Are you looking for an exciting and memorable experience in Liège, Belgium? Look no further! From the majestic Grand Curtius Museum to the breathtaking Montagne de Bueren, the city offers something for everyone. Take a trip down Féronstrée Street and enjoy the riverside life beside the Meuse or go on a road trip to the Ourthe Valley.
Learn about Walloon culture at the Museum of Walloon Life and marvel at the architecture of the Palais des Princes-Evêques. Have fun at the Batte Market, make a wish at the Basilique Saint-Martin, and take a dip at Spa.
This article will take you through 20 amazing things to do in Liege that won’t disappoint.
Short Summary
Explore Liege’s art, architecture and history at all the museums and churches in town
Climb the Montagne de Bueren for stunning views, explore Grand Curtius Museum for art collections, and admire Liege-Guillemins Station for modern architecture.
Visit Walloon Museum to learn about Walloons, explore Mosaic art at the Church of St Bartholomew, take a stroll through Parc Boverie and Place de la République.
Climb the Montagne de Bueren
Montagne de Bueren is a 374-step staircase built to connect the new neighborhoods behind the citadel with the city center of Liège. It was also meant to give soldiers in the citadel fast and (somewhat) easy access to the city center in case they needed to defend it. The journey up the Montagne de Bueren can be quite a challenge, but there are rest stops along the way and even secret passageways to explore. Visitors can also find beautiful panoramic views of the city and the landscape around it when they reach the summit.
At the top of the staircase, you’ll find a war memorial and some amazing views of the city. In addition, visitors can take part in the “Bueren en Fleurs” event in June of an even-numbered year, where the steps of the Montagne de Bueren are decorated with colorful flowers. The Nocturne des Coteaux de la Citadelle is another yearly event in October, where the staircase is lit up with candles.
The Coteaux de la Citadelle region is also worth exploring for its old homes, courtyards, terraces, monuments, and lookout spots.
Explore the Grand Curtius Museum
The Grand Curtius Museum is an amazing place. It is a combined archeology and art museum set in a restored 17th Century mansion. This top attraction in Liege offers something for everyone, with collections that span art, archaeology, weapons, glass, decorative arts, Mosan regional art, and religious art. It’s in Mason Renaissance style and was once owned by a wealthy family from town.
It’s definitely worth checking out for art and history buffs, so plan to spend a day here and explore the other nearby attractions like the Coteaux de la Citadelle. Self-guided tours are available, and you can easily take in all the grandeur and beauty the museum has to offer.
Admire the Liege-Guillemins Station
The Liège Guillemins Railway Station is an iconic building in Belgium designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. Its striking design features a swooping and vast steel, glass, and white concrete vaulted arched roof that gives it the feel of a cathedral. It’s an impressive display of modern architecture and is a major transport hub for the city of Liege.
Visiting the Liège-Guillemins Railway Station is an essential part of any trip to Liege. The best way to get to Liège is by train and the station is located at Place des Guillemins. If you’re traveling from Brussels, taking the train is the most convenient and fastest way to get there. Once you’re at the station, you’ll appreciate the grand entrance, intricate details, and wonderful central location. It’s also surrounded by other important sites like the former palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Grand Curtius Museum.
Visiting the Liège-Guillemins Railway Station is a great way to experience the beauty of Liege. From the grand entrance to the intricate details, it’s a stunning example of modern architecture and a must-see if you’re in the area. It’s also conveniently located near some of the city’s other must-see sites, making it the perfect spot to start exploring Liege.
Tour the Musee Des Beaux-Arts de Liege
It’s an art museum with collections from medieval to contemporary works. The Musee des Beaux-Arts de Liege is a must-see for any art enthusiast visiting the city, with its unique and impressive architecture.
As for the art collections, you will find the city’s prints and drawings collection, the Walloon artistic collection from the Musée des Beaux-Arts, and an awesome selection of paintings by Magritte and Miro.
If you are looking for a great cultural experience in Liege, a visit to the Musee des Beaux-Arts de Liege is highly recommended.
Dig Deep at the Archeoforum of Liege
It’s an archeological site with a whopping 9,000 years of history – you can check out the foundations of a Roman Villa and there’s even a video tour. The Archeoforum of Liege is home to some of the most amazing artifacts spanning from prehistoric times to the modern era. Key attractions include St. Lambert’s Cathedral ruins which offer an intriguing glimpse into the past. The remains of a Gallo-Roman villa also remain here as a testament to the ancient history.
Visitors can explore the depths of history at the Archeoforum of Liege, where they can find fascinating artifacts and discover the dark secrets of the past. The Archeoforum of Liege has plenty to explore, and visitors should plan to spend around an hour there.
