Tucked into a bend of the Ourthe river in the Belgian Ardennes, Durbuy Belgium is often called the smallest city in the world. That title comes from history rather than size, and the town is charming enough that you hardly need the claim. Here is how to plan a visit.
Why “smallest city”?
Durbuy received city rights in 1331 from John of Bohemia, Count of Luxembourg. The status stayed, even though the population is small today. The old centre is a tangle of cobbled lanes, stone houses and small squares, easy to walk in an hour, but worth much longer.
What to see and do
- The old town: wander the narrow streets, look at the stone facades and the old market area.
- Parc des Topiaires: a garden of clipped box trees shaped into figures, one of the town’s best-known sights.
- The river: kayaking and rafting on the Ourthe are popular in warmer months.
- Hiking and cycling: forests and viewpoints around the town offer marked trails.
- Adventure activities: several outdoor parks nearby offer climbing and treetop courses, especially good for families.
Eating and drinking
The Ardennes are known for hearty food. Expect charcuterie, local cheeses, game in autumn, and Belgian beer, of course. Many restaurants in the old centre are small, so book ahead on weekends. Chocolate shops and waffle stands are never far.
Getting there
Durbuy has no train station of its own, so most visitors come by car. From Brussels it is roughly an hour and a half to two hours depending on traffic, and from Liège it is shorter. Public transport is possible via a train to a nearby station and a bus, but timetables are limited, so check the Belgian rail site and local bus info before you rely on it.
When to go
Summer is busy but lively, with outdoor sports in full swing. Autumn colours in the Ardennes are beautiful, and winter brings a Christmas market atmosphere, though some attractions close. Weekdays are always calmer than weekends.
How long to stay
A day trip is enough for the town and the topiary garden. If you want to hike or paddle, stay a night or two in a guesthouse. Rooms fill quickly in summer and on long weekends.
Durbuy is not a place for ticking boxes; it rewards slowness. Confirm opening times of attractions before you go, and combine it with nearby caves or castles if you have a car. More Belgian ideas appear on invisionfree.com.
Featured image: JackyM59, via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0).
