From fries to fine dining: Leuven has it all.
Did you know that Leuven has around 60,000 students out of a total population of just over 100,000? That’s a lot of hungry stomachs, but everyone finds something to their liking in Leuven. Korean, Pakistani, or Spanish: in the city centre, you’ll find cuisines from all over the world within walking distance.
But Belgian classics are also well represented. Nothing beats a good pack of fries, and what’s more, Leuven is the proud home town of Belgium’s first vegan fry shop: Pepas! Willing to pay a bit more? Then book a table at one of the gourmet or starred restaurants that Leuven has to offer. Bon appétit!
Feast your eyes on 8 art installations
Leuven’s university is celebrating its 600th anniversary this year. To mark that achievement, the university decided to go all out for art. Eight new artworks by national and international artists have popped up in Leuven’s parks, squares, and streets. They address the most important scientific issues of our time. How colonial is our knowledge? Is medicine truly for all, or just for a select few? Head out with our walking leaflet or app and find them all.
Tip: eight poems are also part of the art and science trail and can be read in large letters on and around some iconic university buildings from now on.
Picnic paradise
Those who like to picnic have no shortage of options in Leuven. You’ll find the perfect spot at one of more than fifteen parks: from hidden spots like the idyllic Dijlepark to the most popular student park in the heart of the city, the Sint-Donatus Park. Settle down in the Sluispark, a young urban park in the bustling Vaarkom neighbourhood, or in an ancient green oasis like the Botanical Garden. In addition, you’ll find some lovely parks just a few minutes’ bike ride outside the city, such as the Provincial Domain, Park Abbey, and Arenberg Park.
Tip: visit one of the weekly markets in Leuven to pick up a super-fresh picnic before plopping down on your blanket!
Crowded with heritage. And no crowds.
Leuven is centuries old, and it shows. The city is brimming with iconic heritage gems that bring history to life. Right in the city centre, one of the most famous Gothic town halls in the world definitely takes the crown. Right next door is Saint Peter’s Church, and a little further on, you’ll find the University Library with its glorious Grand Reading Room, and the Great Beguinage, a medieval village in the city.
In the 2025 anniversary year, you can also go on a guided tour to discover the secrets hidden behind the façades of university heritage buildings, such as Arenberg Castle or the Hollands College.
So does this mean you’ll have to queue up after all? Nope. Leuven doesn’t have crowds, typical tourist shops, questionable souvenirs, or tasteless photo menus. You walk, shop, and eat among the locals. Smart, right?
Hop on a train, and you’re there
Leuven sits right in the centre of Belgium, just 30 minutes from Brussels. International trains arrive in Brussels-Midi or Liège. From there, you take a local train to Leuven. Travelling from Amsterdam, London, Düsseldorf, or Frankfurt? Then you’ll arrive in less than three hours. Coming from Rotterdam, Lille, Paris, or Cologne? Even better! You’ll be in Leuven in less than two hours.
Taking the train isn’t just fast and eco-friendly—it’s also super comfy! Comfortable high-speed Eurostar, ICE, and TGV trains will get you into the city centre in no time.
At least 24 hours in Leuven
There’s too much to explore in one day! Smart travellers spend at least one night (or maybe more) in one of Leuven’s charming B&Bs or stylish hotels.
