Namur: Citadel and Meuse

Namur is the capital of Wallonia and lies picturesquely at the confluence of the Sambre and the Meuse. The city combines imposing heritage with modern cultural infrastructure, and scores surprisingly well on accessibility. This day trip takes you from the heights of the citadel, via a family-friendly play park, to two major museums in the historic lower town. Expect an active day with some distance to cover — a car or taxi is recommended between the stops on the citadel hill and in the centre.

Start at the top of the Citadel of Namur, one of the largest fortresses in Europe. The Terra Nova visitor centre is fully wheelchair-accessible with lifts, passable paved paths and adapted toilets. The underground tunnels are partially accessible — check on arrival which routes are possible. The view over the Meuse from the plateau is breathtaking. On the citadel hill you will also find the Parc Attractif Reine Fabiola, a family park with play equipment, a miniature golf course and a little train. The main paths are paved and most play equipment can be watched from a wheelchair — ideal for a picnic with children or grandchildren.

In the afternoon, descend to the lower town for the Musée Félicien Rops, dedicated to the Namur-born symbolist artist and draughtsman. The museum's accessibility is somewhat limited by its historic building, but the main floors are reachable by lift — on arrival, ask about the accessible entrance at the back. Nearby you will find the Musée des Arts Anciens du Namurois, housed in the Hôtel de Gaiffier d'Hestroy. This museum holds the prestigious Oignies treasure and a collection of medieval and Renaissance art. The ground-floor galleries are well accessible.

Practical tips: reach the citadel preferably by car (there is a disabled car park at Terra Nova) or by the tourist train from the centre. Between the citadel and the lower town it is too steep to roll yourself — use the car or the shuttle. In the centre the distances between the museums are short (300-500 metres), though some streets slope slightly. Adapted toilets are certainly available at Terra Nova and at the Musée des Arts Anciens.