Interesting places to visit near Liège, Belgium

Location: Nestled in the heart of Liège, Wallonia, Belgium, the Coteaux de la Citadelle offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history within its scenic parklands.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, History Enthusiasts, Foodies, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Why it's a great detour: This destination is a refreshing escape from urban bustle, combining gourmet culinary experiences with serene green trails that wind through historic hillside landscapes. Visitors can immerse themselves in panoramic views of Liège while savoring local delicacies, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and exploration.

Key activities: Enjoy leisurely hikes along well-marked paths that showcase diverse flora and fauna, visit charming local markets and eateries offering regional specialties, explore historical sites embedded in the parklands, and participate in seasonal food festivals celebrating Walloon cuisine.

Kid-friendly focus: The gentle trails and open spaces are perfect for families with young children, offering safe areas for play and discovery. Educational signage about local history and nature adds an engaging layer to the visit.

Dog-friendly notes: The parklands are welcoming to dogs, with ample space for walks and pet-friendly picnic spots, making it an excellent choice for travelers bringing their furry companions.

Location: Tongeren, Limburg Province, Belgium

Best For: History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Why it's a great detour: Tongeren, Belgium's oldest city, offers a captivating journey back to Roman times with its well-preserved ancient ruins and fascinating archaeological museum. This detour is perfect for travelers eager to explore authentic historical sites nestled in a charming small city setting, combining cultural discovery with peaceful green spaces.

Key activities: Visitors can wander through the remnants of Roman walls and foundations, explore the Gallo-Roman Museum which houses extensive archaeological collections, and enjoy scenic walks along the city’s historic streets and parks. Interactive exhibits and guided tours enrich the experience, making history accessible and engaging.

Kid-friendly focus: The site is suitable for children, with hands-on exhibits and open spaces to explore, though younger kids may benefit from guided storytelling to fully appreciate the history.

Dog-friendly notes: Tongeren welcomes dogs in outdoor areas and many walking paths, making it a pleasant stop for travelers with pets. However, dogs may not be allowed inside museum buildings, so plan accordingly.

Location: Maastricht, Limburg region, Netherlands

Best For: History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Hiking, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Nestled on the southern edge of Maastricht, Fort Sint Pieter offers a captivating blend of rich history and breathtaking natural beauty, making it an ideal detour for travelers exploring the Netherlands. This 18th-century fortress stands as a testament to European military architecture and provides spectacular panoramic views over the Meuse River and the city below.

Visitors can explore the well-preserved fortress walls and underground tunnels, perfect for history buffs eager to delve into Maastricht's past. Nature lovers and hikers will appreciate the scenic walking trails weaving through the surrounding wooded hills, while families can enjoy open spaces for picnics and gentle hikes suitable for children. The site is also dog-friendly, allowing pets to accompany their owners on outdoor trails, though dogs should be kept on a leash.

Key activities include guided tours of the fortress, photography of the stunning vistas, leisurely hikes along the Sint Pietersberg, and seasonal events hosted at the site. While the underground tunnels may be best suited for older children and adults due to their narrow and dimly lit nature, the outdoor areas provide ample space for younger kids to explore safely.

Whether you're a history enthusiast eager to step back in time, a nature lover seeking peaceful trails, or a family looking for an educational and scenic outing, Fort Sint Pieter in Maastricht offers a memorable experience that enriches any European road trip itinerary.

Location: Huy is a charming town located in the Wallonia region of Belgium, nestled along the scenic Meuse River. This historic riverside destination offers a perfect blend of medieval architecture and natural beauty.

Best For: History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly Travelers, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: Huy captivates visitors with its well-preserved medieval ambiance, including the iconic Fort of Huy perched above the town, and its peaceful riverside walks that invite relaxation and exploration. This detour offers a unique opportunity to experience authentic Belgian culture away from the usual tourist routes, combining history, nature, and local gastronomy.

Key activities: Explore the Fort of Huy for panoramic views and historical insights; stroll along the Meuse River promenade; visit the quaint old town with its cobblestone streets and charming cafes; sample local Belgian specialties at family-run restaurants; and enjoy seasonal markets and festivals.

Kid-friendly focus: The gentle riverside paths and open green spaces make Huy ideal for families with young children. Interactive visits to the fort and local museums provide educational fun, while outdoor areas offer space for play and picnics.

Dog-friendly notes: Huy warmly welcomes dogs, with many walking trails along the river and pet-friendly cafes. Visitors traveling with dogs will find ample opportunities for scenic strolls and relaxation alongside their furry companions.

