An informative blog about travel and gastronomy

Leuven: Discover the jewel of Belgium

If you are planning a trip to Belgium, you cannot miss visiting Leuven. This charming city, located in the Flanders region, is known for its rich history, impressive architecture, and vibrant student atmosphere. Leuven is the perfect place to immerse yourself in Belgian culture and enjoy a unique experience.

The Grand Place de Louvain

One of the main attractions of Leuven is its impressive Grand Plaza. This public space, surrounded by beautiful historic buildings, is the heart of the city. Here you can admire the Gothic Town Hall, an architectural masterpiece from the 15th century, and the Church of Saint Peter, with its imposing tower. The Grand Plaza is also the ideal place to enjoy a Belgian beer on one of the many outdoor terraces.

The University of Leuven

The University of Leuven is one of the oldest and most prestigious in Europe. Founded in 1425, this institution has been home to many outstanding students over the centuries. Walking around the university campus is a unique experience, as you can admire historic buildings, such as the University Library, which houses an impressive collection of old books.

El Groot Begijnhof

Another place of interest in Leuven is the Groot Begijnhof, a former Beguine quarter that has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This quiet corner of the city will transport you to times gone by, with its cobblestone streets, traditional-style houses and beautiful gardens. Here you can enjoy a serene and relaxed atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Belgian Beer

You can't visit Belgium without trying its famous beer. Leuven has a large amount of barestaurants and breweries where you can taste a wide variety of Belgian beers, from classic abbey beers to the most modern craft beers. Additionally, if you visit Leuven during the month of April, you can enjoy the Zythos Bierfestival, a beer festival that brings together brewers from all over the country.

Arenberg Castle

For architecture lovers, Arenberg Castle is a must-see. This impressive Renaissance castle, surrounded by beautiful gardens, is now part of the University of Leuven. Walking through its halls and gardens will transport you to bygone times and allow you to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

The M-Museum Leuven

If you are an art lover, you cannot miss visiting the M-Museum Leuven. This museum houses an impressive collection of Flemish art, spanning from the Middle Ages to contemporary art. Here you can admire masterpieces by artists such as Jan van Eyck, Pieter Bruegel the Elder and René Magritte, among others.

Leuven is a city full of charm and culture, offering a wide variety of tourist attractions. From its impressive Grand Place to its rich university history, breweries and architectural heritage, Leuven has something for everyone. Don't miss the opportunity to discover this jewel of Belgium on your next trip.

Leuven gastronomic products

Belgian beer

Leuven is famous for its brewing tradition and has a wide variety of craft beers. From classic abbey ales to spontaneously fermented beers, beer lovers will find a wide selection to sample and enjoy.
Belgian waffles

Belgian waffles are a true delicacy and a must-see in Leuven. These delicious sweets are characterized by their crunchy texture on the outside and their spongy interior. They can be enjoyed with a variety of toppings, such as chocolate, fresh fruit or whipped cream.
Belgian Chocolate

Belgium is known around the world for its exquisite chocolate, and Leuven is no exception. Here you will find specialized stores where you can delight yourself with a wide selection of artisanal chocolates. From pralines to truffles, Belgian chocolate is a true treat for sweet lovers.
Belgian Fries

Belgian fries are famous for their crispy outside and tender inside. In Leuven you will find numerous French fry stands where you can enjoy this classic Belgian snack. They are often served with a variety of sauces, such as mayonnaise, ketchup or andalouse.

Food highlights in Leuven

If you are looking for places to enjoy the delicious cuisine of Leuven, you are in luck. This charming Belgian city has a wide range of restaurants and taverns that will surprise you. Below, we present some of the most notable ones:

Klimop Restaurant

Located in the heart of Leuven, Restaurant De Klimop is known for its excellent Belgian cuisine. Here you can taste traditional dishes such as Flemish stew, steamed mussels and the famous Belgian waffles. In addition, its cozy atmosphere and friendly service make this place a perfect option to enjoy an authentic meal.

Tavern Het Gouden Hoofd

If you are looking for a place with charm and good prices, the Het Gouden Hoofd Tavern is an excellent option. This cozy establishment offers a wide variety of typical Belgian dishes, such as shrimp croquettes, fries with mayonnaise and mussels in beer. In addition, its selection of Belgian beers will allow you to pair your favorite dishes with the best local beer.

Sports Activities in Leuven, Belgium

Cycling

Belgium is famous for its cycling culture and Leuven is no exception. The city and its surroundings offer numerous cycling routes allowing visitors to explore the beautiful Belgian countryside.

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Hiking

The area around Leuven is ideal for hiking. You can explore the nearby forests, such as the Heverleebos and the Meerdaalwoud, or follow the trail along the Dijle River.

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Rowing

The Dijle River running through Leuven offers excellent rowing opportunities. There are several rowing clubs in the city that offer equipment rentals and lessons for beginners.

Aluminum Double Blade Kayak Paddle
Sail with efficiency and style with the Abahub Kayak Paddle, designed for kayak, canoe and rowboat enthusiasts. Available in lengths of 218, 230 and 241 cm and in a vibrant range of colors such as black, white, red, blue, green, orange and yellow, this double blade paddle made of aluminum ensures durability and optimal performance on the water. The inclusion of a paddle line further enhances your experience, ensuring you never lose your paddle. Whether you're exploring calm waters or tackling challenging currents, paddlingAbahub is your ideal companion for unforgettable adventures. Equip yourself with Abahub and transform every outing into an exceptional experience.

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Football

Football is the most popular sport in Belgium and Leuven has its own team in the Belgian league, Oud-Heverlee Leuven. Visitors can attend a match at the King Power stadium in Den Dreef.

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Climbing

For adrenaline lovers, rock climbing is an exciting option. The area around Leuven offers several locations for climbing, both for beginners and experienced climbers.

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Places near Leuven (Belgium)

If you are in Leuven and want to explore a little more, here are some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Brussels

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a tourist destination that combines history, architecture and delicious gastronomy. Enjoy its famous chocolates, waffles and beers, while exploring its impressive buildings such as the Atomium and the Grand Place.

Ghent

Ghent, a Belgian gem, combines history and culinary delights. Its impressive medieval buildings, such as Gravensteen Castle, mix with cozy cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy typical dishes such as the famous Belgian fries and delicious waffles.

Mechelen

Discover Mechelen, a charming Belgian city full of history and culinary delights. Walk through its medieval streets, visit its imposing cathedral and enjoy its exquisite cuisine, with typical dishes such as French fries and the famous Belgian waffles. A unique experience for tourism lovers!and good food!