City tour Leuven

Discover Leuven: A City Walk Full of History and Culture

Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Leuven during this special city walk. You start at the main train station, a gateway to the city, and get to know icons that tell the story of Leuven.

Your first stop is the Balloon of Friendship, a monument honoring the connection between Leuven and its partner city. From there, you head to the BAC ART LAB, a place where contemporary art and culture come together. The walk continues along the Vaartkom, the pulsating heart of the marina, where the water sets the rhythm of the city.

The Canal Graves and the Sluispark take you into Leuven's industrial history, followed by the charming Sluismolen, a quiet witness to the tradition of the city’s windmills. The Klein Begijnhof with its peaceful alleys provides a moment for reflection, while the Sint-Gertrudis Church showcases its impressive Gothic appearance.

Along the Dijleterraces, you stroll through greenery, surrounded by nature and architecture, and then the path leads you to the historic Kruidtuin, an oasis of tranquility in the city center. The Justus Lipsius Tower reminds you of the city's intellectual heritage, and the Sint-Antonius Chapel offers a quiet pause for a moment of contemplation.

At the Zwartzustersklooster, you feel the serene silence of centuries-old monastic traditions, and the Great Beguinage tells its story of women who carried Leuven in their hearts centuries ago. The Sint-Jans Church and the Sint-Kwintens Church bear witness to the religious riches of the city.

On your way, you pass the Refuge House of Florival, where you rediscover the history of the early Beguines, and at the Tree of Great Sorrow, you pause briefly for a moment of reflection. The Sint-Donatus Park then offers a green oasis and leads you to the City Tower, which provides a panoramic view of Leuven.

The Tafelrond invites you to take a look at the historical political past of the city, and the Town Hall shines with its beautiful Gothic architecture. The Guild of the Clothmakers takes you back to the Middle Ages, followed by the impressive Sint-Peters Church.

The Fonske, the famous statue of the bronze figure, reminds you of the University of Leuven, and the University Library tells the story of knowledge and science. You conclude the walk with a moment at the Statue of Justus Lipsius and the Peace Monument, symbols of the city's pursuit of peace and progress.

This walk through Leuven is a journey through time and space, where each step brings you closer to the soul of the city. Enjoy the beauty, history, and vibrant atmosphere that Leuven has to offer!