Durbuy

Europe's smallest city, a beautifully preserved medieval walled town on the Ourthe River with charming cobbled streets, ancient stone buildings, and galleries. It's a romantic destination popular for art, gastronomy, and scenic river activities.

Things to do

• Explore the Medieval Old Town — Wander the narrow cobblestone streets lined with 17th-century stone houses, boutique galleries, and antique shops in the heart of Europe's smallest city.
• Kayak the Ourthe River — Paddle through scenic gorges and forest-lined banks on guided or self-guided kayak excursions departing from local outfitters in Durbuy.
• Visit Topiary Art Museum (Musée de la Topiaire) — Discover intricate plant sculptures and living art installations set in a whimsical garden setting on the town's outskirts.
• Tour Art Galleries and Studios — Browse contemporary and traditional artwork in numerous independent galleries scattered throughout the medieval center, many featuring local Ardennes artists.
• Hike to Viewpoints along the Ourthe — Follow marked trails to panoramic overlooks above the river valley offering stunning views of the surrounding Ardennes landscape.
• Dine at Michelin-Starred Restaurants — Experience haute cuisine at several fine dining establishments, including Le Sanglier des Ardennes, renowned for innovative Belgian gastronomy.

Food to try

• Ardennes Ham (Jambon des Ardennes) — Taste the region's famous dry-cured ham, protected by AOC designation, served thin-sliced as a charcuterie staple in local restaurants and markets.
• Waterzooi — Savor this creamy Flemish stew of vegetables and locally-caught fish or game, a hearty regional speciality found on many restaurant menus.
• Pâté de Foie Gras — Indulge in rich, smooth foie gras pâté produced in the Ardennes and served as an appetizer in fine dining establishments throughout Durbuy.
• Wild Boar (Sanglier) — Order roasted or braised sanglier, a traditional Ardennes game meat often prepared with local mushrooms and served in traditional bistros.
• Ardennes Cheese and Local Produce — Browse the weekly farmers' market for artisanal cheeses, fresh vegetables, and local honey sold by regional producers in the town center.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the Pedestrian-Only Streets — Most of the medieval old town is restricted to foot traffic only; park your car at designated lots outside the walled center and explore on foot.
• Visit During Off-Peak Hours — The tiny town becomes crowded with tourists on weekends and in summer; plan weekday or shoulder-season visits for a more authentic, peaceful experience.
• Embrace the Slow Travel Philosophy — Durbuy's charm lies in leisurely exploration—spend time sitting at riverside cafés, chatting with gallery owners, and enjoying multi-course meals rather than rushing.

Nearby

• Rochefort (Namur and the Meuse) — 17 km
• La Roche-en-Ardenne — 18 km
• Dour Valley (Liège and Eastern Wallonia) — 31 km
• Ardennes Castle Route (East Wallonia) — 34 km