18 Best Things To Do In Dinant, Belgium 2024
Looking for the best things to do in Dinant, Belgium in 2024?
The picturesque city of Dinant, Belgium, is just a short journey away from bustling Brussels. This makes it one of the most popular day trips from Brussels but Dinant is much more than a quick stopover.
Located in the French-speaking region of Wallonia, Dinant is only 90 kilometres southeast of Brussels. The city’s strategic location along the River Meuse meant that it was often exposed to battles and wars, including the First World War, where Charles de Gaulle was famously wounded.
Dinant is also where the creator of the saxophone was born. Although Adolphe Sax made his name in Paris he was born in Dinant and you can see plenty of saxophones around the city as a tribute to its creator.
As well as listing the best things to do in Dinant I’ll also go through some other handy tips including how to get there and where to stay.
The Best Things To Do in Dinant
There are quite a lot of things to do in Dinant which is surprising for such a small city. It’s a far cry from the busy, loud capital of Brussels.
You might feel like you’re wandering a beautiful mountain village or town although you shouldn’t relax too much. There’s plenty to see and do and you’ll wonder where all that time has disappeared to!
These are the best things to do in Dinant, in no particular order.
1. Admire The Perfect Views Of Dinant
What attracts most people to visit Dinant? For me, it was those picture-perfect views and I’m guessing that’s why you’re on this page too. So let me tell you that the best view that captures the beauty of the city is from across the bridge.
So before you start exploring all the main attractions Dinant has to offer, it’s worth having a quick photo stop from somewhere across the Meuse River.
There are several spots where you can photograph the view of the cathedral against the citadel and, I think you’ll agree, the results are quite jaw-dropping.
2. Explore & Learn About The Dinant Citadel
The Citadel is one of the best places to visit in Dinant! The fort was originally built in 1040 but has been destroyed and rebuilt many times since then. The Dutch army then built the citadel around 1820 and this is the one we see today.
There’s plenty of history to soak up at the citadel and you can walk around at your leisure or join up with one of the organised tours to learn more.
I won’t give away any surprises but there are two replicas of the trenches at the end of your visit, one to simulate a battlefield with the sound of bullets flying past you and another that will surely disorientate you!
3. Take The Dinant Cable Car Up Or Down The Citadel
You can visit the fort by climbing the 400+ steps or getting the cable car. Either way, you’ll end up paying the same entrance fee.
We went up in the cable car and walked down the stairs, trying not to laugh at the people attempting the climb up! Thinking about it now, it wouldn’t have been the worst idea to climb the stairs either.
Whichever option you choose, you’ll end with a fantastic view of the city from the top. Enjoy a Belgian beer and admire the scenery, or celebrate the fact that you made it up the 400 steps!
4. Visit The Collégiale Notre Dame de Dinant
The Collégiale Notre Dame de Dinant is a 13th-century Gothic cathedral and the city’s main landmark. The cathedral, with its pear-shaped bell tower, sits perfectly with the cliff behind to create a picture-perfect backdrop.
Whilst the cathedral looks amazing from the outside, you have to take a look at its interior. It’s free to enter and the stained glass windows were worth the quick peek alone.
5. Learn About Saxaphones At La Maison de Monsieur Sax
Mr. Sax’s House is dedicated to Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone, who was born in Dinant. Not only did he invent the beautiful-sounding instrument in the early 1840s but Mr. Sax also invented the saxotromba, saxhorn and saxtuba.
The house is located where Aldolphe’s place of birth once stood and is more of an interactive interpretation of his life and inventions, rather than a conventional museum.
Entry is free so there’s no excuse to miss this. My favourite part of the house was the giant saxophone, built into the floor. It was also interesting to use interactive instruments placed on the walls.
Don’t forget to have your photo with Mr Sax himself just outside! It looked like he was getting ready for the beach on our visit.
6. Cross The Charles de Gaulle Bridge
In August 1914, during the First World War, Charles de Gaulle was shot in the knee at the Battle of Dinant. He would later lead the French Resistance against the German armies in World War II and was eventually elected the President of France.
I always wondered who he was ever since the first time I landed at Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris!
The main bridge in Dinant, built to commemorate Charles de Gaulle, is more of a tribute to the home-grown Mr Sax these days. Lined with painted saxophones, the bridge is not just a case of must-see, but also a ‘will-see’!
Not that we complained. We enjoyed seeing the painted instruments and the fantastic view of the cathedral.
7. Find As Many Saxophones As You Can
The first thing we noticed when we stepped out of the train station was a giant, painted saxophone. These colourfully decorated models really brighten up the place and make a wonderful photo op.
There are 60 giant saxophones placed all around the city, each one individually painted to represent a country of the European Union. That must’ve been why I couldn’t find the United Kingdom!
If you are from the EU, see if you can find ‘your’ saxophone!
