Exciting discoveries in Liège, Liege, Liege

The area stretching form the botanical gardens to the Rue des Guillemins has been urbanised since the 1830’s. It became the most fashionable residential neighbourhood of the city and many impressive town houses were built in neo-classical style at this point in time. Circa 1900, wealthy homeowners undertook modernisation work on their buildings, in a quest for prestige and distinction. As a result, some façades were transformed or rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style, which was innovative in the choice of materials used (use of metal in the decorations) and the designs inspired by nature. This style is particularly present in streets opened up at the very end of the 19th century, such as the Rue de Sélys and Rue Edouard Wacken. The stature of the home owners was conveyed through a desire for opulence in the composition of the new buildings. It is therefore not by chance that the circuit will take us on a discovery of several masterpieces of Art Nouveau architecture in Liège, including five listed façades. We will also discover that the major architects in Liège’s history such as Victor Rogister, Paul Jaspar, Clément Pirnay or Arthur Snyers each developed their own specific form of architectural expression.

On this route, you will discover four of the seven former collegiate churches in Liège, including the Cathédrale Saint-Paul (Saint Paul’s Catherdral), and the Collégiale Saint-Jacques (Saint James’s collegiate church). The latter is a gem of Gothic architecture and is worth the detour. This route will also take you to emblematic cultural sites in Liège that have recently been renovated and restored: the Université de Liège, the Émulation, the Opera, the Forum, La Grand Poste or La Cité Miroir complex. Finally, after crossing the nocturnal heart of Liège, the famous Carré (Square) district with its many cafés, you will arrive in the commercial heart of the hyper-centre, formed by the Rue Pont-d’Île, Rue Vinâve-d’Île and Passage Lemonnier.

Discover, through 10 points of interrest, the amazing industrial heritage of the Lower Ourthe Valley which was in full swing from Middle Age to the XX century. It is possible to go back in Liege by train.

Although having fewer works than the “Historic Center and Outre-Meuse” route, this route counts many iconic paintings that have made Liège known as a destination street art. Impressive by both its size and its design, the Man of the Meuse by Sozyone became the symbol of street art in Liège. Besides this painting, the tour will lead you to encounter other quality works, such as the elegant representation of Chet Baker by Jérémy Goffart, the realistic fist by S.P.Y.K. or the colourful disc by Felipe Panton.

This route invites you to discover many major sites, such as Le Grand Curtius (a museum entirely dedicated to the history of Liège), the Collégiale Saint-Barthélemy (Saint Bartholomew’s collegiate church) and its famous baptismal fonts and Rue Hors-Château. The latter, lined with many picturesque cul-de-sacs, is the former convent of the Friars Minors, but is today occupied by the Musée de la Vie wallonne (Museum of Walloon Life). Also worth the detour is the impressive Montagne de Bueren (Bueren steps), the gateway to the Coteaux de la Citadelle (Hillsides of the Citadel).The route ends at Place du Marché (Market square) and Place Saint-Lambert (Saint-Lambert Square). These two squares are home to four emblematic sites: the Perron, which is the symbol of the city, the Hôtel de Ville (city hall), the Palais des prince-évêques (Palace of the Prince-Bishops) and Place Saint-Lambert. Located on the site of the former Notre-Dame et Saint Lambert cathedral, below Place Saint-Lambert the Archéoforum, a museum displaying the remains of the former cathedral, can be found.

It is difficult, if not impossible, to create a trail that includes all the creations which fall within the scope of street art. Varying in size and quality, they are often fleeting. As a result, this trail is mainly focused on creations made with the help of the public authorities, via the Palis’art operation. Far from limiting graffiti artists to too strict a framework, it offers them the possibility of expressing the utmost of their talent over vast expanses, giving their creations a monumental character. Since its launch in 2002, Paliss’art has decorated the city’s walls and embellished places often marked by brutal urban design. It also makes it possible to create links between the art and passers-by, by transforming the city into an open-air museum. These works, despite the fondness of certain inhabitants of Liège for them, are not intended to stand the test of time. Sometimes new buildings spring up and swallow up a painting, sometimes the formats on which they are painted (walls, panels, etc.) disappear and sometimes time just takes its toll on them. Out of more than 70 creations produced within the scope of the Parlis’art operation, approximately half are still visible.

The history of public transport will no longer hold any secrets for you on completion of your visit to this museum. The museum recounts the development of public transport means over almost 200 years and boasts many items, such as an 18th century stagecoach, trams from the start of the 19th century, utility vehicles, buses, trolleybuses or even prototype underground trains!

From the 4th of April 2022, the Aquarium-Museum, together with the “Maison de la Science” (House of Science) and the network “Embarcadère du Savoir”, will be offering a new combined visitor offer.A single ticket gives access to:– Aquarium;– «TréZOOr» room;– Créatures EXTRAordinaires” (Extraordinary Creatures) exhibition (NEW) ;– Maison de la Science (House of Science);– Planetarium (NEW) ;– Galleries of Botany and Evolution (NEW).The Aquarium: an invitation to discover aquatic faunaThe aquariums in the “Biodiversity” and “Sharks and Coral Reefs” section are true windows to the aquatic world. Throughout the visit, the visitor encounters species from waters all over the world! To learn more about the different animals presented in the aquariums, an online information resource has been set up. Free and educational, Fishipedia accompanies you throughout the visit. An exotic touch in the area “Amazon, from the forest to the river”: ant colony, praying mantis, frogs, including the yellow-banded poison dart frog are presented to you in a “cozy” area which has been specially designed to reflect the dense primary forest of the Amazon.NEW: “Créatures EXTRAordinaires” (Extraordinary Creatures) – From myth to reality, from reality to mythMythological and legendary animals derive their original characteristics and superpowers from nature. This exhibition offers visitors the opportunity to create their own EXTRAORDINARY creature. This is an opportunity to learn incredible anecdotes and facts about the animals that underlie myths, legends, fairy tales and folklore from around the world.Not accessible on the 1st Sunday of each month.Treasures in a museum?The “TréZOOr” room contains remarkable cultural objects, witnesses of great scientific, historical or artistic value, illustrating the history of natural sciences, such as the fabulous Blaschka – filigree animal models made out of glass – or now extinct species such as the migratory pigeon and the Tasmanian wolf…Maison de la Science: spreading science!Visitors set out to discover the science hidden in their everyday lives! They can carry out experiments himself, look at the collections of scientific apparatus, produce rain in the augmented reality sandbox or make the sun shine… During the visit, a scientific animator takes them on a journey of fascinating science and allows them to make surprisingly playful and didactic discoveries!NEW: the “Planetarium”, gateway to the vastness of the universeDiscover our new attraction in the Institute of Zoology: a geodesic dome with a diameter of 6 m! Our planetarium is state of the art and allows you to have an adventure in the infinity of the cosmos. Dive into our virtual celestial vault and explore the universe without leaving your seat, using fulldome 4K digital resolution. From the cycle of the seasons to the constellations, via space exploration, animations and videos – discover our solar system in a spectacular way.This activity is available only on Wednesdays (at 3pm), on weekend & holidays (at 10:30am and at 11:30am) and during school vacations (on the days of the week – at 10:45am & 12:15am & 2pm & 4pm). Not accessible on the 1st Sunday of each month.NEW: the Botany and Evolution GalleriesThe Gallery of Botany covers various topics: the history of botany, the functionality of plants, the herbarium, the relationship between humans and plants, etc. In the Evolution gallery, the visitor discovers the major stages of evolution (emergence of the first cells, disappearance of the dinosaurs, etc.).Not accessible on the 1st Sunday of each month.The "Museum" part will be closed in 2022 for renovation.

A family home typical of the 1930's, imbued with warmth an authenticity. The Fétinne district in Liège is very near to the RAVEL cycling network and the Way of Saint James, several minutes from two motorway exits and bus routes leading to the city centre (4,26,31) and the hospital (48). You will therefore be "a short hop" from the city centre whilst able to enjoy the comfort of a calm and green district that boasts a wide range of facilities (small supermarket, bakers, butcher, chip shops, bookshop, park, play area, etc.). The Parc de la Boverie is 500 metres away via the Passerelle Mativa bridge. We are also just several minutes from Médiacité, Belle-Ile or the Convention Centre.

