Guillemins, Liege Travel Guide

Discover Guillemins in Liege, Belgium: A unique fusion of futuristic architecture, cultural heritage, and culinary delights. Perfect for the modern traveler and history buff alike.

Welcome to Guillemins, the beating heart of modernity in the historic city of Liege, Belgium. This neighbourhood is a captivating blend of advanced architecture and rich history, making it an unmissable destination for tourists seeking both innovation and culture. The crown jewel of Guillemins is undoubtedly the Liège-Guillemins Railway Station. Designed by the world-renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, this futuristic structure is a marvel of glass, steel, and concrete, and is considered one of the most beautiful train stations in Europe. The station serves as a gateway not just to the neighborhood but to the whole city, seamlessly connecting Liege with major European cities. Beyond the station, Guillemins offers a variety of attractions and activities. Take a leisurely walk to the nearby Parc de la Boverie, a lush green space perfect for relaxation and picnics. The park also houses La Boverie, a museum that combines fine arts with contemporary exhibitions. For those keen on shopping, the Médiacité shopping mall offers a wide range of stores and eateries, ensuring you have everything you need at your fingertips. Guillemins is also a culinary delight. From traditional Belgian waffles to fine dining, the neighborhood offers a range of gastronomic experiences that will tantalize your taste buds. Don’t miss out on trying the local specialty, “boulets à la liégeoise,” a meatball dish that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Guillemins.

Visit Liège-Guillemins Railway Station early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best photos.
Rent a bike to explore the Parc de la Boverie and the surrounding areas at your own pace.
Check the schedule at La Boverie for any special exhibitions or events happening during your visit.
Try ‘boulets à la liégeoise’ at a local restaurant for an authentic taste of Liege cuisine.
Allocate some time for shopping at Médiacité, especially if you’re looking for unique Belgian souvenirs.

Explore Guillemins: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Guillemins

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Parc d'Avroy

Experience the tranquility and beauty of Parc d'Avroy, a serene urban park in Liège, perfect for relaxation and local cultural events.

4.1

Botanical Garden

Explore the serene beauty of Liège's Botanical Garden, where nature comes alive with vibrant flora and tranquil landscapes.

4.2

Le Grand Curtius Museum

Explore Le Grand Curtius Museum in Liège for a captivating journey through Belgium's rich history and stunning art collections.

4.4

Park Cointe

Explore the serene beauty of Park Cointe, a perfect escape in Liège with stunning views, lush landscapes, and ample recreational activities.

4.3

Best landmarks in Guillemins

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Montagne de Bueren

Experience the breathtaking views and rich history of Liège at Montagne de Bueren, a must-see attraction with 374 scenic steps to climb.

4.5

Place Saint-Lambert

Explore the vibrant Place Saint-Lambert in Liège, Belgium - a cultural hub filled with history, dining, and shopping experiences.

4.1

La Boverie

Explore La Boverie, an art museum in Liège, Belgium, offering a rich collection of artworks and stunning park views for an unforgettable cultural experience.

4.4

St. Paul's Cathedral in Liege

Explore the architectural grandeur and serene beauty of St. Paul's Cathedral, a historic landmark in the heart of Liege, Belgium.

4.4

Best restaurants in Guillemins

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Le Concordia

Experience authentic Belgian cuisine at Le Concordia in Liège – where tradition meets flavor in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

4.1

Brasserie Liegeoise

Experience authentic Belgian flavors at Brasserie Liegeoise in Liège – where fondue and steak take center stage.

3.9

Restaurant L'Ecuyer

Experience the essence of Belgium at Restaurant L'Ecuyer in Liège - where every dish tells a story.

4.4

l'Atelier Pâtes Guillemins

Discover authentic Italian flavors at l'Atelier Pâtes Guillemins in Liège - where fresh pasta meets delightful ambiance.

4.3

Best bars in Guillemins

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Le Concordia

Savor authentic Belgian flavors at Le Concordia, a charming restaurant in Liège with a warm ambiance and a delightful menu.

4.1

Restaurant L'Ecuyer

Experience the heart of Belgian gastronomy at Restaurant L'Ecuyer in Liège, where tradition meets culinary excellence.

4.4

Grand Café de la Gare

Experience the best of Belgian and modern French cuisine at Grand Café de la Gare, a vibrant spot in Liège's iconic train station.

4.1

TGV Taverne

Experience the best of Belgian cuisine at TGV Taverne, a beloved gastropub in the vibrant city of Liège, where tradition meets innovation.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Guillemins

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Monte Cristo Club, Bar À Chicha - Liège

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Liège at Monte Cristo Club, the ultimate lounge for shisha lovers and social butterflies.

3.7

Le Cuba'r - Liège

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Liège at Le Cuba'r, a lively bar and disco club offering salsa classes and unforgettable dance nights.

3.4

Crystal Club

Discover the essence of Liège's nightlife at Crystal Club, where style meets excitement in a chic lounge setting.

3.7

Le vogue

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Le Vogue, Liège's top disco club, where the music never stops and the dance floor awaits.

4.1

Best shops in Guillemins

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Médiacité

Discover Médiacité in Liège, a vibrant shopping mall offering an incredible selection of stores, dining options, and entertainment for an unforgettable experience.

4.1

Shopping Belle-Île Liège

Discover diverse shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences at Belle-Île Liège, a premier destination for tourists and locals alike.

