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There’s an abundance of exciting things to do in Leuven, a charming university town located just east of Brussels. Leuven, which got its name from its bright examples of Gothic architecture, lively squares, and the beer culture that runs deep, is a perfect marriage of the old world and the new one. Visitors are attracted to its magnificent Town Hall, ancient churches, and cosy cafés, and they are also fascinated by its nightlife. M-Museum will be a delight for art lovers, while those seeking solitude can walk in the peaceful Groot Begijnhof or go for a bike ride on the Dijle River.
Top 10 Things To Do In Leuven
Witness Gothic masterpieces like the Town Hall and Saint Peter’s Church, or relax by the Dijle River—some of the best things to do in Leuven.
1. Admire The Gothic Beauty Of Leuven Town Hall
Photo: E Miniussi1986 / Wikimedia Commons
Leuven’s Town Hall is definitely a gem of the Brabantine Gothic style of architecture that was constructed during the period of 1448-1469. This magnificent structure, situated on the Grote Markt, is known for its intricately designed façade, featuring 236 statues of biblical figures, scholars, and local saints, which form one of the most extensive collections in Europe, added in the 19th century. Pointed windows, delicate turrets, and stonework that resembles lace, each of the three levels is decorated differently, and they all showcase the handiwork of medieval craftsmen. Be sure to check out the corner towers along with the vaulted arcades.
Highlight: Stunning 15th-century Gothic façade with 236 intricate statues
Location: Grote Markt 6, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
2. Experience The Buzz At Oude Markt
Photo: Snowdog / Wikimedia Commons
Oude Markt is the place to be in Leuven if you want to be part of the social scene. This square, which is full of 40 pubs and bars, is called “the longest bar in the world.” It’s hard to find any atmosphere here other than lively, no matter if you are having a Belgian blonde beer on a sunny terrace or meeting locals for late-night drinks. In the daytime, it’s a good spot to unwind and explore the locals through observation. But at night, especially on weekends and during the academic year, it turns into a busy party spot.
Highlight: A square filled with dozens of vibrant cafés and bars
Location: Oude Markt, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
3. Explore The Artistic Treasures At M‑museum Leuven
Photo: FrDr / Wikimedia Commons
M‑Museum Leuven is the go-to place for art in the city that brings together the work of old masters and daring contemporary shows in a bright, modern environment. Housed just off the city centre, M‑Museum Leuven represents a deep permanent collection of Flemish and Brabant art that includes medieval sculptures, religious iconography, and 19th-century paintings. The museum’s minimalist design adds a strong flair of contrast to the historical pieces that are exhibited, while the temporary exhibitions are packed with both emerging and established global artists. For all ages, interactive displays and family-friendly programs are great ways to keep the learning going.
Highlight: Blend of historic Flemish art and modern exhibitions
Location: Leopold Vanderkelenstraat 28, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
4. Visit The Historic University Library And Climb The Bell Tower
Photo: Bora. Mardan / Wikimedia Commons
The University Library of KU Leuven is not only a place for studying but also a symbol of human spirit and international solidarity. The library was built in the 1920s after the First World War, which led to its destruction, and it was rebuilt with donations from all over the world, especially from the United States. Its neo-Flemish Renaissance façade is decorated with carved representations of the donors and academic symbols. Inside, you may find the reading rooms that are grand with intricate woodwork and stained-glass windows. The most outstanding part, however, is the bell tower.
Highlight: Tower climb with panoramic city views and WWI history
Location: Monseigneur Ladeuzeplein 21, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
5. Wander The Tranquil Paths Of Groot Begijnhof
Photo: Jorge Franganillo / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most serene and culturally significant activities in Leuven is wandering the Groot Begijnhof. This exquisitely maintained beguinage is from the 13th century and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Initially, it was occupied by beguines, independent religious women who lived in communal households without taking vows; it is now university housing for the KU Leuven staff and scholars. The place is filled with cobblestone streets, nice Flemish red-brick houses, little gardens, and stone bridges with arches over the Dijle River. It’s a tranquil haven right in the middle of the city, ideal for a stroll or a reflective moment.