8. Learn About Beer At The Maison Leffe Museum
Belgium is world renown for their quality beers and Leffe has been brewing theirs since 1240. The museum is about a 10-minute walk along the River Meuse so it’s not too difficult to reach without your own transport.
You can take a self-guided interactive experience of the museum to learn the craftsmanship behind every Leffe. There is also the obligatory Leffe beer-tasting session at the end!
9. Eat Or Suck On A Couque de Dinant
The title of Europe’s toughest biscuit belongs to the cake of Dinant. Made from honey, flour and sugar, there are plenty of shops selling these delicacies in all sorts of shapes and, mainly large, sizes.
I didn’t fancy breaking my teeth on them so I gave them a miss. If you must have one, try sucking on the biscuit instead!
10. Take A Stroll Along The River Meuse
In the late afternoon, we took a lovely walk along the river towards Rocher Bayard. The river actually runs through France, Belgium and the Netherlands, but we were happy enough just to appreciate this stretch along Dinant!
This is a great way to see the outskirts of the city. It can obviously be a little time-consuming so if you’re on a day trip, make sure you have enough time to make the return journey.
11. Squeeze Through Rocher Bayard
A couple of kilometres south of the city is Rocher Bayard. This massive split in the rock was obviously the best place to build a road through!
According to the legend, Bayard – a magic bay horse, split the 40-metre-high rock with his mighty hooves. While I’m not sure I believe in magical horses, I do like spectacular rock formations.
As I was not driving, I couldn’t experience driving through Rocher Bayard myself but it was fun watching a bus trying to squeeze between the rocks!
12. Explore the Caves Of Grotte La Merveilleuse
Located only a kilometre away from the city, Grotte La Merveilleuse offers visitors a chance to explore limestone caves and underground waterfalls.
The Dinant caves were discovered in 1904 and are some of the most impressive in Belgium with lovely stalagmites, stalactites and other rock formations on show.
You can do a self-guided tour of the caves if you wish but having a guide with you can really add to the experience. There are many wonderful stories and secrets that make the caves even more fascinating.
13. Take A River Cruise Along The Meuse
With such a beautiful setting along the River Meuse, you’d think it was obvious to take a boat trip, wouldn’t you?
If you have time then a quick boat trip along the Meuse is a great way to relax after climbing those stairs at the Citadel earlier.
You can choose what length of trip you want but I think you’d be happy with an hour or just under. Prices of tours are quite competitive and there is usually table service as you enjoy the splendid Dinant scenery.
14. See The Ruins Of Crèvecœur Castle At Bouvignes
Just a short stroll from the centre of Dinant is the village of Bouvignes-sur-Meuse. This small medieval village is only around 20 minutes walk away and is a nice little place to explore.
While in Bouvignes, you can’t miss Crèvecœur Castle. Just a short hike up a well-trodden pathway will bring you to the castle ruins overlooking the river Meuse.
15. See The Abbey Where Leffe Beer Was First Made
If you enjoyed Maison Leffe and wanted to learn more about Leffe beer then you need to head to Abbaye Notre-Dame de Leffe.
Founded in 1152 by the Premonstratensians, the canons (not monks) started brewing beer around 1240 until it was forced to close its doors in 1796 after the arrival of French Republican troops.
Unfortunately, you can only visit the inside on a guided tour during the summer months of July and August. Find out when here.
16. Château de Vêves
While there are many things to do in the Dinant itself, it’s worth mentioning a few little hidden gems located close to the city. The location of these attractions means you’ll need a car to reach them but it’s well worth the effort.
One of these attractions is Château de Vêves. A 15-minute drive from Dinant, the medieval castle was built in the 15th century although it was destroyed a few times before that.
You can visit the castle, go on treasure hunts and dress up like a noble for a day – children and adults welcome. You can even rent the entire castle for that super special event.
17. Take A Relaxing Walk At The Jardins d’Annevoie
Another place to visit around a 15-minute drive from Dinant is Jardins d’Annevoie. The 18th-century gardens are a wonderful place to just relax and walk around as you admire the ponds and waterfalls.
Jardins d’Annevoie has plenty of events throughout the year such as Easter Egg Hunts and various carnivals and festivals.
The gardens usually close in the winter but not before putting on a lovely little Christmas market in November.
18 Explore Nature At Parc de Furfooz
Parc de Furfooz is a 50-hectare reserve just outside of Dinant. The beautiful surroundings are perfect for family walks and picnics.
There is a 4km trail around the park which sounds short but there are plenty of inserting stops and viewpoints throughout. You may end up spending hours at the park and to top it off, there’s a lovely little restaurant next to the river too.
Where To Stay In Dinant
If you fancy staying the night, there are plenty of hotels in Dinant for you to choose from.
➡️ La Merveilleuse by Infiniti Resorts – La Merveilleuse is a beautifully converted convent building with stylish rooms and excellent facilities. The hotel is located close to Dinant and offers fantastic views across the city. Rates are very reasonable and include a delicious breakfast and welcome drink.
