Vlierbeek Abbey: A Historic Sanctuary in Leuven

Explore Vlierbeek Abbey: A historic Benedictine abbey in Leuven with stunning architecture and tranquil gardens.

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Vlierbeek Abbey

Vlierbeek Abbey, located just northeast of Leuven, Belgium, is a former Benedictine abbey with a history dating back to 1125. Founded as a priory, it evolved into an abbey that played a significant role in the region's spiritual, agricultural, and intellectual development. Today, it serves as a vibrant community hub with tranquil gardens and stunning architecture.

A brief summary to Vlierbeek Abbey

Abdij Vlierbeek, Leuven, 3010, BE
Visit website

Local tips

Visit on weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends tend to be busier.
Check the abbey's event schedule online for cultural events and exhibitions.
Take your time to wander through the gardens and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Leuven train station, take bus line 2 or 3 towards 'Heverlee' or 'Wilsele'. The bus journey takes about 15 minutes. Get off at the 'Abdij Vlierbeek' stop. From the bus stop, it's a short 5-minute walk to the abbey. A single bus ticket costs approximately €2-€3. Tickets can be purchased at the station or via the De Lijn app.
Walking

From the Leuven train station, head west on Diestsevest street. After approximately 700 meters, turn left onto Naamsestraat and continue straight for about 1 kilometer, passing the University Library. At the roundabout, take the second exit onto Vlierbeekstraat. Follow this road for around 800 meters, and you will see Vlierbeek Abbey on your right. The walk takes approximately 45 minutes.
Car

From the center of Leuven, head southwest on Mechelsestraat towards Brusselsestraat. Continue on Mechelsestraat, which turns into Tiensestraat. Follow the signs for the N3 road towards Tienen/Brussels. Merge onto the N3 and continue for about 4 kilometers. Take the exit towards Vlierbeek/Abdij Vlierbeek. After exiting, follow the signs to Abdij Vlierbeek. Parking is usually free.

Discover more about Vlierbeek Abbey

Nestled in Kessel-Lo, near Leuven, Vlierbeek Abbey offers a serene escape with a rich history. Founded in 1125, the abbey was initially a priory established by Benedictine monks. Over the centuries, it grew in importance, becoming an abbey in its own right and a key influence in the area. The abbey's history has been marked by periods of destruction and restoration. It faced devastation in 1572 during religious conflicts but was later reconstructed in the 18th century under the guidance of architect Laurent-Benoît Dewez. The French Revolution brought an end to monastic life in 1796, but the abbey church was preserved and became the parish church for Kessel-Lo. The abbey church, a neoclassical structure designed by Dewez, features an octagonal central structure crowned with a cupola. The interior is bright and austere, reflecting its monastic past. The abbey grounds also include meticulously maintained gardens and walking paths, offering visitors a peaceful retreat. Today, while some buildings are privately owned, the abbey remains a cultural and historical landmark, hosting events and welcoming visitors to explore its heritage.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Kerkfabriek Heilig Hart Blauwput Te Kessel-Lo (Vl

1.3 km

Explore the architectural beauty and serene ambiance of Kerkfabriek Heilig Hart, a must-visit Catholic church in Leuven's Kessel-Lo area.

Kerkfabriek Heilig Hart Blauwput Te Kessel-Lo (Vl

Buurttuin Hal 5

1.3 km

Discover the beauty of urban gardening at Buurttuin Hal 5, a community garden in Leuven that fosters sustainability and community spirit.

HAL 5

1.4 km

Experience the vibrant social scene at HAL 5, Leuven's premier event venue and bar, blending entertainment with a welcoming atmosphere.

Blauwputplein

1.4 km

Experience tranquility in Leuven's Blauwputplein – a serene park that invites relaxation and cultural exploration amidst lush greenery.

RCCG LEUVEN (WINNER'S ASSEMBLY)

1.5 km

Discover community and spirituality at RCCG Leuven, a welcoming church in Belgium's vibrant city of Leuven, perfect for tourists seeking connection.

Natuurpunt Oost-Brabant vzw

1.6 km

Explore the natural beauty and biodiversity of Natuurpunt Oost-Brabant in Leuven, Belgium, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

UniQue - Vlaams-Brabants Regenbooghuis

1.6 km

Discover the vibrant spirit of the LGBTQ+ community at UniQue - Vlaams-Brabants Regenbooghuis, Leuven's inclusive hub for connection and support.

Open tuinen

1.8 km

Discover the serene beauty of Open Tuinen in Leuven, a splendid garden retreat perfect for relaxation and exploration amidst nature's wonders.

Escape House

1.9 km

Experience the thrill of adventure and teamwork at Escape House Leuven, Belgium's premier escape room destination.

