Durbuy
,Durbuy is often touted as the smallest city in the world, located in the Ardennes region of Belgium. Its picturesque cobblestone streets are lined with charming medieval buildings and boutiques. The city is surrounded by lush greenery and scenic landscapes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Visitors can also explore historic sites such as the Durbuy Castle and enjoy delicious Belgian cuisine at local restaurants.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Durbuy's Charm
morning
:Start your day with a relaxing stroll through the picturesque streets of Durbuy. Enjoy breakfast at a local café while soaking in the beautiful surroundings.
afternoon
:Visit the Topiary Park, which features over 250 topiary sculptures. Later, indulge in local cuisine at a nearby restaurant.
evening
:Wind down with a leisurely walk along the Ourthe River. Enjoy dinner at a cozy bistro, savoring Belgian specialties.
Nature and Adventure
morning
:Take a guided hike in the Ardennes to explore the stunning landscapes and wildlife. Pack a picnic to enjoy halfway through your trek.
afternoon
:Try out some outdoor activities like kayaking or rock climbing. Experience the thrilling beauty of nature from a different perspective.
evening
:Return to Durbuy to relax at your accommodation. Have dinner at a traditional Belgian tavern, and perhaps try a local beer.
Highlights
Good
- Scenic beauty with picturesque landscapes and charming architecture.
- Rich historical significance and cultural heritage, showcased through local museums and landmarks.
- A variety of outdoor activities available, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking.
- A vibrant local gastronomy scene featuring regional specialties and local beers.
- Family-friendly attractions, including adventure parks and animal parks.
Bad
- Limited public transportation options, making it challenging to navigate without a car.
- Can be overcrowded during peak tourist seasons, which might detract from the overall experience.
- Higher prices in tourist areas compared to other regions in Belgium.
- Some attractions may have limited hours or availability depending on the season.
- Smaller size means fewer entertainment options compared to larger cities.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Kayaking on the Ourthe River
Enjoy a paddling adventure on the beautiful Ourthe River, which flows through scenic landscapes and offers a chance to see local wildlife.
Hiking in the Ardennes
Explore a variety of hiking trails in the Ardennes, with routes suitable for all skill levels, showcasing stunning natural views and diverse flora.
Cycling Tours
Rent a bike or join a guided cycling tour to discover the picturesque countryside surrounding Durbuy, with various trails to suit your preference.
Adventure Park Durbuy
Visit the adventure park for treetop obstacle courses and zip-lining, providing an exciting way to experience the area’s natural beauty.
Visit Durbuy's Petit étang
Relax by the small pond, ideal for picnicking or taking leisurely strolls, surrounded by quiet nature and walking paths.
Golfing at Durbuy Golf Club
Play a round of golf in a stunning setting at the Durbuy Golf Club, known for its challenging course and beautiful surroundings.
Rock Climbing
For the adventurous, try rock climbing at various established climbing spots around Durbuy, which cater to different skill levels.
Caving Expeditions
Explore the underground wonders of the region by joining a guided caving expedition for a unique outdoor experience.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Durbuy with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Durbuy Castle
A stunning medieval castle situated on a hill, offering panoramic views of the Ourthe Valley and the charming town of Durbuy.
Top of the Durbuy Stairs
A series of stone steps leading up to a viewpoint that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the historic town below.
La Petite Merveille
An elevated area offering fantastic views of the Durbuy region, perfect for capturing the beauty of the densest woods and the winding Ourthe River.
Durbuy’s Old Town
Wander through the cobbled streets of Durbuy's historic center, where the picturesque houses create stunning backdrops for photos.
The viewpoint at Beffe
A scenic spot located just outside Durbuy, providing sweeping views of the surrounding hills and valleys, ideal for capturing nature and sunset photos.
Annette’s Garden
A beautifully landscaped garden offering intimate and peaceful views, perfect for romantic photography and nature shots.
The Durbuy Overlook
An official viewpoint that offers stunning vistas of the river and the countryside, ensuring an excellent opportunity for landscape photography.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Ardennes Ham (Jambon d'Ardenne)
This air-dried pork ham is a local specialty, seasoned with herbs and spices before being slow-cured. It is often served as an appetizer or as part of a charcuterie platter at various restaurants and cafes throughout Durbuy.
Must-Try!
Waffles (Gaufres)
Belgium is famous for its delicious waffles, and Durbuy is no exception. These light, crispy waffles are often served with a variety of toppings, such as fresh berries, whipped cream, and chocolate sauce, making them a delightful treat to enjoy from street vendors or local cafes.
Trout Meunière
Trout sourced from the nearby rivers is a popular dish in Durbuy. The fish is typically pan-fried and served with a tangy lemon and butter sauce, showcasing the fresh flavors of the region.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Durbuy better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Durbuy Weekly Market
Every week, Durbuy hosts a vibrant market where visitors can sample and purchase a variety of local products, including artisanal cheeses, freshly baked bread, seasonal fruits, and organic vegetables. Additionally, street food stalls offer a range of delicious snacks and treats, such as Belgian fries and hearty stews.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Politeness
Always greet people with a friendly 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' depending on the time of day. It’s customary to say 'Merci' when receiving service or assistance.
