There are some cities you often hear about but never actually get around to visiting. Yet, just across the French border, Kortrijk (Courtrai in French) is only 36 minutes by train from Lille, or around 30 minutes by car, depending on traffic. This charming Flemish city is definitely worth discovering. Compact and easy to explore on foot or by bike, it has plenty of cultural surprises and lovely places to discover. All this in a peaceful atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for a family getaway!
Follow my guide to spending a day in Kortrijk.
Exploring Kortrijk city centre
From the train station, it’s very easy to reach the city centre on foot. A real advantage when travelling with children! The historic heart of the city is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with pedestrianised squares and cycle-friendly spaces.
To start your visit, head to the Grote Markt, Kortrijk’s main square. From there, continue towards the Beguinage, one of the city’s must-see attractions.
This charming collection of little white houses, arranged around an inner courtyard, feels as though it belongs to another era. Founded in the 13th century and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998, the Beguinage offers a wonderful step back in time. Some of its houses date back to the 17th century. You can wander between the beautiful façades, discover St Matthew’s Chapel and visit the interpretation centre dedicated to the history of the Beguines.
I found this place particularly enjoyable to visit with children. It’s peaceful, and the historical setting lends itself perfectly to a fun and engaging discovery.
A surprising sound and light show at Our Lady’s Church
My absolute highlight is just a little further along, at Our Lady’s Church in Kortrijk. This is where you can experience 1302, an immersive experience dedicated to the history of the Battle of the Golden Spurs.
In 1302, Flemish troops faced the French army of King Philip IV in a battle that would leave a lasting mark on the region’s history. Inside the Counts’ Chapel, a sound and light show brings these events to life through immersive projections that transform the surroundings and architectural features.
It’s beautiful, educational and captivating all at once. An original way to discover medieval history, and a refreshing alternative to traditional museum visits. Even better, the experience is free, although advance booking is required!
Another great tip if you fancy a bird’s-eye view of the city: the tower of St Martin’s Church, which offers lovely views across Kortrijk’s rooftops. However, you’ll need to climb 246 steps to reach the top. I didn’t attempt the climb with a young child, but I’ll definitely keep it in mind for my next visit!
Where to eat in Kortrijk with children?
After all that exploring, it’s time for a delicious break. Head back to the Grote Markt, where several restaurants offer outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy lunch while soaking up the lively atmosphere of the square and watching the children play.
I tried Rodenbach, particularly for its comforting fish stew. A lovely place to recharge your batteries before continuing your walk around the city!
A walk along the River Lys: heritage and culture
After exploring the historic centre, it’s time to head towards the banks of the River Lys, which flows through Kortrijk and has played a major role in the city’s development. Long associated with the flax industry, the river is an integral part of Kortrijk’s history and landscape.
Texture Museum: discovering flax and textiles
First stop: the Texture Museum, dedicated to flax and textiles. This industry was once the source of much of Kortrijk’s wealth and reputation, and the museum helps you understand why.
I really enjoyed the way the collections are presented. The visit brings together history, design and art, creating an interesting dialogue between historical objects and contemporary creations. The exhibition is modern and accessible, making it easy to discover an important part of the city’s heritage without feeling as though you’re sitting through a history lesson.
It’s also an interesting visit for children, especially as a way of introducing them to where certain textile materials come from and how they are made.
A great tip for visitors from the Lille metropolitan area: if you have a C’ART cultural pass, you can enjoy a 25% discount on the standard admission price at the Texture Museum. Based on the regular adult ticket price of €8, that brings the cost down to just €6.
The museum also has a bistro with a lovely outdoor terrace, perfect for taking a break before continuing your visit.
Buda Island and the famous Broel Towers
I then continue my walk towards Buda Island, a cultural district nestled between two branches of the River Lys. It’s a lovely place to wander around and discover another side of Kortrijk.
You simply can’t miss the Broel Towers, two medieval towers that are among the city’s most iconic landmarks. Standing on either side of the River Lys, they provide a beautiful backdrop for a stroll and a few holiday photos.
I took the opportunity to make one last stop at Mary’s Irish Bar, a charming Irish pub with fantastic décor.
Where to stay in Kortrijk?
It’s already been a pretty full day! But if you’d like to extend your Belgian getaway, I’d recommend the Parkhotel, conveniently located right next to the train station.
I really liked its stylish décor, well-designed rooms and wellness area, complete with a beautiful swimming pool and facilities dedicated to relaxation. Breakfast is another highlight, with a generous buffet that’s perfect for getting the day off to a great start.
So, is Kortrijk worth visiting for a day?
Absolutely! Kortrijk is an ideal destination for a day trip from Lille. Easy to reach, pleasant to explore and full of surprising historical treasures, it offers the perfect combination of charming historic streets, cultural discoveries and delicious food stops.
I particularly loved its family-friendly atmosphere, its fascinating historical sites and its immersive experiences, which make sightseeing enjoyable and accessible for everyone. A wonderful idea for a day out in Belgium, whether you’re travelling with children, as a couple or with friends.
How to get there?
I recommend travelling by train! A return ticket from Lille costs €10 and can be booked through SNCB International. Other Belgian city worth discovering: Bruges. * This is an automated translation from the original article in French.*