Liège is known as one of Belgium’s hubs of culture and art. It is also home to one of the country’s most successful soccer teams, Standard Liège. Enjoy the outdoor markets, festivals and a particularly active nightlife in this large city that straddles the Meuse River below the Ardennes Mountains near the German and Dutch borders.
Admire the gothic façade of the Liège Cathedral. The church has been damaged and renovated many times since its inception in the 10th century. Architectural styles have been blended over the centuries. Stroll through the scenic, colorful gardens in front of the church and see the art and intricate designs of the structure’s interior.
Visit the Royal Opera of Wallonia, founded in 1967. The opera company makes use of the 19th-century Théâtre Royal building, with more than 1,000 seats. See classic operas from Verdi and Puccini. Admire the red velvet seats, gold-colored balconies and wooden floor in the majestic theater.
Join in the city’s nightlife in Le Carré (The Square). Walk through the crossing of three streets teeming with bars and discos in the city center. Choices range from student-oriented pubs to swanky upscale bars. See a movie at one of the cinemas or relax at a café in the afternoon.
Climb the 374 steps leading to the top of Montagne de Bueren to enjoy an impressive panoramic view of Liège from above. Reach Liege by air or train from destinations throughout Europe. Use the local bus service to get around the city.
After enjoying the landmarks of Liège, head to the nearby region of Huy. Explore the area’s historic attractions, such as bridges, fountains and fortresses dating back to the Middle Ages. See the Citadel of Huy which overlooks the Meuse River. The fortress was founded by the Dutch state of Belgium in 1815.