Travel around Leuven with Bobby
Day 1Exploring Leuven's Historic Heart
My first day in Leuven kicked off with a walk through the city’s iconic Grote Markt, where the breathtaking Gothic town hall stands tall. The intricate details on this masterpiece left me awestruck, and I spent a good amount of time admiring its architecture. From there, I wandered over to St. Peter’s Church, which is right across the square, and discovered some impressive art, including “The Last Supper” by Dieric Bouts. After soaking up the history, I grabbed lunch at a cozy local spot, De Werf, famous for its quirky presentation and hearty Belgian dishes. I ordered their signature Flemish stew with fries—simple, but so flavorful!
As the sun began to set, I checked into my boutique hotel, Martin’s Klooster, a charming blend of modern comfort and historic design. The location was perfect, just a short stroll from the city’s major attractions. The evening ended at Oude Markt, the so-called “longest bar in the world.” The atmosphere was lively, with students and locals mingling at the countless cafes lining the square. I opted for a classic Belgian beer at Cafe Belge to toast my first day in Leuven.
Don’t rush through Leuven’s historic center—take time to appreciate the architectural beauty. The vibe in Oude Markt is unmissable, especially if you’re into lively nights with a laid-back crowd.
Day 2A Journey Through Time and Taste
I started my second day by diving into Leuven’s academic soul at the University Library & Tower, one of the most beautiful university libraries I’ve ever seen. After climbing the tower (totally worth the effort!), I was rewarded with panoramic views of the city. The library’s history, surviving both world wars, added a layer of depth to the experience. From there, I wandered to the M-Museum Leuven, a modern art museum that surprised me with its impressive blend of contemporary and traditional works.
For lunch, I ventured to Bar Stan, a trendy spot with a menu focused on fresh, local ingredients. I tried their seasonal salad and a craft beer—both were delicious! In the afternoon, I explored the Botanical Garden, Leuven’s oldest and a quiet retreat from the bustling city. It’s a peaceful place to reflect and wander among the greenery.
Dinner was a real treat at Zarza, where I indulged in a tasting menu that showcased the best of Belgian cuisine with a modern twist. Each dish was perfectly paired with wine, making for an unforgettable dining experience.
Bar Stan was the perfect stop for a fresh, healthy lunch, offering dishes made with seasonal, local ingredients. The salad I had was light but flavorful, and the beer selection was excellent. It’s a great spot for a casual yet delicious meal.
Food
My stay at Martin's Klooster continued to impress with its peaceful atmosphere and comfortable amenities. After a busy day, coming back to such a well-maintained, serene space was a delight.
Accomodation
Climbing the University Library Tower was a highlight, offering stunning views over Leuven. The M-Museum also provided a great mix of contemporary and classic art, making for an enriching cultural experience. The Botanical Garden was a peaceful retreat to round off the day.
Activity
The University Library offers more than just history—it’s a must for the incredible city views. For foodies, Zarza is a dining experience you won’t want to miss.
Day 3Discovering Leuven’s Hidden Gems
On my third day, I ventured slightly off the beaten path to Abdij van Park, a stunning 12th-century abbey just outside the city center. The peacefulness of the abbey grounds was a refreshing change of pace, and I spent a few hours exploring the museum and wandering along the tranquil ponds. Afterward, I headed back to the city for a quick snack at Le Pain Quotidien, a bakery known for its organic breads and pastries. Their croissants were divine!
I spent the afternoon getting to know Leuven’s cultural side by visiting the STUK Arts Center, which offers a mix of performances, exhibitions, and film screenings. There’s always something interesting going on, and I was lucky enough to catch a local art exhibit. By evening, I was ready for something more casual, so I headed to Rossi, a local favorite for Italian food. Their pizza did not disappoint—crispy, flavorful, and the perfect comfort food after a busy day.
A casual lunch at Le Pain Quotidien didn’t disappoint. Their freshly baked goods, particularly the croissants, were superb. Later, Rossi delivered a fantastic pizza, perfectly crisp and full of flavor—a great way to end a busy day.
Food
Returning to Martin's Klooster after exploring the abbey and art center felt like the perfect end to a more relaxed day. The blend of historic ambiance and modern luxury made it a special stay.
