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Namur, Belgium

Visiting Namur in one day, our must-sees and good addresses

07 April 2023

Welcome to Namur! Capital of Wallonia, this historic and charming city is an ideal destination for a weekend trip in Belgium. Located at the confluence of the Sambre and Meuse rivers, stands proudly the Citadel of Namur, one of the largest in Europe. Namur is also the perfect starting point for exploring the Meuse Valley, its lush nature and numerous views.

In this article, we take you to visit Namur and its heritage through our selection of must-see places and good addresses.

What to see and do in Namur in a day?

We enjoyed an autumn weekend to break the routine and escape near our home to discover Namur. We were surprised by the variety of activities we can do in Namur, both in sunny weather and in the rain. Another advantage of our Walloon capital due to its small size is that points of interest are never far from each other and therefore, it is easy to visit Namur on foot. Enough talk, let's head to our favorite spots to discover Namur.

Walking around the city center and Old Namur

We begin our day strolling through the streets of Namur's city center. Unfortunately, Saturdays mean market days, and the main streets are crowded. So, we skipped the Namur Belfry (a UNESCO World Heritage site), the main square, and the Namur Theatre, whose neoclassical yellow limestone facade is worth seeing. We quickly stop on Rue de Fer to admire the Art Nouveau house at number 28/30 before venturing into the quieter streets of Old Namur.

Art Deco House, Fer Street 28-30 in Namur
Art Deco House, Fer Street 28-30 in Namur

We stroll through these charming cobbled streets of Namur's historical centre: Rue du Président, Rue Rupplémont, Rue des Brasseurs. We find lovely places to eat, drink, or shop. Not to forget Rue Saint-Jean, which leads to the Market Square. A charming pedestrian square, dominated by the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church of Namur, known for its cafes and bars where you can sip a mojito in the summer.

Place Canon Descamps, Old Namur
Place Chanoine Descamps
Rue Rupplémont – Old Namur
Rupplémont Street
Street of the Brewers, Old Namur
Street of the Brewers

We continue our walk by visiting the Saint-Loup church built in the 17th century. The interior of this baroque church is illuminated by the soft rays of the autumn afternoon sun. Our visit to Old Namur ends with the Saint-Aubain Cathedral, another masterpiece of Namur's sacred heritage, before returning to the city center along the quays that run along the Sambre opposite the Citadel.

Interior of Saint-Loup church in Namur
Saint-Loup Church
Detail of the ceiling of Saint-Loup church in Namur
Saint-Loup Church
Saint-Aubain Cathedral exterior in Namur
Cathedral Saint-Aubain
Interior Saint-Aubain Cathedral of Namur
Cathedral Saint-Aubain
Interior Saint-Aubain Cathedral of Namur
Cathedral Saint-Aubain

To enjoy a beautiful view of Namur and the Citadel, we recommend going to the top floor of the Gifar car park.

Panoramic view of Namur from the Gifar Parking
View on the Citadel of Namur from the Gifar Parking
View on the Belfry of Namur from the Gifar Parking

Visit Namur differently with the Street Art tour

Are you looking for an original and unusual way to visit the city of Namur? The urban tour is the perfect solution. It takes us to discover the street art works hidden in every corner of the city. A way to take your time, look up, look at what surrounds us and discover the secret corners of Namur.

Street Art Route in Namur
Propaganda
Street Art Trail in Namur
Dan Brault – Propaganza
Street Art Route in Namur
City creation

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

🗺️ The detailed itinerary is available to download here, on the Namur Tourist Office website.

Taking the cable car to the Citadel

The Namur cable car made its grand return in May 2021. It connects the Citadel esplanade (next to the Pavilion) to the historic center of Namur (Place Maurice Servais) in less than 7 minutes. A convenient and pleasant way to avoid the climb to the Namur Citadel on foot.


We took the Namur Citadel cable car in the late afternoon and enjoyed an exceptional journey over the city's heights. Offering one of the most beautiful views of Namur with the soft light of a beautiful autumn evening.

