One Belgian city has appeared in the top 20 of the prestigious 'European Best Destinations' list, which ranks the trendiest places to visit on the continent this year.
The Walloon capital of Namur, located just over an hour from Brussels, has been included in the European Best Destinations' highly anticipated ranking of the must-visit places in Europe. The city, located at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, has been experiencing a true renaissance, helping it land in fifth spot.
"Much like Bordeaux, Namur is a city that has awakened, reclaiming its vibrancy and reinventing itself through audacious and innovative projects," the organisation, an initiative of the European Commission, wrote about the up-and-coming city.
"From sustainable urban developments to ambitious cultural initiatives, Namur is Belgium's most exciting destination, where tradition and modernity merge to create a city full of energy, charm and opportunities."
Namur on a sunny day. Credit: Belga / Nicolas Maeterlinck
It noted that Namur was once a hidden gem but is now a "thriving hub of innovation, sustainability and culture, attracting both tourists and investors looking for a city on the rise." The city is increasingly seen as a leading investment destination, appealing to both emerging entrepreneurs and established global companies.
However, Namur – famed for its citadel on a hill and its cable car (téléphérique), which opened in 2021 and brings visitors to the top in just seven minutes – offers much more than its business-orientated strengths.
"It is the perfect romantic and cultural getaway of 2025. With its boutique hotels, high-end gastronomic restaurants and trendy bars, the city offers a blend of Belgian comfort cuisine infused with a unique artistic touch."
People enjoying the sun on the citadel of Namur. Credit: Belga / Nicolas Maeterlinck
Because of its expansive green spaces, strong commitment to zero-carbon initiatives and thriving start-up ecosystem, the city is not only popular among tourists but has also been named one of the best cities to live in.
This marks the second time in recent years that Namur was named one of the best European destinations. In 2019, it came seventh in the ranking. The city has also been shortlisted as a candidate for the European Capital of Culture 2030.
Belgium was left out of the previous two rankings (in 2023 and 2024). However, in 2022, the Flemish city of Leuven came in fifth place. At the time, it marked the first time a Belgian city was ranked so highly.
Monaco crowned winner
This year's list was based on a record number of votes from more than 1.25 million people across 158 countries. These top holiday spots were selected from a long list of 500 places for their quality of life, sustainable development, all-year-round cultural offer, growth of popularity on social networks and international awards.
Monaco tops the list with an unmatched 116,000 votes, making it the most globally endorsed destination in the competition's history. The microstate on the French Riviera, officially the Principality of Monaco, was selected for offering an exceptional experience for all tourists.
The full list is as follows:
- Monaco
- Riga, Latvia
- Dubrovnik & Cavtat, Croatia
- Madrid, Spain
- Namur, Belgium
- Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Olhao, Portugal
- Mljet, Croatia
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Antipaxos, Greece
- Dhermi, Albania
- Bath, United Kingdom
- Folegandros, Greece
- Istanbul, Turkey
- Eze, France
- Ascona, Switzerland
- Ålesund, Norway
- Cassis, France
- Seville, Spain
- Porto-Montenegro, Tivat, Montenegro
