounds like your style of vacation, Lier is a great place to visit. Find major attractions, such as St. Gummarus Church, a walkable distance from downtown. You can also go for a stroll around Salvator, a hip neighborhood located about 1 mile from the city center.
What are some activities to do in Lier with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes all the difference. Browse our ideas for what to do in Lier with kids.

What to do in Lier for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or fan of Mother Nature, there are lots of things to do in Lier for adults including De Koninck Brewery and Sportpaleis.
Are there free things to do in Lier?
One of the top ways to learn about free things to do in Lier is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on exciting neighborhoods, parks and other major attractions you can visit without reaching for your wallet. St. Gummarus Church is one place that doesn't have an admission fee.