Cable car of the Citadel of Namur
Cable car of the Citadel of Namur

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

🕐 Opening Hours: Opening hours are variable (generally from 10am to 5pm). We advise you to consult the timetable directly on the Namur cable car website for the day of your visit.

 

💰 Adult Prices (18 to 64 years old): €5 for a one-way ticket or €7.50 for a return ticket • Youth (6-17 years old), Students (18+ with student card), and Seniors (65+): €4 for a one-way ticket or €5.50 for a return ticket • Children (4-5 years old): €3.50 for a one-way ticket or €5 for a return ticket • Toddlers (0 to 3 years old): Free.
ℹ️ Information and booking: www.telepheriquedenamur.be

Visit the Citadel of Namur and its famous underground tunnels

You can't visit Namur and miss its Citadel. Erected on the hill at the confluence of the Sambre and Meuse rivers, the Citadel of Namur has been a strategically important and highly coveted location in Europe for centuries. It is divided into 4 sections that trace the different periods of its construction and history: the Counts' Castle, the Mediane, Terra Nova and the Esplanade. Fully demilitarized in 1977, it is classified as an exceptional heritage site of Wallonia and is entirely accessible to the public.


The strength of the Citadel of Namur lies in its 4 kilometers of tunnels. Of various types, they were built during its Spanish, Dutch or French occupations. Today, it is possible to visit part of the Citadel's tunnels only accompanied by a guide.

Citadel of Namur drone view

We begin our visit to the Namur Citadel at the Terra Nova Visitor Centre. Inside, we discover a vast timeline that traces, through images and models, the evolution of Namur and its Citadel from Roman times to the 20th century.

Visitor Center Terra Nova at Namur Citadel
Visitor center Terra Nova at the Citadel of Namur
Visitor center Terra Nova at the Citadel of Namur
Visitor center Terra Nova at the Citadel of Namur

While waiting for our guided tour of the undergrounds, we board the Citadel tourist train for a 25-minute narrated ride. We pass through the different parts of the Citadel (which we learned about earlier during our visit to the Terra Nova Visitor Centre) and enjoy the most spectacular views of Namur and Jambes.

Small tourist train of the Citadel of Namur
Small tourist train of the Citadel of Namur
Small tourist train of the Citadel of Namur
Small tourist train of the Citadel of Namur

The time for the underground tour has come, and accompanied by our guide, we descend underground (by stairs, we assure you). We are then immersed in the lives of soldiers during sieges thanks to "sound and light" projections. We travel through the eras as we visit the underground network, and we quickly understand why it was called the "Termite Mound of Europe" by Napoleon. When we return to daylight, we see the surrounding area with a different perspective. The guided tour of the Citadelle de Namur's underground tunnels is for us the best way to learn more about the city's and its Citadel's history.

Visit of the Souterrains of the Citadel of Namur
Visit of the Souterrains of the Citadel of Namur

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

🎟️ The Citadelle PASS includes a visit to the underground tunnels, a train tour, and free access to the museum (visitor center).
 

💰 Prices: 18€ per adult • 16€ for children, students and seniors • Free for under 6s, journalists, teachers and holders of the Museum Pass.
 

🎟️ The underground tunnels, the visitor center and the train can also be visited separately. To find out the prices for each attraction, we recommend visiting the Namur Citadel website directly.

 

🧣 It's not warm in the tunnels, even in summer, so bring a warm sweater for your visit.


ℹ️ Information and booking: www.citadelle.namur.be

Walking and contemplating the views of Namur and Jambes from the Citadel

The Namur Citadel site is not just about the Citadel. We advise you to visit the Namur Castle and stroll through its magnificent rose garden. As you descend towards the city center, we invite you to pass by the Wedding House and the Open-Air Theatre (which has hosted the Verdur Rock music festival every summer since 1985). This is where you'll find the Pavilion, an art center hosting exhibitions, and the cable car station to descend into the city.

