Things To Do
in Tournai
Tournai is a historic city located in the Walloon region of Belgium. It is known for its stunning medieval architecture, including the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city also has a bustling market square, where visitors can explore local shops and cafes.
Tournai's rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes make it a charming destination for tourists.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the stunning Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the impressive architecture. Stop by the Tournai Cathedral to take in its Gothic beauty and intricate stained glass.
Lunchtime at a local café for some traditional Belgian waffles. Then, explore the Tournai Museum of Fine Arts, featuring a mix of ancient and contemporary art.
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant overlooking the river. Consider a leisurely stroll along the Escaut River to wind down your day.
Start your day with a visit to the medieval castle of Tournai for a glimpse into its storied past. Don't forget to capture some beautiful photos of its historic walls.
Lunch at a nearby bistro followed by a trip to the nearby Château de Belœil, known for its exquisite gardens. Spend time exploring the grounds and the beautiful interiors.
Return to Tournai for a cozy dinner in the Old Town. Enjoy some local cuisine paired with a Belgian beer.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical significance with well-preserved medieval architecture.
- Vibrant cultural scene with various festivals and events throughout the year.
- Convenient location near major cities like Brussels and Bruges.
- Charming atmosphere with a mix of old and new attractions.
- Access to beautiful parks and the scenic River Escaut.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger Belgian cities.
- Smaller size may mean fewer amenities and entertainment choices.
- Language barrier, as some residents primarily speak French;
- Economic opportunities may be fewer than in metropolitan areas.
- Tourist infrastructure may not be as developed as in more popular cities.
Best Activities in Tournai
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning architecture and historical significance of this landmark building.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the scenic riverfront with beautiful views.
Discover the historic abbey and its peaceful surroundings in the Tournai countryside.
Experience the natural beauty and panoramic views from the trails in this picturesque region.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tournai with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tournai
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and its historic architecture, including the majestic Belfry of Tournai.
A medieval bridge with stunning views of the Escaut River and the cityscape, especially during sunset.
Home to the Museum of Fine Arts and provides a picturesque backdrop for photos, especially from the adjacent square.
Food in Tournai
Tournai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty beef stew slow-cooked in beer and served with frites. To enjoy this dish, head to 'Aux Crieurs de Vin', a charming local restaurant known for their authentic Belgian cuisine.
Must-Try!
A creamy fish or chicken stew with vegetables and herbs. Le Dix de Coeur, a classic Belgian bistro, is highly recommended for its delectable Waterzooi.
A savory pie filled with Maroilles cheese, a specialty of the region. For a delightful Tarte au Maroilles, visit 'La Taverne des Gaulois', a cozy eatery known for its regional delicacies.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tournai better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Tournai market is a great place to explore local produce, cheeses, charcuterie, and freshly baked goods. It's a perfect spot to immerse in the local food culture and sample delicious street food such as Belgian waffles and frites from the vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to greet people with a handshake, particularly when meeting for the first time.
It is customary to address people using formal titles and to show respect for older individuals.
When dining, it is polite to wait for the host to signal the start of the meal before beginning to eat.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tournai with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tournai
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tournai, Belgium, tipping is not obligatory, as a service charge is often included in restaurant bills. However, if service was excellent, a 5-10% tip is appreciated in bars and restaurants.
Payment in Tournai, Belgium is commonly made by credit or debit card. Cash is also widely accepted. It's important to note that American Express may not be as widely accepted as Visa or MasterCard in some establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tournai.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Tournai, with blooming flowers and pleasant weather. The city comes alive with various outdoor events, including the Tournai Jazz Festival in May.
Summer in Tournai brings warm weather and longer days, making it ideal for exploring the city's historic sites and enjoying outdoor activities. Visitors can also experience the lively cultural scene, with music festivals and outdoor concerts.
Autumn offers a picturesque time to visit Tournai as the leaves change color, creating a beautiful backdrop for exploring the city. The cooler temperatures make it perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying the local cuisine.
Winter in Tournai brings a charming atmosphere with festive decorations and holiday markets. Visitors can enjoy the cozy ambiance of the city, with the opportunity to taste traditional winter delicacies and attend seasonal events.
Tournai at Night
Hiking in Tournai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic natural park offering various hiking trails along the Escaut River with rich wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
A hill located near Tournai, featuring hiking trails with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
A series of rolling hills and wooded areas offering numerous paths for hikers, with lush vegetation and historical sites.
A local park with designated walking trails that intertwine through various flora and fauna, offering a peaceful hiking experience.
A forest area ideal for hiking, characterized by its tranquility and diverse ecosystem, perfect for nature lovers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tournai through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tournai by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in Belgium, located approximately 90 km from Tournai. It serves as a major European hub for international flights.
An international airport located about 77 km from Tournai, primarily serving low-cost carriers and a wide range of European destinations.
Located approximately 45 km from Tournai, this airport in France serves as a key point for both domestic and international flights, close to the Belgian border.
Approximately 100 km from Tournai, it is one of the major cargo airports in Europe, but it also facilitates some passenger flights.
Located about 125 km from Tournai, this smaller airport mainly serves regional European flights and some charter services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority religious group in Tournai, with a significant historical and cultural influence in the region.
A smaller religious group compared to Roman Catholics, representing various denominations.
A growing community in Tournai, primarily consisting of individuals with North African origins.
A demographic that has been increasing in Tournai, reflecting secular trends in society.
Includes Orthodox Christians and other smaller Christian communities.
A demographic group that has settled in Tournai, contributing to cultural diversity.
The indigenous population of Tournai, which forms the cultural and historical backbone of the city.
The Soul of Tournai
Discover the essence of Tournai through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Tournai, with several local teams and a strong community following.
Cycling is a favored activity due to the scenic routes and the popularity of events like the Tour de France passing nearby.
Basketball has a growing following, with amateur leagues and youth programs encouraging participation.
Athletics, including running and track events, is popular among local residents, with various clubs promoting fitness.
Handball has a strong presence in Tournai, with competitive teams participating in regional tournaments.
Rugby is developing a fan base in Tournai, with clubs training young athletes and promoting the sport in schools.
Swimming is practiced recreationally and competitively, with local pools offering training and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tournai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Belgian cuisine leans heavily towards meat and dairy, many restaurants in Tournai offer delicious vegetarian and vegan alternatives. La Cave à Vin is known for its creative vegetarian dishes, and Le Pain Quotidien is a great choice for wholesome vegan options.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating options at restaurants such as L'Os à Moelle, which features a variety of gluten-free choices on their menu. It's advisable to inform the staff about any dietary restrictions to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tournai with these cultural adventures.
