Attractions and Places To See around Cambrai - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Cambrai include a blend of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features. This city in northern France is known for its medieval center and significant role in history, offering architectural charm and serene natural settings. Visitors can explore a variety of sites, from ancient fortifications to tranquil waterways. The region provides diverse opportunities for exploration, including historical buildings, museums, and green spaces.
Best attractions and places to see around Cambrai
- The most popular attractions is Bassin Rond Cycle Path, a cycle path that follows a former water garage in Bouchain. This path offers a 5-kilometer trail along its banks, ideal for walking and cycling.
- Another must-see spot is Vaucelles Abbey, a Cistercian abbey founded in 1132. Restored parts remain, such as the abbot's palace and monks' halls, surrounded by a 7-hectare abbey park.
- Visitors also love Belfry of Cambrai, a 62-meter Gothic tower. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was once the bell tower of the Saint-Martin church and served as a watchtower for the city.
- Cambrai is known for its historical monuments, religious buildings, and natural waterways. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient gates to cycle paths along canals.
- The attractions around Cambrai are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 50 upvotes and 11 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Vaucelles Abbey
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Belfry of Cambrai
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The beffroi is known for its sturdy buttresses reminiscent of medieval donjons. At the foot of the tower is a statue of Saint Martin, the patron saint of the city. The tower has a rich history and has survived both world wars unscathed.
Since 1965, the beffroi has been classified as a historical monument and in 2005 it was included on the UNESCO World Heritage List, together with other beffrois in the region.
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Porte Notre-Dame de Cambrai
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villedecambrai.com/decouvrir/decouvrir-la-ville/portrait-de-ville/patrimoine-et-architecture/heurs-et-malheurs-dune-ville-frontiere/la-porte-notre-dame
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Ecluse de Thun Leveque
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Cantimpré Lock
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The lock is equipped with two lock chambers, each 38 metres long and 5 metres wide, making it accessible to Flemish peniches and facilitating shipping. The lock is located at the junction of the canalised Scheldt and the Saint-Quentin Canal, and was part of the important port of Cantimpré, which was built in 1862.
Today, the port of Cantimpré is mainly a pleasure port, but in the past it was a busy trading post with more than a hundred ships passing through every day.
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Vaucelles watering trough
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Hence the name of the bicycle trail "des sources" 😎.
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Gravel path across all barriers
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Esnes Castle
Highlight • Castle
It can be visited: chateau-esnes.fr
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Paris Gate
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Bassin Rond Cycle Path
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Particularly ideal for family outings.
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Tips from the Community
For bikepacking trips, A magnificent base for cycle touring. It's a place steeped in history, peaceful, and surrounded by lush greenery. Don't miss the hamlet of Revelon or a visit to the source of the Scheldt River in Gouy (right next door). Happy riding! 🚴♀️ Franck
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Some very beautiful remains to discover during a hike 😉.
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This watering trough is probably a distant legacy of the Cistercian monks of Vaucelles. Nestled in the pastures surrounding the farm, it is fed by the nearby fountain, which filters the water and is itself fed by water from the Saint-Bernard spring, via an aqueduct. Hence the name of the bicycle trail "des sources" 😎.
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The Écluse de Cantimpré in Cambrai is a historic lock that played an important role in the development of the region's waterways. It was built in 1900 as part of the modernisation of the regional waterway network, as required by the Charles Freycinet law in 1879. The lock is equipped with two lock chambers, each 38 metres long and 5 metres wide, making it accessible to Flemish peniches and facilitating shipping. The lock is located at the junction of the canalised Scheldt and the Saint-Quentin Canal, and was part of the important port of Cantimpré, which was built in 1862. Today, the port of Cantimpré is mainly a pleasure port, but in the past it was a busy trading post with more than a hundred ships passing through every day.
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Built in 1623, the Notre-Dame gate marks the northern entrance to the city. At that time, city gates, protected by bastions, freed themselves from their defensive role and became symbols of the wealth of cities. With its “diamond point” hardware and its rich sculpted decoration, the Notre-Dame gate is representative of the Baroque style. The sun that adorns the upper part was added after the capture of Cambrai by Louis XIV. https://www.villedecambrai.com/decouvrir/decouvrir-la-ville/portrait-de-ville/patrimoine-et-architecture/heurs-et-malheurs-dune-ville-frontiere/la-porte-notre-dame
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The belfry, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was once the bell tower of the Saint-Martin church, the rest of the building having disappeared during the French Revolution. A symbol of communal freedoms, this belfry also ensured the security of the city. Night and day, lookouts monitored the city and warned of the arrival of enemies or the start of fires by sounding the tocsin. The oldest parts of this building date back to 1474 and rise from the base to the height of the cornice. Supported by wide buttresses, the first bell chamber opens onto triple bays in a Gothic-style pointed arch. Since 1736, this tower has been raised by another level in the classical style into which the second bell chamber opens. This part is topped by a drum where the watch room was located, the whole being topped with a dome and a lantern. Four sculptures made of cast concrete by Marcel Gaumont after the First World War evoke the historical periods of the city. We can see a Frankish warrior; a crossbowman symbolizing the communal militia; Louise of Savoy, mother of François I, who signed the Treaty of the Peace of the Ladies in Cambrai and the knight of Cezen, first governor of the city that became French. The entrance to the belfry has a sculpted decoration by René Faches. The central part bears the arms of Cambrai, surmounted by Saint Martin sharing his cloak to offer it to a poor man. These sculptures evoke the civil and religious duality of this belfry. (Cambrésis Tourisme)
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The Château d'Esnes is a historic castle located in the picturesque French village of Esnes. Dating back to the 18th century, the castle is surrounded by lush gardens and a charming park, giving it a picturesque and peaceful feel. The Château d'Esnes is known for its classical architecture, with impressive facades and elegant interiors that reflect the grandeur of that time.