➡️ Castel de Pont-a-Lesse – This fairytale manor house is perfect for those looking for a little R and R. Located a few miles outside of Dinant, the property is surrounded by nature whilst inside, the rooms are clean and modern. There is also a heated pool, sauna and jacuzzi for the guests.
➡️ Les Voisins De Mr Sax – If you want to live like a local then this could be the choice for you. Les Voisins De Mr Sax is more like an apartment located right in the centre of Dinant. The kind host, Fred, is super friendly and goes out of his way to make sure all guests are well looked after.
➡️ Panamá Selva Backpacker – This guesthouse is an excellent choice for the budget-conscious traveller. Shared dorms are available as well as private rooms in this lovely little guesthouse. Guests can relax in the gardens (with the cats) and there is free parking available.
How to Get To Dinant
The easiest way to get to Dinant is by arriving in the Belgian capital, Brussels, although it is also possible to get there from Luxembourg.
Both are within easy reach of Dinant by either car or train.
Brussels To Dinant
Your first, and most flexible, option is by car. Driving in Belgium is very easy and is one of the best ways to get to Dinant from Brussels. The journey will take you around 1.5 hours depending on the starting point in Brussels.
The other option is by train! This is just as quick at around 1 hour and 40 minutes. Just be aware that there are three train stations within Brussels – North, Central and South. Be sure to check which station is closest to your accommodation.
➡️ Check The Latest Ticket Prices On Trains From
Brussels To Dinant Here
Luxembourg to Dinant
If you decide to visit Dinant from Luxembourg, you’ll be happy to know that it only takes around 1.5 hours to reach by car. Just double-check your documents to make sure you can drive across the border (this shouldn’t be a problem in the EU.)
Taking the train is more troublesome as the journey takes around 2.5 hours. If you plan on doing a day to Dinant from Luxembourg then I would advise against it, however, you could visit for a lovely overnight trip instead.
➡️ Check The Latest Ticket Prices On Trains From
Luxembourg To Dinant Here
Dinant Parking
For those of you who are driving, there is plenty of street parking along the river on the other side of the citadel. The fees are relatively cheap too.
There are some more secure garages should you wish but these obviously cost more.
If you want to start and finish at the Citadel you’ll be very pleased to know that there is plenty of free parking at the top. This a popular choice and there are usually plenty of spaces.
Where To Eat In Dinant
Want to know where the best restaurants in Dinant are? For a relatively small city, there are quite a number of excellent restaurants with many making the Michelin guide!
🍴 Chez Bouboule – Very popular restaurant in Dinant. Famous for its mussels and fries.
🍴 L’Eau Vive – Two starred Michelin restaurant. The best fine dining experience in Dinant.
🍴 Caffe Leffe – Great place for a beer and food right in front of the cathedral.
🍴 La Broche – Popular choice to sample traditional Dinant food. In the Michelin guide.
🍴 Les Amourettes – Cool restaurant with a pink ambience. You can eat in cardboard cars!
🍴 Solbrun – A lovely little cafe serving a variety of pastries with seating next to the river.
How Long to Spend in Dinant?
Most travellers visiting Dinant are usually on a day trip. I would say that this is probably enough for most visitors. However, you will need a full day if you want to get the most out of your trip.
There is enough to do in a single day, but staying overnight allows you to take things a bit slower in Dinant. This way you can enjoy the scenery a bit more. Enjoy a nice meal in the evening by the river perhaps?
It’s better than running for the last train or worrying about ordering that glass of wine.
➡️ Short On Time? Check Out This Luxembourg and Dinant Day Trip from Brussels
Is Dinant, Belgium Worth Visiting in 2023?
The lovely little city of Dinant in Belgium is definitely worth visiting! The view of the impressive Dinant Cathedral set against the dramatic cliffs is an unmissable sight and well worth the trip from Brussels.
Dinant is quite often on many social media listings of ‘beautiful places you’ve never heard of’ and with good reason.
If I’m being honest, I didn’t hear about Dinant either until recently! So if you want to see a beautiful city that’s full of charm, and history and not overwhelmed by tourists (yet), then now is the best time to visit.
Wrapping Up: Things To Do In Dinant
We really enjoyed our day trip to Dinant. It was really one of the most charming places in Europe we’ve been to but there was also so much history to learn.
Visiting in March meant that we probably dealt with fewer tourists than in the peak season. I don’t think we would’ve seen as much if we had to fight through crowds. Which was great since we were only in Dinant on a day trip.
Whether you decide on staying overnight or just planning a day trip from Brussels, there are enough things to do in Dinant to keep you busy.
I hope that you’ve enjoyed this post on things to do in Dinant and that you’ll think of exploring this lovely city when you next pass through Belgium!
