Discover Namur Belgium

Namur Belgium is the capital city of the Wallonia region of Belgium. It’s medieval Citadel dominates the city, and sits atop a rocky promontory between the Meuse and Sambre rivers.

Because of its strategic position at the head of routes into France, Namur was the scene of a number of battles and sieges. Both World Wars have taken a toll on the city and it’s Citadel, but has since been rebuilt.

During our time in Belgium, we took the time to discover Namur Belgium to explore the city and it’s Citadel. It was definitely an interesting place to see, and so worth the visit!

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The Citadel of Namur

Namur came to prominence during the early Middle Ages when the Merovingians built a castle or citadel on the rocky spur overlooking the town at the confluence of the two rivers.

Today it’s primary tourist attraction is the Citadel, which dates back to Roman times, and was used as an important trading route.

Throughout history it was captured, destroyed and rebuilt several times.With 7km of underground passages and gardens to explore, the citadel is a must see when in Belgium.

With its location up on a rocky promontory, you get the most amazing views of the city down below.

While your up here, go on a nature walk. With a park located within the citadel, the kiddos will have a great time running around and enjoying the playground.

If your interested in learning more about the Citadel’s history, start at the Terra Nova Visitors centre. From there, you can go on a guided tour of the citadel and its vast underground network of tunnels.

If your driving, there is a carpark located up on the citadel, or you can take a shuttle from Namur’s city center.

Take the Citadel Tourist Train

Another way to explore the Citadel is on the Citadel tourist train. 

Get to know the fortifications on this 20 minute tour, complete with an audio guide that will help you understand the history. 

The Train departs from the Terra Nova Visitor Centre. Tickets costs 6€ for adults, 5€ for kids 6-18, and free for kids under 6. 

It is recommended to purchase tickets online one day before you plan to visit. You can also take your chance and purchase tickets at the Visitors center if available.

When hunger strikes, enjoy a meal at the nearby restaurant located in the premises.

La Reine Blanche serves amazing Belgian cuisine and serves some of the best locally brewed beer we’ve tasted.

Make sure to sample their award winning beer, Blanche de Namur, it was one of the best tasting beer we’ve had in Belgium.

Stroll through the city of Namur

After exploring the Citadel, we made sure to explore the city of Namur down below. One of the cities main highlights is the Belfry Tower.

The tower, constructed in 1388, was part of a collegiate church and the city wall, and became a belfry in 1746.

In the 18th century the city wall was demolished except for the belfry, which has been preserved and restored, and is now part of the cities heritage.

It is one of the 56 belfries of Belgium and France classified as a UNESCO world heritage site. 

As you make your way around the city, you will notice how lively and bustling the city is. There are so many shopping streets and cafes around to keep you busy.

We sampled some of the best cheese we’ve had at one of the deli shops in town, and had some freshly roasted coffee at a nearby coffee shop.

Namur is a small city in Belgium, mostly known for it’s citadel. There’s much to discover in the picturesque old town once you get past its grittiness.

If your ever in Belgium, explore the country more and go off the beaten path. You will almost always find a hidden gem of a city and get to know Belgium a little more.

Other places to see in Belgium

• Guide to visiting Bruges Belgium
• Discover Leuven Belgium
• Floralia Brussels:Groot Bijgaarden Tulip Festival
• Top things to do in Brussels in one day

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