Dinant: Day Trips and Tours from Brussels

Dinant, a picturesque town nestled along the banks of the Meuse River, is a hidden gem in the heart of Belgium. With its tumbling cliffs, medieval architecture and rich history, it's no wonder that Dinant is quickly gaining attention as one of the top day trips from Brussels.

Day tours from Brussels to Dinant will provide a highlight reel of the town's iconic landmarks, from the imposing Citadel perched atop a cliff, to the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame and the iconic Adolphe Sax statue, paying tribute to the town's famous son.

Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, there is something for everyone in this charming town.

Here's all you need to know about Dinant, one of the most exciting day trips from Brussels.

How to get to Dinant from Brussels?

Dinant is located in the Wallonia region of Belgium, along the banks of the Meuse River. It is situated approximately 90 kilometers southeast of Brussels, making it easily accessible for day trips from the capital city.

From Brussels to Dinant by car

To get to Dinant from Brussels by car, the fastest way is to take the E411 motorway southbound. The journey typically takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Follow the signs for Namur; from there, you can either continue on the highway or take a slight detour along the banks of the Meuse for a more scenic journey.

On the way back, consider driving an alternate route through Charleroi to add some variety to your journey.

From Brussels to Dinant by public transport

To travel from Brussels to Dinant by public transport, you can take the IC train from Brussels central station (or several nearby stations) to Dinant direct. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Trains depart regularly throughout the day and tickets can be purchased at the station or online.

Guided tour to Dinant from Brussels

A guided tour to Dinant from Brussels is the most popular and hassle-free option. The logistics are taken care of for you and you have a knowledgeable guide who can provide insights into the history, culture and attractions of Dinant throughout the day.

Finally, a guided tour ensures you don't miss any must-see sights or hidden gems, maximizing your time in Dinant.

What is the typical itinerary?

Every guided tour from Brussels to Dinant is slightly different, but they generally all follow a similar enough schedule, as follows.

The day begins with an early morning departure from Brussels — you'll be picked up from your hotel and then head off on a scenic journey through the Belgian countryside. Once you arrive in Dinant, the first stop is often the iconic Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame, a stunning Gothic masterpiece that dominates the town's skyline.

Next, you'll typically take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque river promenade, lined with colorful buildings, cafes, and shops. Don't miss the famous Saxophone Bridge, dedicated to Dinant's most famous resident, Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone.

After lunch at a local café, you'll usually continue your sightseeing with a visit to the Citadel of Dinant, the icon of the city, dramatically perched on a rocky cliff overlooking the town. Here, you can take a guided tour to discover the fortress's fascinating history and soak in the panoramic views of Dinant and the surrounding area.

Depending on your tour of choice, you might also visit other nearby towns like Namur or even cross the border to Luxembourg (the city and country).

What kinds of tours are available to go to Dinant?

When planning a trip from Brussels to Dinant, you have several tour options to choose from. Whether you prefer small group tours, private day trips, or combination excursions that cover multiple attractions or cities, there is something for everyone. Let's take a brief overview of the most sought-after tours for this route.

Small group day trip to Dinant and Luxembourg

This guided day trip from Brussels takes you to explore two fascinating destinations, Dinant and Luxembourg. You'll start by visiting the picturesque city of Dinant, known for its music, history and beer.

Then, you'll continue to Luxembourg City, where you'll explore the Old Town, marvel at medieval monuments, and visit iconic landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Le Chemin de la Corniche – also known as the most beautiful balcony in Europe.

The tour includes a professional guide, transportation, guided visits in Dinant and Luxembourg, lunch and most entrance tickets.

Small group full-day excursion to Dinant and Namur

Staying within the Belgian borders, the full-day excursion from Brussels to Dinant and Namur includes round-trip transportation, entrance to the fortified Citadel of Dinant, cable car rides, lunch, and a tour of both towns' historic centers.

This kind of tour lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, including some free time to wander the picturesque streets and try local food (ask your guide for recommendations).

This style of tour may be alongside some fellow travelers, allowing you to make some friends along the way.

Private day trip to Namur and Dinant

This kind of day trip provides a more personalized experience to explore Belgium's noteworthy cities of Dinant and Namur, back to back. With a private vehicle, chauffeur and official tour guide, you'll visit attractions like the Citadel, Charles-de-Gaulle Bridge (also known as the Saxophone Bridge) and more.

Due to the private nature of the tour, you can customize and tailor the itinerary to fit your interests.

Private day tour of Luxembourg and Dinant

Suited for those who want to explore another country in a single day, the private tour of Luxembourg and Dinant includes transportation from Brussels, and approximately 10 to 12 hours worth of guided exploring through both countries.

In Dinant, you'll get to check off the quintessential attractions like the Citadel, the Church of Notre-Dame and the Vêves Castle. In Luxembourg, you can visit historical attractions like the Casemates du Bock, Place Guillaume II (the town square) and, if you have time, the extraordinary Vianden Castle.

How much does a day trip to Dinant from Brussels cost?

The list of tours to Dinant from Brussels encompasses a range of options with different price points. A small-group day trip to Dinant and Luxembourg costs between €55 and €70 per person, while a full-day excursion to Dinant and Namur costs around €100 per adult, often with discounted rates for seniors, youth and kids.

Private tours are more expensive but focus on personalized experiences with private vehicles and guides. Private trips from Brussels to Dinant that include Luxembourg or Namur are more expensive, but are usually priced per group — generally speaking, they vary between €200 and €500 per person.

What will you see and do?

You'll have the chance to admire traditional architecture, browse local shops, and sample delicious Belgian treats like waffles and chocolates in Dinant's Old Town. On top of that, a guided tour to Dinant opens the door to a wealth of other captivating sights and activities:

The Citadel of Dinant

This historic fortress is perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the town and the Meuse River. With informative displays and friendly guides on hand, you'll learn about its fascinating history and enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.

The Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame (Dinant)

This magnificent Gothic-style church is known for its impressive onion dome tower. Inside, you'll find beautiful stained glass windows and intricate architectural details.

Namur

Many Dinant day trips also make a stop in Namur along the way. This small yet beautiful city is famous for its historic Citadel, charming Old Town, vibrant festivals and its picturesque surroundings in the Ardennes region.

Guided tours might include a stop at the Leffe Abbey, where you can learn about the history of the famous Leffe beers.

Luxembourg City

Many tour operators offer the option of including a stop in Luxembourg. The tiny nation is underrated and often surpirses visitors with its fascinting landmarks: the underground labyrinth of Casemates du Bock, the Vianden Castle and the Chemin de la Corniche, to name a few.

When is the best time to visit Dinant?

The best time to visit Dinant is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) seasons. The weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. These seasons offer a great opportunity to explore the town comfortably and enjoy its attractions without overwhelming tourist crowds.

What other day trips can you do from Brussels?

• Bruges day trips from Brussels
• Ghent day trips from Brussels
• Antwerp day trips from Brussels
• Amsterdam day trips from Brussels
• Keukenhof day trips from Brussels

Travel tips

• Book your Dinant day tour from Brussels in advance to ensure you lock in your preferred date.
• Pack a light jacket, as the weather in Dinant (and Luxembourg) can change throughout the day.
• Try the local specialty, Couque de Dinant, a hard and sweet biscuit known for its unique texture and taste.