Things To Do
in Liège
Liège lies along the Meuse River in eastern Belgium, where a rich medieval heritage meets a vibrant riverside scene. The city blends baroque architecture with a modern arts culture and a lively market life. It is famous for Liège waffles and a warm, welcoming cafe culture that thrives in the historic center.
Notable sights range from the Montagne de Bueren stairs to the futuristic Liège-Guillemins station.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day in the heart of Liège by enjoying a traditional Belgian breakfast at a local café. After breakfast, wander through the cobblestone streets of the historic center, taking in the beautiful architecture of the Palais des Princes-Évêques. Don't miss visiting the iconic Liège-Guillemins train station, an architectural marvel designed by Santiago Calatrava.
In the afternoon, visit the Curtius Museum to explore its extensive collection of artifacts and exhibitions related to the region's history. Stroll along the Meuse River, admiring the picturesque views and stopping at the various bridges that connect the city. For lunch, savor local delicacies at a nearby bistro, where you can try the famous Liège waffles.
As dusk falls, head to the Montagne de Bueren, a steep staircase with panoramic views of the city. Enjoy dinner at a charming restaurant in the city center, where you can indulge in Belgian specialties like stoofvlees. End the evening with a leisurely walk along the river, soaking in the illuminated cityscape.
Begin your morning at the La Boverie Museum, where contemporary and classical art converge in a stunning setting. Explore the collections, including works by renowned artists and local talent, and appreciate the beautiful park surrounding the museum. Afterward, stop by the nearby Parc de la Boverie for a peaceful stroll among the trees and sculptures.
In the afternoon, visit the Musée Tchantchès, dedicated to the famous Liège marionette, to learn about this unique aspect of local culture. Attend a marionette show if time allows, experiencing a traditional performance that has charmed generations. For lunch, try a local eatery serving Liège-style meatballs, paired with a Belgian beer.
For dinner, head to a traditional brasserie famous for its Flemish cuisine, where you can sample dishes like carbonnade flamande. After your meal, discover the lively nightlife in the Carré district, filled with bars and pubs offering a vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a nightcap while mingling with locals and fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-5 |
| 🧃Bottle of water | $1-2 |
| 🥐Pastry or snack | $2-4 |
| 🚇One way public transport ticket | $2-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historic center and architecture
- Excellent food and markets
- Compact and walkable city center
- Strong rail connections to Belgium and Europe
- Some areas can be hilly and require stairs
- Weather can be rainy and unpredictable
- Tourist infrastructure may be concentrated around central areas
- Occasional language barrier if not speaking French
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is...?
Places to Visit in Liège
Visit one of these nice places.
The futuristic white steel and glass structure by Santiago Calatrava offers dramatic light and reflections for wide angle shots.
A steep staircase with panoramic views of the city rooftops and the Meuse beyond.
Historic square with Gothic cathedral and ornate façades offering atmospheric tones.
Picture perfect row houses and market ambiance with classic balconies.
Food in Liège
Liège Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Meatballs in a rich onion gravy served with fries, a Liège staple.
Must-Try!
Dense pearly-sugar waffles enjoyed warm from stalls or cafes.
Potato salad with green beans, bacon, onions, and a tangy dressing.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of Belgiums largest open-air markets along the Meuse, especially lively on Sundays with cheese, pastries, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite Bonjour or salut and a handshake when meeting someone new.
Keep voices moderate in public spaces and inside shops.
Stand in line and wait patiently. Do not cut in front.
Smart casual is common in many venues; avoid overly casual attire in fine dining.
Safety
Tipping in Liège
Ensure a smooth experience
In Belgium a tip of around 5 to 10 percent is typical if service is not included. You may round up or leave a small amount at cafes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with occasional thunderstorms. Light clothing is comfortable, but carry a light jacket for evenings and rain gear for sudden showers.
Mild days with colorful foliage. Layered clothing is best as mornings can be cool and afternoons milder.
Cold with a chance of snow and short days. Warm coats and sturdy footwear are recommended; Christmas markets light up the city.
Moderate temperatures with frequent showers. Bring a waterproof layer and comfortable shoes for walking.
Liège at Night
Hiking in Liège
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A plateau region with bogs and forests; well signposted trails and boardwalks.
Forest trails along a scenic gorge with viewpoints and waterfalls near Theux.
Ridge and river walks from Liège towards Dinant with scenic views.
Airports
How to reach Liège by plane.
A smaller international airport near Bierset, convenient for regional flights.
Major international hub about 1 hour by train or car from Liège.
Budget-friendly hub about 1.5 to 2 hours away by road or rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly French speaking Belgians with international students and residents in Liège.
Several universities attract students from across Belgium and beyond.
Communities from Turkey, Morocco, Poland and other countries contribute to the citys cultural mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Standard Liège fans fill stadiums and games stir city pride.
Popular in the region with scenic routes along the Meuse and Ardennes.
Local leagues and community clubs support the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Liège.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in Liège. Look for veggie burgers, salads, and mushroom dishes on menus. If needed, ask for the vegetarian version of local dishes.