Location: Nestled in the Limburg region of the Netherlands, Valkenburg aan de Geul is a quaint town known for its rich medieval heritage and beautiful riverside setting.

Best For: History enthusiasts, nature lovers, families with children, dog-friendly travelers, and foodies seeking local Dutch cuisine.

Why It's a Great Detour: This charming town offers a unique blend of history and nature, with its well-preserved medieval castle ruins and scenic walks along the Geul River. Visitors can immerse themselves in centuries-old architecture while enjoying peaceful riverside strolls, making it an ideal stop for those looking to experience authentic Dutch culture away from the usual tourist paths.

Key Activities: Explore the Valkenburg Castle ruins and underground caves, take leisurely walks or bike rides along the Geul River, visit local cafes and restaurants offering Limburg specialties, and enjoy seasonal events like Christmas markets or outdoor concerts.

Kid-Friendly Focus: The town is very welcoming to families, with easy walking routes and interactive historical sites that engage children. The caves and castle ruins provide adventurous exploration opportunities suitable for kids.

Dog-Friendly Notes: Valkenburg aan de Geul is dog-friendly, with many outdoor walking paths along the river and in nearby parks where dogs can roam on leash. Some cafes and accommodations also welcome pets, making it a comfortable detour for travelers with dogs.

Location: Hautes Fagnes Nature Reserve is located in the High Fens region of the Ardennes, near Eupen in eastern Belgium.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, Dog-Friendly, Families with Children, History Enthusiasts, Foodies

Why It's a Great Detour: This unique nature reserve offers some of Belgium's most pristine moorland landscapes and scenic hiking trails that wind through peat bogs and forests. It’s a perfect escape for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty, with well-marked paths that showcase diverse flora and fauna. The reserve is also dog-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their furry companions along for an invigorating outdoor adventure.

Key Activities: Visitors can enjoy hiking or cycling on extensive trails, birdwatching rare species native to the moorlands, and exploring historical sites like old peat extraction areas. Nearby villages offer local culinary delights, giving foodies a chance to savor regional specialties after a day outdoors.

Kid-Friendly Focus: The trails are generally easy to moderate, suitable for families with young children who enjoy nature walks and outdoor exploration. Educational boards along the paths provide interesting facts about the ecosystem, making it an engaging experience for kids.

Dog-Friendly Notes: Dogs are welcome throughout the reserve, with many trails featuring dog-friendly paths and open spaces. It’s an ideal spot for pet owners wanting to combine travel with quality time outdoors with their dogs.

Location: Hasselt, Limburg Region, Belgium

Best For: Foodies, History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Nestled in the heart of Hasselt, this detour offers an irresistible blend of authentic Belgian chocolate tasting and vibrant artisan markets. Known as Belgium's capital of taste, Hasselt invites travelers to indulge in rich, handcrafted chocolates while exploring charming stalls filled with local crafts and delicacies. This experience is perfect for those looking to savor Belgian culinary heritage and immerse themselves in a lively cultural atmosphere.

Visitors can enjoy guided chocolate tastings at renowned chocolatiers, watch artisans at work, and browse through markets featuring handmade goods, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs. The historic city center adds a picturesque backdrop, with cobblestone streets and quaint architecture enhancing the sensory journey.

Families will find the experience engaging and educational, with kid-friendly chocolate workshops and sweet treats to delight young palates. The markets are generally dog-friendly, allowing well-behaved pets to accompany their owners as they stroll through the bustling stalls, though it's advisable to keep pets on a leash and check specific vendor policies.

Whether you're a foodie eager to sample world-famous Belgian chocolates, a history buff appreciating the city's heritage, or traveling with family and pets, Hasselt's chocolate tasting and artisan markets offer a memorable and delicious detour on your European road trip.

Location: Located in Genk, Limburg region, Belgium, the Verdant Domain of Bokrijk offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage just a short drive from major Belgian cities.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, History Enthusiasts, Dog-Friendly, Families with Children, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: Bokrijk is renowned for its expansive green spaces and scenic walking trails that meander through forests, meadows, and historic sites. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature while exploring one of Europe's largest open-air museums, making it a perfect detour for those seeking both outdoor adventure and cultural enrichment. The park's commitment to dog-friendly policies ensures that travelers with pets can enjoy the experience without worry.

