location.beaches.districts_subtitle
UNESCO World Heritage beguinage, tranquil cobblestone streets, university housing.
University campus area, Arenberg Castle, parks, student housing.
Historic center, Town Hall, Oude Markt square, main attractions and nightlife.
Former industrial harbor, now trendy with breweries, restaurants, modern apartments.
faq.subtitle Leuven
Leuven is home to KU Leuven, one of Europe's oldest and most prestigious universities (since 1425). Also headquarters of AB InBev, world's largest beer company (Stella Artois). The Oude Markt is called 'the longest bar in the world'.
Train from Brussels (25 min), Brussels Airport (15 min direct). IC trains every 30 min. Station is 10 min walk from center.
Oude Markt is a large square lined with 40+ bars and cafes, nicknamed 'the longest bar in the world'. Epicenter of Leuven's legendary nightlife. Very busy on weekends with students.
Leuven is cheaper than Brussels. Large student population keeps food and drinks prices reasonable. Accommodation can be tight during university terms.
Useful tips for visiting Leuven
Oude Markt has 40+ bars in one square - 'longest bar in the world'. Try local Stella Artois where it's brewed!
Visit Groot Begijnhof - UNESCO World Heritage beguinage. Tranquil oasis in busy university city.
Town Hall (Stadhuis) has incredible Gothic architecture - most ornate in Belgium. Free to admire from outside.
De Lijn buses don't accept cash. Buy ticket in app (€2.50) or pay by card on bus (€3).
Vaartkom area is new hipster district - former harbor with craft breweries, restaurants, street art.
Belgian beer paradise! Try Stella Artois at the source, plus many craft breweries. Don't miss Domus brewery.
Average temperature by month
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15°9°
9°4°location.transport.subtitle
| location.transport.title | location.transport.price | location.transport.app | location.transport.note |
|---|---|---|---|
location.transport.bus | 2.5 € ~2.9 $ | De Lijn | De Lijn is the main bus operator in Leuven. Tickets available from driver, newsagents or via app |
location.transport.train | 7 € ~8.1 $ | SNCB/NMBS | SNCB/NMBS trains connect Leuven with Brussels (20 min) and other Belgian cities. Frequent service |
location.transport.taxi | 5 € ~5.8 $ | UberBolt | Uber and Bolt operate in Leuven. A 5km ride costs about 17.50 EUR. Taxi from Brussels Airport ~60 EUR |
location.transport.bike | 4 € ~4.6 $ | Blue-bikeVelo | Leuven is a cycling city. Blue-bike at 7 stations with e-bikes. KU Leuven offers students discounts on Velo |
Cost of food, accommodation and services
Prices are approximate and may vary by season and area.
Hotels and rental prices
Prices are approximate. Book in advance during high season.
location.payment.subtitle
Cards widely accepted. Bancontact (Belgian debit) most common. Cash for small purchases and some bars.
Belgium uses Euro. Banks: KBC (strong in Leuven), BNP Paribas Fortis, ING, Belfius - ATMs throughout university town. No exchange needed from Eurozone. Bancontact (Belgian debit) most common payment but international cards accepted. Student city - very modern payments.
Service included in prices. Small tip (€1-2) appreciated but not expected.
Tourist area with low crime rate
Very safe university town. Student nightlife area (Oude Markt) can be rowdy on weekends. Standard precautions.
Attractions and points of interest
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