Belfry of Mons
A UNESCO-listed Baroque belfry in Mons, Belgium, offering live bell music and clockwork views from its historic tower.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, clearer views
Belfry of Mons
Best Time
Fewer crowds, clearer views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A UNESCO-listed Baroque belfry in Mons, Belgium, offering live bell music and clockwork views from its historic tower.
"The music from the tower is wonderful! I couldn't believe it was being performed live. "
🎟️ Buy Tickets Nearby
Purchase your tickets from the UNESCO house before heading to the Belfry.
⬆️ Elevator Option Available
Don't let stairs deter you; an elevator is available for easier access to the upper levels.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Clockwork Mechanism
Fifth floor and above
Witness the intricate, refurbished baroque clockwork that has been keeping time for centuries.
Panoramic City Views
Upper floors
Gaze out over Mons from the tower's windows for a unique perspective of the city.
Live Bell Music
Top of the tower
Experience the magical sound of dozens of bells played live, creating an unforgettable auditory spectacle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Elevator Access & Ticket Purchase
Window Views & Best Time to Ascend
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Buy Tickets Nearby
Purchase your tickets from the UNESCO house before heading to the Belfry.
⬆️ Elevator Option Available
Don't let stairs deter you; an elevator is available for easier access to the upper levels.
🧼 Clean Windows for Views
Be prepared for potentially dirty windows; they can slightly obscure the city panorama.
🎶 Listen to the Bells
Catch the live bell performance every 15 minutes for a truly magical experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Buy Tickets Nearby
Purchase your tickets from the UNESCO house before heading to the Belfry.
⬆️ Elevator Option Available
Don't let stairs deter you; an elevator is available for easier access to the upper levels.
🧼 Clean Windows for Views
Be prepared for potentially dirty windows; they can slightly obscure the city panorama.
🎶 Listen to the Bells
Catch the live bell performance every 15 minutes for a truly magical experience.
🚶 Explore the Park
Take time to wander through the peaceful castle park surrounding the Belfry.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Belfry of Mons is a central landmark offering a unique experience with its live bell music and historic clockwork. While some visitors found the ticket price a bit high and the windows dirty, the overall sentiment is positive, with many appreciating the chance to see the city from above and hear the enchanting melodies.
"A central feature of Mons and well worth a visit. There is an elevator you can get a card for if walking the stairs is too much for you. The bells at the top are visible through a plexiglass screen, with limited space but fit fun to see and hear, each 15 minutes it plays a tune"
Graham Short
"Obviously tickets couldn't be bought from the Belfry itself so we had to walk a little way and buy the ticket, written out by hand, from the UNESCO house and then walk up the winding path to the castle park and enter that way.
Once inside you take the lift to the fifth floor and then climb a further three floors on a metal staircase to see the clock operating mechanism. And that's it, no balcony to see the views. Climbing down one floor you can look through windows to see a panorama of the city but they were so filthy it spoiled the experience.
I walked a circuit of the small castle park and then we walked back through the town."
Marcus Hurley
"No way to see outside in. Clear way weil the windows are very dirty & 9€ is to much for seeing nothing ! Just seeing the facade is better 👍"
Zana Suran
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Belfry of Mons is easily accessible on foot within the city center. If arriving in Mons without a car, public transportation will get you to the city, and from there, it's a pleasant walk to the Belfry.
While direct parking at the Belfry is limited, there are several public parking lots in the vicinity of the Grand-Place in Mons.
Yes, the Belfry of Mons is a walkable distance from the Mons train station, approximately a 15-20 minute walk through the city.
For limited mobility, utilize the elevator within the Belfry to reach higher floors. Many of Mons' attractions are also accessible via walking paths.
While specific guided tours for the Belfry itself might vary, the city of Mons offers various walking tours that often include the Belfry as a key point of interest.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Belfry of Mons are not sold at the tower itself. You need to purchase them from the nearby UNESCO house.
The entrance fee for the Belfry of Mons is around 9 euros, which some visitors find a bit steep for the experience.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official tourism website for Mons or the Belfry's specific hours before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season, is recommended to avoid disappointment.
There are no specific age restrictions mentioned for visiting the Belfry, but the climb might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you can see the refurbished baroque clockwork mechanism and, through windows, get a panorama of the city.
There isn't a traditional balcony for external viewing. Views are primarily seen through windows, which some visitors found to be dirty.
A typical visit to the Belfry of Mons, including the climb and viewing, can take around 30-60 minutes.
Yes, the bells play a tune every 15 minutes, and you can experience this live music from the top of the tower.
The 'Belfry Way' appears to be a TikTok trend or hashtag related to the Belfry of Mons, possibly highlighting unique or interesting aspects of the landmark.
📸 📸 Photography
The top offers unique shots of the clockwork and city panorama. The surrounding park also provides scenic framing of the tower.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Belfry, especially of the clock mechanism and city views.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historical landmarks. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Instagram reels showcase various aspects, from architectural details and cityscapes to artistic interpretations and travel vlogs.
The Belfry of Mons can be part of light festivals or events, offering a different photographic perspective at night.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the climb can be tiring, the availability of an elevator makes it more manageable for families with younger children or strollers.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To maximize value, combine your visit to the Belfry with exploring the free-to-access areas of Mons, such as the Grand-Place and the surrounding parks.
+1 Many of the city's charms can be enjoyed simply by walking around and soaking in the atmosphere. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of the Belfry
+1The Belfry is not just a historical monument; it's a functional timepiece. Its intricate clockwork mechanism, recently refurbished, is a marvel of engineering. Visitors can witness this complex system in operation, a testament to the craftsmanship of bygone eras. The bells themselves play a significant role, chiming tunes every 15 minutes, a tradition that continues to enchant visitors.
Beyond its architectural and mechanical significance, the Belfry is situated within a peaceful garden, offering a serene escape. This juxtaposition of historical grandeur and natural tranquility makes it a unique attraction. The surrounding park provides a pleasant area to stroll and admire the tower from different angles.
Experiencing the Belfry: Views and Sounds
A highlight for many is the live performance of the bells. The sound of dozens of bells playing a melody every 15 minutes is described as magical and incredible, with one visitor stating they could stay for hours just listening.
For those concerned about the climb, an elevator is available, making the experience more accessible. This allows more people to enjoy the historical insights and the unique sounds and sights from the upper levels of this iconic landmark.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit