After delving into the vibrant array of things to do in Liège, from its bustling market squares to the historic alleyways that whisper tales of the past, consider day trips from Liège to explore the rich tapestry of the surrounding Walloon region. These excursions open up a realm of castles, undulating landscapes, and hidden cultural jewels just a short journey from the city.
Venturing beyond Liège, you’re welcomed by the broader expanse of things to do in Belgium, where each destination melds history with modern vibrancy. From the ancient battlements of Namur to the cultural fervor of Brussels, each trip enriches your understanding of Belgian culture and its multifaceted history.
Choosing where to stay in Liège strategically positions you to take advantage of both the city’s lively heart and the ease of exploring its enchanting outskirts. The right accommodation offers a comfortable haven to return to after a day of adventures, ensuring your visit is both exhilarating and restful.
Discover Best Day Trips from Liège, Belgium
1. Maastricht, Netherlands
Maastricht, in the Netherlands, is known for its medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Explore the historic city center, Vrijthof square, and the Saint Servatius Church.
Distance: Approximately 30 km
Travel Time: About 30-40 minutes by train or car
Transportation: Train, Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Medieval architecture, Vrijthof square, Saint Servatius Church
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Maastricht Underground Caves Tour: €10
- Vrijthof Square: Free
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Maas River, Old Town Streets
Travel Tip: Visit the Maastricht underground caves for a unique experience and try local Limburgse vlaai, a traditional fruit pie.
2. Aachen, Germany
Aachen, Germany, is famous for its historic cathedral, where Charlemagne was buried, and its thermal baths. The city also offers a charming old town with quaint cafes and shops.
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car or train
Transportation: Train, Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Aachen Cathedral, Carolus Thermen thermal baths
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Aachen Cathedral: €5
- Carolus Thermen: €15-€25
Budget: Approximately €30-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Katschhof Square, Elisenbrunnen Pavilion
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy a relaxing soak in the Carolus Thermen Bad Aachen.
3. Brussels, Belgium
Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the European Union, is known for its grand square, La Grand-Place, and Art Nouveau architecture. The city is also home to the famous Manneken Pis statue and a variety of museums.
Distance: Approximately 100 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: La Grand-Place, Manneken Pis, Atomium
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Atomium: €16
- Manneken Pis: Free
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Royal Palace, Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
Travel Tip: Try Belgian waffles and chocolates in the city center, and visit the Atomium for a unique architectural experience.
4. Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
Luxembourg City, the capital of Luxembourg, offers a blend of historical and modern attractions, including the Grand Ducal Palace and the Bock Casemates. The city’s picturesque old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Distance: Approximately 150 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by train or car
Transportation: Train, Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Grand Ducal Palace, Bock Casemates
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Bock Casemates: €7
- Grand Ducal Palace: €10 (guided tour)
Budget: Approximately €40-€70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Chemin de la Corniche, Old Town
Travel Tip: Explore the Chemin de la Corniche for stunning views of the old town and the valley below.
5. Cologne, Germany
Cologne, Germany, is renowned for its impressive Gothic cathedral, Cologne Cathedral, and its vibrant cultural scene. The city also offers numerous museums, including the Ludwig Museum, which houses a significant collection of modern art.
Distance: Approximately 120 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Cologne Cathedral, Ludwig Museum
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Cologne Cathedral: Free
- Ludwig Museum: €12
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Rhine River Promenade, Hohenzollern Bridge
Travel Tip: Try a traditional Kölsch beer in one of the city’s many breweries, and visit during the Cologne Carnival for a festive experience.
6. Durbuy, Belgium
Durbuy, known as the “smallest city in the world,” is a charming medieval town in Belgium’s Ardennes region. Its cobbled streets, quaint shops, and beautiful setting along the River Ourthe make it a delightful destination.
Distance: Approximately 55 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Medieval town, River Ourthe, Topiary Park
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Topiary Park: €4
- River Ourthe Kayaking: €20
Budget: Approximately €30-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Durbuy Town Center, Ardennes Hills
Travel Tip: Enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking on the River Ourthe, and don’t miss the Topiary Park with its unique shrub sculptures.
7. Antwerp, Belgium
Antwerp, a port city in Belgium, is known for its Diamond District, fashion scene, and the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady. The city’s artistic legacy includes the works of Flemish Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens.
Distance: Approximately 125 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Cathedral of Our Lady, Diamond District, Rubens House
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Rubens House: €10
- Cathedral of Our Lady: €6
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Grote Markt, Meir Shopping Street
Travel Tip: Explore the historic city center, visit the Rubens House, and indulge in some Belgian fries at a local “frituur.”
8. Spa, Belgium
Spa, a town in Belgium, is famous for its thermal waters and the origin of the term “spa.” It offers a range of wellness facilities, beautiful parks, and the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, known for motor racing.
Distance: Approximately 35 km
Travel Time: About 40 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Thermes de Spa, Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Thermes de Spa: €20-€35
- Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps: €15 (tour)
Budget: Approximately €40-€70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Spa Town Center, Surrounding Forests
Travel Tip: Relax in the thermal baths of the Thermes de Spa, and if you’re a motorsport fan, check the schedule for the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps for possible race events or tours.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Liège, Belgium
What are some must-visit places on a day trip from Liège?
Is a visit to the Ardennes recommended for nature lovers?
Absolutely! The Ardennes offers lush forests, rolling hills, and winding rivers, making it a paradise for hiking, biking, and kayaking enthusiasts.
Can I easily visit Brussels from Liège?
Yes, Brussels is easily accessible from Liège by train. It offers attractions like the Grand Place, Manneken Pis, and numerous museums and galleries.
Are there any castle tours near Liège?
The region around Liège is dotted with castles. Notable ones include the medieval Castle of Jehay and the grand Château de Modave, both within a short driving distance.
What cultural experiences can I find near Liège?
Nearby cities like Maastricht and Aachen offer rich cultural experiences, with Maastricht’s vibrant art scene and Aachen’s historic Cathedral and Charlemagne’s Palace.
Is a day trip to the town of Spa worthwhile?
Definitely! Spa is not only famous for its thermal baths but also for its historic architecture, scenic nature walks, and the Spa-Francorchamps Formula 1 circuit.
Can I explore World War II history on a day trip from Liège?
Yes, the nearby town of Bastogne is significant for its role in the Battle of the Bulge. The Bastogne War Museum offers a comprehensive insight into this historic event.
Are there any vineyard tours near Liège?
The Liège region, although not widely known for its vineyards, has some boutique wineries. A day trip exploring these local vineyards can be a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/liege-l32254/
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