Things to Do in Leuven, Belgium

Helen Critchley

Things to Do in Leuven, Belgium

To the east of Brussels, Leuven is an ancient city known for its breweries and beer. Visit the town hall and town square with its tall spires and hundreds of statues. You can also see Dieric Bouts’s “Last Supper” in St. Peter’s Church. Afterwards, try out some brews at one of the many breweries in the city. And don’t miss a walk around the lively Oude Markt, a long, pedestrian-only square lined with cafes and bars.

While you’re in the area, don’t miss the town hall. It’s located on Grote Markt Square, and the façade is adorned with 236 statuettes. The statuettes depict local dukes, scientists, and saints, and are supposed to raise the city’s clout around the world. The statuettes are relatively recent additions to the city, having been installed as a result of the French-funded restoration of the old library after the Second World War.

Visiting the church and university is another popular activity in Leuven. The university is home to over 25,000 students and boasts a beautiful combination of classical and modern architecture. You can also visit the Grand Market Square and Old Market Square, two historical landmarks. There are also numerous shopping centers to visit and souvenir shops. If you like shopping, the town also has a variety of shopping districts. A trip to the town’s markets is a great way to spend a few days and buy some souvenirs.

The M-Museum is another must-see in Leuven. This modern museum has just undergone a major extension and refurbishment. This museum is the cultural center of the city. Here, you can find works by famous artists and Flemish masters. You can also check out the independent art galleries and restaurants in the historic center. You can also visit the imposing statue of a lion.

Getting a drink at a local brewery is an important part of visiting Leuven. The city has a thriving university, so the city’s students have a lot to do. The atmosphere is special. And it’s easy to see why it’s so popular. The M Museum exhibits Flemish masters and other works by famous Belgian artists. The Grote Markt and the Gothic town hall are other must-visits.

If you want to have a drink and see the city skyline, the Oudemarkt square is a must-see in Leuven. You can see the UNESCO-listed St Peter’s Church from the tower of the library. The town’s medieval abbey is a great place to spend the night. But it is also a good place to spend an evening with friends.

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Brussels Morning is a daily online newspaper based in Belgium. BM publishes unique and independent coverage on international and European affairs. With a Europe-wide perspective, BM covers policies and politics of the EU, significant Member State developments, and looks at the international agenda with a European perspective.
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Helen is a British Freelance Writer, with a degree in Media Studies and a passion for European Culture. Currently residing in Spain, Helen writes for an eclectic group of global organisations.
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