Best Places to Visit in Wallonia | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Wallonia Travel Guide
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Welcome to Wallonia, Belgium! Nestled in the southern region of the country, Wallonia offers a unique and captivating travel experience. Known for its picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage, this region is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. From the stunning Ardennes forests to the historic cities of Namur and Liege, Wallonia boasts a diverse range of attractions for every type of traveler. Immerse yourself in the region's fascinating history by visiting medieval castles and ancient ruins, or indulge in the local gastronomy by sampling delicious Belgian chocolates and world-renowned beers. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, Wallonia has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through this enchanting region of Belgium.
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![Namur, Belgium Walking tour 4K. [September 2022] Capital of Wallonia.](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/KqLP1Wm31wg/hqdefault.jpg)
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Best Places To Visit in Wallonia
1. Brussels: The capital city of Belgium, Brussels is a vibrant and cosmopolitan destination that seamlessly blends historic charm with modern attractions. Explore the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at the stunning architecture of the Atomium. Don't miss the chance to indulge in delicious Belgian chocolates and waffles while strolling through the charming streets of the city.
2. Namur: Located in the heart of Wallonia, Namur is a picturesque town known for its rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Visit the Citadel of Namur, a medieval fortress that offers panoramic views of the city, and take a leisurely boat ride along the Meuse River. The town's charming old quarter is perfect for exploring, with its narrow streets, quaint shops, and cozy cafes.
3. Dinant: Nestled along the banks of the Meuse River, Dinant is a small town that packs a punch when it comes to beauty and history. Admire the Citadel of Dinant, perched high on a cliff, and take a relaxing boat cruise to enjoy the scenic views of the town. Don't forget to try the local specialty, Couque de Dinant, a delicious honey-flavored biscuit.
4. Spa: Known as the birthplace of the modern spa, this town is famous for its healing mineral springs. Relax and rejuvenate at one of the many luxurious spas, or take a stroll through the beautiful Spa Park. The town also hosts the Formula One Belgian Grand Prix at the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, attracting motorsport enthusiasts from around the world.
5. Mons: With its rich history and vibrant cultural scene, Mons is a must-visit destination in Wallonia. Explore the Grand Place, which is home to the stunning Town Hall and the Belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don't miss the chance to visit the Mundaneum, a unique museum dedicated to knowledge and culture.
6. Tournai: Situated on the banks of the Scheldt River, Tournai is one of the oldest cities in Belgium. Marvel at the Cathedral of Our Lady, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and explore the Belfry, another UNESCO World Heritage site. The town's charming streets are lined with beautiful medieval buildings and offer a glimpse into its rich history.
7. Charleroi: Despite its industrial past, Charleroi has transformed into a vibrant and artistic city. Visit the BPS22, a contemporary art museum housed in a former industrial building, and explore the Bois du Cazier, a coal mining site that has been turned into a museum. The city also boasts beautiful parks and gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
8. Liege: Located on the banks of the Meuse River, Liege is a lively city known for its vibrant cultural scene and delicious cuisine. Explore the Prince-Bishops' Palace, a stunning architectural gem, and visit the Curtius Museum, which showcases the history and art of Liege. Don't forget to try the famous Boulets a la Liegeoise, a traditional meatball dish.
9. La Roche-en-Ardenne: Nestled in the heart of the Ardennes region, La Roche-en-Ardenne is a charming town surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Explore the Feudal Castle, perched on a rocky outcrop, and take a leisurely hike along the Ourthe River. The town is also a great base for outdoor activities such as kayaking, cycling, and hiking.
10. Durbuy: Known as the smallest city in the world, Durbuy is a picturesque town that exudes charm and tranquility. Explore the narrow cobblestone streets lined with medieval buildings, and visit the Topiary Park, which features beautifully sculpted shrubs and trees. Don't miss the chance to try the local specialty, Durbuy Pate, a delicious meat pie.
Hotels Map Of Wallonia
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Tours And Activities In Wallonia
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Food & Drinks To Try In Wallonia
1. Belgian Waffles: Wallonia is known for its delicious Belgian waffles. These waffles are light, fluffy, and often served with a variety of toppings such as fresh fruits, whipped cream, and chocolate sauce.
