Liege

Located in the heart of Wallonia on the banks of the River Meuse, Liege attracts travellers with its medieval architecture and dynamic cultural life. Getting to Liege is quite simple thanks to its strategic position at the crossroads of European routes. Whether you are planning a journey through Belgium by train or car, or arriving by plane, this city is ready to offer convenient route options for every tourist.

For those who prefer air travel, the region is served by Liege Airport (LGG). Although known as a major cargo hub, the airport also accepts passenger flights, allowing you to land in close proximity to the city centre. This is the fastest way to reach the region without long transfers.

Many travellers also choose to fly into neighbouring cities with developed air connections. For example, the airport of the city of Maastricht is just 25 km away, and the airport of the city of Aachen is 39 km away. From these points, it is easy to get to Liege by ground transport, making them convenient alternative hubs.

Travelling by rail offers the opportunity to see one of the city's main attractions immediately upon arrival. Trains arrive at the futuristic Liege-Guillemins Station, designed by architect Santiago Calatrava. This station is a vital hub for high-speed and local lines.

Railway connections with neighbours are excellently established. The trip from Dutch Maastricht or German Aachen takes very little time, allowing tourists to comfortably and quickly reach the centre of Liege, bypassing traffic and enjoying views of the European landscapes.

Bus services remain a popular choice for those looking for budget-friendly travel options. Trips from the city of Maastricht cover a distance of about **44 km** in an average of **1.7 hours**, allowing for a leisurely journey to the destination. This is a good option for tourists with spare time.

There is also a connection with Germany. The route from the city of Aachen can be longer due to logistics: buses cover the path of **75 km** in approximately **3.9 hours**. Despite the duration of the journey compared to a car, this method often wins on price and is suitable for economical travellers.

Travelling by car offers freedom of movement and allows you to reach the city as quickly as possible. A drive from neighbouring Maastricht, a distance of about **33 km**, will take just **35–40 minutes** (0.6 h) if there is no congestion on the roads. This is an ideal option for short visits or weekend trips.

The road from German Aachen is also very convenient: the distance of **55 km** is covered in less than an hour (**~0.9 h**). A developed network of motorways makes driving in this region comfortable, and using a taxi or a hired car allows you to flexibly plan your arrival time in Liege.

To ensure your trip to Wallonia is comfortable and hassle-free, we have prepared several practical recommendations. These tips will help you adapt faster in Liege and get the most enjoyment out of your holiday.

1. Clothing and Weather. The weather in Belgium is changeable. Even in summer, it is recommended to carry an umbrella or a light raincoat, and choose comfortable flat shoes for walking on the cobblestones of the old town.
2. Transport. The historic centre is compact and best suited for walking. For trips to outlying areas, use the TEC bus network; buying tickets in advance at kiosks is better value than buying from the driver.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Cards are accepted in most restaurants and shops, but it is better to carry some cash for payments at markets or in small cafes.
4. Health and Safety. The city is safe, but in crowded tourist places and stations, it is worth keeping an eye on bags and pockets. The single emergency number is 112.
5. Communication. The main language is French. Locals appreciate politeness: start the conversation with "Bonjour" (Good day), and they will be more willing to respond in English, which is understood in many tourist spots.
6. Local Etiquette. It is customary to greet when entering small shops. Service charges in restaurants are often included in the bill, but rounding up the amount or leaving small change is welcomed as a sign of gratitude.
7. What to Avoid. Do not leave valuable items in the car in plain sight. Also, avoid loud conversations in quiet residential neighbourhoods late at night.
8. Gastronomy. Be sure to try authentic Liege waffles (Gaufre de Liège) — they are denser and sweeter than Brussels ones. Also, do not miss the local meatballs "Boulets à la Liégeoise" in a syrup-based sauce.

By following these simple rules, you can avoid common tourist mistakes and enjoy the hospitable atmosphere of this ancient city.