Things to do in Leuven
Discover the best attractions and experiences Leuven has to offer
Historic Monuments
Leuven's historic heart is visible in its Gothic guild houses, grand squares and timeless corners.
Stadhuis Leuven (Leuven Town Hall)
Gothic masterpiece on the Grote Markt with an ornate façade and a celebrated carillon.
Grote Markt (Old Market Square)
Lively central square framed by guild houses, cafés and city views.
Sint-Pieterskerk (St. Peter's Church)
A striking Gothic church with a tall spire and an impressive interior.
Grand Beguinage Leuven (Groot Begijnhof)
Historic beguinage with white-walled houses, tranquil canals and quiet courtyards.
Ladeuzeplein & University Library Carillon
Carillon tower near the university library offering bells and city views.
Museums
Leuven offers compact museums that blend art, history and faith with a modern outlook.
M Leuven
A contemporary museum showcasing Belgian art and design in a striking, modern setting.
KADOC – Centre for Catholic Documentation and Research
Exhibitions and archives exploring religious history, society and culture.
Religious Monuments
Religious heritage threads through Leuven’s streets, from towering churches to ancient abbeys.
Sint-Pieterskerk (St. Peter's Church)
A landmark Gothic church with a soaring tower and monumental interior.
Grand Beguinage Leuven (Groot Begijnhof)
Historic beguinage with quiet courtyards and white-washed houses.
Park Abbey (Abdij van Park) in Heverlee
Medieval abbey set in tranquil grounds just outside Leuven.
National & Theme Parks
Outside the city center you’ll find green spaces and themed areas in the wider Leuven region.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding national & theme parks recommendations for Leuven. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
Neighborhoods
Varying neighborhoods showcase Leuven’s university spirit, historic streets and leafy corners.
Old Leuven Center (Grote Markt & surrounding streets)
Historic core full of cafés, guild houses and lively squares.
Heverlee
Host to the university campus and green spaces just outside Leuven city center.
Kessel-Lo
Residential district with parks and river views along the Dijle.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Leuven’s streets, parks and iconic views without breaking the bank.
Stroll the Grote Markt and soak up city life
Watch street life, admire the guild houses and the Town Hall.
Walk along the Dijle river and campus greens
Follow scenic paths by the water and through the university grounds.
Explore the Leuven Botanical Garden grounds (Kruidtuin)
Roam the exterior gardens and historic gate areas for free.
Gastronomy
Sample local flavors, from beer culture to Belgian chocolates and hearty Flemish dishes.
Beer tasting on the Oude Markt
Sip a local beer at a historic Leuven tavern in the heart of town.
Traditional stoofvlees with frietjes
Classic Flemish beef stew served with Belgian fries.
Chocolates from a Leuven chocolatier
Indulge in hand-made chocolate treats from local confectioners.
Nightlife
Leuven’s nightlife centers on lively squares and student-friendly bars.
Oude Markt bar circuit
A string of pubs along Leuven’s famous square for a carefree evening.
Live music and student-friendly venues
Enjoy casual gigs at neighborhood pubs and clubs.
Late-night riverside strolls
A peaceful way to end the night along the Dijle banks.
Entertainment
The city hosts theatre, cinema and creative spaces throughout the year.
Stadsschouwburg Leuven
Main city theatre offering plays, performances and concerts.
Depot Leuven
Cultural venue hosting shows, exhibitions and events.
Escape rooms Leuven
Immerse yourself in themed puzzle rooms around the city.
Sports
Active options for sports fans and outdoors lovers.
OH Leuven – Den Dreef Stadium
Watch a home football match of Leuven’s city club.
Cycle along the Dijle Valley
Ride scenic bike paths through Leuven’s riverside landscapes.
Boat ride on the Dijle
Relaxing water activity along Leuven’s gentle river.
Off the Track
Hidden corners and easy day trips around Leuven offer quiet discoveries.
Park Abbey (Abdij van Park)
Medieval abbey just outside Leuven set in serene grounds.
Het Heverleebos (Heverlee Forest)
Extensive woodland perfect for walks, runs and picnics.
KU Leuven Botanic Garden (Kruidtuin) grounds
Historic garden area to explore on a sunny day.