Leuven - Discovering Belgium

Travelling to Leuven

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Leuven, a pretty good destination in Belgium (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Leuven and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Leuven, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Belgium, here's everything to know about Leuven for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Leuven

Leuven is a small but charming city in the Flemish Brabant province of Belgium. It is located about 25 kilometers east of Brussels and is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe - the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven. Leuven is known for its picturesque medieval architecture, lively student scene, and its famous beer culture. The city also hosts numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural events throughout the year. Additionally, Leuven is a perfect base for exploring the surrounding countryside which feature beautiful parks, forests, and lakes.

What to visit in Leuven

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Leuven, Belgium and some information about each: 1. Grote Markt: This is the main square in Leuven and is surrounded by historic buildings like the Gothic-style Town Hall and the St. Peter's Church. The square also has many restaurants and cafes with outdoor seating.
2. University of Leuven: Founded in 1425, the University of Leuven is one of the oldest universities in the world. It has many historic buildings and museums, including the University Library and the Museum M, which houses both art and cultural exhibitions.
3. Stella Artois Brewery: This brewery offers tours of its facilities, where tourists can learn about the history of the brewery and the brewing process. At the end of the tour, visitors can taste different types of Stella Artois beers.
4. Leuven Town Hall: The Gothic-style Town Hall was built in the 15th century and has a famous statue of the Flemish hero, Jan Primus. The interior of the building is also worth a visit, as it has many ornate rooms and frescoes.
5. Arenberg Castle: This castle was built in the 16th century and has a distinctive Renaissance style. It is now home to the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven Faculty Club and can be visited by appointment.
6. M-Museum: The M-Museum houses modern and contemporary art, as well as Flemish art. It has an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art.
7. Keizersberg Abbey: This abbey was founded in the 19th century and is famous for its neo-Gothic church and its beautiful gardens with panoramic views of Leuven.
8. Leuven Beguinages: These are small settlements for religious women, called Beguines, that were established in the Middle Ages. Leuven has two remaining Beguinages, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that Leuven has to offer.

When to go on holiday to Leuven

The best time to visit Leuven depends on your preferences. However, the high season for tourism in Leuven is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. This is also when many festivals and events take place in the city. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) can be great times to visit. The weather is still pleasant, and you can enjoy the beautiful trees and flowers in the city's parks and gardens. Visiting in the winter, from November to February, can be a good option for those who enjoy cooler temperatures, festive Christmas markets, and winter activities such as ice skating.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Leuven

There are several ways to get to Leuven, Belgium: 1. By Plane: Leuven is located just 20 km east of Brussels, and therefore the easiest way to reach Leuven is by flying into Brussels Airport (BRU). From there, you can take a direct train to Leuven (journey time: approximately 15-20 minutes).
2. By Train: Leuven is well connected by train to other major cities in Europe including Paris, Amsterdam, London, and Frankfurt. You can take a train from these cities directly to Leuven station.
3. By Car: If you decide to drive to Leuven, there are various motorways that lead directly to the city. From Brussels, you can take the E40 and E314 motorways.
4. By Bus: There are various bus companies that offer services to Leuven from neighboring countries, including Flixbus and Eurolines.
Once you arrive in Leuven, the city is very easy to navigate on foot or by bike since it is relatively small.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Leuven, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Leuven

Sure, here are some typical foods of Leuven, Belgium: 1. Stoofvlees: A Flemish beef stew cooked with beer and served with fries.
2. Witloof: Also known as Belgian endive, it is usually served grilled or baked with cheese and ham.
3. Frieten: Belgium's famous French fries! They are thick-cut and served with mayo or other sauces.
4. Speculoos: A type of spiced cookie that can be found in many bakeries and coffee shops in Leuven.
5. Bier: Leuven is famous for its breweries and beer culture, with several local breweries producing a variety of tasty beers.
6. Pizzoccheri: A pasta dish from the Italian region of Lombardy that is also commonly found in Leuven. It is made with buckwheat pasta, potatoes, cheese, and cabbage.
7. Hoppetaart: A traditional Flemish dessert that is made with puff pastry, a custard filling, and topped with whipped cream and strawberries.
8. Gouda: A type of Dutch cheese that is commonly imported and sold in Leuven's markets and cheese shops.
I hope this helps! Enjoy your trip to Leuven!
You can find general info about typical foods in Belgium here.

