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Tournai, België / Belgique / Belgien - Things to Do in Tournai

Things to Do in Tournai

Tournai, België / Belgique / Belgien - Complete Travel Guide

Tournai, one of Belgium's oldest cities and a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a magnificent testament to medieval European architecture and history. Located in the French-speaking Wallonia region near the French border, this charming city boasts over 2,000 years of history, from its Roman origins to its golden age as a prosperous medieval trading center. The city's crown jewel is its stunning Romanesque cathedral with five distinctive bell towers, complemented by an impressive 72-meter-high belfry that dominates the skyline. Today, Tournai seamlessly blends its rich historical heritage with modern Belgian culture, offering visitors cobblestone streets lined with Gothic and Renaissance buildings, world-class museums, and authentic Walloon cuisine. The city's compact size makes it perfect for walking tours, while its strategic location provides easy access to both French and Flemish cultural influences. Despite being less touristy than Brussels or Bruges, Tournai offers an authentic Belgian experience with remarkable architectural treasures, vibrant local markets, and a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the true spirit of medieval Belgium.

Top Things to Do in Tournai

Explore Notre-Dame Cathedral and Belfry

Visit the magnificent five-towered Romanesque cathedral, one of Europe's most impressive religious buildings, and climb the medieval belfry for panoramic city views. The cathedral houses important religious art and the shrine of Saint Eleutherius, while the belfry represents centuries of civic independence. Both UNESCO World Heritage sites showcase Tournai's medieval grandeur and architectural significance.

Booking Tip: Cathedral entry is free, but belfry climbs cost around €3-5 and are limited to small groups. Book climbing tours in advance during summer months, and visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.

Discover the Grand Place and Historic Center

Wander through Tournai's beautifully preserved medieval center, anchored by the triangular Grand Place surrounded by guild houses and historic buildings. The area features remarkable Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture, with the Cloth Hall and numerous merchant houses telling the story of Tournai's prosperous trading past. Street cafés and local shops add modern life to these ancient stones.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free, but consider joining walking tours (€8-12) for historical context. Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter experience, and check for seasonal markets that bring extra vibrancy to the square.

Visit the Museum of Fine Arts

Explore one of Belgium's oldest museums, housed in a striking Art Nouveau building designed by Victor Horta. The collection spans from medieval religious art to modern works, including pieces by local masters and temporary exhibitions featuring contemporary Belgian artists. The museum provides excellent insight into both regional artistic traditions and broader European art movements.

Booking Tip: Admission costs €5-8, with discounts for students and seniors. Visit on first Sunday mornings for potential free entry, and allow 2-3 hours for a complete visit. Check their website for special exhibitions and evening events.

Stroll Along the Scheldt River

Take a peaceful walk along the Scheldt River, which has been Tournai's lifeline for over two millennia. The riverbanks offer scenic views of the city's historic skyline, with the cathedral towers and belfry reflected in the water. Several parks and green spaces along the river provide perfect spots for picnics and relaxation away from the medieval streets.

Booking Tip: River walks are free and accessible year-round. Consider renting bikes (€10-15/day) for longer explorations along the river paths. Early morning or evening walks offer the most photogenic lighting and peaceful atmosphere.

Experience Local Markets and Gastronomy

Immerse yourself in Tournai's culinary culture at the weekly markets and traditional restaurants serving authentic Walloon cuisine. Sample local specialties like carbonnade flamande, waterzooi, and regional beers while exploring the Saturday market that has operated for centuries. The city's proximity to France influences its gastronomy, creating unique fusion flavors.

Booking Tip: Saturday morning markets are free to explore, but bring cash for purchases. Restaurant meals range from €15-35 for traditional cuisine. Book dinner reservations in advance, especially on weekends, and ask locals for their favorite hidden gems.

Getting There

Tournai is easily accessible by train from major Belgian cities, with direct connections from Brussels (1 hour), Ghent (45 minutes), and Lille, France (30 minutes). The train station is centrally located, just a 10-minute walk from the historic center. By car, Tournai sits along the A8/E429 motorway, approximately 85 kilometers southwest of Brussels and 25 kilometers from the French border. Brussels Airport is the nearest major international airport, with direct train connections via Brussels Central Station. For those arriving from France, Lille-Lesquin Airport offers an alternative with good rail connections to Tournai.

Getting Around

Tournai's compact historic center is best explored on foot, with most major attractions within a 15-minute walk of each other. The city operates a local bus network connecting residential areas to the center, though visitors typically won't need public transport for sightseeing. Bicycle rentals are available for exploring the riverbanks and surrounding countryside. Taxis are readily available but rarely necessary given the walkable city center. For day trips to nearby attractions or French border towns, rental cars can be arranged, though train connections to other Belgian cities make car rental unnecessary for most visitors.

Where to Stay

Historic Center near Grand Place
Cathedral Quarter
Train Station Area
Scheldt Riverfront
Rue Royale District
Saint-Brice Neighborhood

Food & Dining

Tournai's dining scene reflects its position at the crossroads of French and Belgian culinary traditions, offering everything from traditional Walloon cuisine to modern gastropubs. The historic center features numerous restaurants serving classic Belgian dishes like carbonnade flamande and fresh mussels, paired with excellent local and regional beers. French influences appear in the city's patisseries, wine bars, and bistros offering refined cuisine. The Saturday market provides fresh local produce, artisanal cheeses, and regional specialties. Many restaurants occupy historic buildings with medieval charm, while modern cafés along the Scheldt River offer contemporary dining with scenic views.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Belgium

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Pasta Divina

4.6 /5
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A L’Angolo

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Pasta Factory

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Dolce Amaro

4.7 /5
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Osteria Bolognese

4.7 /5
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La Mamma

4.6 /5
(672 reviews) 2
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When to Visit

The best time to visit Tournai is from April to October, when mild weather makes walking tours and outdoor exploration most enjoyable. Late spring (May-June) offers blooming flowers and comfortable temperatures, while early autumn (September-October) provides crisp air and beautiful lighting for photography. Summer months can be busy but offer the longest daylight hours and warmest weather for riverbank strolls. Winter visits have their own charm, with fewer crowds and cozy indoor attractions, though some outdoor activities may be limited. The city's covered attractions and indoor markets make it a year-round destination, with Christmas markets adding special seasonal appeal in December.

Insider Tips

Visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and experience Tournai as locals do, with shops and cafés maintaining their authentic daily rhythm
Climb the belfry late in the afternoon for golden hour photography and stunning sunset views over the medieval cityscape
Cross the bridge over the Scheldt for the best panoramic photos of the cathedral's five towers and the city's historic skyline reflected in the river

Explore Activities in Tournai