Liege is a must-see destination for those interested in discovering the dark art of the past and exploring the essential sites of central Liege. The Archeoforum of Liege is just one of the many must-see sites in Liege and should not be missed. It is an excellent place to dig deep and discover the secrets of history.
Visiting Liège without savoring the local waffles would be like going to Paris and skipping the Eiffel Tower – a missed opportunity of epic proportions. Known as gaufres de Liège, these waffles are no ordinary breakfast fare. Instead, they’re a sweet culinary delight that’s deeply woven into the cultural fabric of the city.
Indulge in a Liege Waffle
The Liège waffle is unique. Its dense, rich dough dotted with pearl sugar that caramelizes during baking results in a waffle that is sweet, sticky, and utterly delightful. You’ll find them across the city, from local markets to specialized bakeries, each one carrying a signature twist that distinguishes it from the rest.
A must-visit place is “Une Gaufrette Saperlipopette“, located in the heart of the city. This charming establishment has built its reputation on the authenticity of its recipes and the freshness of its ingredients. Savor the gaufres de Liège in their purest form or try one of their other options – studded with chunks of chocolate or fruit for a unique twist.
Just a stone’s throw from Liège’s city center is “Gaufres & Waffles“. A modern take on the traditional Belgian dessert, this place adds a creative flair to their offerings, making it a perfect spot for the adventurous foodie.
Finally, there’s “Le Carrousel“, a charming waffle cart often found near the iconic Liège Guillemins train station. They serve waffles that are crispy on the outside, and fluffy on the inside, with a caramelized sugar crunch that will make your taste buds wonder what hit them. Their secret is a family recipe passed down through generations, ensuring each waffle is a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
Learn about the Walloons
The Walloons are a French-speaking ethnic group in Belgium, making up around a third of the population. They mainly live in the south and east, and are a distinct linguistic and ethnic group compared to the Flemish. The Walloon Museum in Liege has a big collection of stuff that looks at the Walloon people’s past and present lives. It includes metalwork from as far back as the 12th century, an actual guillotine, and even the head of its last victim. It’s an awesome way to get a better understanding of this unique linguistic and ethnic group within Belgium.
Heading to the Walloon Museum in Liege is a great way to learn about the Walloons, their history, and their culture. It has some pretty cool stuff, like metalwork from the 12th century, an actual guillotine, and even the head of its last victim. It’s a great way to get a better understanding of the Walloon people as well as the World War and the Walloon region.
Visiting the museum is a great way to learn more about Walloon life and see the amazing artifacts housed there.
See Gothic Beauty at St Paul Cathedral
The St Paul Cathedral is a 15th-century Gothic building located in Liege, Belgium. It was built in the 14th century and is an example of the Gothic art style. The pulpit, vaults, and ceiling have been restored to their former glory, while the walls still maintain their original Gothic beauty.
The St Paul Cathedral is also home to treasures from the demolished St Lambert Cathedral, including a gold and silver ornament of St Lambert himself. It is said that this ornament contains part of Lambert’s skull. This is just one of many religious artifacts housed in the St Paul Cathedral, making it a must-see destination for anyone interested in religious art and history.
Enjoy Mosan Art at the Church of St Bartholomew
It’s a church in Liege, Belgium, the Church of St. Bartholomew is pretty special because it has some awesome Mosan art. This church was the former convent of St Martin and is located in the Meuse Valley, close to St Jacques. It’s a great place to see some of the best examples of Mosan art, with its 12th-century baptismal font. The baptismal font is crafted from bronze and is supported by tiny ox figures that look like they’re taking the weight. It has a few scenes, like Christ’s baptism, the Magi worshipping, and the killing of innocents.
The Church of St. Bartholomew is key for preserving Mosan art, since it has one of the best examples of it – the 12th-century baptismal font. Its importance is especially important given the fact that many examples of religious art have been lost from other places like St Paul’s Cathedral, the Musée des Beaux-Arts, and St Barthélemy, which is why visiting the Church of St Bartholomew is a must when exploring Liege for its Mosan art.
Visit the Convent Church of Saint-Paul
It all started with Bishop Heraclius founding it as a Benedictine monastery in 971. The Convent Church of Saint-Paul is an amazing spot for art and history buffs! It was rebuilt in the early 1700s and now it’s known for its amazing works of art. The Convent Church of Saint-Paul has a range of art from the 16th to 19th century, like paintings, sculptures, and tapestries.