Key activities: Enjoy leisurely or brisk nature walks along well-marked trails, visit the open-air museum showcasing traditional Flemish life with authentic historic buildings, participate in seasonal workshops and food tastings featuring local specialties, and explore the playgrounds and interactive exhibits designed for young children.

Kid-friendly focus: The park is very family-friendly, with plenty of open space for children to run and play, educational exhibits that engage young minds, and safe, accessible paths suitable for strollers and young walkers.

Dog-friendly notes: Dogs are warmly welcomed throughout the park, with designated off-leash areas and plenty of water stations. This makes Bokrijk an ideal stop for travelers who want to include their furry friends in their outdoor adventures.

Location: Hoge Kempen National Park is located in the Limburg region of Belgium, offering a unique natural escape just a short drive from major cities like Maastricht and Genk.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, Dog-Friendly, Families with Children, History Enthusiasts, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: This expansive national park is Belgium's first and only national park, renowned for its tranquil nature trails that meander through heathlands, pine forests, and lakes. It provides a refreshing break from urban life with its peaceful environment and diverse landscapes. The park’s dog-friendly policies make it an ideal spot for travelers with pets, while history buffs can explore remnants of mining heritage and wartime sites.

Key activities: Visitors can enjoy hiking and cycling on well-marked trails, wildlife spotting, and picnicking in designated areas. Families can engage in educational nature walks and visit the visitor center for interactive exhibits. Foodies will appreciate local eateries nearby offering Limburg specialties and seasonal treats.

Kid-friendly focus: The park is very welcoming to families with young children, featuring easy, safe trails and playgrounds. Educational programs and nature workshops are often available, making it an enriching experience for kids.

Dog-friendly notes: Hoge Kempen National Park is exceptionally dog-friendly, with many trails allowing dogs off-leash in designated zones. Water points and waste disposal facilities are conveniently placed, ensuring a comfortable visit for pet owners.

Location: GaiaZOO is located in Kerkrade, Limburg region, Netherlands, near the German border, making it an accessible and refreshing detour for travelers exploring this part of Europe.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, Wildlife Enthusiasts, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: GaiaZOO offers a unique blend of wildlife encounters and family-friendly adventure in a beautifully designed zoo that emphasizes natural habitats and conservation. Visitors can enjoy close-up views of exotic animals while strolling through immersive themed zones that bring the African savannah, Asian forests, and European wilderness to life. Its commitment to education and sustainability makes it a meaningful stop for all ages.

Key activities: Explore diverse animal exhibits featuring lions, elephants, and red pandas; participate in interactive feeding sessions and educational talks; enjoy themed playgrounds and adventure trails designed for children; dine at on-site eateries offering local and international cuisine; and take scenic walks through beautifully landscaped gardens.

Kid-friendly focus: The zoo is exceptionally well-suited for families with young children, featuring safe, engaging play areas, stroller-friendly paths, and interactive exhibits that encourage learning through play. Special events and workshops are often organized to captivate young minds.

Dog-friendly notes: GaiaZOO welcomes dogs on a leash in outdoor areas, allowing pet owners to include their furry friends in the adventure. However, dogs are not permitted inside animal enclosures or indoor facilities, so plan accordingly to ensure a comfortable visit for all.

Location: Situated in Chevetogne, in the Wallonia region of Belgium, Domaine de Chevetogne Park offers a peaceful escape into nature just a short drive from major cities like Namur and Dinant. Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, Family-Friendly, Dog-Friendly, Wildlife Enthusiasts, History Buffs, Foodies Why it's a great detour: This expansive park is a perfect detour for travelers seeking scenic nature trails combined with engaging wildlife encounters suitable for all ages. Its blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and family-oriented activities makes it an enriching stop for diverse interests. The park's well-maintained paths and welcoming atmosphere invite visitors to unwind and explore at a leisurely pace. Key activities: Visitors can enjoy hiking or cycling along marked trails that wind through forests and meadows, spot native wildlife in designated observation areas, and visit the park’s historical sites including a charming chapel and old farm buildings. Families can picnic by the lakeside, participate in educational workshops, or explore the playgrounds. Foodies will appreciate local Belgian treats available at the park’s café and seasonal markets. Kid-friendly focus: The park is highly suitable for families with young children, offering safe, accessible trails and interactive wildlife experiences designed to engage young minds. Play areas and family picnic spots enhance the visit for little ones. Dog-friendly notes: Dogs are warmly welcomed on-leash throughout the park, with plenty of open spaces for walks and exploration, making it an excellent choice for travelers with pets seeking a nature-filled outing.