Dining Etiquette
When dining, keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows). Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and it's considered polite to say 'Bon appétit' before the meal.
Dress Code
Dress appropriately for various occasions, as Belgians tend to value neatness and style. Casual wear is acceptable in more informal settings, but opt for smart casual in restaurants and events.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Durbuy with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Durbuy, Belgium, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. It is common to round up the bill or leave a small percentage (approximately 5-10%) as a token of appreciation in restaurants, cafés, and bars. In places where service charges are included, additional tipping is not expected but welcomed.
Payment
Payment methods in Durbuy are diverse and include cash (euros), credit/debit cards, and mobile payment options. Most establishments accept cards, but some small vendors or markets may prefer cash. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in case card machines are not available.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Durbuy.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Durbuy, as the flowers begin to bloom and the weather starts to warm up. Expect moderate temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F) and plenty of sunny days. This season is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the picturesque streets of the town.
Summer
Summer is the peak tourist season in Durbuy, attracting visitors with its warm weather and vibrant atmosphere. Temperatures can reach up to 25°C (77°F), making it ideal for enjoying outdoor pursuits like kayaking on the Ourthe River and dining al fresco. Expect lively events and festivals during this season, as well as larger crowds.
Autumn
Autumn in Durbuy is characterized by stunning fall foliage, creating a picturesque landscape. Temperatures start to cool down, averaging between 10°C and 16°C (50°F to 61°F). This season is ideal for scenic walks and enjoying local harvest festivals. Expect fewer tourists and a more tranquil experience.
Winter
Winter in Durbuy brings a charming and peaceful atmosphere, especially if you enjoy festive decorations and holiday fairs. Temperatures typically range from 0°C to 5°C (32 °F to 41°F). Expect lighter crowds and the chance to experience winter sports or cozy up in local cafes. The Christmas market adds a delightful touch to the winter season.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Chemin des Trônes
A scenic trail offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, ideal for both hiking and nature walks.
Sentier des Moulins
This trail takes you past several historic water mills, providing a blend of nature and history.
La Roche-en-Ardenne
Located a short drive from Durbuy, this area features hiking trails with stunning views of the river and surrounding hills.
Bomal sur Ourthe
A quiet area with trails along the river, perfect for a leisurely hike amidst nature.
Hotton Megaliths
Explore this unique site featuring ancient megaliths with marked trails that showcase the natural beauty of the region.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Durbuy through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Durbuy by plane.
Brussels Airport (BRU)
The largest and busiest airport in Belgium, located approximately 100 km from Durbuy. It serves as a major international hub for various airlines.
Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL)
Located about 120 km from Durbuy, this airport primarily serves low-cost carriers and is a significant airport for travelers heading to southern Belgium.
Liège Airport (LGG)
Approximately 75 km from Durbuy, it is one of the largest cargo airports in Belgium but also handles passenger flights. It offers connections to various international destinations.
Antwerp International Airport (ANR)
Situated about 120 km from Durbuy, this airport is smaller but serves some international flights and is closer to the urban area of Antwerp.
Ostend-Bruges International Airport (OST)
Located around 150 km from Durbuy, this airport offers seasonal flights and serves tourists heading to the coastal areas of Belgium.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Dutch-speaking Belgians
Dutch is one of the primary languages spoken in the region, especially among the local Flemish community.
French-speaking Belgians
A significant portion of the population speaks French, reflecting the bilingual nature of the country.
German-speaking Belgians
A small group of the population is German-speaking, particularly in the area close to the German border.
Expats and Foreign Residents
Durbuy attracts expats and tourists, including individuals from European Union countries and beyond.
Local artisans and professionals
The demographic includes local artisans and professionals contributing to tourism and local economy.
Retirees
Durbuy's scenic environment makes it a popular retirement destination for both Belgians and foreigners.
The Soul of Durbuy
Discover the essence of Durbuy through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cycling
Durbuy is known for its scenic cycling routes, attracting both casual riders and serious cyclists.
Hiking
With its beautiful natural landscapes, Durbuy offers numerous hiking trails suitable for all levels.
Kayaking
The Ourthe River provides great opportunities for kayaking enthusiasts, especially during the warmer months.
Adventure Sports
Durbuy Adventure Park offers activities like tree-top climbing and zip-lining for thrill-seekers.
Golf
Durbuy is home to the Golf de Durbuy, a popular destination for golf lovers looking to enjoy their game in a beautiful setting.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
In Durbuy, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan menu items, showcasing the region's commitment to catering to diverse dietary preferences. Visitors can expect to find an array of plant-based dishes, from hearty vegetable stews to innovative vegan desserts.
Gluten-Free Choices
Travelers with gluten sensitivities will find a range of gluten-free options in Durbuy's eateries. Restaurants often feature gluten-free versions of classic Belgian dishes, ensuring that all visitors can indulge in the local culinary delights.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Durbuy with these cultural adventures.
