Dinant, Belgium: How to Spend One Day
Nestled in the picturesque Meuse Valley, Dinant is a charming city located in the Wallonia region of Belgium. Famous for its imposing citadel and stunning architecture, Dinant offers visitors a wealth of experiences. Dinant is the perfect place to stop for a day before traveling to the next city in Belgium. Here are some of the best ways to spend a day in Dinant, Belgium.
History of Dinant
Dinant has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. The city was founded in the 7th century and was an important trading center in the 13th century.
The city’s strategic location on the Meuse River made it a key point of defense against invading forces. The citadel, which sits atop a rocky outcrop, played a crucial role in the Battle of Dinant during World War I.
Transportation to Dinant
Dinant is a beautiful riverside town in the Wallonia region of Belgium, and there are several ways to get there, primarily by train and car.
By Train
From Brussels: The train is one of the easiest and most scenic ways to reach Dinant. Direct trains from Brussels to Dinant take about 1.5 to 2 hours, and they depart from Brussels’ main stations like Brussels Central, Brussels Midi (South), or Brussels North.
From Other Cities: If you’re traveling from Antwerp, Ghent, or Bruges, you may need to transfer in Brussels or Namur. The connections are frequent and well-coordinated by the SNCB/NMBS (Belgium’s national rail service).
Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online on the SNCB/NMBS website or at the train station. Belgium offers various rail passes, including discounts for weekends and for young travelers.
By Bus
Buses are available, but they are generally less direct and less frequent than the train.
Dinant is served by the TEC bus network, primarily for local routes within Wallonia, so if you’re coming from a nearby town without train access, a bus may be an option. However, it’s generally recommended to take the train for convenience.
By Car
From Brussels: Driving from Brussels to Dinant takes about 1 to 1.5 hours via the E411 highway. Parking is available in Dinant, but keep in mind that some parking areas may require payment.
From Other Cities: Dinant is accessible by car from most major cities in Belgium within a couple of hours, thanks to Belgium’s good road infrastructure.
Things to Do in Dinant
While you plan your trip to Dinant and Belgium, this is the perfect day trip or overnight city to stay in to explore. There is quite a few things to fill your day with while you’re visiting.
Visit the Citadel
The Citadel is undoubtedly one of the main attractions of Dinant. Located high above the city, the citadel offers panoramic views of the Meuse Valley.
Visitors can reach the citadel by either taking the cable car or climbing the 408 steps to the top. We did the steps and holy moly, it was a workout!
Once there, visitors can explore the extensive network of tunnels, admire the military museum, and even try their hand at archery. As of March 2023, there is construction currently at the top.
Admission for the Citadel changes per season. During the off season, adults are €12.00 and children ages 4 – 12 are €10.00.
They also offer a “3 in 1 Formula” that combines Earth, Air, and Water, which is visiting the Citadel (earth), taking the cable car (air), and boat trip on the Meuse (water). Prices for the “3 in 1” are €20.00 for adults and €15.00 for children.
There is also a restaurant, playground, and overlook with breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside. For more information, check out Citadel Website for hours, prices, and other useful information, such as closures due to off season.
Notre Dame de Dinant
The Notre Dame de Dinant is an iconic landmark of the city. This imposing Gothic cathedral was built in the 13th century and is renowned for its stunning stained-glass windows and ornate decorations.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the cathedral to learn more about its history and architecture.
Immediately walking into the church, there is a brochure with information about the cathedral and stained-glass windows. The church is free to enter. Don’t pass up a chance to visit this beautiful site!
Maison Leffe
Maison Leffe is a popular attraction for beer enthusiasts visiting Dinant. The brewery offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of the Leffe beer brand and taste its various flavors.
Founded in 1240 by Norbertine monks, they brewed beer as a way to raise funds for their abbey. Over time, the brewery became one of the most well-known in Belgium, and its beers were exported around the world.
Today, visitors to Maison Leffe can take a guided tour of the brewery to learn about the brewing process and the history of the Leffe brand.
The interactive tour includes a visit to the brewery’s museum, which showcases the tools and techniques used to brew beer in the past and present.
At the end of the tour, visitors can sample a variety of Leffe beers, including the Blonde, Brown, Ruby, and Triple. Each beer has a unique flavor and is made with different ingredients, such as coriander and orange peel.
They even offer an alcoholic-free Blonde to sample and purchase. Your ticket includes the tour, a sample of your choosing, two cans and a glass Leffe cup all for €10.00! Honestly, it’s a steal for the price and such an amazing experience.
Boat Ride on the Meuse River
One of the best easy to experience the beauty of Dinant is by taking a relaxing boat ride on the Meuse River. The river winds its way through the city, offering stunning views of the surrounding country side.
Visitors can choose from a variety of boat tours, ranging from a short 30-minute cruise to a longer, more extensive tour.
Saxophone Hunting
Dinant is mostly known for being the birth place of Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the Saxophone.
There are about 70 saxophone statues painted and dedicated to other countries, as well as a statue of Adolphe himself, with a museum located in the city. Can you wander through Dinant and find all the saxophones?
Indulge in the Local Cuisine
Belgium is renowned for its cuisine, and Dinant is no exception. The city is home to a range of restaurants and cafes, offering everything from traditional Belgian dishes to more modern cuisine.
For those looking to indulge in local specialties, there are plenty of options, including mussels and frites, waffles, and chocolate.
If you have a sweet tooth, there are plenty of local treats to try, including Belgian waffles, chocolate, and speculoos, a type of spiced cookie.
There is the cutest pastry shop , Patisserie-Boulangerie et Fabrique de Couques Jacobs. We were educated on the history of the “Couque of Dinant,” a hard cookie-like dessert made in Dinant. Dating back to the 15th century, the couques are made of only honey and flour.
A tip to eating this masterpiece is to break into small fragments to melt in the mouth or soak in coffee. Indulging in the beautifully made couques and pastries is the perfect way to spend a day in the city.
Additionally, be sure to visit the Cosy Lounge for a quick treat of coffee and sandwiches. The staff are absolutely delightful and so genuinely sweet. I recommend trying the ham and cheese croissant sandwich with added butter.
Other Activities to Do in Dinant
Dinant has plenty of other activities to offer visitors. The city’s picturesque streets are lined with charming cafes and restaurants, perfect for a leisurely lunch or coffee break. Visitors can also explore the city’s many museums.
For those looking for something more adventurous, Dinant also offers a range of outdoor activities, including kayaking, rock climbing, and hiking. The Meuse Valley is home to some of the most scenic hiking trails in Belgium. They offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
If you’re looking for a walking tour, check out one of these Dinant Walking Tours.
Dinant is a city that has something to offer everyone. From its rich history and stunning architecture to its outdoor activities and culinary delights, there is no shortage of things to do and see. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, Dinant is a must-see destination in Belgium. So why not plan your trip today and discover all that this charming city has to offer?
