Vaartkom
Once a dilapidated industrial and brewing site near the Canal, this area has been transformed into one of the city’s trendiest spots. Drop by and discover the perfect synthesis of old and new, with new restaurants and shops that are popping up around the harbour.
Thanks to the seating areas along the water, the wide promenade, and the abundance of green, the Vaartkom is a real hotspot where locals and visitors meet.
Tips
- The old Stella Artois brewery has become De Hoorn, a place for like-minded creative spirits to come together, and which also naturally includes a café and restaurant. The terrace spills out into a fabulous new neighbourhood park, the Sluispark.
- The former Customs building is now home to OPEK, a place for artistic organisations and a great cultural café.
- The Balk van Beel residential complex by star architect Stéphane Beel is a shining example of sustainability.
- Go in search of the original works of art by local artist Pieter Janssens. Look up to catch them all. Fun is guaranteed with Rossella Biscotti's artwork Search Climb Hide. Hiding, balancing, and climbing: anything goes.
- Food & drinks in the neighbourhood: Café Entrepot (OPEK) & Coupe Matadi (for an ice cream in the summer months)
How to get there?
- Address: Vaartkom, 3000 Leuven • location on map
- By bus
Bus stop Engels Plein & Vaartvest
Route planner
- Free shuttle bus
From Parking Vaartkom to the centre and back.- Fridays: 9:00-18:00
- Saturdays: 10:00-19:00
- Sunday shopping: 14:00-19:00
- 4 stops in the centre (2 on Saturdays)
- On foot or by bike
Distance from the train station: 1,1 km
Distance from Visit Leuven: 1,5 km
- By car
Parking in the neighbourhood: Vaartkom
Accessibility
- Accessible
