Van Der Valk Luxembourg Arlon
Arlon - 596 Route de Longwy
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Founded by the Romans, Arlon is one of Belgium’s oldest cities, yet its urban layout is distinctly medieval, with narrow streets spiralling up towards the hill that dominates the historic centre. The atmosphere, however, is neither that of an elegant classical town nor a gloomy medieval one: it’s a pleasant blend of both.
Visitors to Arlon tend to fall into two categories: those passing through on their way to Luxembourg, and those who choose this city as a base for a relaxing countryside break. Arlon is particularly popular with cycle tourists: the area boasts a wealth of fascinating cycling routes for all levels, from families with children to experienced riders.
There is, however, a third good reason to stay in Arlon: to discover a charming town off the main tourist circuit. Stunning viewpoints, interesting museums, atmospheric churches, traditional restaurants and breweries: there’s enough to fill an entire day or more.
Half a day is sufficient to explore the historic centre, but if you stay longer, you can savour the relaxed atmosphere of this small town, with plenty of time for hearty meals and an obligatory glass of Belgian beer.
The top attraction in Arlon’s centre is the magnificent Saint-Donat Church, which towers above the city like a defensive fortress. It actually stands atop a hill where a fortress once stood, though only a few foundation remains are visible today.
Saint-Donat is a modest but atmospheric small church built in the seventeenth century by Capuchin friars, its appeal due largely to its spectacular location: from the hilltop you’ll enjoy splendid views across the city and its surroundings.
Another fine church in Arlon is dedicated to Saint Martin: built in the twentieth century in neogothic style, it’s one of the city’s most photographed buildings. Be sure to look inside and gaze upwards to admire the stunning stained-glass window.
The nerve centre of city life is the Grand Place: despite its name, it’s a small square, but a lively one, bustling at all hours. You’ll find numerous bars and shops in the area, and the main streets of the centre branch off from here.
The Grand Place is also a good starting point for spotting the few Roman remains still visible in Arlon, including a stretch of underground stone walls (the so-called Tour Romaine) and an ancient cemetery with the remains of an early Christian basilica.
Other artefacts from the Roman period and beyond can be seen at the Archaeological Museum, considered one of Belgium’s most important. It’s renowned for its collection of sculptures and funerary stelae, but you’ll also find coins, jewellery, ceramics, glassware, tools and everyday objects on display.
Another interesting museum in town is the Gaspar Museum, an elegant manor house that houses a collection of works by sculptor Jean-Marie Gaspar and photographs by his brother Charles, both from Arlon. Famous for his animal sculptures, Jean-Marie created The Call of the Forest, a sculpture depicting a rutting stag that has become a symbol of the city.
Inside the museum you can also admire a magnificent sixteenth-century altarpiece with finely crafted wooden carvings. It was originally commissioned for St-Remy Church in Fisenne, but was sold to finance necessary renovation work.
If you’ve chosen Arlon as a base for a cycling holiday, take some time to visit the charming Cycling Museum, a small museum that traces the history of cycling with 150 bicycles, from the first two-wheelers of the nineteenth century to modern folding bikes, historical documents and a short film. Note, however: the museum is open by appointment only.
In the following map you can see the location of the main places of interest mentioned in this article.
The nearest international airport to Arlon is Luxembourg-Findel, about forty kilometres away. Very often, however, it’s more convenient to take a flight to Brussels, a city served by numerous budget airlines, and hire a car or use public transport to reach Arlon.
Brussels and Arlon are connected by direct trains and buses; the train journey takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. By car, the journey is much quicker: you can reach your destination in under two hours via the E411.
The range of accommodation in Arlon is genuinely varied: whilst not one of the most famous and visited Belgian cities, this small town boasts a wide choice of hotels to suit all budgets.
You can choose from design hotels, characterful bed and breakfasts, modern holiday apartments, spa hotels, international chain hotels, budget hostels and even glamping. If you’re travelling with a hire car, it might be a good idea to book a room just outside the centre.
What's the weather at Arlon? Below are the temperatures and the weather forecast at Arlon for the next few days.
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