Leuven: the City of Bells

Visiting Leuven offers a delightful experience in the heart of the Flemish Brabant region. Known for its vibrant student population, thanks to the renowned university, the city buzzes with youthful energy and cultural events throughout the year. Wander through its charming streets lined with stunning medieval architecture, cozy cafés, and lively squares where locals and visitors gather to enjoy the atmosphere.

Leuven’s compact city center makes it easy to explore on foot. Highlights include the impressive Town Hall with its ornate Gothic design and the beautiful University Library, which stands as a symbol of resilience and learning. The city also boasts numerous parks and green spaces, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing or sampling the local cuisine in one of the many restaurants and traditional beer houses.

Situated within easy reach of Brussels and other major cities in the Flemish Brabant area, Leuven is an ideal base for exploring the region. Its excellent transport connections and welcoming atmosphere make it a favorite for travelers seeking both history and modern vibrancy in one charming destination. Whether visiting for a weekend or longer, Leuven offers a perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and local Flemish hospitality.

History of Leuven

Early History of Leuven

Leuven’s origins date back to the early Middle Ages when it was first mentioned in historical records around the 9th century. The settlement grew around the river Dyle, benefiting from its strategic location for trade and agriculture. By the 12th century, Leuven had established itself as an important market town, with growing influence due to its cloth industry and trade connections.

Leuven in the Medieval and Renaissance Period

During the medieval period, Leuven flourished as a center of commerce and education. The establishment of the University of Leuven in 1425 marked a significant milestone, making it one of the oldest universities in Europe. The city’s medieval architecture, including the Town Hall and St. Peter’s Church, reflects the prosperity and cultural importance Leuven held during this era. The Renaissance brought further growth, with scholars and artists contributing to the city’s intellectual and cultural life.

Leuven in the Modern Era

The city experienced challenges in the 19th and 20th centuries, including damage during both World Wars. Notably, the University Library was destroyed twice but was rebuilt as a symbol of resilience. Post-war Leuven transformed into a vibrant academic and cultural hub, expanding its role beyond education to technology and innovation. Today, Leuven balances its rich historical heritage with a dynamic modern identity.

Visiting Leuven for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Leuven on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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1. Leuven – University Library & Tower

The University Library is an imposing landmark with a neo-Gothic facade, rebuilt after wartime destruction. Visitors can climb the tower for sweeping views of Leuven’s red-tiled rooftops and tree-lined streets. Inside, the library displays historic reading rooms and occasional exhibitions.

Entry to the tower costs around €7, and it’s open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM (closed on Sundays). It’s ideal to visit earlier in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy the panoramic vistas in peace.

2. Leuven – Grote Markt & Town Hall

Leuven’s bustling Grote Markt lies at the heart of the city’s social life, framed by cafés, terraces, and the ornate Gothic Town Hall. The Town Hall, with its intricately carved statues and spires, invites admiration and occasional guided tours, which explore its craftsmanship and civic history.

Exploring the square and admiring the exterior is free, while guided tours of the Town Hall (when available) usually cost around €5. The square is lively year-round, especially during festivals and weekly markets.

3. Leuven – Saint Peter’s Church

Saint Peter’s Church, a Brabantine Gothic masterpiece, is renowned for its stunning wooden pulpit, elegant stained glass, and the Brewer’s Chapel—a nod to Leuven’s long brewing heritage. The church’s serene atmosphere is perfect for a contemplative stop between sightseeing.

Entry is free, with opening hours from about 10 AM to 4:30 PM daily (times may vary on religious holidays). Visitors are asked to respect service schedules.

4. Leuven – Groot Begijnhof (Great Beguinage)

The Groot Begijnhof is a peaceful UNESCO-protected enclave of whitewashed cottages and quiet courtyards, once home to religious beguines. Today, it provides a tranquil escape with historic architecture, winding streets, and a chapel.

Access is free and open year-round. Its secluded lanes and calm atmosphere make it one of Leuven’s most charming and atmospheric areas.

5. Leuven – Hortus Botanicus Lovaniensis

Belgium’s oldest botanical garden, the Kruidtuin, features over 7,000 plant species across themed sections, including greenhouses, ponds, succulents, and carnivorous plants. It’s both a scientific and visual delight, ideal for leisurely strolls.

Entry is free, and the garden is open daily from early morning until dusk. Visitors will appreciate the peaceful ambiance and rich biodiversity.

6. Leuven – Park Abbey (Abdij van Park)

Park Abbey sits just outside the city centre, set in 42 hectares of verdant parkland with ponds, woodlands, and historic abbey buildings. The site includes a museum of religious art, monastery church, cloisters, and elegant Baroque interiors.

Access to the grounds is free, while guided tours of the abbey and museum cost around €5. It’s open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM (closed on Mondays). Ideal for a peaceful afternoon away from the urban buzz.

7. Leuven – M Leuven (Museum of Leuven)

M Leuven is a contemporary museum offering an engaging mix of art, archaeology, and local history. It blends old and new through changing exhibits that spotlight Leuven’s evolving identity and culture.

Entry costs approximately €8, and the museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM (closed on Mondays). The café and shop offer a relaxing post-gallery pause.

8. Leuven – Stella Artois Brewery Tour

The Stella Artois brewery offers guided tours that take visitors through its historic brewing halls, machinery, and sampling rooms. It’s an excellent way to learn about Leuven’s brewing legacy—while enjoying fresh taps on-site.

Tours run on weekends (typically Saturdays and Sundays at 3 PM), cost around €8.50, and last about two hours. Booking in advance is recommended due to high demand.

9. Leuven – Arenberg Castle & Gardens

Arenberg Castle, nestled on the edge of the university campus, is a grand 15th-century structure surrounded by manicured gardens and shaded walkways. It offers a quiet retreat and an elegant setting for outdoor exploration, though the castle interior is rarely open to the public.

The gardens and surrounding park are free to access at all times, making this a peaceful stop that’s accessible year-round—perfect for picnics or a leisurely stroll.

10. Leuven – Oude Markt (Old Market Square)

Known as the “longest bar in the world,” the Oude Markt is a vibrant square lined with more than 40 bars and eateries. It’s a central gathering spot from daytime through late nights, offering a true taste of student-driven nightlife and local life.

Walking around and soaking in the atmosphere is free. Establishments open from late morning until late night, and the square pulses with activity during summer evenings and festival weekends.