Things To Do
in Tournai
Tournai is one of Belgium's oldest cities, located on the banks of the Scheldt (Escaut) in French-speaking Wallonia and known for its impressive Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The Cathedral of Our Lady (Cathédrale Notre-Dame) and the medieval Belfry are UNESCO-recognized landmarks that dominate the compact historic center. The city blends quiet provincial charm, lively markets and cafés, and easy access to surrounding countryside and larger cities like Lille and Brussels.
Tournai is ideal for short cultural city breaks, relaxed river walks, and discovering regional Walloon food and craft traditions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at its impressive Gothic architecture and intricate sculptures as you absorb the sacred atmosphere. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the nearby banks of the River Escaut.
Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local café, sampling traditional Belgian cuisine. Post-lunch, explore the Tournai Museum of Fine Arts, where you can admire an extensive collection of artwork spanning several centuries. Don't miss the chance to see works by renowned artists, including local treasures.
As the sun sets, wander through the historic streets and appreciate the illuminated façades of Tournai’s buildings. Dinner tonight is at a charming bistro, where you can dive into some classic Belgian dishes paired with local beers. Wrap up the evening with a relaxing walk along the riverbank, taking in the serene views.
Begin your day with a visit to the Grand Place, the city’s main square, to soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Engage with local artisans in the bustling market and enjoy a warm coffee at a nearby café. Explore Tournai's art galleries featuring contemporary and traditional works.
Savor lunch in the city center, indulging in regional specialties while people-watching from your table. Afterward, make your way to the Belfry of Tournai, where you can climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The architectural details and the history of the belfry make for a fascinating exploration.
Dine at an eclectic restaurant that combines Belgian and international flavors for a unique culinary experience. After dinner, head to a local theater for a performance showcasing regional talent, or enjoy live music in one of Tournai's cozy bars. End the night with a taste of Belgium’s famous chocolates at a local chocolate shop.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-4 |
| 🍺Domestic beer in a bar | $4-6 |
| 🎟️Museum entry | $6-12 |
| 🚇One-way public transport ticket | $2-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and UNESCO heritage in a compact, walkable center
- Close to larger cities (Lille, Brussels) while retaining quiet provincial charm
- Good regional food, beer and markets with friendly local cafés
- Accessible RAVeL cycling and riverside walks for outdoor activities
- Smaller scale: limited nightlife and fewer museum options than major cities
- Public transport connections are good but less frequent late at night
- Some attractions close earlier in off-season and fewer English-language services in smaller shops
- "Bonjour / Bonsoir" - Hello / Good evening
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Où est ... ?" - Where is ...?
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Tournai
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic UNESCO cathedral with striking bell towers and dramatic façades; sunrise or blue hour shots highlight its silhouette.
Climb or photograph the belfry and surrounding Grand-Place for panoramic city views and medieval architecture.
Medieval fortified bridge over the Scheldt—photogenic from riverbanks, especially at golden hour.
Riverside paths, reflections and small boats provide tranquil compositions through the city and at sunset.
Picturesque alleys, façades, cafés and market stalls give excellent street photography opportunities.
Food in Tournai
Tournai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked beef stew braised in Belgian beer with onions and mustard—comfort food you'll find in many brasseries around town.
Must-Try!
Mussels cooked in white wine, beer or cream served with fries; a Belgian classic commonly available during mussel season.
Mashed potatoes mixed with seasonal vegetables (carrots, leeks, or spinach), often served with sausage or smoked meat—simple and filling.
Artisanal waffles and chocolates from local patisseries and chocolatiers make for excellent treats and souvenirs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly markets (check local schedule) offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads and regional specialties—great for tasting and picnics.
Occasional weekend stalls and fairs near the Scheldt where you can try street crepes, charcuterie and local beers in warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use Bonjour/Bonsoir and polite French forms (vous) when meeting people; a friendly 'bonjour' when entering shops is customary.
Belgians in Wallonia value politeness and moderate volume—avoid loud behavior in public and respect queues and personal space.
Be reasonably punctual for appointments and reservations; social meets may be slightly relaxed but business meetings are on time.
Safety
Tipping in Tournai
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is typically included in restaurant bills in Belgium; leaving small change or rounding up (5–10%) for good service is appreciated but not required. Taxi drivers and bar staff often expect small rounding up.
Credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard) and contactless payments are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; carry some euros in cash for small vendors, markets and older cafés. ATMs are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and pleasant with long daylight—best time for river walks, outdoor terraces, markets and cycling; expect occasional rain showers and more tourists on weekends.
Crisp air, colorful foliage in nearby parks and nature reserves; quieter tourism and good value for accommodation, but weather can be changeable.
Cool to cold with short daylight and potential frost; festive markets and cozy restaurants make it atmospheric, though some outdoor activities are limited.
Mild temperatures, blooming parks and fewer crowds—ideal for walking tours and visiting markets as cafés reopen outdoor seating.
Tournai at Night
Hiking in Tournai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat, well-maintained former railway and river paths ideal for long walks, cycling and nature observation close to Tournai.
Protected wetlands and plains offering easy hikes, birdwatching and seasonal flora; good for family outings and picnics.
A slightly hillier area across the border offering panoramic views and varied trails—popular with hikers and cyclists seeking more elevation.
Short, accessible walking routes along the Scheldt through green spaces and near historical sights—perfect for relaxed afternoon strolls.
Airports
How to reach Tournai by plane.
About 40–60 minutes by car or train depending on connections; convenient for low-cost and regional flights and close cross-border access to northern France.
Approximately 1–1.5 hours by car or train (may require a connection); the main international gateway with many long-haul and European flights.
Around 1–1.5 hours by car or shuttle bus; used by several low-cost carriers and can be a budget-friendly option.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents speak French and identify with Walloon culture and traditions.
Proximity to Flanders and northern France brings linguistic and cultural exchange; some residents commute across borders for work.
Tournai has diverse immigrant communities (including North African and Eastern European backgrounds) and a modest student population contributing to local cultural variety.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular spectator and participation sport regionally, with local clubs and enthusiastic community support.
Both recreational cycling on the RAVeL network and road cycling are widely enjoyed; the region is part of Belgium's strong cycling culture.
Local tennis clubs, jogging groups and community sports facilities are common for active residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tournai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are increasingly common: look for vegetable stoemp, salads, cheese plates and omelettes; ask staff for off-menu adaptations in smaller restaurants.
Vegan choices are more limited but improving—seek out modern cafés, ethnic restaurants and market stalls; bring snacks if you have strict requirements.
Many restaurants can provide gluten-free options on request, but traditional Belgian fries and breads may be prepared alongside gluten-containing items—communicate your needs clearly and check for cross-contamination.