Train Liege → Düsseldorf

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

On the cutting edge of modernity Located along the river Rhine, Düsseldorf is one of Germany's economic centers. Home to 3.2 million people, this beautiful city can sometimes be overlooked as a place for business and not fun. And while there are no famous castles or cathedrals here, there are modern marvels destined to become historic in the future. But first, a glimpse into the past. The Old Town or Altstadt, was almost destroyed during World War two but you wouldn't know it. Rebuilt according to historic plans, the area is now a popular shopping spot and on weekends, it turns into what's known as the "Longest bar in the world." Within a half-mile, find nearly 260 drinking holes, coffee shops and brewing houses. Stop in for a taste of "Altbier" – a top-fermented dark beer. This is where the "old" stops in Düsseldorf. The city has been transformed into a modern metropolis with architecture to match. There's no need to scour the city for these superb structures. Just head to Media Harbour. Showcasing world-class architects like Frank Gehry, it has become a meeting point for architecture connoisseurs from all over the world. Learn more about Düsseldorf