Kortrijk combines the allure of a big city with small-town coziness, and has a large pedestrian zone. It would make an easy day trip from Ghent, 25 minutes away on a major train route. Kortrijk has a population of about 120,000 people, making it the largest city in West Flanders.
Begin your journey at the heart of Kortrijk, the Grote Markt (Grand Place). It is a lively square that is home to a number of shops, restaurants, and the iconic Belfry, a UNESCO-listed belfry that dates back to the 14th century. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
The current town hall (stadhuis) was constructed circa 1520, in a Gothic-Renaissance transition style. Statues of the main Counts of Flanders were erected in the alcoves of the facade, which was subjected to all kinds of alterations particularly in the 18th century, even defacement. Inside the city hall you can admire the aldermen's hall and the council hall with 16th century carved fireplaces. It also boasts stained glass windows, wall paintings and noteworthy topographic maps. The Late Gothic fireplaces date from 1527 and represent Kortrijk city hall's ultimate showpiece.
St Martin's Church is a real eye-catcher right on the Grote Markt. Like a beacon, this heritage gem looks out over the city center. Its 83 metre high tower has proven to be the perfect place to admire the Kortrijk skyline from up high.
The towers (Broeltorens) are constructed from limestone and sandstone. The southern 'Speytorre' was constructed in 1385 to control traffic on the Leie. The tower was also part of the fortifications of the Counts of Flanders' first castle in Kortrijk.
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The northerly 'Inghelburghtorre', dating back to 1415, served as a weapons depot and was equipped for the use of artillery. The Broel bridge originally dates back to 1385. It has been destroyed and rebuilt several times.
The city boasts a widened Leie, seven new bridges and riverbanks with spacious paths, delightful parks and a renewed relationship with the water.
The Leie banks are the place to be! An outstanding strip of greenery where young and old gather to enjoy the setting in peace and quiet, in the middle of the city, no less! Around the King Albert Park, the famous Skatebowl was erected, the quays were upgraded and Kortrijk now boasts its own city beach with Buda Beach.
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In previous times, this river was of vital importance to the city’s flax industry. These days it mainly adds picturesque appeal. The riverbanks are a lovely place to spend time.
This former home for devout women dates back to the 13th century, and has been included on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1998. You can stroll past the small houses and around the inner courtyard that offers serene tranquility amidst picturesque gardens.
Visit Saint Matthews Chapel and the Sint-Annaroom to find the new experience centre. The 'béguinage' phenomenon has been interpreted afresh using a mixture of authentic heritage and modern media techniques.
You'll find Buda Island nestled between the arms of the river Leie. An island for the city's artistic visitors. Kortrijk's entertainment district boasts the Buda Tower,a platform where artists from right across the spectrum can do their thing.
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Shopping: Kortrijk has a wide variety of shops, from small boutiques to large department stores.
Dining: Kortrijk has a thriving culinary scene, with restaurants serving everything from traditional Belgian to international cuisine.
Nightlife: Kortrijk has a lively nightlife scene, with a number of bars, clubs, and pubs.
Outdoor activities: There are a number of parks and gardens within the city limits. Kortrijk is also a great place to explore the surrounding countryside, which is home to a number of hiking and biking trails.
Kortrijk was heavily damaged during World War II, but it has since been rebuilt and is now a thriving city with a lot to offer visitors. Much of the city's medieval architecture remains intact and is remarkably well preserved and restored.
Much of this content came from the Official Tourist Information website.
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