4.1

Dille & Kamille - Luik-Liège

Discover unique gifts and home goods at Dille & Kamille, a charming shop in Liège offering quality kitchen supplies and delightful teas.

4.5

Passage Lemonnier

Explore Passage Lemonnier, a historic shopping haven in Liège, blending local charm with modern retail experiences amidst stunning architecture.

4.0

Explore Guillemins on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Guillemins, mapped for you.

Guillemins Essentials

Guillemins is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Liège. The main transport hub is the Liège-Guillemins railway station, which connects to major cities in Belgium and neighboring countries. From the city center, you can take a direct bus (line 1 or 4) or a short taxi ride. If you're arriving from Brussels or Antwerp, high-speed trains like Thalys or Eurostar will bring you directly to Guillemins station.
Guillemins is well-connected by public transport. The Liège-Guillemins train station serves as a central point for regional and international trains. Local buses operate frequently, with stops throughout the neighborhood. Bicycles can be rented from various locations, and the area is relatively flat, making it suitable for cycling. Walking is also a pleasant option, especially to explore nearby parks and attractions.
Guillemins is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially at night. Areas with higher crime rates include some streets near the train station. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious in crowded settings. Stick to well-lit areas after dark, and consider using taxis or rideshares instead of walking alone.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Local police stations and hospitals are available. It is wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For less urgent health issues, pharmacies are located throughout Guillemins where you can obtain over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably, but avoid overly casual attire when dining. Religion: Do respect local customs, particularly when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be mindful of your belongings and give up your seat for elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir'. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like boulets liégeois. Don't refuse food or drink when offered by locals, as it can be seen as impolite.
To experience Guillemins like a local, visit the nearby Parc de la Boverie, where you can enjoy a picnic or simply relax. Check out local markets for fresh produce and artisanal goods. Engage with locals at cafés, and don't hesitate to ask for recommendations. For an authentic dining experience, try a brasserie that serves traditional Liège cuisine. Lastly, take time to admire the striking architecture of the Guillemins train station, which is a masterpiece of modern design.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Guillemins

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Guillemins. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBonjour
  [bon-zhoor]
- GoodbyeAu revoir
  [oh reh-vwahr]
- YesOui
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [nohn]
- Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît
  [seel voo pleh]
- Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi
  [ehk-skew-zay mwah]
- How are you?Comment ça va?
  [koh-mohn sah vah]
- Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [byehn. ay voo]
- Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
- I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahnd pah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir la carte, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwar lah kart, seel voo pleh]
- I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vyand]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, seel voo pleh]
- Help!Au secours!
  [oh se-kur]
- Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [ah-lay voo zahn]
- Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-play lah poh-leece]
- Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
  [ah-play uhn may-deh-sahn]
- I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pair-doo]
- I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray ah-sheh-tay]
- I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gard zhust]
- How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
  [kohn-byen sah koot]
- That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say troh shair]
- Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-vay voo bay-say luh pree]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kell uhr ay-teel]
- It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel ay oon uhr]
- Half past (10)Dix heures et demie
  [dees uhr ay duh-mee]
- MorningMatin
  [mah-tahn]
- AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-pray mee-dee]
- EveningSoir
  [swahr]
- YesterdayHier
  [yehr]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor-dwee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [duh-mahn]
- 1Un
  [uhn]
- 2Deux
  [duh]
- 3Trois
  [twah]
- 4Quatre
  [kah-truh]
- 5Cinq
  [sank]
- 6Six
  [sees]
- 7Sept
  [set]
- 8Huit
  [weet]
- 9Neuf
  [nurf]
- 10Dix
  [dees]
- Where's a/the...?Où est...?
  [oo ay...]
- What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kell ay la-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-vay voo muh mohn-tray (soor lah kart)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn ay luh proh-shahn (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ...)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor ...)]

History of Guillemins

Guillemins, originally a small village, began to take shape in the 19th century. Its strategic location made it an essential point for transportation and trade, particularly with the establishment of the first railway line in Belgium in 1835. This development facilitated economic growth and attracted a diverse population, laying the foundation for what would become a bustling neighborhood.
In 1905, the Guillemins Railway Station was inaugurated, designed by the architect Paul Séjourné. This station became a pivotal part of Liege's transportation infrastructure and was known for its striking architectural style, featuring a grand steel and glass structure. The station not only connected Guillemins to major cities but also symbolized the industrial power of Liege during the early 20th century.
During World War II, Guillemins faced significant challenges, including damage from bombings. The railway station was heavily affected, but it was rebuilt and modernized in the post-war period. This reconstruction effort represented a broader trend of revitalization throughout Liege, as the city sought to recover from the war's devastation and reestablish itself as a key industrial hub.
In recent decades, Guillemins has undergone a transformative revival. The new Guillemins Railway Station, designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava and opened in 2009, has become a modern architectural landmark. The area has also seen a surge in cultural activities, with the establishment of numerous cafes, restaurants, and art spaces, reflecting the vibrant and evolving identity of Guillemins within the context of Liege.
Today, Guillemins serves as a cultural and transport hub, embodying the spirit of Liege. The neighborhood hosts events, exhibitions, and festivals, contributing to the rich tapestry of Belgian culture. Its proximity to the city center and its historical significance make Guillemins a vital part of Liege's urban landscape, attracting both locals and tourists eager to explore its history and contemporary offerings.