Lynda Lemay & Jean Felix Lalanne Live
Discover the poetic world of Canadian singer Lynda Lemay and guitarist Jean Felix Lalanne in this unique performance at the Maison de la Culture.
PlizioGo
A local almond and pineapple cake named after the Frankish king. Available in traditional pastry shops.
The only beer brewed within Tournai. Enjoy this refreshing craft beer in a traditional tavern on the Grand Place.
Rabbit cooked the Tournai way with prunes and beer. Look for it on the menus of classic brasseries.
Wander the narrow streets like Rue des Maux for independent boutiques and pleasant local shops.
Visit the weekly market to explore regional Walloon cheeses, meats, and fresh produce.
A beautiful green oasis surrounding the Town Hall, first-rate for a short relaxing walk.
A nearby hill just a short drive away, offering peaceful woodland walks and sweeping views over Tournai.
Water temperature…
Discover the poetic world of Canadian singer Lynda Lemay and guitarist Jean Felix Lalanne in this unique performance at the Maison de la Culture.
Experience the romantic songs of Frédéric François at the Maison de la Culture de Tournai for an evening filled with emotion.
Tournai is one of the oldest and historically most significant cities in Belgium and was the first capital of the Frankish Empire in the 5th century under King Childeric I. In the heart of the city rises the imposing Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Tournai, an architectural masterpiece with five distinctive towers that combines Romanesque and Gothic style elements and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Another UNESCO monument is the Belfry of Tournai, the oldest freestanding bell tower in the country, dating back to the 12th century. Historically, the city was not only politically important but also a center of fine craftsmanship, famous for Tournai porcelain and magnificent tapestries. Today, the city on the Scheldt River enchants visitors with its pleasant squares, museums, and a well-preserved star fort.
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 |
See what it looks like near Tournai right now.
Tournai: Mont-Saint-Aubert · 5.3 km · Open webcam on Windy · Webcams provided by Windy.com
Notable places around
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Your day in Tournai, one of Belgium's oldest cities, begins in the vibrant Grand-Place. From there, climb the UNESCO-listed Belfry for an unparalleled view before discovering the architectural wonders of Saint-Quentin Church. The morning culminates with a visit to the majestic, five-towered Notre-Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of structural engineering. The afternoon takes you across the River Scheldt to the iconic Pont des Trous, a testament to the city's medieval defenses. Afterwards, you'll delve into the city's rich artistic heritage, first at TAMAT with its world-renowned tapestries, and then at the Victor Horta-designed Museum of Fine Arts, which houses stunning masterpieces. As the afternoon fades into evening, take a break along the tranquil banks of the Scheldt. Its serene atmosphere is perfect for reflecting on the day's experiences. Stroll back towards the city center, enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the old streets bathed in the warm light of the setting sun. Conclude your day with a delicious Belgian dinner. Try local specialties like Carbonnade Flamande at a traditional restaurant near the Grand-Place. Finish the evening with a famous Belgian beer, toasting to a day filled with history, art, and memorable discoveries.
Tournai reveals its mystical side in the rain, with the cobblestones of the Grand Place glistening under wet light. The morning is spent under the high vaults of the cathedral, providing safe shelter from the showers. At noon, cozy bistros on the square invite you to linger while watching the raindrops. In the afternoon, the city's vast museums offer a dry cultural journey before the day ends in the gentle twilight by the Scheldt river.
Tournai in winter exudes a quiet elegance as frost coats the Gothic facades. The morning begins with a climb up the Belfry to enjoy the crisp winter air over the rooftops. At noon, warm up with Belgian specialties in the cozy parlors of the old town. The afternoon is dedicated to art in heated museum halls before the city lights sparkle in the early darkness.
Hop on your bike for a dynamic tour of Tournai. Start at the Grand-Place and climb the Belfry before taking a scenic ride along the Scheldt River to the historic Pont des Trous. The morning offers a mix of panoramic views and local history insights at the Folklore Museum, followed by the awe-inspiring Cathedral. After lunch, cycle to the southern part of the center to the Horta-designed Museum of Fine Arts. The ride itself is a delight, taking you through quieter streets and green spaces. Spend the afternoon exploring the art collection, which features works from the Flemish Primitives to the Impressionists. In the late afternoon, take a leisurely cycle back to the riverbank. Find a quiet spot to watch the sunset over the water, a perfect way to unwind after an active day. The cycle paths along the Scheldt offer a peaceful escape from the urban hustle. For dinner, park your bike and explore the city's culinary scene on foot. Choose a restaurant in the historic center to enjoy an authentic Belgian meal. End the evening with a refreshing local beer, reminiscing about your cycling adventure through this charming city.
A bike tour through Tournai in the rain requires the right attitude and good gear. The morning moves quickly through the old town, where puddles turn the cobblestones into mirrors. At noon, a museum stop offers a welcome dry break for both rider and bike. In the afternoon, glide along the riverbank where the spray of the Scheldt and the rain become one, before ending the day with a warming drink.
Cycling in winter Tournai offers clear views and empty paths. The morning leads through the frosty old town, where your breath dances in the cool air. A stop at the Belfry offers a chance for movement before refortifying in a historical alley at noon. The afternoon by the river is refreshing, with the soft winter light highlighting the bridges beautifully as the ride ends.
Traveling to Tournai by car offers flexibility. Park your car at the Esplanade de l'Europe and explore the compact historic center on foot. Your day begins with a walk to the Grand-Place, followed by an exploration of the city's two UNESCO gems: the Belfry and the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral. This forms the first cluster of your visit. After soaking in the history, enjoy lunch near the cathedral before visiting the TAMAT museum, dedicated to the city's rich tapestry tradition. This completes your main walking tour of the historic core, rich with art, architecture, and culinary delights. In the afternoon, take a relaxing stroll along the Scheldt River to the famous Pont des Trous. This scenic walk offers a different perspective of the city and its medieval past. It's a moment of tranquility before you head back towards your car. At the end of your walking circuit, wander slowly back to the car park. The convenience of traveling by car allows you to enjoy the day at your own pace, with the peace of mind that your vehicle is ready for the next leg of your journey. It's the perfect blend of accessibility and on-foot exploration.
Tournai by car in the rain is a comfortable choice, allowing you to bridge the distances between museums while staying dry. The morning starts at a central parking lot from which the highlights are quickly reachable. At noon, use the car's flexibility to visit slightly more distant cultural sites. The afternoon is spent at TAMAT or the Art Museum while rain patters against the windows, before a relaxed drive home.
Tournai by car in winter weather allows for a warm and efficient exploration of the city. The morning starts with arrival at the Esplanade parking, from where you can quickly reach the heated cathedral. At noon, the car serves as a retreat to move to the next restaurant in the old town. The afternoon is spent deep in the culture of the museums before enjoying the illuminated city from the shelter of your car upon departure.
The remains of the former citadel of Tournai, once part of the city's fortifications.
