Namur
About Namur
A city full of art and history, Namur is a treasure trove of culture, from archaeological and historical sites, museums and exhibitions to theatres, cinemas and festivals. You will find here some ideas for activities linked to culture or folklore.
Beyond its historic center, Namur is also a green setting which does not lack creativity to showcase its natural heritage. Discover here its parks, theme gardens, nature reserves, areas of biological interest and other eco-tourist assets.
Namur stands at the confluence of the rivers Sambre and Meuse, offering magnificent views of the rivers, valleys, and monuments. A whole range of waterside activities are on offer, but simply walking along the quays is one of the best ways to visit the city.
Namur, a city of water, with a confluence in the middle of the city…
It’s rare enough to merit emphasis! The Sambre and the Meuse rivers merge in the city, offering an unbeatable view beneath the fortress’s ramparts.
Stop the clock and enjoy…
Ready for a little tour through the cozy pedestrian lanes, dotted with quaint shop windows? Here you will find shops, restaurants or even craftspeople… The art of living well is taken very seriously in the capital of Wallonia.
Smart and digital city…
Namur is proud to be a ‘Smart City’. It is the first Walloon city to have joined this network of cities recognized by UNESCO, which places creativity and cultural industries at the heart of urban development plans for safe, resilient, inclusive, and sustainable cities, in line with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Namur was selected for its expertise in digital arts. But while the concept of the smart city was initially linked to the technological city, it is now a genuine model for sustainable urban development, which advocates innovation by an
Everything you need to know about Namur
In November temperatures fluctuate between 4 and 10 degrees Celsius. We invite you to check the weather forecast before packing!
The official currency is Euro. ATMs are widely available and credit cards are accepted in most establishments (restaurants, shops, bars, etc.).
Average cost of living (currency rates – June 2024) :
- Menu in a brasserie restaurant: from 25 EUR (107 PLZ / 283 SEK).
- Menu in a fast-food restaurant: from 10 EUR (64 PLZ / 113 SEK).
- Drinks in a bar/café: beers from 3 EUR (13 PLZ / 34 SEK), sodas from 2 EUR (8 PLZ / 23 SEK)., coffee from 2 EUR (8 PLZ / 23 SEK).
- Groceries: bottle of water from 0,90 EUR (4 PLZ / 10 SEK), bread from 2 EUR (8 PLZ / 23 SEK), pack of cookies from 2 EUR (8 PLZ / 23 SEK).
- Transport: bus tickets from 2,10 EUR (9 PLZ / 24 SEK), train tickets from 2,50 EUR (11 PLZ / 28 SEK).
French is the official language, but English is spoken, especially in business and tourist areas.
Getting around Namur is convenient with a range of public transport options (bus, train, taxi*, bike). Namur is a charming city where everything in the city center is within walking distance.
Taxis contacts*:
Hepp Taxis: +32 475 99 99 88
Taxis Namur: +32 81 22 55 55
Taxis Express Namur: +32 476 55 52 44
For medical emergencies requiring immediate attention, call 112. Ensure you have your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) on hand for medical assistance.
Belgians are renowned for their epicurean spirit – try some local beers and food to experience the Belgian epicurean spirit! The symbol of the city: the snail (Namur is renowned for its relaxed and slow pace of life).
There are several shops selling local products (food, crafts, souvenirs). “L’Empreinte belge”, “Boutique des créateurs namurois”, “Tourist info center” or « Côté Terroir – La cave de Wallonie ».
Must-see places in Namur
The Citadel of Namur is a world renown monument. It is one of the most beautiful in the world. It is majestic and historical, as it is classified as an exceptional real estate heritage of the Walloon Region. Hop aboard the cable car and easily reach the Citadel of Namur from the city centre, in less than 5 minutes! Take advantage of the ride to take in the scenery during your journey and then set off to explore this exceptional site.
The Pavillon, the former Belgian pavilion at the Milan World Expo, is located near the Citadel and is now Wallonia’s new digital reference point. Stellar Space: exhibition on astronomy and Space exploration (From 22 June 2024 to 26 January 2025).
Listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO, and known as the Tour Saint-Jacques, the belfry was built in 1388 as part of the city wall. It became a belfry in 1746. Its purpose was to announce the time and town events and also to provide military defence.
Designed in 1863 by Namur’s town architect, Thierry Fumière, the theatre was burnt down in 1867 and rebuilt in 1868. It is one of Europe’s last Italian-style theatres. Renovated in 1998, it now presents a fresco by French painter Garouste called “Theatre” which adorns the ceiling of the foyer.
The historical heart of the city, the confluence is the oldest district of Namur. There you can find the (1) “NID” museum (Intelligent and Sustainable Namur), a space that puts citizens at the heart of the debate around the future of Namur and questions the role of cities in the face of current and future challenges. In this district, you can also admire (2) the Walloon Parliament and (3) “l’Enjambée”, the brand new cyclo-pedestrian bridge linking the 2 neighboring cities, Jambes and Namur.
On the other side of the river, you will see The Hall al’Chair which is located in the former district of the butchers, this building – one of the oldest in Namur – once served as a slaughterhouse in a covered market; hence its position on the banks of the Sambre river. By going on the roof of “Le Delta”, Namur’s cultural center, you can admire a splendid panorama of the Citadel.
