Host city Leuven
History, university life, and Belgian cafés
Leuven, nestled in the heart of Belgium, is known for its history and academic prominence. It is home to KU Leuven, one of Europe’s oldest and most respected universities.
Walking through Leuven’s streets, you will see well-preserved architecture such as the Gothic Town Hall and the University Library Tower on Ladeuzeplein. The city also has a lively café culture and green places such as Park Abbey and the Botanical Garden.
How to get to Leuven
Practical travel information
From Brussels Airport
Brussels Airport is the closest airport to Leuven, about 28 km away. The train station is directly under the terminal, on level -1. Direct trains connect the airport with Leuven in about 15 minutes.
From Brussels South Charleroi Airport
Brussels South Charleroi Airport is about 90 km from Leuven. Take a bus to Charleroi-Central railway station and continue by train to Leuven, or take an airport shuttle to Brussels and continue by train from there.
By train
Leuven railway station is close to the city centre. International trains usually arrive at Brussels-South or Liège-Guillemins, with national train connections to Leuven. Check schedules and fares through Belgian Rail.
By car
Approaching Leuven on the E40 from Brussels or Liège, take the E314/A2 towards Aachen, Genk, Hasselt, and Leuven, then take exit 15 Leuven. From the E314/A2, also take exit 15 Leuven.
Parking
The historic centre is largely traffic-free. Leuven uses traffic loops from the ring road to city-centre car parks, with additional ring-road parking options. Check the city parking information before travelling.
Useful links
Belgian Rail, Brussels Airport, Brussels South Charleroi Airport, and Visit Leuven travel information.
Highlights
Worth seeing while you are here
Leuven is small enough for short walks, but varied enough to fill an extra afternoon or evening.
Grote Markt and Town Hall
The historic heart of Leuven, with the city’s Gothic Town Hall and Saint Peter’s Church close together on the main square.
University Library and Tower
A landmark building on Ladeuzeplein with a reading room, exhibitions, tower visits, and panoramic views over the city.
Botanical Garden
Belgium’s oldest botanical garden dates back to 1738 and is free to visit.
Oude Markt
A lively square with many cafés and terraces, often referred to as “the longest bar in Europe”.
Great Beguinage
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobbled streets, brick houses, quiet courtyards, and green corners.
Park Abbey
One of the best-preserved abbey sites in Europe, with ponds, meadows, avenues, and Museum PARCUM.