Accomodation
Visiting the Abdij van Park was a serene experience, taking in the calm atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. The STUK Arts Center added a modern twist to the day, showcasing Leuven’s contemporary culture.
Activity
If you’re looking for something beyond the typical tourist sites, Abdij van Park is a serene and beautiful escape. Pair it with a visit to STUK for a dose of Leuven’s contemporary arts scene.
Day 4A Final Stroll and Sweet Farewell
For my last day in Leuven, I slowed things down a bit. I started the morning with a leisurely breakfast at Café Anna, a quaint spot with excellent coffee and pastries. With a good cup of cappuccino in hand, I walked through the quieter streets of the city, eventually making my way to Vaartkom, an up-and-coming neighborhood with cool street art and trendy cafes. It’s the perfect spot to see a more modern side of Leuven.
I spent my final afternoon exploring Leuven’s Beer Capital Museum, where I learned all about the city’s deep connection with brewing. It’s no secret that Leuven is the birthplace of Stella Artois, and I couldn’t leave without a brewery tour at De Hoorn, the original home of the iconic beer. The tour was informative and, of course, ended with a tasting!
For dinner, I treated myself to one last Belgian feast at Domus, a traditional brewpub where they make their own beers. I paired a hearty Belgian waffle with their house ale, and it was the perfect way to end my time in Leuven.
Breakfast at Café Anna was a simple yet perfect start, with a rich cappuccino and fresh pastries. For my final dinner at Domus, the traditional Belgian food paired with house-made beers was a great way to finish the trip—classic and satisfying.
Food
My last night at Martin's Klooster felt bittersweet, as I had really come to appreciate its cozy atmosphere and convenient location. I would highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Leuven.
Accomodation
Exploring Vaartkom gave me a fresh look at Leuven’s modern side, with street art and trendy cafes. The brewery tour at De Hoorn was a must-do, offering fascinating insights into the city’s brewing history and a fun tasting to end the day.
Activity
Exploring Vaartkom is a great way to see the modern side of Leuven. And for beer lovers, De Hoorn is a must—it’s a fun, tasty way to dive into the city’s brewing heritage.
Summary of My Trip
Leuven left a lasting impression on me, blending history, culture, and modern flair into a truly unique experience. The city’s Gothic architecture, particularly the town hall, was a visual treat, and wandering through the historic center felt like stepping back in time. What stood out most was the vibrancy of Leuven’s student population, which added a lively energy to every corner, especially around Oude Markt. The culinary scene, from casual bites to fine dining, didn’t disappoint—there’s a strong emphasis on local flavors and creativity. Staying at Martin’s Klooster was a highlight; its blend of old-world charm and comfort made it the perfect base for exploring. The University Library Tower and the Beer Museum were both fascinating, offering insight into Leuven’s academic and brewing heritage. I loved how the city mixes its deep-rooted history with a modern twist, particularly in places like Vaartkom. Overall, Leuven is a compact city, but it’s packed with things to do, see, and taste. Whether you’re here for the architecture, food, or nightlife, it’s a destination that offers a little bit of everything.
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Leuven offers an incredible mix of historical charm and modern-day vibrancy, making it a versatile destination for all kinds of travelers. From its stunning Gothic architecture to its lively bar scene and welcoming locals, the city left me with an array of memorable experiences. Whether you're here for a short trip or an extended stay, Leuven strikes a balance between culture, comfort, and convenience.
Lunch at De Werf was a fun and casual experience, with quirky presentations that added to the charm. I had the Flemish stew with fries, which was rich and perfectly seasoned. The menu offers a great variety of local Belgian dishes.
Food
Martin's Klooster is a beautiful boutique hotel that balances historical charm with modern comfort. The rooms were cozy, with tasteful decor, and the location was perfect—just a short walk from Leuven's main attractions. The service was attentive, and I felt well taken care of.
Accomodation
Exploring Leuven’s historic center was a fantastic way to start the trip. The Gothic town hall is a masterpiece, and St. Peter’s Church added another layer of history. Wandering around Oude Markt at night was lively and fun, giving me a true feel of Leuven's vibrant nightlife.
Activity