15 Best Things to Do in Durbuy, Belgium (2026)

Durbuy is one of those places in Belgium that looks like it belongs on a postcard. With its cobbled streets, stone buildings, cosy cafés and beautiful setting in the Ardennes, it’s easy to see why so many people visit.

But there are actually more things to do in Durbuy than simply walk around the old town.

You can go kayaking on the Ourthe River, explore the Ardennes on foot, visit Adventure Valley, browse independent shops, discover local markets or spend a relaxed afternoon in a café.

I’ve visited the Durbuy area many times with my family, and I genuinely think it’s one of the nicest places in Belgium for a weekend getaway. The town itself is small, but the surrounding region has plenty to offer if you know where to look.

In this guide, I’m sharing 15 of the best things to do in Durbuy, Belgium, including the main sights, outdoor activities, shopping spots and a few personal recommendations. I’ll also share how long to stay, what to do when it rains and why I recommend exploring beyond the historic centre.

If you’re planning a longer visit, check out my Durbuy Travel Guide for more practical information, accommodation recommendations and tips for exploring the area.

Things to Do in Durbuy at a Glance

Activity	Best for
Explore Durbuy on foot	First-time visitors
Walk in the Ardennes	Nature lovers
Walk along the Ourthe River	Relaxed walks and views
See La Roche à la Falize	Natural landmarks
See Durbuy Castle	History and photography
Visit Adventure Valley Durbuy	Families and groups
Play laser game	Friends and rainy days
Go kayaking on the Ourthe	Summer activities
Go shopping in Durbuy	Boutiques and souvenirs
Try a wine tasting	Couples and food lovers
Visit Bomal’s Sunday market	Local atmosphere
Go for a longer hike	Nature lovers
Visit the Christmas market	Winter trips
Have a drink at Edouard Garden Café	Coffee, brunch and atmosphere
Get an ice cream	Sunny days

1. Explore Durbuy’s Old Town on Foot

The number one thing to do in Durbuy is simply to walk around the historic centre.

The old town is incredibly picturesque, with cobbled streets, traditional stone buildings, independent shops and cosy cafés. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend a few hours wandering around without needing a strict itinerary.

Because the centre is so small, you don’t need to plan every stop. Explore the little streets, look inside the local shops and stop whenever you see a café or terrace that looks inviting.

Personally, I think Durbuy is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace. You can see the main sights relatively quickly, but sitting down for a drink or lunch and enjoying the atmosphere is part of the experience.

If it’s your first time visiting Durbuy, I’d start your day here before heading into the surrounding countryside.

My tip: Visit earlier in the day if you want to explore the old streets before they get busier, particularly during weekends and holiday periods.

Exploring the old streets of Durbuy on foot

2. Go for a Walk in the Ardennes

If you’re visiting Durbuy, make time for nature. The surrounding Ardennes are one of the main reasons I’d recommend staying longer than just a few hours.

The region has plenty of walking routes through forests, hills and countryside, ranging from shorter walks to longer hikes that take up most of the day.

This is actually one of my favourite things about visiting the Durbuy area. You don’t necessarily need an expensive activity or a packed itinerary. Sometimes, simply walking through the forest and ending the day with a drink somewhere is enough.

If you want to explore beyond the main tourist centre, look into walking routes around the surrounding villages, including Heyd and Bomal.

I’d recommend having a car if you want to explore several different walking areas, as the region is much larger than Durbuy’s historic centre.

3. Walk Along the Ourthe River

The Ourthe River runs through Durbuy and is one of the most scenic parts of the town.

Take a walk along the river to enjoy views of the old town, the traditional stone buildings and the surrounding hills. It’s an easy activity to fit into your day, even if you’re only visiting Durbuy for a few hours.

The Ourthe is also where you’ll find one of the area’s most popular summer activities: kayaking.

Even if you’re not interested in getting out on the water, I’d still make time for a walk along the river. It’s a lovely way to see Durbuy from a different perspective, and you can easily combine it with exploring the old town.

4. See La Roche à la Falize

One of Durbuy’s most recognisable natural landmarks is La Roche à la Falize, also known as the Roche d’Omalius.

This impressive limestone rock formation is located close to the historic centre and forms part of the local landscape. It’s particularly interesting if you enjoy geology, but you definitely don’t need to be a geology expert to appreciate it.

Because it’s so easy to include while exploring the town, there’s little reason to skip it.

The rock formation, the river and the surrounding historic buildings create one of those classic Durbuy views that make the town so photogenic.

If you’re putting together a list of Durbuy landmarks to see during a short visit, this is an easy one to add.

View from Roche à la Falize near Durbuy in the Belgian Ardennes

5. See Durbuy Castle

Durbuy Castle is another of the town’s most recognisable landmarks.

The castle sits on a rocky promontory above the old town and the Ourthe River, making it an important part of Durbuy’s skyline.