The two awesome works in the Treasury of the Convent Church of Saint-Paul are the one-and-a-half-meter-high reliquary of St. Lambert made by Hans von Reutlingen and the gold reliquary of Charles the Bold made by Gérard Loyet. These works are a great reminder of the incredible craftsmanship in the region during the Middle Ages. Make sure to check them out when you visit the Convent Church of Saint-Paul!
Visiting the Convent Church of Saint-Paul is a must if you’re looking to explore the area’s rich religious and artistic history. You’ll find some awesome pieces from different eras, like the incredible reliquaries of St. Lambert and Charles the Bold. It’s an experience you won’t regret, so make sure to add this to your Liege itinerary!
Take a Walk in Parc Boverie
It’s Liège’s biggest public green space. Parc Boverie is a place where visitors can take a leisurely stroll and admire the lush greenery.
This park also houses La Boverie Museum, an excellent fine arts museum with a great collection of 19th- and 20th-century paintings, including works by Picasso, Pissarro, Monet, Kokoschka, Chagall, and mostly Belgian artists like Evenepoel, de Smet, and Delvaux. La Boverie also has a Copper Engraving Gallery with 26,000 items from the 19th century and beyond.
There are other attractions in Parc Boverie too, such as a convention center.
Marvel at the Church of Saint-Barthélemy
It’s a Romanesque church located in Liège, Belgium. The Church of Saint-Barthélemy is a signature of Rhine and Mosan Romanesque architecture, with two towers to its front. Inside, local artists have decorated the walls with beautiful paintings, and the bronze font is especially noteworthy for its five baptismal reliefs.
This font was originally at the Notre-Dame-aux-Fonts church before it was moved to the Church of Saint-Barthélemy, and it is the church’s most valuable treasure.
A visit to the Church of Saint-Barthélemy is sure to amaze and delight any traveler seeking to explore the Middle Ages in Liège.
Check Out the Palais des Princes-Evêques
It’s the old palace of the prince-bishops, now it’s where the Law Courts and the Walloon government are based. The Palais des Princes-Evêques is a mix between Gothic and Renaissance, with two courtyards and a really nice exterior.
The interior patio of the Palace of the Prince Bishops draws its inspiration from the Italian Renaissance and Victor Hugo described it as “remarkable, serious and grandiose at the same time”, a testament to its beauty.
It’s not totally clear if the inside of the Palais des Princes-Evêques is open to visitors, and not all areas of the Palace of the Prince Bishops are open to the public.
Take a Stroll Down Féronstrée
Back in the day, Féronstrée Street was where forges, iron foundries, metal merchants, and guilds’ meeting houses were located. Nowadays, Féronstrée Street is home to some awesome 18th-century buildings and museums, like the Museum of Walloon Art and the Michel Willems House Museum.
The Museum of Walloon Art is a museum on Féronstrée Street that showcases art from Walloon artists like Joachim Patinir, Lambert Lombard, Henri Blès, and Jean Delcour. The Michel Willems House is an 18th-century house that was built for Michel Willems, a patrician of the town. Now it’s a museum that shows what life was like for the nobility in the 18th century.
Taking a stroll down Féronstrée is a great way to get a glimpse into the history of Liege.
Enjoy Riverside Life beside the Meuse
The Meuse River, one of Belgium’s finest rivers, is an integral part of the city of Liège. It flows through the city, providing a peaceful and scenic backdrop for visitors and locals alike. One of the best ways to enjoy the river is to take a stroll along the Pont des Arches bridge. This historic bridge offers stunning views of the Meuse River and the city. It’s also a great spot to take a few pictures.
Another great spot to visit is the Meat Hall, a building dating back to 1546. Located between the Rue du Pont and the Rue de la Halle aux Viandes, it was once used as a meat market. Nearby is the 17th-century Maison Havart. This building has a stunning facade, and now it’s a restaurant.
For a unique experience, head over to Qai de La Batte, or La Batte Quay. This popular spot hosts the daily Batte Market, which is a great place to find local products and souvenirs. Here, you can haggle with vendors and get some great deals between 9 am and noon.
So come to the Meuse River and enjoy the vibrant nightlife, culture, and scenery of Liège.
Admire the Architecture of Place de la République
It’s a central plaza that stands as a reminder of Liege’s rich history. Place de la République is the perfect place to admire the architecture of an entire city, from the impressive Theatre Royal, home of the Opéra Royal de la Wallonie, to the Church of the Holy Cross with its two apses and its Treasury with the Triptych of the True Cross and the Clef de Saint-Hubert. The plaza is surrounded by a number of other important buildings, like the former palace of the Prince-Bishops and the Saint-Jacques Church, which is a reminder of the French Revolution.