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The Porte de Paris in Cambrai is a historic city gate built in the 14th century as part of the city's defensive wall. The gate is known for its Gothic architecture and has a strategic location at the southern entrance to the city. The gate was originally known as the Porte du Saint-Sépulcre.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I visit in Cambrai?
Cambrai is rich in history. You can explore the impressive Belfry of Cambrai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or the well-preserved medieval gates like Porte Notre-Dame de Cambrai and Paris Gate. Don't miss the Cambrai Cathedral, the Church of Saint-Géry (housing Rubens' 'The Entombment'), and the Chapel of the Jesuits for their architectural beauty. For a glimpse into the past, visit Vaucelles Abbey, a Cistercian abbey with restored parts and a 7-hectare park.
Are there any UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Cambrai?
Yes, the Belfry of Cambrai is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 62-meter Gothic tower, originally part of the old Saint Martin's Church, served as a watchtower and is a significant symbol of the city's communal freedoms.
What natural attractions and green spaces can I find in and around Cambrai?
Cambrai offers several natural spots for relaxation. You can enjoy leisurely walks or bike rides along the tranquil Canal and the Scheldt River (Escaut), which features leafy quays. The city also boasts extensive Public Gardens, the Parc de la Promenade des Amoureux, and Le Bois Chenu Urban Ecological Park. Further afield, the Scarpe-Escaut Regional Natural Park provides vast expanses of forests, wetlands, and meadows for outdoor enthusiasts.
What cultural experiences does Cambrai offer?
For art and history, visit the Musée de Cambrai, housed in an 18th-century bishop's palace, featuring collections from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, including works by Flemish and French painters. You can also learn about the city's history at Cambraiscope. Nearby, the Matisse Museum in Le Cateau-Cambrésis houses a significant collection of Henri Matisse's works, and the Dentelle de Caudry Museum showcases the region's famous lace industry.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Cambrai?
Absolutely. The Bassin Rond Cycle Path is ideal for family outings, offering a 5-kilometer trail for walking and cycling. Vaucelles Abbey, with its large park, is also a great option. Historical sites like Porte Notre-Dame de Cambrai and Esnes Castle offer engaging experiences for all ages. The Public Gardens and other green spaces provide ample room for children to play.
Where can I learn about Cambrai's military history?
Cambrai played a significant role in both World Wars. You can visit the Cambrai Tank 1917 Museum in the nearby village of Flesquières, dedicated to the Battle of Cambrai. The Cambrai Memorial, located next to Louverval Military Cemetery, commemorates over 7,000 British and South African servicemen who died in the Battle of Cambrai.
What local delicacies should I try in Cambrai?
When in Cambrai, be sure to sample the local culinary heritage. Try 'Bêtises de Cambrai,' a traditional mint candy, and the distinctive andouillette sausages. Cambrai is also known for its mustard, offering a unique regional flavor.
What kind of hiking trails are available near Cambrai?
The region around Cambrai offers a variety of hiking opportunities. You can explore routes like the 'Tour of the Fortifications of Cambrai' or the 'Belfry of Cambrai – Cantimpré Lock loop from Cambrai.' For more options, including moderate trails like the 'Bassin Rond – Bridge Over the Canal loop from Estrun,' check out the hiking guide for Cambrai.
Are there cycling or mountain biking routes around Cambrai?
Yes, Cambrai is a great area for cycling. The Bassin Rond Cycle Path is a popular choice. For more extensive rides, you can find various routes, including mountain biking trails like the 'Riqueval Tunnel – Sources of the Scheldt loop from Bantouzelle' or gravel biking routes such as the 'Escluse proville – The Round Basin loop from Proville.' Explore detailed options in the MTB Trails around Cambrai and Gravel biking around Cambrai guides.
When is the best time to visit Cambrai for outdoor activities?
The period from spring to autumn, particularly March to November, is generally ideal for outdoor activities in Cambrai. During these months, attractions like Vaucelles Abbey are open, and the weather is pleasant for walking, cycling, and enjoying the city's parks and waterways. Summer brings the added charm of cafés and ice cream kiosks along the Scheldt River.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Cambrai?
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The serene atmosphere of places like Vaucelles Abbey and the picturesque Bassin Rond Cycle Path are often highlighted. The rich history embodied in landmarks like the Belfry of Cambrai and the well-preserved architecture also receive high praise from the komoot community.
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