Namur is a picturesque city located in the heart of Wallonia, Belgium’s French-speaking region. The city is known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and scenic location at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers. Namur is a hidden gem that offers plenty of things to see and do, making it an excellent holiday destination for those looking to experience the best of Wallonia.
One of the highlights of Namur is its historic city center, which is home to a wealth of medieval and Renaissance-era buildings. The city’s most famous landmark is the impressive Namur Citadel, a sprawling fortress that dates back to the 12th century. Visitors can explore the citadel’s walls and towers, as well as its underground tunnels, which were used as a secret escape route during times of war.
Another must-visit attraction in Namur is the stunning Saint Aubin’s Cathedral, which is located in the heart of the old town. This beautiful Gothic-style cathedral dates back to the 18th century and is renowned for its intricate stained glass windows and ornate altar. Nearby, visitors can also explore the city’s charming cobblestone streets and traditional Flemish-style houses.
For those interested in history and culture, Namur is home to several excellent museums. The Musée Archéologique de Namur is a fascinating museum that showcases the region’s rich archaeological heritage, while the Musée Félicien Rops is dedicated to the works of the famous Belgian artist of the same name. The city also hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, art exhibitions, and theater performances.
Nature lovers will also find plenty to enjoy in and around Namur. The city is situated in a beautiful region that boasts rolling hills, lush forests, and stunning riverside landscapes. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Meuse and Sambre rivers or explore the nearby Ardennes region, which is known for its scenic hiking trails and picturesque villages.
Finally, no visit to Namur would be complete without sampling some of the region’s delicious cuisine. Namur is known for its hearty, traditional dishes, such as carbonade flamande (beef stew with beer) and boulets à la liégeoise (meatballs in a sweet and sour sauce). The city is also home to numerous charming cafes, bakeries, and chocolatiers, where visitors can indulge in delicious pastries and Belgian chocolate.
Overall, Namur is a delightful destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, Namur is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Wallonia.
THINGS TO DO IN NAMUR
Namur is a beautiful city in Belgium with many attractions and activities to offer. Here are some of the top things to do and see in Namur:
- Citadel of Namur: This impressive fortress overlooks the city from a hill and offers stunning views of the Meuse river and Namur. The citadel has a long history dating back to the Roman times and has been rebuilt several times over the centuries. It now houses a museum and a restaurant.
- Saint-Aubin’s Cathedral: This beautiful cathedral is one of the most important landmarks in Namur. It was built in the 18th century in a Baroque style and is dedicated to Saint Aubin, the bishop of Angers.
- Felicien Rops Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and work of Felicien Rops, a Belgian artist known for his erotic and satirical drawings. The museum houses a large collection of his works as well as temporary exhibitions.
- Namur Citadel Underground: This fascinating attraction takes visitors underground to explore the history and secrets of the Namur citadel. The tour includes a visit to the underground tunnels, dungeons, and galleries.
- Namur by boat: A boat tour along the Meuse river is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. There are several companies offering boat tours that depart from the quay near the city center.
- Maison de la Culture de Namur: This cultural center hosts many events, including concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions. It’s a great place to experience the local arts scene.
- Namur Expo: This exhibition center hosts many events throughout the year, including trade fairs, concerts, and sporting events.
- Confluence Museum: This museum is located at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers and showcases the history and culture of the region. The museum has interactive exhibits and displays that explore the industrial, social, and cultural heritage of the area.
- Place Saint-Louis: This beautiful square is located in the heart of the city and is surrounded by historical buildings and cafes. It’s a great place to relax and soak up the atmosphere of Namur.
- Rochefort Brewery: Located just outside of Namur, the Rochefort Brewery is one of the most famous Trappist breweries in Belgium. Visitors can take a guided tour of the brewery and sample the delicious beer that is brewed on-site.
Overall, Namur is a great destination for those looking to explore the history, culture, and natural beauty of Belgium.
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT NAMUR
- Vienna in the 16th century was the capital of the Habsburg Empire, which was one of the most powerful and influential dynasties in European history. The city was a hub for art, culture, and politics, attracting many famous artists, writers, and thinkers of the time.
- The Renaissance was a golden age for Vienna, with many new architectural landmarks built during this period. The most famous of these is the St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a stunning Gothic church that still dominates the city’s skyline today.
- Vienna was also a center of musical innovation during the 16th century, with composers like Johann Joseph Fux and Heinrich Isaac creating some of the most beautiful music of the era. The city’s musical tradition would only grow stronger over the centuries, with names like Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss all calling Vienna home at some point in their lives.
- Despite its many cultural achievements, Vienna was not immune to the turmoil of the time. The city was beset by wars, plagues, and other disasters throughout the 16th century, making life difficult for many of its inhabitants.
- Despite the challenges, Vienna in the 16th century was a city of great beauty, culture, and intellectual ferment. Its legacy can still be felt today in the city’s stunning architecture, rich musical tradition, and vibrant arts scene.
FOOD AND DRINK IN NAMUR
The food and drink scene in Namur is a reflection of the region’s rich history and cultural diversity. Visitors can expect to find a variety of traditional Belgian dishes as well as international cuisine.
