Key Takeaways:
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Liege is a lively Belgian city filled with riverside charm, historic architecture, and a strong cultural identity that shines all year.
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From hilltop climbs and weekly markets to underground museums and international festivals, there’s always something happening.
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Liege blends urban grit with medieval beauty and warm, welcoming locals—making it a fantastic destination for curious travelers.
Liege, nestled along the Meuse River in eastern Belgium, is one of the country’s most dynamic and underappreciated cities. Once a powerhouse of coal and steel, today’s Liege has transformed into a vibrant cultural hub brimming with art, food, music, and a proud Walloon spirit. With roots tracing back to Roman times and a central role in medieval Europe, Liege’s history still echoes through its old stone churches and bustling streets. But modern Liege is also bold, diverse, and full of surprises—making it an ideal year-round destination.
What makes Liege so lovable is its balance of working-class edge and artistic flair. It’s a place where you can climb a mountain of stairs, eat world-famous waffles, visit a castle, and end your day at a late-night jazz bar. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a longer cultural dive, Liege will surprise you—in the best way.
Table of Contents
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Climb the Montagne de Bueren Staircase
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Explore La Boverie Museum and Art Park
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Wander the Sunday Market at La Batte
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Take a Meuse River Cruise
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Discover the Underground World of Coteaux de la Citadelle
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Visit the Curtius Museum and Learn Liege’s Story
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Sip Local Beers in Carré District
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Attend Les Ardentes Music Festival
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Ride the Glass Roof Escalators at Guillemins Station
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Day Trip to the Château de Jehay
1. Climb the Montagne de Bueren Staircase
One of Liege’s most iconic features is the Montagne de Bueren—a dramatic staircase of 374 stone steps that climb steeply up the hillside toward panoramic views of the city. Originally built for soldiers to quickly access the citadel, today it’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors to get in a workout or snap epic photos. The climb is lined with charming brick houses and occasional rest stops where you can catch your breath and admire the surroundings. Once you reach the top, the reward is a stunning view over the rooftops and winding Meuse River below.
The stairs are especially magical in October during the Nocturne des Coteaux festival, when thousands of candles light the entire route. Even outside of festival season, the staircase is a peaceful, photogenic place to pause. Nearby walking paths connect you to Liege’s hidden green spaces and historical ruins. It’s one of those local experiences that captures both the history and beauty of the city in a single, unforgettable climb.
2. Explore La Boverie Museum and Art Park
La Boverie is Liege’s premier fine arts museum, housed in a neoclassical building surrounded by a tranquil riverside park. Inside, you’ll find both permanent collections of 19th and 20th-century European art and rotating exhibitions featuring international artists. The museum is modern and thoughtfully curated, often showcasing bold collaborations with the Louvre and other major institutions. It’s a must for art lovers and a great cultural stop even on a rainy day.
Outside, Parc de la Boverie is a perfect spot to unwind, picnic, or take a bike ride along the river. The setting is calm yet central, and you’ll often find students sketching or families enjoying the open lawns. A pedestrian footbridge connects the park directly to the city center, making it easily accessible. Whether you come for a Monet or a moment of peace, La Boverie is a highlight of Liege life.
3. Wander the Sunday Market at La Batte
Every Sunday, the riverside boulevard of La Batte transforms into one of the largest and oldest markets in Belgium. With roots going back to the 16th century, this bustling open-air event stretches for over a kilometer and attracts vendors from across the region. You’ll find everything from fresh produce and flowers to books, antiques, and street food like crispy frites or Turkish gözleme. The smells, sounds, and sheer energy of the market make it a sensory adventure.
Locals shop for the week while tourists explore for fun, and it’s common to hear a mix of French, Dutch, and Arabic as you weave through the crowd. Go early to beat the rush and score the best deals, or arrive later to enjoy the more laid-back browsing vibe. With the river as your backdrop and waffles in hand, a morning at La Batte is one of Liege’s most joyful rituals.
4. Take a Meuse River Cruise
To see Liege from a different angle, hop aboard a boat and cruise the Meuse River, which winds gracefully through the city. These short tours, available most of the year (especially spring through fall), give you a unique view of Liege’s bridges, quays, and contrasting architecture. You’ll float past industrial sites, historic churches, and contemporary high-rises—each telling a different part of Liege’s story. Some cruises even offer snacks, drinks, or guided commentary along the way.
It’s a relaxing way to take a break from walking while still soaking in the city’s atmosphere. At sunset, the riverside glows golden and the skyline sparkles with life. If you’re traveling with kids or just want an easygoing sightseeing option, this is a perfect pick. The Meuse flows at the city’s heart—and seeing it from the water just hits different.
5. Discover the Underground World of Coteaux de la Citadelle
Liege has layers—literally—and one of its most fascinating is hidden beneath the Coteaux de la Citadelle, a green hillside just above the old town. Here, you can explore a network of underground galleries, tunnels, and storage rooms that once served military and civilian purposes. Guided tours take you through dimly lit corridors where monks aged wine, soldiers stored munitions, and smugglers passed through in secret. The temperature stays cool year-round, so bring a jacket even in summer.
The surrounding area above ground is equally worth exploring, with winding trails, ancient stone walls, and hidden gardens. It’s peaceful, historic, and feels far from the bustle below. For those who love history with a touch of mystery, this is one of Liege’s most underrated attractions. Just be sure to book in advance—tours often fill up quickly.
