16 Best Things to Do in Tournai : Exploring Belgium’s Second Oldest City
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Are you looking for the best things to do in Tournai? You have come to the right place.
I just got back from exploring Tournai, and let me tell you, it’s a must-visit destination in Belgium!
The city is an incredible blend of history and culture, from the towering Cathédrale Notre-Dame to the hidden corners by the Pont des Trous.
It’s got both the iconic landmarks and those under-the-radar spots that make a trip truly special. So if you’re putting together your next travel wishlist or just daydreaming about future adventures, Tournai should be on your radar.
Shall we dive into the details?
Best Things to Do in Tournai
1. Visit the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Tournai
When I visited Tournai, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame was an absolute highlight. It’s not just another cathedral; it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site that perfectly blends Romanesque and Gothic styles.
I was particularly captivated by the rosette window—the detailing is just remarkable. If you’re into history or architecture, this place is a must-see.
THINGS TO DO IN TOURNAI
2. Explore Grand Place
Tournai’s Grand Place, with its unique triangular shape and the calming sound of flowing fountains. It’s a lively area, filled with lots of cafes and restaurants (fun fact: Tournai has a surprising number of places to eat!).
For me, the Grand Place was a great spot to relax in the shade of iconic landmarks like the Belfry, the Cloth Hall, or the Saint Quentin’s Church. Just a short walk from the church, I found a lovely square that led me to the Red Fort—a cool piece of the city’s ancient history.
THINGS TO DO IN TOURNAI
3. Climb the Belfry
Get ready for panoramic views like no other! When I made the climb, the 360-degree views of the city were stunning. This tower isn’t just a lookout point; it’s a historic landmark dating back to the 12th century.
Which makes it the oldest Belfry in Belgium. The 257 steps to the top might seem like a lot, but it’s a doable climb (I was still breathing when I reached the top).
THINGS TO DO IN TOURNAI
4. Discover the Musée d’Histoire Naturelle de Tournai
Here’s a gem that not everyone knows about: This was Belgium’s first museum open to the public. While it’s modern in its approach, the museum has the charm of a 19th-century cabinet of curiosities.
Think elegant glass cases filled with taxidermied animals and intriguing specimens. But they aren’t behind glass, the life-size elephants, lions, and leopards are impressive.
You’ll feel like you’re stepping back in time while learning about evolution in the animal kingdom. And let’s talk surprises—like the vivarium and butterfly garden. Trust me, they’re the kind of highlights you wouldn’t typically expect to find in a museum setting.
THINGS TO DO IN TOURNAI
5. Step Back in Time at Maison Tournaisienne
Within the historic La Maison Tournaisienne, two 17th-century houses, you can find MuFIm, short for the Museum of Folklore and Imaginaries Tournai.
Inside its 23 rooms, you’ll find vivid reconstructions that breathe life into the past. From classrooms to lively pubs and artisans’ workshops crafting various goods, each room offers a unique glimpse of different eras.
It’s a voyage through Tournai’s past and the surrounding countryside, offering insight into life between 1800 and 1950. Don’t miss the first-floor gem—a relief map showcasing Tournai during Louis XIV’s reign. I think MuFIm isn’t just a museum; it’s a personal connection to Tournai’s rich heritage.
THINGS TO DO IN TOURNAI
6. Admire Art at the Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts in Tournai is a personal favourite of mine. Its architecture, crafted by Victor Horta, is a work of art in itself.
Inside, it’s one masterpiece after the other by artists like Ensor, Fantin-Latour, Manet (the only two in Belgium), Monet, Seurat, Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Van der Weyden.
This collection is one of Belgium’s most significant. It’s worth noting that the museum is set to undergo a major reconstruction in 2025.
THINGS TO DO IN TOURNAI
7. Visit Église Saint-Jacques
Église Saint-Jacques, founded between 1163 and 1167, has evolved from a modest Romanesque church into a splendid example of Tournaisian Gothic style in the early 13th century.
This architectural treasure underwent restoration in 2011-2012. As you explore the city, Saint-Jacques scallop shells on the ground mark a pilgrimage route following Saint-Jacques’ path.
Tournai’s location along this historical pilgrimage route adds to the church’s significance, that’s why the scallop shells can be found inside the church as well.
I added this route to my walking list, maybe when my little one is a bit bigger and can walk decent on his own.
Things to Do in Tournai
8. Musée de la Tapisserie de Tournai
The Tapisserie de Tournai Museum is located right in the heart of Tournai. It’s a nod to Tournai’s tapestry legacy, going back to the 15th and 16th centuries when the city was a tapestry hotspot.
This museum is housed in a beautiful neo-classical mansion and is all about celebrating the art of tapestry. You can explore both historical and contemporary tapestries here, and there’s even a top floor dedicated to some modern and unexpected creations.
Plus, the museum also plays a role in preserving this heritage by hosting TAMAT, which looks after tapestry and textile collections and has a restoration workshop on-site.
THINGS TO DO IN TOURNAI
9. Hôtel de Ville
The Tournai Town Hall, a historically rich monument situated in a charming park, has a fascinating history.
It found its current home in a splendid neoclassical building constructed in 1809, replacing the former Cistercian Abbey of Saint-Martin, which dated back to the 11th century.
Regrettably, most of the medieval abbey’s structures disappeared following its dissolution in 1797.
Nevertheless, a treasure still resides on the site—a massive medieval cellar concealed beneath the city’s houses and public buildings.
While the Tournai Town Hall houses some municipal administrative offices, please note that its accessibility is limited to weekdays and guided tours by permission. To plan your visit, we recommend contacting the Tournai Tourist Office for more details.
When I look back at the pictures I took, it keeps reminding me about Versailles, beautiful!
THINGS TO DO IN TOURNAI
10. Explore the Église Saint-Quentin
Église Saint-Quentin stands proudly at the western end of Grand Place, catching your eye with its unique Gallo-Romanesque design. It’s vastly different from the grand Cathedral of Tournai at the other end of the square.
This old church has been here since the 12th century, and over the years, it’s picked up a mix of Gothic and Baroque features, especially inside.
Honestly, you don’t need to go out of your way to see it unless you’re already exploring Grand Place. But if you do step inside, you might spot some interesting relics like the Saint Quentin reliquary, adding a dash of history to your visit.
THINGS TO DO IN TOURNAI
11. Walk to the Pont des Trous
The Pont des Trous is a bridge spanning the Scheldt River. This medieval bridge is quite the opposite of the Grand Place, tucked away from the city’s main attractions.
Dating back to the 13th century, it’s a piece of living history with its robust stone arches and defensive towers.
The name “Pont des Trous” translates to “Bridge of Holes,” a nod to the defensive holes in the bridge where wooden beams could be inserted to block any unwelcome visitors.
What’s particularly intriguing is its resilience. After being partially destroyed during World War II, the arches were reconstructed even larger than before, to make it easier for water traffic to pass through.
THINGS TO DO IN TOURNAI
12. Statue of Christina van Lalaing
The Statue of Christina van Lalaing in Tournai commemorates a remarkable woman who played a crucial role in the city’s history during the 16th century.
Christina, born in 1523, was not just a noblewoman but also a diplomat and a trusted confidante of Margaret of Parma, the Governor of the Habsburg Netherlands.
Christina’s most notable contribution was her defence of Tournai when it came under siege in 1576.
Honestly, I had no clue who Christina van Lalaing was before my Tournai adventure. But as I strolled through the city, her story unfolded, and I couldn’t help but be amazed by her resilience and bravery.
THINGS TO DO IN TOURNAI
13. Grave of Childéric near l’eglise Saint Brice
In 1653, builders excavated a cellar behind Saint Bryce’s church and made an astonishing discovery—a treasure of unimaginable riches, including gold and precious jewels.
Among these jewels was a golden ring bearing the inscription “Childerici Regis.” This ring led them to the tomb of Childeric I, the founding ruler of the Salian Franks and the father of Clovis I, who went on to become the first king of all Franks.
This remarkable find highlighted Tournai’s central role in the birth of modern France, the Carolingian Empire, and European history itself.
Curiously, despite this incredible historical significance, there is surprisingly little mention of Tournai’s ancient royal legacy today.
THINGS TO DO IN TOURNAI
14. Puppet Museum
The Puppetry Arts Museum is a rather unique place, all about puppets of every kind from around the world.
You’ll come across famous European puppet characters that kids and grown-ups know and love, plus you’ll dive into the fascinating world of African and Asian puppet traditions.
Besides this, they also put on temporary exhibitions, school programs, workshops for both young and not-so-young folks, and of course, puppet shows.
Now, I’ve got to be honest, I’ve never been a huge fan of puppets; they give me the creeps. So no puppet shows for me.
THINGS TO DO IN TOURNAI
15. Take a Scenic Bike Ride Along Lesser-Known Trails
Tournai and Picardy Wallonia are a cyclist’s paradise in Belgium. We’ve got 1,600 km of interconnected cycle paths that seamlessly connect to Flemish and French networks.
Plus, there are nature parks, greenways (Ravel), tranquil waterways, and picturesque country roads waiting to be explored. If you like to chart your course, use the points-nœuds cycle path system.
But if you prefer some expert guidance, get your hands on the “En roues libres” brochure, you can find it in the tourist information centre.
THINGS TO DO IN TOURNAI
16. Enjoy a Picnic at Georges Brassens Park
Right in the heart of Tournai, Georges Brassens Park is not just any green space—it’s where the annual Garden Party on 21/7 (national holiday) comes to life.
We picked this spot for our picnic, enjoying the surroundings and the fact that it’s conveniently close to the city centre (where we bought our Palette de Dame cookie) and the Museum of Natural History.
How to Get Around in Tournai
Navigating Tournai is straightforward. The train station is centrally located, offering easy connections to major cities. From the station, it’s only about a 10-minute walk to the heart of the city. I’ve found this incredibly convenient during my visits.
For those driving, there is a free parking lot that I’ve used on several occasions. It’s secure and conveniently located, allowing easy access to the city centre on foot.
The compact nature of Tournai makes walking an excellent option. Many of the key attractions are within proximity to each other, so it’s feasible to explore much of the city without requiring additional transportation.
Best Time to Visit
If you’re planning your trip to Tournai and want to experience the city’s festive side, consider visiting during one of its annual events.
The Tournai Jazz Festival is a particular highlight, especially if you’re a fan of music. In May, Tournai en Fête brings a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of the city’s culture.
For a more laid-back experience, the Garden Party on July 21st is an excellent choice, complete with good food and music.
Finally, don’t miss the Procession every second Sunday of September, a historical event that showcases Tournai’s rich traditions.
These festivals not only offer a good time but also provide deeper insights into the city’s unique character.
Where to Eat in Tournai
In Tournai, the culinary scene is a mix of sophistication and local charm. For those who appreciate gourmet dining, La Petite Madeleine offers a Michelin-star experience that is both exquisite and memorable.
The ambience is refined, and the culinary offerings are top-notch.
On the other end of the spectrum but equally enjoyable is Le Greco Oeno Bar. Ideal for a more relaxed evening, the wine selections are excellent, and the small plates are perfect for casual dining.
Before you wrap up your Tournai adventure, two local specialities are a must-try: the Clovis cake and Palet de Dame cookies. The Clovis cake offers a sublime blend of almond flavours, while the Palet de Dame is a cookie that perfectly balances texture and sweetness.
But let me tell you, buying just one turned into a mini-crisis when I had to share it with my two kids. Rookie mistake, I know! Next time, I’m stocking up so there are enough cookies to go around and maybe even a secret stash just for me.
