Looking for a shopping destination that combines big-name brands, charming boutiques and a beautiful historic setting? Welcome to Mons!
Mons has plenty to offer shoppers, from the impressive Les Grands Prés shopping mall to pedestrian streets filled with independent shops and local treasures.
In this guide, discover the best places for shopping in Mons, what to bring home and how non-EU visitors can save money with a VAT refund.
Exploring more of Wallonia? Discover our shopping guide to Nivelles for another great Belgian shopping destination.
Key takeaways
- Best shopping mall: Les Grands Prés, with over 100 stores, including big names such as Zara, Mango and H&M.
- Best shopping streets: Grand'Rue and Rue de la Chaussée for fashion, accessories and independent boutiques.
- For unique finds: Explore the Quartier de la Coupe and the Nimy/Miroir district.
- Sunday shopping: In 2026, the first Sunday of each month is a special shopping day in Mons.
- VAT refund: Non-EU residents can combine purchases from different Belgian stores to claim VAT back with Zapptax.
Where to go shopping in Mons?
Les Grands Prés: the biggest shopping mall in Mons
If you love having everything in one place, Les Grands Prés is a must!
Just outside the historic centre, this shopping mall has more than 100 stores, from fashion and beauty to electronics, homeware and accessories.
You'll find familiar names like Zara, H&M, Mango, Rituals and Pandorain the shopping gallery. The wider retail complex also includes IKEA, a Carrefour hypermarket and plenty of restaurants.
Practical information:
- Address: Place des Grands Prés 1, 7000 Mons.
- Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 am–8 pm (shopping gallery).
- Access: Easily accessible via the E42 motorway or TEC bus line 60.
Grand'Rue and Rue de la Chaussée: the shopping heart of Mons
Prefer wandering through charming streets? Head to Mons' pedestrian shopping area, known as the Piétonnier Montois.
Grand'Rue and Rue de la Chaussée are perfect for browsing fashion stores, beauty shops and smaller independent retailers.
Need a break? Stop for coffee or lunch at one of the nearby cafés.
Grand-Place and the surrounding shopping districts
For independent boutiques, explore the streets around Grand-Place.
The Quartier de la Coupe is known for its elegant boutiques and restaurants, while the Nimy/Miroir district is worth exploring for its concept stores, local shops and artistic spirit.
These neighbourhoods are ideal for discovering something you wouldn't necessarily find in a large shopping centre.
What to buy in Mons, Belgium?
Belgian chocolate and local souvenirs
Belgian chocolate is always a good idea for a souvenir.
At Les Grands Prés, you'll find Belgian chocolate specialists such as Leonidas and Neuhaus, ideal for taking home a delicious gift.
For something more original, stop by Mons Où Venir, at 13 Rue de la Coupe. This boutique sells souvenirs inspired by local folklore, including postcards, decorations and creations by regional artisans.
The VisitMons shop at 27 Grand-Place is another lovely address, particularly for products carrying the Made in Mons label.
Fashion, accessories and vintage finds
Mons also has plenty to offer fashion lovers.
Head to Les Grands Prés for international brands and the latest collections, or explore the city centre for independent fashion, accessories and second-hand treasures.
The streets around Rue de la Coupe and Rue du Hautbois are especially interesting if you enjoy discovering smaller shops.
Practical tips for shopping in Mons
Opening hours and Sunday shopping
Most shops open from Monday to Saturday, with varying hours depending on the retailer.
Planning a Sunday visit? In 2026, Les Dimanches Montois takes place on the first Sunday of each month, with participating city-centre shops welcoming visitors.
It is also an opportunity to combine shopping with cultural activities and free access to several city museums.
Getting around Mons
Mons' historic centre is compact and easy to explore on foot, especially if you're arriving by train.
If you're driving, Les Grands Prés offers convenient free parking. You can then continue your shopping adventure in the city centre.
How to shop tax-free in Mons with Zapptax
Here's some good news for international shoppers!
If you live outside the European Union, you may be eligible to reclaim part of the VAT paid on your purchases in Mons.
Belgium's standard VAT rate is 21%, although reduced rates apply to certain goods. With Zapptax, eligible purchases can be combined to reach the €125.01 tax-free shopping threshold.
With Zapptax, you don't need to spend that amount in a single store. You can combine eligible purchases from different Belgian retailers.
How does it work?
- Shop in Mons and keep your receipts showing the applicable VAT.
- Upload your receipts to the Zapptax app.
- Combine purchases to reach the €125.01 threshold.
- Generate your tax-free form before leaving the EU.
- Validate your form at Customs and receive your refund.
Remember, eligible goods must be exported in your personal luggage before the end of the third month following the month of purchase.
Want to make the most of your savings? Our complete guide to VAT refunds in Belgium explains everything you need to know.
Make the most of your Mons shopping experience
From the modern galleries of Les Grands Prés to the charming streets around Grand-Place, Mons offers a wonderful mix of shopping, culture and local discoveries.
And with Zapptax, eligible non-EU visitors can make every shopping trip even more rewarding by claiming back part of the VAT on their purchases!
FAQ
Are there local markets in Mons?
Yes! Mons hosts a Friday morning market around Rue des Sœurs Noires and Place du Marché-aux-Poissons. A Sunday morning market also takes place around Place Nervienne and Place du Béguinage, offering another way to discover local shopping.
Can I claim a VAT refund if I leave the EU through France?
Yes, if France is your final point of departure from the EU, French Customs can validate your Belgian tax-free form. With Zapptax, you'll need to print the form, have it stamped by Customs and upload the stamped document to the app.
Can I get a VAT refund on Belgian chocolates?
Yes, packaged chocolates purchased as eligible goods can qualify for a VAT refund when you take them outside the EU in your personal luggage. Restaurant meals and food consumed during your visit, however, are not eligible.
