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Viewpoint · Liège, Liège
Montagne de Bueren
A straight stairway of 374 steps linking Hors-Château street to the top of the old citadel. Built at the end of the 19th century, it ends at a point with views over the roofs, the towers and the Mosa valley.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Montagne de Bueren
The Montagne de Bueren is Belgium’s best-known stairway: 374 steps in a straight line that start on rue Hors-Château in the old quarter and climb up the slopes of the Citadelle, the stronghold that once dominated Liège. It was built at the end of the 19th century to connect the city centre directly with the barracks at the top of the hill.
The name honours Vincent de Bueren, who in October 1468, together with Gossuin de Streel, led about 600 men from Franchimont in a nighttime attempt to capture Charles the Bold, Duke of Burgundy, and the French king Louis XI, who were besieging the city. The attack failed and Liège was sacked. Despite popular tradition, those 600 did not use that route, which was only opened four centuries later.
At the top begin the Coteaux de la Citadelle, over 90 hectares of green slopes with waymarked trails, remains of medieval walls, terraced gardens and viewpoints over the city. The GR5 long-distance trail, running from the North Sea to the Mediterranean, passes through here.
The stairway is a public space, open at all hours, and serves as a route for residents. On some autumn evenings the city decorates the steps with candles for an event on the slopes; check the date before you go.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 15–30 minutes to climb at your own pace, plus however long you want at the top. Including a walk around the slopes, allow one to two hours.
Best time
Early morning or late afternoon, when the light is low over the roofs. On rainy days the steps become slippery. In the European summer (June–August), choose the cooler hours.
How to get there
The base is on rue Hors-Château, a few minutes’ walk from Place Saint-Lambert and the Musée de la Vie wallonne. If you don’t want to climb the steps, you can drive or take a bus up to the top of the Citadelle and descend the stairway.
Tip
Climb slowly and use the landings to rest and take photos. To return, descend via the slopes’ paths to rue Pierreuse, which leads back to the centre. It’s a residential area: keep your voice down, especially at night.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Montagne de Bueren
How many steps does the Montagne de Bueren have?
There are 374 steps in a straight line, with no elevator or mechanical alternative alongside.
Why is the stairway called Bueren?
It commemorates Vincent de Bueren, one of the leaders of the attack by the 600 Franchimontois against Charles the Bold in 1468, during the siege of Liège.
Is there anything to see at the top?
Yes. The Coteaux de la Citadelle begin there: slopes with waymarked trails, terraced gardens, remains of walls and viewpoints over the Meuse valley.