Leuven
Tourism Sites
Groot Begijnhof (Grand Beguinage)
🧠 Fact: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this well-preserved beguinage offers a glimpse into 13th-century communal living
💡 Tip: Walk through the cobblestone streets to appreciate the tranquil atmosphere.
Info - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this serene historical quarter was once home to religious laywomen known as beguines. The cobbled streets, quaint cottages, and peaceful courtyards feel like stepping back in time. It’s now part of KU Leuven University housing, yet still radiates medieval charm.
Leuven Town Hall (Stadhuis)
🧠 Fact: A masterpiece of Gothic architecture adorned with numerous statues and intricate details.
💡 Tip: Join a guided tour to learn about the building's history and symbolism.
Info - One of Belgium’s most ornate Gothic buildings, the Leuven Town Hall is a showstopper. Its intricate façade, covered with 236 statues of local figures and saints, is a masterpiece of 15th-century craftsmanship. Guided tours take you inside to admire its grand halls and learn about its rich civic history.
M – Museum Leuven
🧠 Fact: A modern museum showcasing a mix of contemporary and historical art.
💡 Tip: Visit the rooftop terrace for a panoramic view of the city.
Info - A modern art hub, M – Museum Leuven blends contemporary and historical works within its sleek, minimalist architecture. The museum’s dynamic exhibitions cover everything from medieval art to avant-garde installations. Its rooftop terrace also offers lovely views across the city skyline.
Old Market Square (Oude Markt)
🧠 Fact: Known as "the longest bar in the world" due to its numerous cafés and vibrant nightlife.
💡 Tip: Visit during the evening to experience the lively atmosphere.
Info - Nicknamed “the longest bar in the world,” Leuven’s Old Market Square is lined with dozens of lively cafés and bars. By day, it’s a picturesque square with beautiful guild houses. By night, it transforms into the city’s social hotspot, perfect for a Belgian beer or two with locals.
St. Peter’s Church (Sint-Pieterskerk)
🧠 Fact:A 15th-century church housing the renowned painting "The Last Supper" by Dieric Bouts.
💡 Tip: Check the opening hours in advance, as they may vary.
Info - Facing the Town Hall in the city’s central square, this UNESCO-listed church showcases Brabantine Gothic architecture at its finest. Inside, visitors find treasures like Dirk Bouts' The Last Supper, along with impressive vaulted ceilings and a beautiful oak pulpit. It’s a quiet, reflective place amid the city buzz.