Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Liege, Belgium

Liege is Belgium’s third-largest city and the most prominent city in the French-Speaking region of Wallonia. Initially, the city might appear quiet and somewhat reserved compared to other, more vibrant cities in Belgium; however, it does not take long to uncover the city’s true spirit. The residents of Liege are warm-hearted and enjoy life to the fullest. The gastronomy, beverages, and nightlife here are exceptional, rivaling any destination in the nation.

The abundance of churches and medieval architecture, along with high-quality museums and art galleries, competes with Europe’s premier cities and can easily keep visitors occupied for an entire week. It may seem cliched (especially in Europe), but there truly is a remarkable sight at every turn in Liege, making it paradise for enthusiasts of architecture and art.

When you combine this with the city’s picturesque location along the serene Meuse River, you have a winning combination. The diverse festivals throughout the year ensure that each visit to Liege offers a unique experience, potentially enticing visitors to return repeatedly.

Below are the top attractions in Liege:

1. Learn About Art at the Grand Curtius

The Grand Curtius, or Curtius Museum, serves as an archaeological and art museum within a beautifully restored 17th-century mansion.

Originally, the building was owned by a prosperous local entrepreneur who envisioned merging four small museum collections to form the extensive exhibit seen today.

The vast number of artifacts necessitates dedicating a full day to thoroughly explore the museum. An audio guide can enhance your understanding and appreciation of this extensive collection.

2. Climb the Montagne de Bueren

The staircase leading up Mont Bueren is well worth the effort; moreover, the surrounding passageways offer hidden gems and delightful discoveries.

You will predominantly encounter private gardens, which, while unassuming, are certainly worth exploring.

Continue along the winding staircase to the summit of Montagne de Bueren, where you will encounter a war memorial as well as some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in Liege.

3. Marvel at the Liege-Guillemins Station

This iconic structure is bound to leave you in awe. It serves as a crucial transportation hub in the country and exemplifies stunning modern architectural design.

Designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the station features a distinctive steel framework. Its sweeping, curved lines evoke imagery often associated with sci-fi movies.

If you intend to board one of Belgium’s impressive high-speed trains, this station is among the three key rail hubs in the nation where you can do so.

4. Witness Beauty on the Inside of the Musee Des Beaux-Arts de Liege

As you approach this museum located in the Feronstree district, you may be surprised by the building’s lackluster exterior.

Housed within an unattractive concrete structure from the 1980s, a visit can still prove rewarding. Once inside, you will find a remarkable display of art collections encompassing works from medieval to contemporary periods.

5. Dig Deep at the Archeoforum of Liege

Situated on Place St Lambert, this archaeological site spans almost 4,000 square meters, showcasing 9,000 years of Liege history.

The cathedral that once occupied this location was demolished in 1793, leaving only foundation blocks as remnants. Additionally, the site includes the foundations of a past Roman Villa.

A video tour allows visitors to experience a digital reconstruction of the original cathedral while providing explanations in English.

6. Go Gothic at the St Paul Cathedral

The St Paul Cathedral, also referred to as Liege Cathedral, was constructed in the 15th century and underwent restoration in the 19th century. It is an outstanding example of Gothic architecture, featuring stunning pulpit, vaulted ceilings, and intricate designs.

Valuable artifacts were transferred to the cathedral from the nearby St Lambert Cathedral, which was demolished, including a gold and silver reliquary that is said to contain a fragment of St Lambert’s skull, according to legend.

7. Learn about the Walloons

The Walloons are a French-speaking community, primarily residing in Belgium, with significant populations also found in Brazil, the USA, and Argentina. The museum in Liege, set within a former Franciscan monastery, houses an extensive collection of artifacts showcasing the history and culture of the Walloon people. Noteworthy exhibits include metalwork dating back to the 12th century, an actual guillotine, and the preserved head of its last victim.

8. Enjoy Mosan Art at the Church of St Bartholomew

Mosan art, a distinctive style originating from the Meuse Valley encompassing present-day Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, is exemplified at the Church of St Bartholomew in Liege.

The renowned baptismal font is crafted from the early 12th century, originally belonging to the St Lambert Cathedral before its destruction. The font illustrates several baptismal scenes and is supported by small ox figures that appear to bear its weight.

Admission to view the font costs 2 euros, but a glimpse can be enjoyed through the nearby church window.

9. See More Mosan Art

Continuing the theme of Mosan art, near the Museum of Walloon Life lies the Musee d’Art Religieux Et D’art Mosan. This museum, as the title suggests, focuses on significant artworks from the region’s history.

It is advisable to commence your exploration on the third floor, where you will encounter numerous statues dedicated to St Hubert, the patron saint of hunters. Afterward, descend through the building to admire the various remarkable pieces displayed along the way.

Among the highlights is a remarkable wood carving of the Virgin Mary dating back to the early 11th century.

10. Take a Nighttime Stroll to the City Hall

The Liege City Hall (Hotel de Ville) is an impressive structure worth a visit. It stands majestically in the city’s main square, particularly dazzling when illuminated at night by vibrant red lighting.

This square, Place du Marche, hosts several charming cafes and houses two fountains discreetly nestled among the surrounding trees.

The Place du Marche offers an ideal setting to enjoy a coffee while indulging in the quintessential European pastime of people-watching.

11. Find Treasure

The Tresor De Liege, or Treasure House of Liege, is located near the cathedral’s cloisters, meticulously renovated to a high standard.

Inside the Treasure House, visitors can explore numerous artworks that narrate the history of Liege.

It is best enjoyed as part of a visit to the Liege Cathedral itself.

12. Arm Yourself at the Arms Museum

Opened in 1885, the Musee D’Armes forms part of the Grand Curtius museum, warranting a mention of its own. The extensive collection comprises approximately 11,000 items, making it the second largest arms collection on the continent. The showcased weapons are not only fascinating but often visually stunning, with informative displays explaining the manufacturing processes of armaments through the ages. Among its oldest exhibits is a prehistoric axe.

13. See the Former Palace of the Prince-Bishops

The Former Palace of the Prince-Bishops represents a stunning edifice situated in the heart of Liege. Historically, it overlooked the St Lambert Cathedral, which has since been destroyed.

This location has hosted a palace for over a millennium, though the original was destroyed by fire in the 12th century.

Today, the palace largely reflects its 18th-century architecture, embodying the “seriousness and grandeur” Victor Hugo once attributed to it. Currently, the building serves as a courthouse.

14. Witness Walloon Life

Cross the Meuse River to the island of Outremeuse and immerse yourself in its unique culture.

This island is home to the Walloon community, celebrating its identity as a free republic, notably during a vibrant and often chaotic festival every August. The festival, held on August 15th, is an excellent time to visit the island.

The lively festivities include a folk parade, marking the blessing of lovebirds, alongside various other traditional activities.

15. Enter a Mansion

The Musee d’Ansembourg is a skillfully restored mansion dating back to the mid-18th century.

The building hosts four original 18th-century tapestries that have remained in situ throughout their history. Despite the mansion’s considerable size, the descriptions provided in each room are relatively brief, allowing quick visits within half an hour.

Admission costs 5 Euros, and visits are available Thursday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm.