Botanical Garden Leuven: A Green Oasis in the City
Discover Belgium's oldest botanical garden in Leuven, a serene urban oasis with a rich history and diverse plant collections.
The Botanical Garden of Leuven, locally known as Kruidtuin, is Belgium's oldest botanical garden, established in 1738 by the University of Leuven. Originally a medicinal herb garden for students, it has evolved into a serene 2.2-hectare urban oasis with over 8,000 plant species. Today, it's a free municipal park managed by the city, offering a peaceful retreat for locals and tourists alike.
A brief summary to Botanical Garden
- Kapucijnenvoer 30, Leuven, Leuven, 3000, BE
- +3216203020
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during spring or summer to see the garden in full bloom and enjoy the outdoor art exhibitions.
- Explore the greenhouse complex to discover tropical and exotic plant species.
- Look for the 'Sunken Garden,' a hidden gem within the Botanical Garden.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawn, but remember that no dogs are allowed.
Getting There
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Walking
From Leuven's Grote Markt (main square), walk south towards Muntstraat, passing the Town Hall on your right. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Tiensestraat. Turn left onto Tiensestraat and continue to the end, where it intersects with Kapucijnenvoer. Turn right onto Kapucijnenvoer, and the Botanical Garden will be on your left at number 30. The walk is approximately 10 minutes.
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Public Transport
From Leuven train station, take any bus going to Gasthuisberg and get off at the 'Kapucijnenvoer' stop. Alternatively, take bus line 1 or 2 from the Leuven Train Station and get off at the 'Kapucijnenvoer' stop. From the bus stop, walk back in the direction the bus came from, cross the intersection, and head left on Kapucijnenvoer. The Botanical Garden is located at number 30. A single bus ticket costs €3 if purchased from the bus driver.
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Cycling
Rent a bike from one of the bike-sharing stations in Leuven. Head towards Tiensestraat and then turn onto Kapucijnenvoer. The Botanical Garden is located at number 30. Bike racks are available for parking.
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