The carré, or square, is the perfect place to start a tour of Liege’s top attractions, from the wonderful blooming Coteaux de la Citadelle to the Place du Marché and the Boulevard d’Avroy. The plaza is also home to the design of the Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, making it one of the most popular spots in the city.
With its wonderful central location and views of the Meuse River, Place de la République is one of the best spots in Liege to take in the city’s historic architecture.
See the Basilique Saint-Martin
The Basilique Saint-Martin is an impressive church located in the center of Liège. It dates back to the 10th century and was reconstructed in the 16th century. The basilica is a minor basilica and a parish ever since. It is also the former convent of Saint-Lambert.
The Basilique Saint-Martin is a striking church boasting a star-covered choir, some stunning stained-glass windows, and marble plaques. It is situated in the Place Saint Lambert, and the Coteaux de la Citadelle, Place du Marché and Boulevard d’Avroy can be seen from the basilica. It is a must-see site for anyone visiting the city of Liège.
Visitors can easily get to the basilica on foot or public transportation. Guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about this grand church.
Visit St. Jacob’s Church
St Jacob’s Church is an impressive Gothic church that dates back to the 11th century. Located on Rue St-Remy in Liège, it is a great place to visit for those looking for an insight into the city’s history.
The church boasts a preserved Romanesque portico and a Renaissance-style north portal which make it stand out from other churches in the area. Inside you can find some impressive art pieces. Baroque sculptures, 14th-century stalls and decorative arts from different periods are all on display.
It should take around an hour to explore the church, making it a great stop for locals and visitors alike.
Road Trip to the Ourthe Valley
The Ourthe Valley is a 130-kilometer-long river located in eastern Belgium. It is situated just 69 kilometers south of Liège and is considered one of the most beautiful and picturesque regions in the country. Taking a road trip along the Ourthe Valley is a great way to explore the area and get to know its secrets and charms. La Roche-en-Ardennes and Durbuy are two must-visit destinations during your trip.
The Ourthe Valley offers a range of activities for all kinds of travelers, from walks in the forest to boat rides on the river and its tributaries. You can also explore old castles and windmills, or just admire the stunning natural scenery. Durbuy village is especially charming, with its tiny streets and old houses, making it feel like time has stood still.
Take a Dip in the Waters of Spa
It’s a health resort that’s famous for its natural springs – Spa in Belgium is a centuries-old destination for curative waters and healing. During the Victorian age, Spa was quite a popular spot as it had natural springs that draw people from all over Europe, with the Place Royale being its most popular area. Here, visitors could find the baths and assembly rooms, which still remain today.
It’s possible to find a cure in the iron-rich spring waters in Spa today, just as it was centuries ago. Hotel brands in Spa offer popular amenities such as spa treatments and hot springs, and the city offers a wide range of popular hotel categories, from budget to luxury. Additionally, visitors can find delicious eats and can’t-miss spots in Spa.
With its long-standing history and range of hotel classes and types, Spa is an ideal destination for anyone in search of a healing getaway.
Summary
To finish off your visit to Liege, take a minute to reflect on the incredible things you were able to experience! From exploring the Grand Curtius Museum to admiring the modern architecture of the Liège-Guillemins Railway Station and soaking in the breathtaking views of the Montagne de Bueren, you have enjoyed so much of what this beautiful city has to offer.
You’ve seen historic sites like St Paul Cathedral and the Palais des Princes-Evêques and delved into the depths of history at the Archeoforum. You were also able to learn about the Walloons and relish the amazing works of art at the Musee des Beaux-Arts and many other places.
And if you have any energy left, why not take a stroll down Féronstrée or go on an unforgettable road trip through the Ourthe Valley? To top it all off, don’t forget to relax and rejuvenate with a dip in the healing waters of Spa.
Indeed, Liege is sure to be a memorable destination for anyone looking for beautiful sites, fascinating culture, and an unforgettable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth visiting Liège?
Yes, visiting Liege is definitely worth it. The city captivates tourists with its unique Romanesque architecture, incredible food culture, and breathtaking natural scenery.
If you’re in the area, taking some time to explore the city is certainly worth the effort.
What is Liège known for?
Liège is known for its central role in Belgium’s industrial growth and economic success, boasting powerful industries as well as a large modern airport. It was historically part of the famous Sillon industrial network, making it a hotspot for trade and commerce for many years. Today, it is famous for is now known for its many historical sites, Christmas markets, and the Foire de Liège, one of Europe’s oldest kermeses.
