Things to Do in Tournai, België / Belgique / Belgien

Tournai, one of Belgium's oldest cities, stands as a magnificent testament to over 2,000 years of European history. Located in the French-speaking region of Wallonia near the French border, this UNESCO World Heritage city captivates visitors with its stunning Romanesque cathedral, medieval architecture, and rich artistic legacy. The city's strategic position on the Scheldt River has made it a cultural crossroads throughout history, evident in its diverse architectural styles and multilingual heritage. Today, Tournai seamlessly blends its historical significance with modern Belgian charm. The city's compact medieval center invites leisurely exploration, from the towering spires of Notre-Dame Cathedral to the cobblestone squares lined with traditional cafés. As the birthplace of renowned painter Rogier van der Weyden and home to impressive museums, Tournai offers an intimate yet profound cultural experience that showcases Belgium's artistic and architectural treasures without the crowds of larger tourist destinations.

Top Things to Do in Tournai

Cathedral and Religious Sites Tour

Explore the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral of Tournai, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring five distinctive towers and stunning Romanesque architecture dating from the 12th century. The cathedral houses remarkable religious art, ancient crypts, and offers panoramic city views from its towers. Combine this with visits to other historic churches like Saint-Quentin and Saint-Jacques for a comprehensive religious heritage experience.

Booking Tip: Cathedral entry is typically €5-8, with tower climbs costing extra €3-5. Visit during weekday mornings for fewer crowds and better photography opportunities. Book guided tours through the tourist office for €10-15 per person to access restricted areas and gain historical insights.

Historic Walking Tour

Discover Tournai's 2,000-year history through its remarkably preserved medieval streets, ancient city walls, and historic landmarks. Walk through the Grand Place with its colorful guild houses, explore the oldest belfry in Belgium, and visit remnants of Roman fortifications. The tour typically includes the Pont des Trous, a medieval bridge fortress, and various architectural gems spanning different historical periods.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours are free with maps from tourist office, while guided group tours cost €8-12 per person. Best times are morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting and comfortable temperatures. Look for tours that include interior access to historical buildings for added value.

Art Museums and Galleries Visit

Immerse yourself in Tournai's rich artistic heritage at the Museum of Fine Arts, designed by Victor Horta, featuring works by local masters and contemporary Belgian artists. The Museum of Folklore and the Museum of Natural History offer additional cultural insights. These venues showcase everything from medieval religious art to modern installations, reflecting the city's continuous artistic evolution.

Booking Tip: Museum passes cost €8-12 for individual museums or €20-25 for combined tickets. Visit on first Sunday mornings when some museums offer reduced rates. Allow 2-3 hours per major museum and check for temporary exhibitions that may require advance booking.

River Scheldt Activities

Experience Tournai from the water with boat tours along the historic Scheldt River, offering unique perspectives of the city's medieval architecture and ancient bridges. These leisurely cruises provide excellent photo opportunities and historical commentary while passing under the famous Pont des Trous and alongside the cathedral's reflection in the water.

Booking Tip: River tours operate seasonally (April-October) and cost €12-18 per adult. Book afternoon departures for best lighting conditions. Tours typically last 45-60 minutes and may be cancelled in bad weather, so have backup indoor activities planned.

Local Market and Food Experience

Explore Tournai's vibrant Saturday market on the Grand Place, where local vendors sell regional specialties, fresh produce, and artisanal products. This authentic experience allows visitors to taste local cheeses, chocolates, and seasonal delicacies while interacting with friendly locals. The market has operated continuously for centuries, maintaining its traditional atmosphere and community spirit.

Booking Tip: Markets are free to explore and operate Saturday mornings year-round, with extended hours in summer. Bring cash as many vendors don't accept cards. Arrive early (8-10 AM) for best selection and authentic local atmosphere before tourist crowds arrive.

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 5-minute walk from the historic center. By car, Tournai sits at the intersection of major highways A8 and A16, approximately 85 kilometers southwest of Brussels. The city is also well-connected to Paris (2.5 hours by car) and makes an excellent day trip from either Brussels or Lille. For international travelers, Brussels Airport is the closest major airport, with direct train connections via Brussels Central Station.

Getting Around

Tournai's historic center is compact and best explored on foot, with most major attractions within a 10-15 minute walk of each other. The city operates a reliable bus network connecting outer neighborhoods and suburban areas, with day passes available for €3-5. Bicycle rentals are available near the train station and tourist office for €10-15 per day, offering an eco-friendly way to explore both the city center and surrounding countryside. Taxis are readily available but rarely necessary given the walkable nature of the historic core. Free parking is available in several areas outside the city center, with paid parking zones clearly marked throughout the medieval streets.

Where to Stay

Historic City Center

Grand Place Area

Cathedral Quarter

Train Station District

Scheldt Riverfront

Outer Residential Areas

Food & Dining

Tournai's culinary scene reflects its position at the crossroads of French and Flemish traditions, offering everything from cozy bistros serving classic Belgian dishes to refined restaurants featuring regional Wallonian cuisine. The Grand Place and surrounding cobblestone streets house numerous cafés perfect for sampling local beers, artisanal chocolates, and traditional specialties like carbonnade flamande and waterzooi. Many establishments pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients, including fresh river fish, regional cheeses, and seasonal produce from the surrounding Hainaut countryside. Don't miss trying the local Tournai beer varieties and visiting traditional patisseries for authentic Belgian pastries and pralines.

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Tournai is during late spring through early fall (May-September) when weather is mild and outdoor activities are most enjoyable. Summer months offer the warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours, perfect for walking tours and river activities, though this is also peak tourist season. Spring and early autumn provide excellent weather with fewer crowds and beautiful lighting for photography. Winter visits can be magical with Christmas markets and cozy indoor attractions, though some outdoor activities may be limited and weather can be unpredictable. The Saturday market operates year-round, but outdoor dining and river tours are seasonal considerations.

Insider Tips

Visit the cathedral's treasury on weekdays when it's less crowded and you can better appreciate the medieval religious artifacts and manuscripts

Climb the Belfry tower just before sunset for spectacular golden-hour photography of the city and surrounding countryside

Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner service (2-6 PM), so plan meals accordingly or seek out cafés that serve food continuously throughout the day

Things to Do in Tournai