A stone’s throw away from the "Place du Marché" market square and the City Hall, an urban oasis opens its doors for you. Located in Neuvice Street, the oldest pedestrian street which dates back to the 12th century, Hotel Neuvice combines tradition, modern style and comfort. The hotel, located in three historic buildings around a green patio, was, at the beginning of the 18th century, the residence and workplace of Jean-François Bassompierre, Master-Printer of Liège’s Prince Bishop, an acquaintance of Diderot, Voltaire and Marmontel. This historic place has been completely restored for the new generation and tries to create a trendy city atmosphere. The library, a relaxing area with fireplace, books and magazines, leads to the patio and its typical wood architecture dating from the 18th century. Enjoy Liège typical atmosphere...

Convent Founded in the 13th century by the Friars Minor, this convent was considerably altered during the 17th century as can be shown by the Baroque façade of the former Saint Antoine church. The magnificent façades of the cloister, which are fine examples of Mosan art, also date from this era. The convent was confiscated during the Revolution and sold at the end of the 18th century. During winter 1944-1945, the buildings were severely damaged by a “flying bomb”, the name given to the V1 and V2 missiles that rained down on the Liège region. It was renovated and restored during the 1950s and 1970s and today plays host to the Museum of Walloon Life. The modern parts of the building were added in 2008. Museum The Museum of Walloon Life is an ethnographic museum and recounts the changes that the population of Wallonia has experienced, from the industrial revolution until the present day. The evolution of customs, beliefs, traditions and the way of life is evoked via many objects and using various materials. The museum also looks back at the emergence of the Walloon identity and the industrial development of Wallonia. Finally, puppet shows and temporary exhibitions are regularly organised at the venue.

Liège is the city of all contrasts. In full metamorphosis, its heterogeneous architecture and heritage are an impressive juxtaposition of styles. The best examples are undoubtedly the historic ‘Place Saint-Lambert’, the Palace of the Princes-Bishops and the Royal Opera of Wallonia which contrasts with the futuristic ‘Guillemins’ station, the genius work. walloniabelgiumtourism.co.uk/en-gb/recherche?solr_title_value=liège

A large shopping centre covering more than 160,000 square metres, Médiacité was built between 2007 and 2009. Its striking feature is the roof designed by Ron Arad, which runs for 360 metres over the mall. Consisting of transparent and red ETFE (a fluorine-based plastic) ‘cushions’, the roof looks like a reptile’s skin when seen from the air. Liège’s iceskating rink – the only Olympic-size skating rink in Wallonia – is located at one end of the gallery; it was completed in 2012. Finally, alongside the entrance to Médiacité, the Média Rives building houses the French-speaking Belgian Radio and TV (RTBF) station. Média Rives also has a 1,200 square metres studio, the biggest in the Wallonia-Brussels Federation.

The Man of the Meuse. Some may recall that Sozyone had made a painting on a gable wall, which is now missing, at the intersection between Nagelmickers Street and Quai sur-Meuse. But it was considerably smaller than the Man of the Meuse. Rarely has Wallonia known such monumental works! Immediately, the alert eye will recognise Sozyone’s style, his character with such a distinctive yet anonymous face, whose traits are barely sketched by a play between the different coloured shapes. As is quite common in Sozyone’s works, the composition represents a man dressed in black with a bowler hat and several birds. These are elements that a certain René Magritte also loved. Where Sozyone’s work is more original, however, is through the use that it makes of the two gable walls. He plays maliciously with the perspective, offering us only the character’s upper and lower parts; the rest is suggested by its distance. 

In the heart of the Longdoz district which used to be animated by industries, the House of Metallurgy creates links between the past and the present. On 2500 m², discover the exceptional industrial heritage of Liège, from the historical time to present. You will discover the fantastic history of the Liège iron and steel industry as well as the zinc metallurgy. Indeed, the first zinc metal ingot of Europe were cast in Liege using Belgian ore. Don't miss Napoleon's real country bathtub!

Colourful, with simple patterns, almost childlike, this work seduces through its harmony. With his strange shapes that make you think of chicons, endives for our French friends, Willoos brings a bit of fun and poetry into this very urban universe. By his real name, René Lejeune, Willoos has the peculiarity of being a man of the church. Better known for his paintings, some of which denote the strong influence of cubism, he applies the same bright colours that he uses in his paintings to this wall. As for the renowned chicons, these motifs are visible in other of his works and represent trees or shrubs.

