Welcome to Durbuy, in Belgium, often dubbed the smallest city in the world.
The smallest city in the world, or almost
Nestled in the heart of the Belgian Ardennes, along the winding Ourthe River, Durbuy has long cherished this unusual reputation: that of being the smallest city in the world. With about 400 inhabitants, it earned this nickname back in the 14th century when John of Bohemia, Count of Luxembourg, officially granted it city status. Since then, the title has stuck… and it has to be said, it works quite well! Nowadays, it's mostly turned into a delightful tourist slogan, but honestly, once you're there, you'll see why everyone falls in love.
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A postcard come to life
The historic center of Durbuy feels like a scene frozen in time. You'll find a genuine maze of charming pedestrian streets lined with stone houses, blooming facades, and delightful terraces. A special mention goes to Daufresne de la Chevalerie Street, the oldest in the city, entirely paved with pebbles from the Ourthe river. The ancient ramparts, the castle perched on its rocky outcrop, the famous anticline rock, and the Topiary Park, with its completely whimsical plant sculptures, give the place a true fairy tale atmosphere. It’s the kind of spot where you set out for “a little stroll” and end up spending the whole day.
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Between Great Food and Fresh Air
Durbuy is not just beautiful; it’s also very delicious. The town is famous for its local cuisine, especially centered around crayfish, the quiet star of the local tables. With charming Belgian breweries, cozy restaurants, and hidden terraces, you’ll definitely find enough to plan a seriously delightful culinary getaway. And if you’d like to balance it out with some exercise, no worries at all: there are bike trails, nature walks, kayaking, hiking, and even Adventure Valley Durbuy, a huge outdoor activity park, ready for you. It’s the perfect balance between good times and a clear conscience.
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A Perfect Getaway from Lille
About 2 hours' drive from Lille, Durbuy checks all the boxes for a spontaneous weekend that feels rejuvenating. No need to take three days off or book a 6 AM flight: here, you can leave in the morning, take your time, enjoy delicious food, breathe in the fresh air... and come back feeling like you've truly unplugged. And honestly, given the charm of the place, there's a good chance you'll want to go back!
Address: Durbuy, Belgium