Things To Do
in Couvin
Couvin is a small Belgian town in Wallonia, tucked in a green, rolling landscape near the French border. It serves as a gateway to Ardennes-inspired countryside with forested hills, rivers, and charming rural villages. The town offers a friendly, relaxed pace and a gateway to outdoor adventures and local cuisine.
Visitors can easily explore nearby nature reserves, historic streets, and cozy cafes while experiencing authentic Belgian hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying a fresh croissant and rich Belgian coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the historic center of Couvin, admiring the charming architecture and vibrant street art. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the stunning Church of Saint-Pierre, where you can appreciate its intricate design and peaceful atmosphere.
In the afternoon, indulge in a culinary adventure by joining a local cooking class that focuses on traditional Belgian dishes. Once you’ve learned the secrets of Belgian cuisine, take some time to explore the nearby shops and galleries, showcasing local artisans and their crafts. Wrap up your afternoon with a visit to the Couvin Museum, where you can delve into the town's rich history and heritage.
As evening falls, treat yourself to dinner at a cozy bistro known for its local specialties, like carbonnade flamande. Post dinner, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Sambre River, enjoying the serene twilight ambiance. Conclude your evening by unwinding at a local pub, where you can sample some famous Belgian beers and mingle with the friendly locals.
After breakfast, set off for an exciting guided tour of the Caves of Hemptinne, located just a short distance from Couvin. As you explore the stunning underground formations, listen to the fascinating stories of the caves' history and geology from your knowledgeable guide. The cool, crisp air inside the caves provides a refreshing escape from the summer heat.
Following your cave adventure, enjoy a picnic lunch in the nearby park, surrounded by the lush greenery and natural beauty of the region. Afterward, try your hand at rock climbing or bouldering at the nearby climbing wall, suitable for all levels of experience. The adrenaline rush will leave you energized for the rest of the day.
In the evening, return to Couvin for a delightful dinner at a local restaurant specializing in regional dishes. Enjoy the warm atmosphere and hearty meals while sharing stories of your adventurous day. As the night deepens, find a quiet spot to watch the stars, perhaps near the river, and reflect on the day’s experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍺Beer at a pub | $4-6 |
| 🧀Local cheese or groceries | $5-8 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket (short ride) | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful countryside and outdoor activities
- Friendly locals and relaxed pace
- Good value for money
- Compact town center easy to explore
- Accessibility by car and public transport to bigger cities
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Some services are smaller than in larger towns
- Weather can be changeable; plan for rain
- Limited English in some venues; French is helpful
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est…?" - Where is…?
- "Combien ca coute?" - How much does it cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please.
- "Je suis perdu(e)" - I'm lost
- "Pouvez-vous recommander un restaurant?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
- "Je suis vegetarien(ne)" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Couvin
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful timber-framed houses and a church spire create photogenic silhouettes in soft morning light.
Calm river banks and simple bridges offer reflections and moody landscapes.
Ruins and hilltop vantage points provide dramatic shots of the surrounding countryside.
Hilltop viewpoints in the surrounding forests offer sweeping views over the Ardennes foothills.
Food in Couvin
Couvin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich beef stew slow-cooked in beer with onions, served with potatoes or bread.
Must-Try!
Trout caught in local streams, grilled or pan-fried with herbs and butter.
A bubbling cheese sauce served on toasted bread, a popular pub dish in the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering local cheeses, charcuterie, bread and seasonal produce.
Frites, croquettes and waffles can be found around the market square in the evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
French is the primary language in Couvin; greet with 'Bonjour' and use 's'il vous plaît' and 'merci'.
Shake hands when meeting; address people politely; punctuality is valued.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak softly in sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Couvin
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; keep some euros for small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming countryside; bring light layers and a rain jacket.
Warm days ideal for outdoor activities; stay hydrated and use sunscreen; occasional thunderstorms.
Crisp air and colorful foliage; great for hikes but bring a layer for cooler evenings.
Cold with a chance of snow; some outdoor sites are limited but towns are cozy with cafés and markets.
Couvin at Night
Hiking in Couvin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Several marked forest tracks around the town suitable for day hikes.
Gentle climbs with viewpoints over rolling countryside; best in spring and autumn.
Waterfront paths around nearby reservoirs and streams; ideal for long walks.
Airports
How to reach Couvin by plane.
Major international hub; about 1.5-2 hours by car or public transport from Couvin.
Relatively close to the region; convenient for budget flights and good road access.
Cross-border option in northern France; route options and ~2 hours by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly French-speaking Walloon residents, with families, retirees, and some cross-border workers from nearby France.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular pastime; local clubs and community matches.
Road cycling and mountain biking through Ardennes-like terrain.
Forest trails with varying difficulty and scenery.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Couvin.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian options; look for vegetable plates or sides, and ask to modify dishes. For vegan options, request no dairy or animal products.