6. Visit the Curtius Museum and Learn Liege’s Story
Set inside a striking red-brick mansion along the Meuse River, the Grand Curtius Museum offers a deep dive into Liege’s history, art, weaponry, and decorative arts. The museum spans multiple eras—from prehistoric artifacts to medieval manuscripts, 17th-century weapons, and fine glasswork from the region’s industrial golden age. Each floor provides insight into different aspects of Liege’s evolving identity, making it both educational and visually impressive. The building itself is a work of art, with arched ceilings, tile mosaics, and stained glass throughout.
This is the perfect place to understand Liege’s role in European history as a former bishopric, trade center, and industrial powerhouse. Audio guides and bilingual signage make it easy to navigate, and kids will enjoy the armor and sword collections. Allow a couple of hours to explore fully, and don’t miss the riverside café for a post-visit coffee. It’s a cultural cornerstone that adds depth to your Liege experience.
7. Sip Local Beers in Carré District
By day, Carré is a charming maze of narrow streets filled with boutiques, cafés, and bakeries. But when the sun sets, it becomes Liege’s energetic nightlife hub. Local bars offer Belgian beers on tap—including regional brews like Val-Dieu, Jupiler, and Curtius—alongside live music, DJs, and plenty of student energy. It’s a great place to mingle with locals, especially on weekends when the atmosphere buzzes late into the night.
You don’t have to be a party animal to enjoy Carré. Many spots offer relaxed settings for sipping a blonde ale on a terrace or trying a fruity lambic beer inside a candlelit pub. The prices are reasonable, the vibe is friendly, and the beer culture is second to none. If you’re looking for a taste of Belgian nightlife without pretension, Carré is the place.
8. Attend Les Ardentes Music Festival
Held every July along the banks of the Meuse, Les Ardentes is Liege’s biggest music festival—and one of Belgium’s most eclectic. It draws a mix of hip-hop, pop, rock, and electronic acts, with past performers ranging from Kendrick Lamar and Christine and the Queens to Angèle and Stromae. The four-day event transforms Parc Astrid into a high-energy celebration of sound, food, and summer style. Locals and international fans alike come together for good vibes and great beats.
Even if you’re not usually a festival-goer, Les Ardentes is approachable and well-organized, with plenty of food stalls, shade zones, and a strong community feel. Tickets are available in day passes or full weekend options. If you’re visiting Liege in July, it’s worth planning your trip around this electric experience. It’s modern Belgium at its best—creative, open, and unforgettable.
9. Ride the Glass Roof Escalators at Guillemins Station
Liege-Guillemins is not your average train station—it’s a modern architectural marvel designed by Santiago Calatrava. With its soaring glass and steel canopy, the station looks like a spaceship dropped into the middle of the city. Whether you’re arriving or just passing by, it’s worth a visit to marvel at the design and snap some photos. The structure plays with natural light in stunning ways, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Inside, escalators carry travelers up and down through curved beams and sweeping arches. It’s more than just functional—it feels futuristic and inspiring. The plaza around the station often hosts outdoor exhibitions or events. For architecture buffs and urban explorers, it’s a surprising highlight of Liege.
10. Day Trip to the Château de Jehay
About 30 minutes outside Liege, the Château de Jehay is a fairy-tale moated castle surrounded by manicured gardens and peaceful countryside. With its checkerboard stonework and ivy-covered towers, the château looks straight out of a storybook. Inside, you’ll find period furniture, tapestries, and art collections from the 16th century to the 19th. The grounds are equally beautiful, with walking trails and an orchard that blooms in spring and summer.
The château also hosts seasonal exhibits, concerts, and cultural events that make each visit unique. Whether you explore on your own or take a guided tour, it’s a relaxing and enriching escape from the city. Bring a picnic or enjoy coffee at the nearby tearoom. It’s an ideal way to round out your Liege trip with a touch of noble history and natural beauty.
What to do if you have kids?
Liege offers a surprisingly family-friendly experience with a mix of playful parks, interactive museums, and wide open spaces for kids to explore. Montagne de Bueren becomes an adventure challenge, while Parc de la Boverie is perfect for running around or riding bikes. The Aquarium-Muséum on Quai Van Beneden is another hit, with aquatic creatures and hands-on exhibits for curious minds. Kids will also love the waffles, frites, and boat rides along the Meuse. With walkable streets, plenty of outdoor seating, and a laid-back pace, Liege is great for traveling families.
Where can I find free events in Liege Belgium taking place this weekend?
To find free concerts, outdoor art exhibits, markets, pop-up events, and family activities in Liege this weekend, visit PlanMyWeekend.ai. This free event discovery tool curates local happenings and helps you filter by category, age, and time—making it easy to explore what’s on without spending a dime. Whether you’re into jazz in the park, local makers’ markets, or food truck gatherings, this platform keeps you plugged into the best of Liege. It’s your go-to for last-minute plans or building your weekend itinerary in seconds.
Final thoughts
Liege is a city that wears its soul proudly—where stone staircases meet steel stations, and centuries of history pulse beneath contemporary life. With its mix of culture, cuisine, nightlife, and nature, Liege proves that Belgium’s most compelling stories often live outside the usual tourist trail. From museum hopping and beer sipping to castle strolls and candlelit festivals, there’s something here for every season and traveler. Come open-minded, stay energized, and let Liege reveal its rhythm—one step (or stair) at a time.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