Trust me, you won’t want to share, so plan accordingly!
Where to Stay in Tournai
Choosing the right accommodation can make or break your Tournai adventure. From historic hotels to modern options, here are some of the best places to stay for an unforgettable trip.
Hotel d’Alcantara offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Situated in a 17th-century building, it’s centrally located, making it convenient for exploring Tournai’s main attractions.
Hotel Cathedrale, on the other hand, provides a more straightforward lodging experience. Its prime location, right across from the Cathédrale Notre-Dame, means you’re never far from the city’s most iconic sight.
The rooms are comfortable and clean, and some even offer views of the cathedral. It’s a sensible choice for travellers who prioritize location and value.
Travel Tips for Tournai
👉 Walking Shoes Are Your Best Friend: Tournai’s compact city centre is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes to wander through its charming streets and alleys.
👉 Learn Some Basic French: While many people in Tournai speak English, knowing a few basic French phrases can go a long way and enhance your interactions with the locals.
👉 Visit Tourist Information Centers: Tournai has well-equipped tourist information centres that can provide you with maps, brochures, and valuable local insights.
👉 Try Local Cuisine: Don’t leave Tournai without trying some of its local specialities, such as the Clovis cake, Palet de Dame cookies, and delicious Belgian waffles. And of course, enjoy some Belgian chocolates!
👉 Check for Festivals: Tournai hosts various festivals and events throughout the year. Check the event calendar to see if any festivities are happening during your visit.
👉 Explore the Museums: Tournai boasts several interesting museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Natural History Museum. Consider visiting them to learn more about the city’s culture and history.
👉 Respect Cathedral Dress Code: If you plan to visit Cathédrale Notre-Dame, be aware that there’s a dress code. Avoid wearing sleeveless tops or shorts when visiting this religious site.
👉 Cash vs. Cards: While credit cards are widely accepted, it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially for small purchases at local markets or cafes.
👉 Public Transportation: Tournai has a reliable public transportation system, including buses and trams. If you plan to explore the outskirts or nearby towns, consider using public transport.
👉 Plan Ahead: To make the most of your trip, plan your visits to popular attractions during non-peak hours to avoid crowds. Also, consider purchasing tickets online in advance to skip the lines.
👉 Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and etiquette, especially in religious sites and when interacting with locals. A little courtesy goes a long way.
👉 Emergency Contacts: Save emergency contact numbers and addresses in your phone, including the nearest embassy or consulate if you’re a foreign visitor.
Remember, Tournai is a city filled with rich history, culture, and friendly locals. By following these travel tips, you’ll be well-prepared to have a memorable and enjoyable visit to this hidden gem in Belgium.
Conclusion: Best Things To Do in Tournai
In a nutshell, Tournai is like a hidden gem just waiting to be uncovered. Its history, and incredible places to visit make it an unforgettable destination. So, to explore on foot, sample the local goodies, and join in the city’s lively festivals.
Armed with these tips, your journey through Tournai is bound to be an amazing experience. Enjoy every bit of this Belgian treasure!
BELGIUM TRAVEL PLANNING RESOURCES
Getting to Belgium: Fly into one of the main international airports: Brussels Airport (BRU) or Charleroi Brussels South Airport (CRL). Take an international train to Brussels South Station. Or take a ferry to Dover or The Netherlands, then drive or take the train to Belgium.
Getting Around: For the major destinations, the train is by far the best option. You can book your train tickets here. If you’d like to visit smaller places, the most convenient way would be to rent a car. We always use Discover cars, they compare all the rental companies and give you the best rates.
Accommodation: Booking.com is the most popular accommodation platform in Belgium. It’s what I use every single time.
Guided tours: Use Get Your Guide or Viator to find fun tours in Brussels, Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp. Or Guruwalk to find free walking tours in multiple destinations.
If this helped you plan your adventure, a coffee would go a long way in fueling my next guide! 😉