Castle of Namur
Castle of Namur
House of Weddings
House of Weddings
Theater of Verdur Namur
Theater of Verdur

A little lower than the visitor center, you can also find the famous work of Jan Fabre “Searching for Utopia” which overlooks the city since 2015.

Work 'Searching for Utopia' by Jan Fabré or called 'The Tortoise' in Namur
Searching for Utopia

Watching the sunset in Namur

For us, one of the most beautiful views of Namur is that from the Watchtower, which offers a magnificent panorama of the confluence. The perfect spot to enjoy the last light of the day and observe the end-of-day bustle of the city of Namur.


We descend the small paths that lead to the confluence once the sun sets. We then discover Namur at night and the poetry of the city lights reflected on the water.

Tour of the Lookout of the Citadel of Namur
Watchtower Tour
Man walking to the Citadel of Namur
The Nest in Namur
Drone view of the Confluence and the Citadel of Namur
Villa Balat night in Namur
Villa Balat

Our good addresses in Namur

Namur is a city bursting with great places to eat or have a drink. You can find a list of the places we recommend and have tried during our various visits to Namur.

At Maurice's, Croque Monsieur Bar

On Maurice Servais Square, right next to the Namur cable car, is Chez Maurice. Here the Croque-Monsieur is king, and there's one to suit every taste. The atmosphere is friendly and warm, the perfect place for a responsible lunch at midday.

At Maurice's – Croque monsieur bar in Namur
At Maurice's – Croque monsieur bar in Namur

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

🕐 Opening hours: Tuesday to Thursday: 11am - 3pm  |  Friday and Saturday: 11am - 4pm  |  Sunday: 10am - 4pm.

📍 Address: 10, Place Maurice Servais in Namur

ℹ️ Info and booking: www.chezmaurice.be

The Tasty Local Meats

This is where you'll find the best burgers in Namur. Their dishes are made with ingredients from local producers. The menu is however quite limited as you'll have a choice between meatballs and burgers. The extra plus? The salad and fries are all-you-can-eat, just ask.

Tasty Local Meats – Restaurant in Namur

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

🕐 Opening hours: Open Monday to Sunday from 12pm to 2:30pm and from 6pm to 10pm.

📍 Address: 7, Rue des Fripiers in Namur

ℹ️ Information and reservations: www.tastyviandeslocales.com

Vivo Restaurant

Vivo is a restaurant offering a gourmet cuisine located in old Namur. The atmosphere is warm and typical with, in particular, an old skylight. During the summer season, you can enjoy their small summer terrace.

Vivo Restaurant Gastronomic in Namur
Vivo Restaurant Gastronomic in Namur

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

🕐 Opening Hours: Open Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 12:00 to 14:30 and Thursdays to Saturdays from 12:00 to 14:30 and from 18:30 to 22:00.

📍 Address: 13, Rue du Président in Namur

ℹ️ Information and Reservations: www.vivo-restaurant.be

Craving

Proclaimed by the people of Namur as the country's first "chef's landmark," Craquage is a 100% space dedicated to culinary experience and sharing. On the menu, you'll find sharing plates inspired by the chefs who have cooked there throughout the year. The venue also boasts a beautiful terrace at the foot of the Belfry.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

🕐 Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 12pm - 2:30pm and 6:30pm - 9:30pm

📍 Address: 2, Rue du Beffroi in Namur

ℹ️ Info and reservations: www.craquage.be or via Instagram.

Coffee & More

Just a few meters from the Belfry, Coffee & More is a charming little place to take a break during the day. Whether for lunch, brunch, or lunch (they have a great sandwich + soup combo) or afternoon tea, there's something for everyone.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

🕐 Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday: 9am to 6pm.

🐕 Accepts animals.