You can’t simply walk into every part of the castle, so don’t plan your visit around exploring its interior. Instead, enjoy the views of the castle from the town and the river.

I’d especially recommend looking back towards it while walking along the Ourthe. The combination of the castle, stone buildings and surrounding greenery is part of what makes Durbuy so picturesque.

It’s a good stop to combine with a walk through the historic centre rather than something you need to plan a separate visit around.

6. Spend a Few Hours at Adventure Valley Durbuy

Looking for something more active than sightseeing? Head to Adventure Valley Durbuy.

This is one of the region’s main activity parks and is particularly popular with families and groups of friends. It’s a good option if you want to combine your visit with outdoor adventures or need something to do when the weather isn’t cooperating.

Depending on the activities and facilities available during your visit, options include:

Bowling
Climbing
Laser game
Fast Tag
Outdoor adventure activities
Kayaking
Activities for children

The indoor facilities are particularly useful on a rainy day. However, not every activity is necessarily available every day, so check the current offer before visiting.

My personal experience

I tried Fast Tag at Adventure Valley.

Honestly? It wasn’t really my favourite activity, and I found it a little disappointing.

That doesn’t mean I’d rule out Adventure Valley, though. There are plenty of other activities to choose from, especially if you’re visiting with a group.

If you’re travelling with friends, I’d compare the available activities before booking rather than going specifically for Fast Tag.k at the different activities available rather than going specifically for Fast Tag.

Friends taking a selfie at Adventure Valley Durbuy

7. Play Laser Game

If you’re visiting Durbuy with friends, laser game is another activity worth considering at Adventure Valley.

The indoor game takes place in an illuminated maze, with features such as robots and dinosaurs adding to the experience. Sessions are relatively short, making it easy to fit into a half-day of activities.

It’s also a useful rainy-day option because you can combine it with other indoor activities, such as bowling, depending on what’s available.

You don’t necessarily need to spend an entire day at Adventure Valley to enjoy it. If you’re looking for one activity to add to your Durbuy itinerary, laser game could be a fun choice.

8. Go Kayaking on the Ourthe River

Kayaking on the Ourthe is one of the best outdoor activities around Durbuy, particularly during the warmer months.

Instead of exploring the Ardennes on foot, you’ll experience the region from the water, surrounded by greenery, hills and stretches of river.

There are different routes and starting points around Durbuy and Barvaux, depending on the provider and current conditions. This means you can look for an option that fits the amount of time you have available.

Kayaking is particularly appealing if you’re visiting Durbuy with friends, as it gives you something active to do together without needing to organise a full day of hiking.

Good to know: Routes and availability can depend on water levels and weather conditions. Check the current information with your chosen provider before booking, especially outside the main summer season.

If you’re planning a weekend in the Ardennes, kayaking is a great activity to combine with exploring the old town and enjoying dinner or drinks afterwards.

Kayaking on the Ourthe River near Durbuy

9. Go Shopping in Durbuy

You might not immediately think of Durbuy as a shopping destination, but the historic centre has plenty of independent boutiques and little shops to explore.

You’ll find everything from clothes and jewellery to homeware, gifts, food and local products. Most are concentrated around the old town, so it’s easy to combine shopping with sightseeing, coffee or lunch.

One of my personal favourites is L’Herbe Rouge.

I honestly love this shop and almost always end up buying something there. The quality-to-price ratio is really good, so even if you’re not normally someone who shops while travelling, I’d still recommend having a look inside.

Shopping in Durbuy is less about spending an entire day in big stores and more about discovering small independent businesses as you wander through the streets.

It’s also a good activity if the weather isn’t ideal for hiking or other outdoor plans.

Shopping in the small boutiques of Durbuy

10. Try a Wine Tasting in Durbuy

If you’re looking for something a little different, consider booking a wine tasting in Durbuy.

Guided wine experiences can give you the chance to taste several wines while learning more about topics such as terroir, grape selection and winemaking.

One of the experiences available has included a tasting of five wines with a wine expert, lasting around 1.5 hours. Exact experiences, prices and inclusions can change, so check the current details before booking.

I’d consider this a nice option if you’re visiting Durbuy with your partner or a group of friends and want something more relaxed than an outdoor activity.

You could easily combine a tasting with a leisurely afternoon exploring the old town before heading out for dinner.

11. Visit the Sunday Market in Bomal

If you’re visiting the Durbuy area on a Sunday morning, consider heading to Bomal for La Petite Batte.

This Sunday market has a mix of food, local products, clothing, flowers, second-hand goods and brocante stalls. It’s a nice addition to a weekend in the Ardennes, especially if you’re staying in a holiday home and want to pick up a few local products.

I also like the idea of using the market as an excuse to explore beyond Durbuy itself.

The municipality of Durbuy covers a much larger area than the famous old town, and surrounding places such as Bomal have their own atmosphere.

