"Tournai, la ville aux cinq clochers | Tournai, the city of five bell towers"
About:
Tournai, one of the oldest cities in Belgium, was founded by the Romans in the 1st century AD. It became a significant cultural and commercial center during the Merovingian period (5th-8th century). The city was frequently contested, falling under French, Spanish, and Austrian rule before becoming part of Belgium in 1830. Tournai's rich history is reflected in its diverse architecture, including the UNESCO-listed Notre-Dame Cathedral. Despite damage in both World Wars, Tournai remains a vibrant city today.
When to visit:
Tournai, a picturesque city in Belgium, is best visited during the summer months from June to August. This period offers pleasant weather with warm temperatures ideal for exploring the city's historic sites and charming streets. Additionally, summer is when Tournai hosts a variety of cultural events, festivals, and outdoor activities, providing visitors with a vibrant atmosphere to immerse themselves in. Be sure to check the local calendar for specific events and plan your trip accordingly to make the most of your holiday in Tournai.
When to avoid:
The worst time to travel to Tournai, Belgium, on a holiday is generally during the peak summer months of July and August. During this time, the city experiences its highest influx of tourists, leading to crowded attractions, long lines, and inflated prices for accommodations and dining. Additionally, the summer months can bring hot and humid weather, which may be uncomfortable for some travelers. To avoid the crowds and higher prices, it is advisable to consider visiting Tournai during the shoulder seasons of spring or autumn when the weather is milder and the tourist crowds are thinner.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
In Tournai, the coldest and wettest period is usually from November to March. Average temperatures range from 3°C to 8°C. Rainfall is high, with about 60-70mm monthly, making it the wettest season. Sunlight is limited to about 2-3 hours per day, with heavy cloud cover most of the time. Frost and fog are common, adding a chilly mist to the air. An average day for a visitor would likely involve overcast skies, intermittent rain, and cold temperatures, so warm, waterproof clothing is essential.
Summer (June-August)
In Tournai, Belgium, the warmest part of the year typically spans from June to August, with July being the hottest month. During this period, the average high temperature ranges between 20°C to 23°C (68°F to 73°F) and the average low temperature varies from 12°C to 14°C (54°F to 57°F).
Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year in Tournai, but the summer months can still see an average of about 60-70mm of rain each month. This means that while there are plenty of sunny days, occasional showers or thunderstorms are not uncommon.
The average daily sunshine hours range from 6 to 7 hours during these months, providing ample daylight for outdoor activities. Humidity levels are generally moderate, typically around 70-80%, which can make the heat feel a bit more intense but is usually not uncomfortable.
As for cloudiness, summer days in Tournai are usually partly cloudy. Clear, blue skies are common but there can be periods of overcast weather as well.
For a visitor, a typical summer day in Tournai would feel pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city's historical sites and enjoying outdoor dining. However, it's advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat for the occasional rain shower. Despite the occasional clouds and showers, the overall atmosphere is quite enjoyable and comfortable for tourists.
Language:
Tournai, a city in Belgium, predominantly speaks French due to its location in the French-speaking region of Wallonia. However, English is also commonly understood and spoken, especially among the younger generations and in the tourism sector. Additionally, Dutch, the other official language of Belgium, can be heard, particularly in business and government contexts.