2. Frites: Belgium is famous for its fries, and Wallonia is no exception. The region offers a wide variety of frites, which are typically served with a side of mayonnaise or other dipping sauces.
3. Carbonnade Flamande: This traditional Belgian dish is a hearty beef stew made with beer, onions, and spices. It is slow-cooked to perfection and often served with a side of frites or mashed potatoes.
4. Waterzooi: Another popular dish in Wallonia is waterzooi, a creamy stew made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and herbs. It is typically served with bread or potatoes.
5. Liege-style Meatballs: These meatballs are a specialty of the city of Liege in Wallonia. They are made with a mixture of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and spices, and are often served with a sweet and tangy sauce.
6. Belgian Chocolate: Belgium is renowned for its high-quality chocolate, and Wallonia is home to many artisanal chocolate shops. Be sure to try some of the delicious pralines, truffles, and chocolate bars that the region has to offer.
7. Abbey Beers: Wallonia is known for its abbey beers, which are brewed by Trappist monks in monasteries across the region. These beers are often strong and full-bodied, with complex flavors and aromas.
8. Cherry Beer: Wallonia is also famous for its cherry beer, known as kriek. This beer is made by fermenting lambic beer with sour cherries, resulting in a sweet and tart flavor that is unique to the region.
9. Raspberry Beer: Another popular fruit beer in Wallonia is raspberry beer, or framboise. This beer is made by fermenting lambic beer with raspberries, creating a refreshing and fruity beverage.
10. Speculoos: Speculoos are traditional Belgian spiced cookies that are often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. These crunchy cookies have a distinct flavor, thanks to the addition of spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
11. Jambon d'Ardenne: This cured ham from the Ardennes region of Wallonia is a must-try for meat lovers. It is typically served thinly sliced and has a rich, smoky flavor.
12. Escaveche: Escaveche is a traditional dish from Wallonia made with fried fish that is marinated in a tangy sauce made from vinegar, onions, and herbs. It is often served cold as an appetizer or snack.
13. Cuberdon: Cuberdons are cone-shaped candies with a soft, chewy center and a sweet, fruity flavor. These candies are a popular treat in Wallonia and are often enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
14. Orval Cheese: Wallonia is home to many delicious cheeses, and one of the most famous is Orval cheese. This semi-soft cheese has a distinct flavor and is often enjoyed on its own or paired with bread and fruit.
15. Pate Gaumais: Pate Gaumais is a traditional pate from the Gaume region of Wallonia. It is made with a mixture of pork, liver, and spices, and is often served with bread or crackers as an appetizer.
Best Time To Visit Wallonia
The best time to visit Wallonia, Belgium is during the spring and summer months. This region experiences a moderate climate with mild temperatures during these seasons. Spring, from April to June, is a great time to visit as the weather is pleasant and the countryside is in full bloom. Summer, from July to September, is also a popular time to visit as the days are longer and the weather is warmer. Additionally, many festivals and events take place during these months, providing visitors with cultural experiences and opportunities to explore the local traditions. However, it is important to note that summer can be crowded with tourists, so if you prefer a quieter experience, early spring or late summer may be the ideal time to visit Wallonia.
Flight Calendar For Wallonia
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Transportation To Wallonia
There are several transportation options to Wallonia, Belgium.
1. By Air: The nearest international airport to Wallonia is Brussels Airport (BRU). From the airport, you can take a train or bus to various cities in Wallonia.
2. By Train: Wallonia is well-connected by train services. You can take a train from Brussels or other major cities in Belgium to various destinations in Wallonia.
3. By Bus: There are bus services that connect Wallonia with other cities in Belgium and neighboring countries. You can check for bus schedules and book tickets online.
4. By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and drive to Wallonia. The region is easily accessible by road, and there are well-maintained highways connecting it to other parts of Belgium and neighboring countries.
5. By Bicycle: Wallonia is known for its beautiful countryside and cycling routes. If you enjoy cycling, you can consider biking to Wallonia from nearby cities or towns.
Once you are in Wallonia, you can use public transportation such as buses and trains to explore different cities and attractions within the region.