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The list of things to do in Dinant starts with exploring this small Belgian town that packs in surprising charm and adventure. Perched along the River Meuse and surrounded by rocky cliffs, Dinant is the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone. From dramatic hilltop fortresses to underground caves, the things to see in Dinant are ideal for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy boat rides, mesmerising views, or Belgian abbey beer, Dinant offers unique experiences all year round.
Best Things To Do In Dinant, Belgium
Here is a list of things to do in Dinant, including castle tours, saxophone trails, boat cruises, and tasty local treats that offer unforgettable moments.
1. Explore The Citadel Of Dinant
Photo: Jean-Pol GRANDMONT / Wikimedia Commons
One of the top things to do in Dinant is to visit this 11th-century fortress perched 100 metres above the Meuse River. Its tunnels, artillery, and museum tell stories of battles from the French Revolution to the World Wars. It can be reached by cable car or stairs, and the summit provides stunning views. The citadel’s layered history, strategic importance, and immersive displays make it a must-see for visitors interested in European military heritage.
Location: Rue de la Citadelle 1
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Cost: €12 / ₹1,080
2. Admire The Collegiate Church Of Our Lady
Photo: Zairon / Wikimedia Commons
Exploring this church is one of the must-see things to do in Dinant. Known for its unusual pear-shaped spire, this 13th-century Gothic structure also houses Romanesque and Baroque features due to reconstruction after a 1287 rockfall. Inside, admire the Virgin and Child sculpture from the 16th century and Europe’s largest Ladon stained-glass window. The church blends architectural grandeur, religious heritage, and artistic excellence, making it a spiritual and cultural landmark for visitors.
Location: Place Rémy Himmer 1
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Nearby Hotels: Hotel Les 3 Clés, Hotel de la Couronne
Nearby Restaurants: La Table d’Antonio, Solbrun
3. Cross The Charles De Gaulle Saxophone Bridge
Photo: LBM1948 / Wikimedia Commons
Walking this unique bridge is one of the most artistic things to do in Dinant. Built in 1953, it commemorates Adolphe Sax and features 28 vibrant saxophone sculptures representing EU nations. It’s also named after Charles de Gaulle, who was wounded here in 1914. Once destroyed during WWII, the bridge now symbolises peace and cultural pride. Connecting the riverbanks, it offers stunning views of the Meuse and showcases Dinant’s musical and historical legacy.
Location: Spanning the Meuse River between Avenue Winston Churchill and Rue Saint-Jacques
Nearby Hotels: Hotel Villa Beauséjour, Dinant Lodge
Nearby Restaurants: Hoa Sen, Le Wiertz Dinant
4. Cruise The Meuse River
Photo: Ignaz Wiradi / Wikimedia Commons
A boat tour is one of the most peaceful things to do in Dinant. Glide along the Meuse River and admire limestone cliffs, the citadel, and Rocher Bayard, a rock formation linked to medieval legend. Cruises date back to the 19th century and last about 45 minutes. You can also rent an electric boat for a self-guided journey. It’s a wonderful way to experience Dinant’s charm from the water and appreciate its natural setting.
Location: Quai Cadoux 14 (Bateaux Dinant)
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Cost: €10–20 / ₹900–1,800
5. Tour Maison Leffe
Photo: Jean-Pol GRANDMONT / Wikimedia Commons
Beverage lovers will find touring Maison Leffe among the most enjoyable things to do in Dinant. Housed in a 17th-century convent, the museum explores the brewing history of Leffe beer since 1240. The interactive displays reveal monastic brewing traditions, followed by tastings of ales such as Leffe Blonde and Brune. The exhibits combine history and flavour, offering a deeper appreciation of Belgium’s renowned beverage culture in an atmospheric and informative setting.
Location: Charreau des Capucins 23
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM (closed on Mondays)
Cost: €10 / ₹900
6. Discover The House Of Adolphe Sax
Photo: Brent Carpentier / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Among the most musical things to do in Dinant is visiting the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, inventor of the saxophone. This museum features original designs, early saxophone models, and jazz recordings by legends such as Charlie Parker. The space highlights Sax’s creativity and contribution to global music. Compact but rich in content, it’s an ideal stop for music lovers eager to understand Dinant’s cultural identity and the history of this iconic instrument.
Location: Rue Sax 37
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (weekends only)
Cost: €5 / ₹450
7. Taste Couque De Dinant
Photo: Oreo Priest / Wikimedia Commons
Sampling Couque de Dinant is one of the most traditional things to do in Dinant. These rock-hard honey biscuits date back to the 15th century and were created to last through long sieges. Shaped using wooden moulds into designs such as roosters and flowers, they’re both decorative and historic. Patisserie Jacobs offers the finest selection. Though nearly impossible to bite directly, they’re often dipped in tea or coffee. These biscuits make meaningful edible souvenirs of Dinant’s culinary and cultural heritage.
Location: Rue Grande 38 (Patisserie-Boulangerie Jacobs)
Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
Cost: €2–5 / ₹180–450 per biscuit
8. Visit Rocher Bayard
Photo: Zairon / Wikimedia Commons
Visiting Rocher Bayard is one of the most dramatic things to do in Dinant. A cannonball supposedly split this 40-meter limestone spire in 1692; however, local legend credits a magical horse with leaping through it. A narrow staircase carved into the rock leads to amazing views of the Meuse River. Combining striking geology, folklore, and natural beauty, Rocher Bayard offers a memorable outdoor experience just a short distance from Dinant’s centre.
Location: Route de Philippeville
Nearby Hotels: Hotel Vieux Château, Auberge de la Lesse
Nearby Restaurants: Sawadee Thailand, La Petite Fugue
9. Explore Grotte La Merveilleuse
Photo: Tine Hinane Mouzaoui / Wikimedia Commons
Exploring Grotte La Merveilleuse is one of the most awe-inspiring things to do in Dinant. Discovered in 1904, this cave showcases stunning limestone formations, delicate stalactites, and a hidden underground waterfall. Guided tours take visitors through beautifully lit chambers while sharing its role as a WWII shelter. The experience offers a unique glimpse into the geological forces that shaped the region. It’s an unforgettable journey combining natural beauty, historical context, and scientific wonder beneath Dinant’s surface.
Location: Rue de Philippeville 142
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (closed on Tuesdays)
Cost: €9 / ₹810
10. Discover The House Of Pataphony
Photo: Thor19 / Wikimedia Commons
Engaging with musical creativity here is one of the most playful things to do in Dinant. The House of Pataphony features installations built from recycled materials, allowing visitors to create music using pipes, cans, and other objects. Inspired by Adolphe Sax, it encourages musical experimentation through hands-on workshops and guided sessions. Ideal for families, it blends fun and education, celebrating Dinant’s inventive spirit and musical roots in an interactive setting.
Location: Rue Adolphe Sax 24
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (closed on Mondays)
Cost: €8 / ₹720
The various things to do in Dinant reveal a town bursting with character, history, and charm in every corner. Whether you’re wandering along riverside paths or exploring hidden caves, Dinant offers a wonderful blend of culture and adventure. From delicious biscuits to beautiful viewpoints, it’s a perfect weekend destination for families, solo travellers, or couples. Looking to explore what to do in Dinant, Belgium? Book a tailored Dinant experience with TripXL and enjoy Belgium like never before.
Cover Photo: Alex Vasey avase / Wikimedia Commons