You could visit the market in the morning, stop for a coffee or lunch and spend the rest of the day exploring the countryside.

Good to know: Check the current market information before travelling, particularly around public holidays or special events.

Trying on clothes at La Petite Batte in Durbuy, Belgium

12. Go for a Longer Hike Outside Durbuy

While Durbuy’s historic centre is perfect for a short walk, some of the best hiking opportunities are outside the town itself.

Because I’ve visited the area regularly with my family, I’d definitely recommend looking beyond the centre and exploring places such as Heyd, Bomal and the surrounding Ardennes.

You’ll find walking routes through forests, rolling hills and small villages, giving you a chance to experience a quieter side of the region.

You could make a full day out of it by starting a longer walk, stopping somewhere for lunch or a drink and then heading back to your accommodation.

This is also one of the reasons I recommend having a car when visiting Durbuy. The region is much bigger than the town centre, and some of the most beautiful walks and villages are spread throughout the surrounding area.

If you’ve already explored the old town, don’t be afraid to spend a day outside Durbuy itself. The surrounding Ardennes are arguably one of the best parts of the trip.

Where to Stay for Exploring the Durbuy Area

If you’re staying for a few nights, choosing the right accommodation can make a big difference, especially if you want to explore the surrounding villages.

I’ve put together a separate guide to where to stay in Durbuy, including different areas and accommodation options.

If you’re short on time, here are three options to consider:

Durbuy Historic Centre: Hotel des Comtes Durbuy
Barvaux-sur-Ourthe: Azur en Ardenne
Surrounding Villages & Countryside: La Manoir de Heyd

13. Visit the Durbuy Christmas Market

Durbuy is also a lovely place to visit during the Christmas season.

The Christmas market brings wooden stalls, decorations, lights, food and drinks to parts of the old town. It’s particularly atmospheric in the evening, when the lights are on and the historic streets feel extra cosy.

If you’re visiting Durbuy around Christmas, I’d plan some time to wander through the town after dark, grab a warm drink and enjoy the atmosphere.

The main thing to keep in mind is that the Christmas market attracts plenty of visitors. Expect the town to be busier than during a typical winter weekend.

The exact dates, opening times and arrangements can change each year, so check the current programme before planning your trip.

If you’re deciding when to visit Belgium more generally, my Belgium Travel Guide has more information to help you plan your trip.

Christmas market in Durbuy with festive lights and decorations

14. Have a Drink at Edouard Garden Café

If you want a break from sightseeing, head to Edouard Garden Café in Durbuy’s old town.

It’s more than somewhere to grab a quick coffee. The café offers options including breakfast, brunch, lunch, cocktails and specialty coffee, with a garden and winter-garden setting.

I especially like the idea of stopping here to slow down for a while after exploring the centre.

Depending on when you visit, you could stop for coffee and cake, have brunch or lunch, or enjoy an aperitif before dinner.

Good to know: The café’s booking policy and opening arrangements may change, so check its latest information before visiting. If you’re going with a larger group, arriving earlier can be a good idea.

15. Get an Ice Cream at La Gourmandine or Durbuy Ice Cream

And finally: get an ice cream.

If you’re visiting Durbuy on a sunny day, this is basically mandatory.

Two places to look out for are La Gourmandine and Durbuy Ice Cream.

La Gourmandine

La Gourmandine is a lovely place to stop for something sweet while exploring the old town. It’s located on Rue Jean de Bohème, making it an easy stop to combine with a walk through the historic centre.

Depending on what’s available when you visit, you can look out for ice cream and other sweet treats.

La Gourmandine restaurant in Durbuy, Belgium

Durbuy Ice Cream

If you’re specifically craving an ice cream, Durbuy Ice Cream is another option to look out for in the centre.

Honestly, after wandering through the little streets or walking along the Ourthe, sitting down with an ice cream is exactly the kind of activity that makes sense in Durbuy.

You don’t always need another attraction. Sometimes coffee, ice cream and a pretty street are enough.

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How Many Days Do You Need in Durbuy?

For the historic centre itself, one day is enough to see the main sights and explore the little streets.

However, I’d recommend staying for two nights if you want to experience more of Durbuy and the surrounding Ardennes.

Here’s how I’d plan your visit.

One day in Durbuy

Explore the historic centre.
Walk along the Ourthe River.
Visit La Roche à la Falize and enjoy views of Durbuy Castle.
Browse the independent shops.
Stop for lunch, coffee or ice cream.

Two days in Durbuy

Spend the first day exploring the old town, then use the second day for something more active.

You could go kayaking, visit Adventure Valley, explore a walking route in the Ardennes or visit Bomal if you’re there on a Sunday.

Three or more days in Durbuy

With three days or more, you can use Durbuy as a base to explore the surrounding villages and countryside at a slower pace.

