Train Liege → Lille

Back from the edge In Wallonia, the French-speaking, southern part of Belgium, you'll find Liège, the country's fourth largest city. Wedged between Flanders in the North, France in the southwest, and Germany on its eastern border – this centrally located city is linked by rail along the ICE and Thalys train routes. And while we're all about promoting train travel, we mention this first in a city description because Liège's new station is really a destination unto itself. What may be the most beautiful station in all of Europe, famed architect Santiago Calatrava has transformed the cultural and physical landscape with just one building. With a monumental dome rising over 100 feet, it's a perfect metaphor for Liège – reaching toward the sky. This cozy city on the river Meuse is rumored to be the birthplace of Charlemagne, considered the founding father of Europe. His empire united most of Western Europe for the first time since the Romans, and encouraged the formation of a common European identity. And yet, Liège over the centuries was the target of numerous invasions, changing hands from Germany to Spain to France at a rapid pace before setting into Belgium. Learn more about Liege

A little taste of flanders in France Why would a city in France also have a Flemish name ? Lille (or Rijsel as it's known in Flemish) rests on the Deule river near the border where France meets Belgium. It is the largest of France's cities in the north. Lille is proud of its Flemish history and influence, which was once considered the quintessential example of fine taste and affluence. To live up to its heritage, Lille boasts notable architecture and style, providing visitors with an abundance of restaurants, hotels, museums and charming ambiance in its restored Vieux Lille. In 2004, Lille proudly bore the title of the European Capital of Culture, and provided residents and visitors alike with outstanding music and art events. The center of all activity is known as the Grande Place at the southern edge of Vieux Lille. Here, the streets are jammed with shoppers and outdoor cafes (when the weather is agreeable – Lille rarely gets too hot in the summer, and often gets below freezing in the winter). Learn more about Lille