Vaartkom
Once a dilapidated industrial and brewing site near the Canal, this area is being transformed into one of the city’s trendiest spots. Drop by and discover the perfect synthesis of old and new, with plenty of green and new restaurants and shops that are popping up around the harbour.
- The old Stella Artois brewery has become De Hoorn, a place for like-minded creative spirits to come together, and which also naturally includes a café and restaurant. The terrace spills out into a fabulous new neighbourhood park, the Sluispark.
- The former Customs building is now home to OPEK, a place for artistic organisations and a great cultural café.
- The Balk van Beel residential complex by star architect Stéphane Beel is a shining example of sustainability.
Tips
- Go in search of the original works of art by local artist Pieter Janssens. We recommend looking upwards as well.
- Food & drinks in the neighbourhood: Café Entrepot (OPEK) & Coupe Matadi (for an ice cream in the summer months)
How to get there?
- Address: Vaartkom, 3000 Leuven • location on map
- By bus
Bus stop Engels Plein & Vaartvest
Route planner
- Free shuttle bus
From Parking Vaartkom to the centre and back.- Fridays: 9:00-18:00
- Saturdays: 10:00-19:00
- Sunday shopping: 14:00-19:00
- 4 stops in the centre (2 on Saturdays)
- On foot or by bike
Distance from the train station: 1,1 km
Distance from Visit Leuven: 1,5 km
- By car
Parking in the neighbourhood: Vaartkom
Accessibility
- Accessible