This is especially worthwhile if you’re staying in a holiday home with friends and want to enjoy the accommodation as well as the activities.

If you’re planning a full weekend, check out my 3-Day Durbuy Weekend Itinerary for a more detailed day-by-day plan.

My Tips for Visiting Durbuy

1. Don’t just visit the old town

The old town is beautiful and is the main reason many people visit Durbuy. But the surrounding region is where you’ll find many of the best walks, outdoor activities and quieter landscapes.

If you have the time, explore beyond the centre.

2. Consider renting a car

You don’t need a car to explore the historic centre, but I would recommend one if you want to visit several places in the surrounding area.

Some villages, hiking routes and activities are spread out, and public transport isn’t always the most convenient option.

If you’re travelling around Belgium, my guide to Getting Around Belgium: Trains, Buses & Public Transport explains when public transport is enough and when having a car is more useful.

3. Don’t overplan your day

If you only have one day in Durbuy, you don’t need to squeeze all 15 activities into your itinerary.

Walk around the town, have something good to eat, get an ice cream and enjoy the atmosphere. You can always return for another weekend to explore the surrounding area.

4. Check the weather before booking activities

Hiking and kayaking are much more enjoyable when the weather cooperates. If rain is forecast, consider indoor activities at Adventure Valley or spend more time exploring the cafés and shops in the centre.

5. Think about where you want to stay

If you’re travelling with friends, I’d compare hotels in the centre with holiday homes in the surrounding villages.

Staying outside the town can give you more space and make it easier to enjoy the wider region, especially if you have a car.

For more specific recommendations, read my guide to where to stay in Durbuy.

Planning Your Trip to Belgium?

Planning a trip to Belgium can be surprisingly difficult, especially when you’re choosing between historic cities, lively student towns, coastal destinations and smaller hidden gems.

That’s why I’ve created my Belgium Travel Guide, where I share destination guides, things to do, local tips and my personal experiences from travelling around Belgium.

→ START HERE: Belgium Travel Guides
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Durbuy Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, Where to Stay & Weekend Tips
Is Durbuy Worth Visiting? My Honest Opinion
Where to Stay in Durbuy: Best Areas & Hotels
The Perfect Weekend in Durbuy, Belgium: 3-Day Itinerary

FAQ: Things to Do in Durbuy, Belgium

What is Durbuy best known for?

Durbuy is best known for its picturesque historic centre, cobbled streets, stone buildings, the Ourthe River and its location in the Belgian Ardennes. It’s also a popular destination for hiking, kayaking and other outdoor activities.

Is Durbuy worth visiting?

Yes, especially if you enjoy small historic towns, nature, hiking, food and outdoor activities. Durbuy is particularly well suited to a weekend getaway, especially if you explore the surrounding Ardennes rather than staying only in the town centre.

For a more detailed answer, read my guide to whether Durbuy is worth visiting.

Is one day enough for Durbuy?

Yes. One day is enough to explore the old town, walk along the Ourthe and see the main landmarks. However, staying two nights gives you more time for hiking, kayaking, Adventure Valley and exploring the surrounding villages.

What are the best outdoor activities in Durbuy?

Some of the best outdoor activities in Durbuy include hiking in the Ardennes, kayaking on the Ourthe River and taking part in outdoor adventures at Adventure Valley. The surrounding countryside also offers opportunities to explore smaller villages and walking routes.

What can you do in Durbuy when it rains?

Adventure Valley has indoor activities that may include bowling, laser game, Fast Tag and Kidzone. You can also spend more time exploring the cafés, independent shops and restaurants in the historic centre. Check current activity availability before visiting.

Is Durbuy good for a weekend trip?

Definitely. Durbuy is an excellent option for a weekend getaway because you can combine the historic centre with nature, hiking, food and outdoor activities. It’s particularly enjoyable if you’re travelling with friends and staying in a holiday home nearby.

Do you need a car in Durbuy?

You don’t need a car to explore the historic centre, but I’d recommend having one if you want to explore the wider region. Villages such as Heyd and Bomal, along with hiking routes and other attractions, are spread throughout the Durbuy area.

What is there to do around Durbuy?

The surrounding area offers hiking trails, small villages, markets, kayaking and attractions such as Adventure Valley. If you’re visiting on a Sunday, Bomal’s La Petite Batte market is another option to consider.

Is Durbuy suitable for families?

Yes. Families can explore the historic centre, walk along the river, go hiking and visit Adventure Valley for a range of indoor and outdoor activities. Check age restrictions and availability for individual activities before booking.

What are the best things to do in Durbuy for couples?

Couples can explore the old town, go for a walk in the Ardennes, enjoy a wine tasting, have coffee at a cosy café or spend a weekend in a holiday home in the surrounding countryside. Durbuy is particularly suited to a relaxed getaway rather than a busy city break.