Is Leuven an expensive destination for tourists?

Leuven can be a slightly costly destination for tourists, especially when compared to other Belgian cities such as Brussels or Antwerp. However, it is possible to explore the city on a budget by opting for affordable accommodations, walking or cycling around the city instead of using taxis, and looking for cheap or free activities such as visiting museums, historical sites or parks. Additionally, the city offers plenty of affordable food options, including street food, small cafes, and local markets, and its famous beer can be found at reasonable prices in many bars and restaurants.

Where to find accomodation in Leuven

For visiting Leuven, I would suggest looking for accommodation in the city center, as it is the most convenient location for exploring the city's attractions. Other good areas to consider include Heverlee, which is a bit quieter and has easy access to the university grounds, and Kessel-Lo, which is known for its parks and outdoor activities. Another option is to stay in the suburbs or nearby towns and take public transport into the city center, but this can add some commute time to your daily schedule. Ultimately, it all depends on your preferences and budget.
You can check hotel prices at Leuven here:
Booking.com

Is Leuven a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Leuven is generally a safe place for tourists. The crime rate in Leuven is relatively low, and the city is known for being a safe and friendly place to visit. However, as with any city, it's always important to take common-sense precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping an eye on your belongings. In crowded areas, be aware of pickpockets and keep an eye on your personal belongings. Additionally, it's always a good idea to have a general understanding of the local laws and customs before traveling to any new destination.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Belgium here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Leuven.

What type of travelers will enjoy Leuven the most?

Leuven, Belgium is a great destination for a wide range of travelers. Couples may enjoy the romantic atmosphere in the town while walking through the charming streets or having a drink in one of the local bars. The town's many historic churches and landmarks offer plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and learning about local culture and history.
Younger people are often attracted to the vibrant nightlife scene in Leuven, with plenty of trendy bars, cafes and restaurants to choose from. The town has many events specifically designed for young people throughout the year.
Families who visit Leuven can take in a variety of cultural experiences together, such as the city museum or one of the many galleries. There are also plenty of parks and outdoor spaces in and around Leuven, providing ample opportunity for children to run around and explore.
Overall, Leuven is a great option for couples, young people and families looking for a unique combination of culture, history and modern entertainment.

How to get around Leuven

Leuven has a well-connected transportation network consisting of buses, trams, and trains. The local buses and trams operate within the city and its suburbs, whereas the train network connects Leuven to major Belgian cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent. Additionally, Leuven is a pedestrian and bike-friendly city, and renting a bicycle is a popular way to get around. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

What to see around Leuven

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Leuven: 1. Brussels: The capital city of Belgium is just 20 km away from Leuven and it has plenty of attractions such as the Atomium, Manneken Pis, Grand Place, and the Royal Palace of Brussels.
2. Antwerp: The city of Antwerp is located 60 km away from Leuven and it is known for its fashion, diamonds, and art. The Antwerp Central Station is one of the most beautiful train stations in the world.
3. Mechelen: The charming town of Mechelen is just 20 km away from Leuven and it has a rich history with many cultural and historical attractions such as the St. Rumbold's Cathedral, the Palace of Margaret of Austria, and the Toy Museum.
4. Leuvensesteenweg: The road from Leuven to Brussels, known as the Leuvensesteenweg has numerous small villages, where you can stop and explore like Zaventem, Bertem, and Tervuren.
5. Tienen: The city of Tienen is located 25 km away from Leuven and it is known for its sugar production and historical landmarks such as the Gothic St. Germanus Church and the town square. I hope this helps you plan your day trips from Leuven!
For every travel information about Belgium you can click here.

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