Highlight: UNESCO-listed beguinage with cobbled lanes and tranquil beauty
Location: Groot Begijnhof, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
6. Tour The Stella Artois Brewery And Taste A Belgian Classic
Photo: Steven Fruitsmaak / Wikimedia Commons
Exploring what to do in Leuven isn’t complete without visiting the world-famous Stella Artois Brewery. Founded in 1366 as the Den Hoorn brewery, it’s just a short walk from the city centre. The guided tours showcase the entire brewing process—from raw ingredients to bottling—highlighting both tradition and modern technology. Visitors can see massive copper kettles, modern production lines, and historical exhibits. The experience ends with a perfectly poured Stella beer in a chalice. For beer lovers, this brewery tour is one of the most exciting things to do in Leuven.
Highlight: Behind-the-scenes access and fresh beer tasting
Location: Brouwerijstraat 1, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
7. Unwind At Kruidtuin
Photo: Pafnucy123 / Wikimedia Commons
Facing nature-loving and more scattered activities in Leuven, a trip to the Kruiduitin would be an excellent option. In 1738, the University of Leuven founded this garden, and it is the oldest botanical garden in Belgium. First aimed to help medical students learn about plants, the garden has now grown to almost two hectares, and it hosts a large number of different plants, among them are medicinal herbs, exotic, and native species. Walk through the beautifully laid out flower beds, peaceful pond, and several greenhouses, one of which is dedicated to tropical and subtropical plants.
Highlight: Belgium’s oldest botanical garden with lush greenery and greenhouses
Location: Kruidtuinlaan, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
8. Step Inside The Majestic Saint Peter’s Church And View The Last Supper
Photo: KingBaudoin / Wikimedia Commons
Visiting Saint Peter’s Church (Sint-Pieterskerk), a breathtaking Gothic masterpiece at the Grote Markt, is undoubtedly one of the most culturally satisfying things to do in Leuven. The church, which was constructed in the 15th century, stands out with its towering ribs, elaborate carvings, and rich history. It is now the home of some of the most significant works of art of the Flemish Primitives, such as The Last Supper triptych by Dieric Bouts, which has never been moved from its location. Furthermore, the church is an interactive experience of a new kind, where the visitors get to revel in all the multimedia-enabled facilities to uncover the church’s history and its objects of art.
Highlight: Home to Dieric Bouts’ Last Supper and Gothic interiors
Location: Grote Markt 9, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
9. Discover Leuven’s Street Art And Creative Urban Spaces
Photo: P.Ro Simply Photography / Wikimedia Commons
Exploring the vibrant street art scene is one of the most exciting things to see in Leuven. Residential areas like Vaartkom, student quarters, and side streets near the city centre showcase incredible murals, intelligent graffiti, and playful installations. These artworks reflect Leuven’s youthful and artistic spirit, blending local culture, history, and global influences. Large-scale murals transform construction walls, while narrow streets reveal hidden gems perfect for photography. Downloadable maps and walking routes from local tourism offices make exploring easy. This open-air gallery offers a fresh, creative way to experience the city’s dynamic culture.
Highlight: Colourful murals and graffiti across student and creative areas
Location: Various locations including Vaartkom and nearby streets in 3000 Leuven, Belgium
10. Cycle Along The Dijle River And Explore Leuven’s Green Side
Photo: Krzysztof Golik / Wikimedia Commons
Cycling the picturesque trails along the Dijle River is undoubtedly one of the most invigorating things to do in Leuven, particularly for those who love nature and are inclined to be physically active. The river not only meanders through the city but also gives the locals a chance to explore suburban areas. The whole journey is very laid back and ideal for anyone who enjoys cycling in nature and who does not want to hurry. The route is a great mixture of urban and rural scenes, with a lot of spots for an instant picnic and/or photography session.
Highlight: Scenic bike route through parks, abbeys, and riverside trails
Location: Sluispark or Vaartkom district, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
Leuven beautifully blends history, culture, and community, making it ideal for architecture lovers, students, and nature enthusiasts. Welcoming to all, the city offers top-class art, cosy cafés, scenic bike paths, and one of Europe’s most unique bar squares. Whether visiting for a weekend or longer, there are plenty of exciting and relaxing things to do in Leuven. Ready to explore this charming Belgian gem? Start planning your perfect trip now with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Yana Vandeborne / Unsplash
