Discover Veurne: Belfry, Trails and Regional Specialties

Veurne combines historic cityscapes, distinctive towers, exceptional landscapes and the flavors of West Flanders. Those looking for a holiday apartment in Veurne can therefore shape their stay in many different ways: with culture around the Grote Markt, a signposted city walk, regional specialties or a cycling tour with further discoveries.

Experience History in the Cityscape

The Belfry of Veurne has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1999. The belfry, also known as the Ceciliatoren, dates from 1628. Its significance can also be seen in the rows of façades and the city's street pattern: The traces of Veurne's circular refuge fortress, with a diameter of 180 meters, have been preserved in places including Noordstraat, Pannestraat, Vleeshouwersstraat, Grote Markt and Zwarte Nonnenstraat. The history of urban architecture here dates back to the 13th century.

The Sint-Walburga Church and the Landshuis provide further historic highlights. In the 10th century, the Sint-Walburga Church received the relics of Saint Walburga. The Landshuis was the administrative seat of Veurne-Ambacht, the Kasselrij. After the French Revolution and the abolition of this administration, the building became a courthouse. Those interested in church art, administrative history and the historic development of cities will therefore find several different ways to engage with the past.

Exploring on Foot, by Bike and with Children

For a compact exploration, the 4.6-kilometer signposted circular walk Stadswandelroute Veurne is a good option. It starts at Visit Veurne at Grote Markt 29. The route can easily be planned as a separate activity, while the preserved lines of the former refuge fortress offer an additional perspective on the street layout. The top of the Sint-Niklaas Tower offers a 360-degree panoramic view. The climb involves 214 steps and is therefore a clear factor to include in your personal day planning.

There is also a specific option for an outing with children: Kasteel Beauvoorde offers children up to 12 years old a themed treasure hunt through the castle. Kasteel Beauvoorde is also home to junction 27 of the Westhoek Noord cycling network. Vaubanpark has a picnic area that is suitable for a break during a bike ride. This allows you to alternate between urban history, activity and a more peaceful pause without limiting the travel day to just one activity.

The Region's Landscape and Flavors

An unusual landscape feature is the 3,000-hectare agricultural area of De Moeren. It is considered the lowest point in Belgium and lies two meters below sea level. This contrast with the historic buildings gives trip planning an additional geographical focus.

Regional products feature on the menu. The museum café of the Bakkerijmuseum offers tastings, including Veurnse Slaapmuts and other local specialties. Veurnse Slaapmuts is recognized as a 100 percent West Flemish regional product. Veurnse babelutten are made from Veurne sugar, glucose and, above all, butter. Those who appreciate culinary discoveries can combine a visit to the museum with further explorations of the city. The weekly Wednesday market on the Grote Markt takes place every Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Choose the Right Travel Rhythm for Your Accommodation

When looking for a holiday apartment in Veurne, it helps to first determine your preferred travel rhythm. Those interested in culture can focus on the Belfry, historic façades, the Landshuis and the Sint-Walburga Church. For active days, options include the Stadswandelroute, the panoramic view from the Sint-Niklaas Tower and a cycling tour with Kasteel Beauvoorde as a reference point. Those who enjoy variety can complement these impressions with a market visit, a break in the park and regional specialties.

Further Places for Your Planning

If you would like to include other destinations in your travel plans alongside Veurne, you can then discover Zoutenaaie and Vinkem.

For the higher-level travel overview: West Flanders.

More Destinations

More places within the same destination:

Lichtervelde, Kortrijk, Oostkamp, Kuurne, Lendelede, Hooglede.