  The Schöffer tower, designed in 1961, rises in the immediate vicinity of the Palais des Congrès. Its designer, Nicolas Schöffer, is known as the father of cybernetic art and was one of the most significant artists of the second half of the 20th century. The work in Liège is the first and largest of his cybernetic towers. The tower consists of an abstract sculpture 52 metres in height made up of an aerated frame of square steel tubes. This frame, which features plaques, mirrors and paddles, various shapes and dimensions, was originally driven using motors activated by an electronic brain. The way the whole of the cybernetic device worked was based on three organs: a lighting system, a sound system and. controlling everything, an electric brain responsible for three types of action: movement, music and lighting. Immobile and silent for many years now, the tower requires restoring and a study is underway. Listed: 29-12-1997 Exceptional heritage site of Wallonia  

Next to the park and the Musée de La Boverie, the restaurant's terrace overlooks the Meuse and offers a view of the La Belle Liégeoise footbridge. The restaurant serves Franco-Italian cuisine with a fine selection of wines. bovaria.be/

Right in the heart of Outremeuse, this restaurant offers a lovely menu and tasty cocktails in a cosy, relaxed atmosphere. It also boasts Outremeuse's very first rooftop terrace!

Next to the Batte market, in a place renowned for its architectural heritage, the Rooftop bar and terrace are open at weekends and offer a view over the Meuse. Inside, a food market offers 6 quality street food counters. You can also visit the Brasseries de Liège brewery and sample one of the 40 beers produced there. www.lagrandposte.be/food-drinks/

In this old district of the city, at number 10 rue d’Amay, a luxurious noble abode can be seen, dating back to the 16th century and is said to have belonged to the Lord of Amay. Le Carré is today renowned for its night-life. Over the last few years, the separation between day-life and night-life in the district has become increasingly marked. Starting from the boulevard de la Sauvenière, visitors enter the nocturnal section with its bars, whilst on approaching the cathedral they will come across its many boutiques.

A family home typical of the 1930's, imbued with warmth an authenticity. The Fétinne district in Liège is very near to the RAVEL cycling network and the Way of Saint James, several minutes from two motorway exits and bus routes leading to the city centre (4,26,31) and the hospital (48). You will therefore be "a short hop" from the city centre whilst able to enjoy the comfort of a calm and green district that boasts a wide range of facilities (small supermarket, bakers, butcher, chip shops, bookshop, park, play area, etc.). The Parc de la Boverie is 500 metres away via the Passerelle Mativa bridge. We are also just several minutes from Médiacité, Belle-Ile or the Convention Centre.

STAY FOR A WHILE.Looking for a flexible place to live in liège?From 1 month to 1 year, enjoy a place within places. Fully furnished apartments with zero hassle. Utilities, super speedy WIFI and TV, all taken care of.STAY FOR A DAY. Perfect for solo traveler, couple or familyFrom shared dormitories to a fancy suite. Whatever your budget or need, we’ve got a room for you. Experience quality rooms, awesome shared services, a lively community, tasty food and more. See you soon

Ideal either for tourism or business, the Street Lodge B&B welcomes you in a fifties townhouse, recently restored in a contemporary style. The atmosphere is warm and comfortable to make you feel pampered and welcome. We do our best so that you will enjoy a relaxing and comfortable stay in the heart of the city. Sheltered from urban stress, our bed & breakfast overlooks a Zen garden where you can enjoy your breakfast leisurely. The Street Lodge treats its guests in the tradition of Liege’s famous hospitality: We are available for information about museums to visit, restaurants to discover and walks to the heart of Liege or in the area. Decoration and linens are carefully chosen. Subtle touches remind you of exotic places or of Belgian artists, personalising your room. Breakfast is served in a charming room: bread, croissants, cheese, homemade yogurt, fruit, cereal, small sweet or savoury pastries, eggs, homemade jam, fresh orange juice, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, ...

B&B The Street Lodge is located in a residential area opposite the Liège-Guillemins Train Station. Guests can enjoy the sun in the garden. A private entrance leads to the warmly decorated room. It is equipped with free Wi-Fi, a TV and a private bathroom.