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Durbuy: Experience the Charm of the World's Smallest City

Jean Housen,Inkey, Durbuy banner, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Jean Housen,Inkey, Durbuy banner, CC BY-SA 3.0
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Hello and welcome to my website. My name is Thorsten. I'm a software engineer living in Germany and I love to travel. So I created a site for anyone starting to plan a trip.
What this site is about

✔ Are you planning a self-organized trip to Durbuy? Then you've come to the right place. Here you will find information to help you plan your perfect stay in Durbuy.

✔ The most important start information for a trip to Belgium, can be found on the overview page.

✔ And when it comes to the actual planning, you will find the perfect planner for your trip to Belgium here.
Attraction
Park / Garden

Culture and history, explore and discover

Durbuy, often referred to as the smallest city in the world, offers a charming blend of medieval history and natural beauty. Visitors can expect to find a picturesque town with cobblestone streets, quaint stone houses, and a serene river setting. The culture is deeply rooted in its historical past, with a focus on preserving the architectural heritage and traditional crafts. The town is a haven for those interested in exploring a peaceful yet culturally rich environment.

All sights sorted by distance from center
1. Castle of Durbuy: ⭐ ⭐ A well-preserved medieval castle offering panoramic views of the town and the Ourthe River valley. Distance in km: 0.08
2. Old Town of Durbuy: ⭐ The well-preserved medieval old town with cobblestone streets, charming squares, and historic buildings, offering a glimpse into the city's rich heritage. Distance in km: 0.08
3. Topiary Park: ⭐ A unique park featuring over 250 meticulously trimmed shrubs and trees, creating whimsical and artistic shapes. Distance in km: 0.19
4. Radhadesh Castle: ⭐ A stunning castle serving as a spiritual and cultural center for the Hare Krishna community, surrounded by beautiful gardens and peaceful surroundings. Distance in km: 3.55
5. Megaliths of Wéris: ⭐ A collection of prehistoric megalithic structures and dolmens, surrounded by scenic countryside and offering insight into ancient history and culture. Distance in km: 5.18
6. The Liege-Guillemins Railway Station: An architectural masterpiece designed by Santiago Calatrava, known for its futuristic design and use of glass, steel, and white concrete. Distance in km: 31.33
7. The Domain of the Caves of Han: A stunning natural attraction featuring a series of caves in the Ardennes, accessible through a vintage tram and guided tours. Distance in km: 31.57
8. The Museum of Walloon Life, Liege: A museum dedicated to the history, culture, and folklore of Wallonia, showcasing traditional Walloon life. Distance in km: 33.91
9. Dinant: This picturesque town is nestled between the Meuse River and towering cliffs. It's known for the Citadel, the Collegiate Church of Notre Dame, and the saxophone, invented here by Adolphe Sax. Distance in km: 40.01
10. The Mardasson Memorial, Bastogne: A star-shaped memorial dedicated to the American soldiers wounded or killed during the Battle of the Bulge in WWII. Distance in km: 43.15
11. Meuse Valley: ⭐ Famous for its breathtaking landscapes, the Meuse Valley offers picturesque views, hiking trails, and historic towns along the river. Distance in km: 45.76

Parks, Gardens & Green Areas in the city, relax and enjoy

Durbuy is a charming destination known for its picturesque landscapes and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can expect a blend of natural beauty and serene environments, making it an ideal spot for relaxation. The town's quaint streets and surrounding countryside offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life, with plenty of opportunities for leisurely strolls and quiet contemplation.

1. Topiary Park: A unique garden featuring beautifully sculpted topiary trees.

Topiary Park in Durbuy is a fascinating garden where visitors can explore an impressive collection of over 250 topiary sculptures. These living works of art are meticulously trimmed into various shapes, including animals, people, and abstract forms. The park offers a tranquil setting for a leisurely stroll, and visitors can enjoy the artistry and creativity of the topiary designs. The park also provides guided tours and workshops for those interested in learning more about the art of topiary.

Type: garden | Fee: €5
2. Parc des Topiaires: A serene park known for its topiary art and scenic views.

Parc des Topiaires is a charming green space in Durbuy that offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature. The park is renowned for its topiary art, with a variety of hedges and bushes sculpted into intricate designs. Visitors can wander through the park's pathways, enjoy the beautifully maintained gardens, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The park is perfect for a relaxing afternoon, and it's a great spot for photography enthusiasts.

Type: park | Fee: €4
3. Domaine de Hottemme: A vast natural reserve offering trails and wildlife observation.

Domaine de Hottemme is a large natural reserve located near Durbuy, offering a perfect retreat for nature lovers. The reserve features a network of walking trails that wind through forests, meadows, and wetlands. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, wildlife observation, and the tranquility of the natural surroundings. The reserve is also home to several educational exhibits about local flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for families and nature enthusiasts.

Type: green_area | Fee: free
4. Durbuy Adventure Valley: An adventure park with outdoor activities set in a lush green environment.

Durbuy Adventure Valley is an exciting destination for those seeking outdoor adventure amidst beautiful natural surroundings. The park offers a wide range of activities, including zip-lining, rock climbing, kayaking, and mountain biking. Set in a lush green valley, the park provides a perfect blend of adventure and nature. Visitors can enjoy the thrill of the activities while also taking in the scenic beauty of the area. The park is suitable for all ages, making it a great choice for families and groups.

Type: green_area | Fee: Varies by activity

Tourist Information Offices

Here you can find the main tourist information offices where you can get maps, brochures, and assistance with planning your visit.

1. RSI Durbuy

Tourist information center

Address: Pl. aux Foires 25, 6940 Durbuy, Belgium
2. RSIB - Royal Syndicat d'initiative

Tourist information center

Address: 6940 Durbuy, Belgium
3. Pays des Castors - Beverland (Barvaux - Durbuy)

Tourist information center

Address: Parc de Juliénas, 6940 Barvaux - Durbuy, Belgium
4. Hotton Tourisme

Tourist information center

Address: Rue Haute 4, 6990 Hotton, Belgium
5. Syndicat Initiative Bomal

Tourist information center

Address: Rue du Sassin 1, 6941 Durbuy, Belgium

What's the best way to get around as a tourist in Durbuy?

Durbuy is a charming town known for its picturesque streets and compact size, making it highly walkable. The town's layout encourages exploration on foot, with narrow cobblestone streets and scenic views around every corner. Public transportation options are limited, as Durbuy is a small town, but nearby areas can be accessed by regional buses. Cycling is also a viable option for getting around and enjoying the surrounding countryside.

In Durbuy, the central area is primarily pedestrian-friendly, allowing visitors to stroll through the quaint streets without the interference of vehicles. While there is no metro system, regional buses connect Durbuy to nearby towns, providing a practical way to explore the region. Ride-sharing services are not as prevalent, so planning ahead with local taxis might be necessary. For those interested in cycling, bike rentals are available, offering a convenient way to explore both the town and its beautiful surroundings. Practical tips include wearing comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones and checking the bus schedules in advance, as they may not run frequently.