Namur, the capital of Wallonia, has earned a coveted spot among the top 20 destinations in Europe, according to the prestigious ‘European Best Destinations’ list for 2025. The Belgian city secured fifth place in the rankings, reaffirming its status as a rising travel hotspot.
The European Best Destinations initiative, backed by the European Commission, highlighted Namur’s transformation in recent years.
“Much like Bordeaux, Namur is a city that has awakened, reclaiming its vibrancy and reinventing itself through audacious and innovative projects,” the organization stated.
Located at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, Namur has experienced a cultural and economic renaissance, blending historical charm with modern development.
Once considered a hidden gem, the city is now a hub of sustainability, innovation, and tourism, attracting both visitors and investors alike.
A City on the Rise
Namur’s selection among the top destinations comes as no surprise to those familiar with its evolving landscape. The city has invested heavily in sustainable urban developments, zero-carbon initiatives, and a thriving start-up ecosystem.
These efforts have not only enhanced the quality of life for residents but have also made Namur an attractive destination for travelers seeking an eco-friendly and culturally rich experience.
The city’s iconic citadel, perched on a hill, remains one of its most visited landmarks. The cable car (téléphérique), which opened in 2021, provides a panoramic journey to the top in just seven minutes, offering breathtaking views of the historic surroundings.
Beyond its historic and business-oriented appeal, Namur has emerged as the perfect romantic and cultural getaway. Its boutique hotels, gourmet restaurants, and trendy bars provide a unique blend of Belgian comfort cuisine with an artistic flair.
“Namur is Belgium’s most exciting destination, where tradition and modernity merge to create a city full of energy, charm, and opportunities,” the European Best Destinations ranking noted.
A Legacy of Recognition
This is not the first time Namur has been recognized as a premier European destination. In 2019, the city ranked seventh in the same competition. Its growing reputation has also led to a nomination for the prestigious European Capital of Culture 2030 title.
Belgium was notably absent from the 2023 and 2024 rankings, making Namur’s inclusion this year a significant achievement. In 2022, the Flemish city of Leuven also secured fifth place, marking the first time a Belgian city had reached such a high ranking.
Monaco Takes the Top Spot
This year’s rankings were determined by a record-breaking 1.25 million votes from 158 countries, with destinations evaluated based on their quality of life, cultural offerings, sustainability efforts, and social media popularity.
Monaco claimed the top position with an unprecedented 116,000 votes. The microstate on the French Riviera was praised for offering a world-class travel experience, cementing its status as a must-visit destination.
Other top-ranked destinations included Riga (Latvia), Dubrovnik & Cavtat (Croatia), Madrid (Spain), and Amsterdam (Netherlands). Namur’s strong placement in this list highlights its growing appeal and solidifies Belgium’s position on the European travel map.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
