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Just 2 hours from Lille, this boat trip through one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium is definitely worth it!

undefined undefined 30 avril 2026 undefined 08h30

The Editor

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When the sun finally peeks out, the urge to escape the usual terrace becomes almost urgent. Good news: just 2 hours from Lille, a little getaway to Belgium checks all the boxes for the perfect weekend.

Head to Dinant, one of the prettiest towns in Wallonia, for a cruise on the Meuse River surrounded by cliffs, a citadel, and a holiday vibe.

A water stroll in the heart of a postcard

You can't miss Dinant: the town seems almost trapped between the rock and the Meuse, with its famous citadel perched on top and the majestic Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame just below. The best idea when the weather is nice is to hop on a cruise on the Meuse. There are several options available on-site, but the 45-minute ride is the perfect choice for a first-time experience. It allows you to admire the famous Rocher Bayard, an impressive rocky needle that has become one of the symbols of the town, as well as the stunning landscapes surrounding Dinant. It's the kind of simple, calm moment, almost suspended in time, where you quickly forget you were in Lille just two hours earlier.

Dinant, the photogenic girl of the Meuse

Often hailed as one of the most beautiful towns in Europe, Dinant has this delightful yet annoying talent: it looks stunning from absolutely every angle. Its promenade along the Meuse, sunny terraces, bridges adorned with colorful saxophones, and its facades snug against the cliff give it a true cinematic charm. And it's no coincidence: Dinant is also the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone. His house, turned into a museum, is easy to visit, and the Charles de Gaulle bridge pays tribute with dozens of saxophones in the colors of Europe.

What to do there after the cruise?

Once you're back on solid ground, it would be a shame to leave too quickly. The Dinant Citadel is, of course, a must-see, offering spectacular views of the entire valley. You can enjoy your time there and make the most of it!

Walk in (good luck) or take the cable car (great choice). Other recommended stops: the Grotto La Merveilleuse, famous for its impressive formations, Maison Leffe for serious Belgian beer lovers, or the house of Monsieur Sax for a cultural touch. And of course, a terrace by the water to finish all this off with elegance.

A true spring getaway

Dinant is exactly the kind of destination we keep in mind for those first lovely weekends. Not too far, wonderfully refreshing, beautifully charming without any effort, and just the right mix of nature, history, and delicious food. In short, it’s an outing that feels like you've traveled much farther than you expected.

Address: Dinant, Belgium