Tournai travel guide

Tournai, one of Belgium's oldest cities, boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times. Established as a Roman administrative center known as 'Turnacum,' Tournai flourished due to its strategic location along the Scheldt River.

During the Early Middle Ages, Tournai gained prominence as the first capital of the Frankish Merovingian dynasty. The city's significance continued in the 12th century when it became a hub for the textile industry, attracting traders and craftsmen. This period saw the construction of the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Belfry of Tournai, the oldest in Belgium.

The city's resilience is evident through its recovery from numerous invasions and occupations, including those by the Vikings, the French, and the Spanish. In more recent history, Tournai was heavily bombed during World War II but has since been meticulously restored. Today, Tournai stands as a testament to Belgium's rich historical tapestry, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past through its well-preserved architecture and cultural landmarks.

Tournai, one of Belgium's oldest cities, boasts a rich cultural tapestry that is deeply rooted in history and tradition. The locals, known as Tournaisiens, are proud of their heritage and are often seen participating in various cultural events and festivals throughout the year. One of the most notable events is the Grand Procession of Tournai, a religious and historical procession that dates back to the Middle Ages, showcasing the city's deep spiritual roots.

When visiting Tournai, tourists should be aware of the importance of the French language, as it is predominantly spoken here. While many locals speak some English, making an effort to greet people with a friendly 'Bonjour' and thanking them with 'Merci' can go a long way in fostering goodwill.

Dining customs in Tournai reflect the broader Belgian tradition of enjoying long, leisurely meals. It is customary to greet everyone at the table with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, depending on the level of familiarity. Patience is appreciated in restaurants, as service can be more relaxed, allowing diners to savor their experience.

Respect for religious customs is also important, especially when visiting the city's numerous historic churches and the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral. It is advisable to dress modestly and maintain a respectful demeanor while exploring these sacred sites.

Tournai's market days, particularly on Saturdays, are a vibrant aspect of local life, where you can experience the community spirit and sample local produce. Engaging with vendors and polite haggling are part of the experience, but always with a smile and respect for the goods offered.

The best time to explore Tournai is during the late spring and early autumn months, specifically from May to June and September to October. During these periods, the weather is pleasantly mild, with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 25°C, making it ideal for leisurely strolls along the Scheldt River and exploring Tournai's historic landmarks. The town is less crowded compared to the peak summer months, allowing for a more relaxed and authentic experience.

Visiting in May or June means you can enjoy the vibrant local festivals, such as the Tournai Ramdam Festival, which showcases a variety of cinematic works. September and October offer the added charm of witnessing the town’s picturesque autumn foliage, providing a stunning backdrop for your exploration.

While summer (July to August) offers warmer weather and longer days, it also attracts more tourists, leading to busier attractions and higher accommodation prices. Winter months (November to February) are quieter and less expensive, but colder temperatures and shorter daylight hours might limit outdoor activities.

To maximize your visit, consider aligning your trip with these favorable seasons, ensuring a more enjoyable and memorable experience in Tournai.

For an authentic Tournai experience, consider visiting the lesser-known Wednesday morning market at the Grand-Place. This insider tip comes from locals who enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, fresh produce, and unique artisanal goods available at this weekly event. Arriving early not only allows you to explore the wide variety of stalls but also gives you the chance to engage with local vendors and learn more about Tournai's rich culinary traditions.

Locals suggest grabbing a coffee and a traditional Belgian waffle from one of the nearby cafés as you meander through the market. This combination of local flavors and friendly interactions provides a genuine taste of Tournai's community spirit, making it a memorable addition to your travel itinerary. Don't forget to bring a reusable bag to carry your market treasures, as this small eco-friendly gesture is appreciated by the vendors and locals alike. Embrace this insider tip to enrich your visit to Tournai and discover a side of the city that many tourists miss.

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Tournai, Belgium. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Tournai, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Belgium. Check out the best things to do in Tournai. Compare the rates and services of the 6 types of stays and 1 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Tournai with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Tournai from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Tournai with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Tournai travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Tournai!

With destinations such as Tournai, a trip to Belgium needs no further explanation. Spanning over 30,688 square kilometers, Belgium is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Belgium has something to enchant every traveler.

In Tournai alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Cathedral of Notre-Dame of Tournai, Musée d'Histoire naturelle & Vivarium, and Belfry of Tournai. Thus, a trip to Belgium becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Belgium offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in Belgium. Click or tap the link below to discover more about Belgium and its offers.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Tournai, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Tournai offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Tournai travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

Booking a vacation package to Tournai means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accommodation, and a rental car to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Tournai to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing everything you need to travel comfortably, travel packages to Tournai also offer full customization. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

Continue to the next section of this complete Tournai travel guide to explore further details about the vacation options available for your trip to the city.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Tournai is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Tournai usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Tournai offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Tournai and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Tournai planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Tournai, you'll find 6 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Belgium can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the luxury hotels in Tournai. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Tournai.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Tournai in the following sections.

To navigate Tournai effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 1 car rental companies in Tournai, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Tournai, Belgium below.

The city of Tournai is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Belgium. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Belgium has it all.

Each destination in Belgium offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Belgium that are as magical as the city of Tournai. The most popular travel destinations in Belgium are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

Getting around Tournai is convenient and offers a variety of transportation options to cater to different needs. The city is well-serviced by its public transportation network, primarily operated by TEC (Transport En Commun). Buses run frequently and connect major landmarks, residential areas, and the city center. For those looking for more flexibility, taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.

Rental cars are another viable option, particularly for travelers who wish to explore the surrounding regions of Wallonia and beyond at their own pace. Several rental agencies operate in Tournai, offering a range of vehicle types. Additionally, Tournai boasts a network of bike paths that make cycling a pleasant and eco-friendly way to navigate the city. The availability of rental bikes adds to this convenience, allowing visitors to enjoy the city's historical sites and scenic routes. Whether traveling by bus, taxi, rental car, or bike, Tournai offers efficient and accessible transportation solutions for all visitors.