1. Have a refreshing pint at one of many terraces
Leuven is synonymous with beer. There is no lack of cosy terraces for a refreshing beer in this city. Enjoy the summer crowds at Oude Markt, which does its nickname 'the longest bar' justice, or admire the beautiful town hall from one of the terraces at Grote Markt. True beer lovers get to indulge in local breweries in and around the city or in authentic beer pubs, such as Café Belge or The Blue Cat.
2. Explore the city on foot
You’ll find that many of Leuven’s attractions are all within walking distance of each other. So slip on your comfortable shoes and make your way through the city on a summer’s day for a fun day out. Our website offers numerous walking routes. One route will take you past Leuven 's highlights. Is a surprising street art walk more up your alley? In Leuven, you will find the unique vibe of a big city, but on a human scale.
3. Hop on your bike
In Leuven, the cyclist is king. Several of the city’s streets have been turned into cycling streets and there are plenty of bicycle parking facilities throughout the city. The easiest and safest way to get from A to B is by bike. For those who prefer to cycle in nature as well, Leuven is the ideal starting point. From the city, you can easily set off on a tour of national park De Brabantse Wouden or go on a cultural expedition with the Dieric Bouts Route.
Extra tip: the cycling route of Leuven Beer Adventure guides you along the canal to unique beer spots and breweries in the green surroundings of Leuven.
4. Enjoy the best views
One of Leuven 's attractions is undoubtedly the university library on Ladeuzeplein. The library itself is imposing, but those who want to see the city from a different angle can also climb the tower of the building. During the climb, you will learn all about the building's eventful history and pass the library carillon. The view from the tower is breathtaking and well worth the climb.
5. Go on a royal picnic
Leuven has plenty of beautiful picnic spots, but those who like to enjoy a bite in a royal setting can visit the garden of Arenberg Castle in Heverlee. This castle takes you back in time, to centuries past. No wonder that it is such a popular place for marriage proposals! After your picnic, you are more than welcome to take a walk through the lovely grounds. The paths along the sports fields of university KULeuven take you past the Great Beguinage, right back into the city centre.
6. Discover the revamped Vaartkom
Leuven is a mix of old and new, of history and innovation - and it shows in the architecture. Its streets are lined with historic buildings and university colleges, interspersed with unique and sustainable new projects. One of the neighbourhoods that recently underwent a metamorphosis is the area around the Vaartkom. Find out how the old buildings of Stella Artois were given a new purpose, and soak up some sunshine among the people of Leuven in the cosy Sluispark. Or enjoy some delicious ice cream on the ice cream boat which is moored a little further on the Vaart.
Extra tip: want to see more of historic Leuven? KU Leuven opens up its university heritage during weekly heritage tours on Sundays.
