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Belfry of Tournai

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Belfry of Tournai (Beffroi de Tournai) is not only an impressive architectural landmark but also proudly holds the title of the oldest belfry in Belgium. Construction of this massive, freestanding bell tower began in 1188 when the French King Philip II Augustus granted the city the coveted right to cast a bell, symbolizing its independence and newly won civic liberties. With its robust Romanesque base and the more graceful Gothic elements added later, the 72-meter-high tower reflects centuries of architectural evolution. The structure served vital functions: acting as a watchtower to warn of fires and enemy attacks, operating as the city prison, and securely housing the municipal charters within its thick walls. During the 16th century, it was adorned with four distinctive corner turrets and elaborate gargoyles. Today, a carillon consisting of 43 bells delights visitors with its melodies, while the climb up 257 steps is rewarded with a spectacular panoramic view over one of the oldest cities in Belgium.

Location: Belgium
Top sights: Trésor de la Cathédrale · Tournai Cathedral · Beffroi de Tournai
Nearby: Estaimpuis (14 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	3	3	6	10	13	16	18	18	15	11	7	3
Rain mm	66	59	56	41	59	63	70	76	53	63	70	76

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Belfry of Tournai is an accessible tower open as a museum. Visitors can reach the observation platform after climbing the stairs.

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Typical hours

The Belfry typically opens from 10:00 to 17:30, with shorter hours in winter. It may be closed on Mondays, as is common for many historic towers.

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Photography

Photography inside the tower is allowed, but flash should be avoided to protect exhibits. From the platform, excellent panoramic shots are possible.

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Time needed

The climb and exhibition visit take about 45 minutes to an hour. Enjoy the view from the top for an additional 15 minutes.

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Combine with

Combine the visit with Tournai Cathedral, just a few minutes' walk away. The Museum of Fine Arts is also nearby.

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Getting there

Tournai is well connected by train from Brussels or Lille. From the station, it's about a 10-minute walk to the Belfry in the city centre.

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Insider tip

Climb early in the morning for the best view and fewer people. On clear days, the view extends to the border with France.

Geography

Coordinates

50.60640, 3.38810

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Tournai Cathedral<1 km · NEExplore →

Mont Saint-Aubert6 km · NEExplore →

📍Baisieux10 km · WExplore →

Estaimpuis Hill11 km · NWExplore →

📍Cysoing13 km · WExplore →

Trinity Hill13 km · NEExplore →

📍Leers13 km · NWExplore →

Estaimpuis14 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Belfry of Tournai (10)

Trésor de la Cathédrale 🏛 museum

Museum housing the treasury of Tournai Cathedral.

Tournai Cathedral

Cathedral in Tournai, Belgium, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Beffroi de Tournai

Belfry of Tournai, a medieval bell tower.

Carré Janson 🏛 museum

Museum in Tournai with temporary exhibitions.

Galerie Raoul Dutilleul

Art gallery in Tournai, named after the painter.

Vitrine Faiche

Contemporary art gallery in Tournai.

Musée du Folklore et des Imaginaires🏛 museum

Museum of folklore and folk culture in Tournai.

Église Saint-Quentin

Church in Tournai, Hainaut, Belgium.

Fort Rouge

Listed building in Tournai, Hainaut, Belgium.

Tour du Cygne

Ruined tower in Tournai, remnant of medieval fortifications.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is the Tournai Belfry the oldest?

Yes, it is considered the oldest belfry in Belgium and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

How many steps must you climb?

There are 257 steps to reach the top of the tower.

What can you see inside the tower?

Small historical exhibitions, the bells, and the view over the city.

When is the belfry open?

Usually daily except Mondays, with a lunch break between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM.

Is there a carillon?

Yes, the belfry has an important carillon with 43 bells.

Belfry of Tournai: where is it located?

Belfry of Tournai is located in Belgium.

Belfry of Tournai: what is there to see?

Highlights include Trésor de la Cathédrale, Tournai Cathedral, Beffroi de Tournai.

Belfry of Tournai: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Belfry of Tournai: why is it worth visiting?

The Belfry of Tournai (Beffroi de Tournai) is not only an impressive architectural landmark but also proudly holds the title of the oldest belfry in Belgium.

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