📍 Address: 21, Rue Emile Cuvelier in Namur

ℹ️ Info and booking: @coffeeandmorenamur on Instagram

The Cup'inn

The Cup'inn is the tea salon with a super trendy decor in Namur. At the heart of the concept is the cupcake, which they have modernized and offered in several different flavors. There are also cookies, brownies, cheesecakes, and other homemade gourmet pastries.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

🕐 Opening hours: Monday and Tuesday: 12pm - 6pm | Wednesday to Saturday: 10:30am - 6:30pm.

📍 Address: 11, rue Haute Marcelle in Namur

ℹ️ Info and booking: www.lescupinn.be

Can't find your happiness? Do you want to discover other addresses in Namur? We strongly recommend the Instagram account of @namur_food, a bible for all the places to eat in Namur and the surrounding area.

Where to stay in Namur and the surrounding area?

The Urban Cabins of Namur

This unique accommodation located in the heart of Old Namur and just a few meters from Place Maurice Servais has everything to please! The Urban Cabins are a project imagined in a narrow house in old Namur. The place has been brilliantly renovated and now offers three atypical, small but comfortable accommodations.


If you wish to stay there, we have a promo code 'EXPLORATEURS10' which offers you 10% off your total booking.

Urban Cabins, Unusual Accommodation in Namur
Urban Cabins, Unusual Housing in Namur
Urban Cabins, Unusual Accommodation in Namur

The Time of Rapture

Le Temps de Livresse is a nice B&B (Bed & Books) located a 5-minute drive from the city center of Namur. A real favorite where we spent a quiet night and at a price more than accessible for the level of services.


For more information, do not hesitate to read the article dedicated to it 'Unusual accommodation in Namur: Le Temps de Livresse'

 

Book on Booking.com

The Time of Revelry - Gîte in Namur

The vegetable garden hut of the Linciaux Farm

Are you looking for an unusual accommodation near nature for your stay in Namur? We've found the perfect place for you: sleep in the beautiful hut at the Ferme de Linciaux farm. A comfortable stay, where local and short-circuit are the keywords.


For more information, don't hesitate to read the article dedicated to it 'Unusual accommodation in Ciney: the hut at the Ferme de Linciaux farm'

Cabin of the Vegetable Garden of the Farm of Linciaux – Unusual Accommodation Belgium

At Mukky's Meadow

A small cabin for a romantic stay near Andenne (which is less than 30 minutes from Namur). Its extra feature? A heated outdoor jacuzzi for a relaxing moment after a day exploring Namur.


For more information, don't hesitate to read the article dedicated to it 'Romantic stay in Andenne: Au pré de Mukky'

 

Book on Booking.com

At The Meadow of Mukky, romantic accommodation in Andenne

How to get to Namur?

Traveling to Namur by Train

The train is the ideal solution to get to Namur. The station is located right in the center and it also allows you to limit your ecological footprint. In addition, for us, the best way to discover the city of Namur is by walking.


Namur is easily accessible by train from several major cities in Belgium. It will take 1 hour from Brussels, 25 minutes from Ottignies, 45 minutes from Liège, 30 minutes from Dinant and Charleroi. For more information or to plan your trip, don't hesitate to visit the SNCB website.

Getting to Namur by car: where to park in Namur?

Do you prefer to travel with your own vehicle? Namur is easily accessible by car, its city center a little less so (you'll need patience, especially during rush hour) and parking solutions are often expensive.

The best solution for us is to park your vehicle at the Confluence car park, outside the historic center. Furthermore, they offer an evening rate (from 7pm to 9am the following day) at the advantageous price of €5.

To park for free in Namur, you'll need to go to the Citadel site, but spaces are limited. There are also several blue zones, but spaces are popular and only valid for 2 hours, not ideal for visiting the city.

Drone View – Footbridge of the Stride in Namur
Footbridge of the Stride

We were surprised by everything you can see and do in Namur. The city has a rich cultural heritage that is discovered alley after alley, and is not limited to just its Citadel. We really fell in love with visiting the citadel's underground tunnels. We recommend spending a whole weekend to discover all its hidden marvels at your own pace. We hope at least to have inspired you to (re)discover Namur and/or for a future stay in the Walloon capital.

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