Another hot tip today for your European trip planning  – and an easy one to miss.  That’s because it not only calls itself Europe’s smallest city but also proclaims to be the world’s smallest city – Durbuy, Belgium.

Confusingly, Durbuy is in Belgium, but in the province of Luxembourg.  This is in Wallonia, the French speaking part of Belgium, hence the adorable French sign at the edge of town:

(translation ‘Durbuy – the smalles tcity in the world)

Things To Do

Durbuy is a classic Belgian town – just wandering around the lovely streets and then planting yourself in the nearest cafe terrace with a oversized glass of a powerful Belgian brew.  Chateau des Comtes de Marchin is probably where most tourists start their tour; with its gorgeous rooms and elaborate stunning view over the river Muse, you can’t help but want to linger here for hours – which is possible since it is a self guided tour.  (Guided tours are available but awfully expensive.)  Don’t miss the cafeteria for Belgian waffles, teas, and coffees.

Another popular stop is the Grotto de Han (Caves of Han-Sur-Lesse), a cave where tours have been offered since the 1800s.   The tunnels go for miles and include a natural cathedral and a room that they say could hold up to 200 houses (though I suppose this would be these tiny Belgian homes, no?)

If you want to visit Durbuy via rail, Barvaux is the nearest railway station just a couple of miles away.  Or, combine Durbuy with a driving sightseeing tour of the area – it’s well worth a stop!

If you’re into (supposed) record breaking European destinations Hum in Croatia claims to the smallest town in the world.

Photos by pickinjim2006, Wikimedia Commons