One of the most iconic dishes in Namur is the boulets à la liégeoise, which consists of meatballs cooked in a sweet and sour sauce made with beer and apples. It is often served with frites, or Belgian fries, which are a staple in the country. Another popular dish is the waterzooi, a creamy stew made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and cream.
In addition to these traditional dishes, Namur also has a thriving culinary scene with many high-quality restaurants offering French and Italian cuisine. The city is also known for its cheese, with the most famous being the Maredsous cheese, which is made in a nearby abbey.
When it comes to drinks, Belgium is known for its beer and Namur is no exception. The city has several breweries, including the Brasserie du Bocq, which produces a variety of Belgian-style beers. Visitors can also sample local beers at many of the city’s bars and cafes.
Wine is also popular in the region, with the Coteaux de la Citadelle vineyard producing high-quality wines using traditional methods. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyard and taste some of the wines.
For those with a sweet tooth, Namur has plenty of options. Belgian chocolate is world-renowned, and visitors can find many chocolatiers throughout the city. In addition, the city is known for its gaufres, or waffles, which are often served with whipped cream, chocolate, or fresh fruit.
Overall, the food and drink scene in Namur offers a wide range of options, from traditional Belgian dishes to international cuisine and high-end restaurants to street food vendors. Visitors are sure to find something to satisfy their taste buds.
NAMUR NIGHTLIFE
Namur has a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of options for locals and visitors alike. The city has a variety of bars, clubs, and music venues, catering to different tastes and preferences.
One of the most popular areas for nightlife is the Place du Marché, a large square in the heart of the city with many bars and cafes. Here, visitors can enjoy a drink and people-watch while taking in the lively atmosphere.
For those looking for live music, the Belvédère is a popular venue, hosting concerts and events throughout the year. The theatre of Namur is also a great place to catch a show or performance.
In addition to bars and music venues, Namur has several nightclubs, including the Havana Club and the Factory Club, which offer late-night dancing and entertainment.
For a more relaxed evening, visitors can head to one of the many restaurants or cafes in the city. Many of these establishments offer outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy the warm summer nights while sipping a drink or enjoying a meal.
Overall, Namur has a diverse and exciting nightlife scene with options for everyone. Whether you’re looking for live music, dancing, or a quiet night out with friends, the city has something to offer.
TRAVELLING AROUND THE CITY
Getting around Namur is relatively easy, thanks to the city’s well-connected transportation system. Visitors have a variety of options for getting around, including public transport, biking, walking, driving, and taxis.
The city has a network of buses that run throughout the city and its suburbs, operated by TEC.
The bike-sharing system, Li bia velo, is also a popular option for short-term rentals.
Walking is a great way to explore the city and take in its architecture and culture, as Namur is a compact city with many attractions within walking distance.
Car rental agencies are available in the city, but parking can be challenging, so visitors are advised to use public transport or park outside the city center and walk or take a bus to their destination.
Taxis are also available in Namur and can be a convenient option for getting around the city, although they are generally more expensive than other forms of transport.
Overall, visitors to Namur have a variety of transportation options available to them, making it easy to get around and explore the city at their own pace.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT NAMUR?
The best time to visit Namur is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and many outdoor events and festivals take place. This is a great time to explore the city’s parks and gardens, take a boat tour on the Meuse River, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling in the surrounding countryside. In addition, summer is the peak tourist season in Namur, so visitors can expect a lively atmosphere, with plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants open late into the evening.
Spring and autumn can also be good times to visit Namur, as the weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists. During these seasons, visitors can take advantage of lower prices on accommodations and activities and enjoy the beauty of the city’s parks and gardens as they come into bloom or change colors. However, visitors should be aware that the weather can be unpredictable during these seasons and pack accordingly.
Winter in Namur can be cold and damp, with occasional snowfall, but this is also a good time to visit if you’re interested in winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding, which are available in nearby resorts. Overall, the best time to visit Namur depends on your interests and preferences, but summer is generally the most popular and enjoyable season to explore this charming Belgian city.
NAMUR GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE
Namur is situated at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, and surrounded by hills and forests, making it a beautiful and scenic destination. The city itself is built on a hill, with the imposing Citadel of Namur overlooking the town.
The climate in Namur is temperate, with mild summers and cool winters. The average temperature in summer is around 20-25°C (68-77°F), and in winter, it can drop to around 0-5°C (32-41°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months being May and June.
Visitors to Namur can enjoy the city’s natural beauty and explore its many parks and gardens, such as the Félicien Rops Garden, the Jardin de l’Esperance, and the Parc Louise-Marie. In addition, the surrounding countryside offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and kayaking on the Meuse River.
The geography and climate of Namur make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The city’s hilly terrain and riverside location provide stunning views and numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation, while the temperate climate ensures pleasant weather for much of the year.
NAMUR TRAVEL GUIDES
Namur is the perfect destination for some time away from home however make sure you plan ahead to not miss out on the best destinations and receive local knowledge. Shop for a good Namur travel guide on Amazon today and keep it in your bag during your stay.
