Welcome to Liège, a vibrant city known for its friendly people, rich history, delicious food, and dynamic culture. Located on the Meuse River in Belgium's French-speaking Wallonia region, Liège is waiting to be discovered. This guide will introduce you to Liège's culinary delights, thriving culture, essential travel tips, intriguing facts, and top must-visit places.
Food
Belgium is a haven for food lovers, and Liège is no different. The city is renowned for its gaufres de Liège or Liège waffles, smaller and denser than their Brussels counterparts, with embedded pearl sugar that caramelizes when cooked.
Also, savor ballets à la liégeoise, a local delicacy of meatballs in a sweet-sour sauce made from Sirop de Liège, a fruit syrup. Don't forget to pair it with a glass of packet, a traditional juniper berry spirit of the region.
Culture
Liège's culture is characterized by its spirited people known as Liégeois and their joie de vivre. The city brims with festivals throughout the year, such as the vibrant folk festival "Le Quinze Août" in Outremeuse and the Liege Jazz Festival.
Explore the city's rich history at the Grand Curtius, stunning red-brick building housing artifacts from prehistory to the 21st century. For art enthusiasts, the Museum of Walloon Art showcases the region's artistic talents.
Travel Tips
- Getting Around: Liège's public transportation includes buses and trains. The city is also pedestrian and cyclist-friendly, with numerous bike rental services.
- Language: French is the primary language in Liège. However, most people in the hospitality and tourism sectors speak English.
- Currency: Belgium uses the Euro. While credit cards are widely accepted, carrying some cash for transactions in smaller establishments is beneficial.
Interesting Facts
- Prince-Bishops: Liège was ruled by Prince-Bishops for eight centuries, contributing to its unique political history.
- La Batte Market: Established in 1561, La Batte is Belgium's oldest and longest market, held every Sunday along the Meuse River.
- Student City: Liège hosts more than 20,000 students annually, lending it a vibrant, youthful energy.
Top Places
- Montagne de Bueren: For a refreshing experience, climb this stairway of 374 steps, offering splendid views of the city from the top.
- Place Saint-Lambert: The city's main square, housing the striking Prince-Bishops' Palace and the Archeoforum, an underground archaeological museum.
- La Batte Market: A visit to Liège isn't complete without a stroll through this bustling Sunday market, selling everything from fresh produce to antiques.
- The Guillemins Station: Admire the impressive contemporary architecture of this central railway station, designed by the renowned architect Santiago Calatrava.
- Parc de la Boverie: Enjoy a stroll in this picturesque park, home to the Fine Arts Museum and a beautiful rose garden.
Discovering Liège, with its perfect blend of tradition and modernity, history and culture, local food, and warm-hearted people, is an enriching experience. Enjoy every moment in this lively city and let Liège charm you with its unique Walloon spirit!