In 2025, Namur in Belgium was the center of attention for European travelers. It took 5th place in the European Best Destinations ranking – a list of the best tourist destinations in Europe, compiled based on the results of voting by more than 1.2 million people from 158 countries. This unexpected breakthrough can be explained by several reasons at once: Namur has become a symbol of the “new European tourism” – eco-friendly, cultural, soulful and at the same time affordable.
The city at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers is actively developing its infrastructure without losing the charm of the old Belgian center. Instead of fashionable resorts and streets overcrowded with tourists, there are spacious panoramas, cozy streets, green areas and a slow, relaxed pace of life. Namur is a city where you don’t want to rush.
Here’s what tourists especially appreciate about it in 2025:
- The Citadel of Namur is a powerful fortress on a hill with a fantastic view.
- A modern cable car connecting the centre with the citadel.
- A rich cultural program: festivals, exhibitions, installations.
- Eco-friendly hotels and sustainable tourism initiatives.
- Authentic Belgian cafes and a local produce market.
- Convenient rail connections to Brussels and Liege.
- Cozy hotels and apartments at reasonable prices.
This is not the first time Namur has attracted the attention of travelers: in 2019, it was already among the top ten destinations. In 2025, it has not only risen in the rankings, but has been announced as one of the contenders for the title of European Capital of Culture in 2030.
Local authorities are actively investing in:
- Urban environment.
- Startup infrastructure.
- Development of green transport.
- Support for contemporary art.
This makes Namur an example of a smart European city – not a noisy metropolis, but a thoughtful cultural centre, ideal for short trips, romantic weekends or leisurely family holidays.
If you want to be one of those who discover Namur before it becomes mainstream, 2025 is the perfect year. Affordable prices, an atmosphere of leisurely Belgian charm and the absence of crowds of tourists are the formula for this city’s success.
