Things to do at Durbuy
Durbuy, even though small in size, is full of picturesque places and attractions that make it a must-visit for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking unusual discoveries. Here are the main sites not to be missed during a visit:
- The old town: take a stroll through the cobbled streets lined with stone houses and artisan shops.
- Omalius Rock: an impressive iconic limestone rock, perfect for a souvenir photo.
- Topiary Park: an original garden with over 250 plant sculptures.
- Durbuy Castle: although private, it overlooks the city and offers a majestic setting.
- The Ourthe River: ideal for a walk, kayaking, or mountain biking along the river.
- Anticline viewpoint: accessible on foot or by a tourist train, it offers a panoramic view of the city.
- Barvaux Labyrinth (in summer): a fun and family-friendly activity just minutes from Durbuy.
Hotton Caves (nearby): for an immersion into the underground wonders of the region.
City center of Durbuy 
Durbuy shop 
Durbuy nature Activities
Whether you want to explore nature by kayak, take a guided tour of the old town, or enjoy a gastronomic experience in the heart of the Belgian Ardennes, Durbuy offers a multitude of activities and enchanting tripes to discover the richness of this charming little town.
When to go to Durbuy
The ideal time to visit Durbuy is between May and September when the smallest town in the world demonstrates all its glory in the milder temperatures of sunshine. This is the best time to take long walks along the Ourthe, go through the quaint cobbled streets of the old town, and take in that beautiful green nature of the Belgian Ardennes. There will be more people in the summer (especially at weekends), but Durbuy is still a great place to relax in tranquil surroundings; with an authentic atmosphere. If you would rather not have to share the tranquillity with more people, then spring or early autumn is a great substitute with its flowering or flamboyant scenery. Winter is quieter and slightly cooler, but it creates a fairytale atmosphere in Durbuy for a warm, romantic escape in the house. The friendly feel of Durbuy, combined with that breathtaking nature, can create a responsible escape, whatever time of year and whatever the distance.
What's the temperature like?
How many hours of sunshine?
Global budget
Durbuy, commonly known as the smallest town in the world, has a medieval and romantic appeal. A hotel for two people costs between 95 and 282 euros per night, depending on the category. As for meals, an affordable dish in a restaurant will cost between 14 and 20 euros, and a full dinner for two in a classic-style establishment between 55 and 120 euros. Drinks remain affordable, with a 33 cl beer between €3 and €5, and a bottle of water between €1.5 and €4. Public transport is in high demand for a small town, but for your information, a single ticket costs around €2 to €2.1, and a cab €3 per km. Tourist activities, and there are many, vary considerably from €6 to €490. As a general rule, we expect a daily budget of between €81 and €770 per person per day, depending on the type of stay you're looking for.
One night in a hotel for 2 people
95€282€1000€
Meal in a cheap restaurant
14€20€50€
Local beer (33cl)
3€5€10€
Meal for two in a mid-range restaurant
55€120€200€
Bottle of water
1.5€5€
Public transport single ticket
2€2.1€5€
Taxi ride (per km)
3€
Visits and activities
6€500€
Average overall budget for one person per day: from 81.00€ to 770.00€
Convert to $
Itinerary ideas
Begin your day in Durbuy, the smallest town in the world, with a morning walk through its quaint cobbled streets. Enjoy the stillness as you look at the typical stone houses, small crafts shops and incomparable medieval atmosphere. After your stroll, climb to the belvedere for an overview of the town, the Ourthe valley as well as the opportunity to take a postcard picture.
After your morning, the Parc des Topiaires will give you an opportunity to see a garden where more than 250 plant sculptures create a magical, bucolic universe. For lunch, take a seat on a riverside terrace and taste local dishes, such as trout or plate of Ardennes cheeses and charcuteries.
In the early afternoon, delight in a nature activity. Depending on how you feel today, this could include kayaking down the Ourthe, mountain bikes or hiking along the forest, it's up to you. If you are with the family, there is Adventure Valley for tree climbing, zip lines, and outdoor games.
Finish the day with a drink on the main square whilst admiring the sunset over the town's aged stones. Durbuy, the warm feeling and beautiful landscapes provide an unforgettable day with a tranquillity you would think impossible.
Practical information about Durbuy
Durbuy, in the Walloon province of Luxembourg, is about an hour and a half's drive from Brussels, or about 45 minutes from Liège. If you use public transport, you can take the train to Barvaux (the nearest station is three kilometers away), then a bus or cab to Durbuy town center. Durbuy town center is pedestrian-friendly, which means you can stroll around stress-free. I recommend visiting Durbuy in spring and autumn, when the alleys blossom and you can enjoy many outdoor activities, but even in winter, the town shines with its popular Christmas markets. As far as accommodation is concerned, there's everything you could wish for, from cosy little hotels to more luxurious lodgings. From a budget point of view, you'll find restaurants that offer plenty of local produce, you'll find plenty of restaurants and you won't go wrong if you're on a medium or comfortable budget, depending on the luxury you want and the activities you want to do. I advise you to plan ahead and book in advance, especially during busy periods. Last but not least, don't forget your comfortable shoes - there are a lot of cobblestones and footpaths, which is another reason why the city is so charming.
