Kluisbergen(Belgium) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Kortrijk, the top-rated hotel with historic charm is Hotel de Lys, housed in a 17th-century merchant house near the Belfry of Kortrijk. Its original stone walls, timber beams, and antique furnishings blend seamlessly with modern comforts like smart thermostats and free Wi-Fi. The hotel’s rooftop garden offers panoramic views of the town and the Lys River, perfect for sunset moments. Another gem is De Vlaamse Pannenkoeken, a boutique inn transformed from a 19th-century bakery, featuring hand-painted tiles and a cozy reading nook. Both properties offer breakfast with local specialties such as Belgian waffles and fresh pastries.

The Old Town (Oude Stad) is the ideal district for first-time visitors to Kortrijk, offering easy access to key attractions including the Belfry, St. Mary's Church, and the Town Hall Square. This pedestrian-friendly zone preserves medieval streetscapes and cobblestone alleys, lined with cafés, art galleries, and local boutiques. It’s also home to several family-run guesthouses and cultural hostels with guided walking tours included. For those interested in history, the Museum of Kortrijk and Cathedral Museum are located just steps away, showcasing Flemish tapestries, religious artifacts, and textile heritage from the region’s industrial past.

Tourists in Kortrijk can immerse themselves in authentic Flemish traditions through events like the Flemish Heritage Festival, held annually in summer, featuring traditional music, costume parades, and artisan markets. Visitors may also participate in a hands-on Flemish Pancake Workshop at Klaverstraat 12, where they learn to make pannenkoeken using buckwheat batter and local toppings like apple jam or chocolate. For craft lovers, the Pottery Studio at Het Huis van de Klok offers clay sculpting sessions using traditional glazing techniques. Additionally, guided night walks around the Lys River illuminate stories of the town’s medieval past through storytelling and ambient lighting.

Must-visit landmarks in Kortrijk include the Belfry of Kortrijk, a UNESCO World Heritage site with panoramic views from its 100-meter tower, and the St. Mary’s Church, renowned for its Gothic architecture and stunning stained-glass windows. Nearby, the Town Hall Square hosts seasonal festivals and outdoor concerts, while the Lys River Promenade offers scenic paths flanked by willow trees and bronze sculptures. Don’t miss Clock Tower Park, where the historic clock chimes hourly and hosts open-air cinema nights during summer. These sites collectively showcase the city’s rich civic and spiritual heritage.

Yes, Kortrijk has several family-friendly hotels with excellent child amenities. Family Hotel de Bonte Koe features spacious family suites, a dedicated playground, and a kids’ menu with healthy options. The hotel also offers babysitting services and organizes themed activities like treasure hunts and craft workshops. Hotel de Lys provides interconnecting rooms, baby cots, and kitchenettes in select units, ideal for longer stays. Nearby attractions such as the Kortrijk Children’s Museum and the Nature Trail along the Lys River are perfect for active families. Many hotels also provide stroller rentals and welcome packs with toys and snacks.

For couples seeking romance, Kortrijk offers intimate escapes like Le Petit Château, a secluded boutique hotel housed in a 19th-century manor. Each suite features a private terrace, a fireplace, and a luxury bath with rose petals. The hotel arranges private dinners under the stars, champagne tastings, and sunrise coffee service. Another option is De Vlaamse Pannenkoeken, where couples can book a ‘Love & Flavors’ package including a candlelit dinner, a shared pancake-making class, and a guided evening walk along the Lys River. With its quiet ambiance and personalized touches, these stays create unforgettable moments.

Visitors to Kortrijk must try Flemish pancakes (Pannenkoeken), especially the "Triple Delight" version with banana, chocolate, and strawberries served with maple syrup. Another must-try is Slow-cooked Beef Stew with Mashed Potatoes at Gasthof De Gouden Klok, made with locally sourced beef and simmered for hours. Pair it with a glass of Belgian wheat beer or cherry-infused ale, both brewed in nearby microbreweries. During festivals, sample Honey Ginger Beer, a sweet-spicy specialty drink. For dessert, indulge in Vanilla Crème Brûlée from Boulangerie Le Coq Rouge, known for its delicate caramelized crust and creamy interior.

Yes, Kortrijk is well-connected by public transport. The city lies on the NMBS railway line, with direct trains from Brussels (30 minutes), Ghent (20 minutes), and Antwerp (40 minutes). The central station links to regional buses serving surrounding villages and nature trails. Within the town, a network of electric bus routes runs every 15 minutes, stopping near major sights. For eco-conscious travelers, bike-sharing stations are available throughout the Old Town, with dedicated cycle paths along the Lys River. Most hotels offer free or discounted parking, and the city center is designated as a low-emission zone, encouraging sustainable travel.

Top photo spots in Kortrijk include the rose garden in front of St. Mary’s Church, especially vibrant in spring with blooming tulips and daffodils. The bronze statue fountain in Town Hall Square reflects beautifully in sunlight, ideal for candid shots. The blue wooden bridge over the Lys River creates a dreamy reflection effect—perfect for silhouette photography. Don’t miss the colorful mural wall in Clock Tower Park, painted by local artists, and the rooftop terrace at Hotel de Lys, offering sweeping views of the belfry and river valley. Early morning light enhances all these locations, making them ideal for professional-quality images.

The best time to visit Kortrijk is from April to September, when temperatures range between 15–22°C and skies are mostly clear. May offers lush greenery and flower displays, particularly along the Lys River. July and August bring lively festivals like the Flemish Heritage Festival and open-air concerts in the Town Hall Square. For fewer crowds, visit in early April or late September, when the weather remains pleasant and the town is less crowded. Winter months (December–February) are quieter but feature charming Christmas markets and illuminated historic buildings, though outdoor activities are limited due to colder temperatures.