Stadskantoor Leuven

1.9 km

Explore the architectural beauty of Stadskantoor Leuven, a historic landmark showcasing the heart of local governance and culture.

Coptic Orthodox Church of Belgium

1.9 km

Explore the Coptic Orthodox Church of Belgium in Leuven – a serene spiritual haven showcasing rich Coptic heritage and peaceful surroundings.

Parochiekerk Onze-Lieve-Vrouw Middelares

2.0 km

Explore the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of Parochiekerk Onze-Lieve-Vrouw Middelares in Leuven, a captivating Catholic church rich in history.

Toerisme Vlaams-Brabant

2.1 km

Explore Leuven's rich history and vibrant culture at Toerisme Vlaams-Brabant, your go-to tourist information center for local insights and resources.

Hulpgevangenis te Leuven

2.2 km

Discover the historical significance of Hulpgevangenis te Leuven, a unique landmark reflecting Belgium's rich penal history and architectural heritage.

Boekentil

2.3 km

Explore Boekentil: Leuven's serene public library offering a rich collection of literature and a tranquil atmosphere for all book lovers.

Unmissable attractions to see

De boom van Arthur

0.1 km

Discover the tranquil beauty of De Boom van Arthur, a memorial park in Leuven perfect for relaxation, contemplation, and enjoying nature's splendor.

Provinciedomein Kessel-Lo

0.5 km

Explore Provinciedomein Kessel-Lo, a beautiful park in Leuven, Belgium, perfect for relaxation, recreation, and enjoying nature's tranquility.

Vogelkijkhut

1.0 km

Discover the beauty of nature at Vogelkijkhut in Leuven, a serene birdwatching haven offering breathtaking views and diverse wildlife experiences.

ECOCENTRUM KESSEL-LO

1.0 km

Explore Ecocentrum Kessel-Lo, where sustainability meets nature in Leuven's eco-friendly attraction for all ages.

Kessel-Lo Falls

1.6 km

Explore the tranquil beauty of Kessel-Lo Falls, a serene park in Leuven, ideal for relaxation, picnics, and nature walks amidst stunning landscapes.

Domein De Bron

1.8 km

Discover the serene beauty of Domein De Bron, a nature preserve in Leuven that offers a peaceful retreat amidst lush landscapes and rich biodiversity.

Zusters Missionarissen De Jacht, Cultes

1.8 km

Discover the serene beauty of Zusters Missionarissen De Jacht Park in Leuven, a perfect escape into nature amidst the vibrant city life.

Belle-Vue

1.8 km

Explore Belle-Vue, Leuven's tranquil park, perfect for picnics, sports, and enjoying nature in the heart of the city.

Martelarenplein

1.9 km

Discover the vibrant Martelarenplein in Leuven, Belgium, a lively square filled with history, culture, and delightful eateries for every traveler.

Stella Artois Brewery

1.9 km

Explore the Stella Artois Brewery in Leuven, where centuries of brewing tradition meet the artistry of Belgium's finest beer.

Paters Dominicanen

2.2 km

Explore the serene and historic Paters Dominicanen, a stunning monastery in Leuven with rich heritage and peaceful ambiance.

Exitroom Leuven

2.5 km

Dive into an adventure at Exitroom Leuven, where puzzle-solving meets immersive entertainment in the heart of Belgium.

Universiteitsbibliotheek en bibliotheektoren

2.5 km

Discover the breathtaking Universiteitsbibliotheek en bibliotheektoren in Leuven, a stunning university library and cultural landmark with panoramic views.

Ladeuzeplein

2.5 km

Discover the charm of Ladeuzeplein in Leuven, a vibrant square filled with history, culture, and delightful cafes amidst stunning architecture.

Jan Fabre's Beetle Totem

2.5 km

Explore Jan Fabre's Beetle Totem in Leuven, a unique blend of art and nature that captivates visitors with its striking design and historical significance.

Essential places to dine

De Klimop

1.9 km

Discover De Klimop: An exquisite European restaurant in Leuven offering seasonal dishes and an elegant ambiance perfect for any occasion.

EssenCiel

2.1 km

Experience exquisite fine dining at EssenCiel in Leuven, where culinary artistry meets exceptional service for an unforgettable meal.

Den Angelus

2.1 km

Discover the essence of Belgian cuisine at Den Angelus in Leuven – where tradition meets taste.

Zarza

2.2 km

Discover exquisite culinary artistry at Zarza in Leuven, where every dish offers a taste of sophistication and innovation.

Zappaz

2.2 km

Experience exquisite fine dining at Zappaz in Leuven, where seasonal ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry for an unforgettable meal.

Florida Food Bar

2.2 km

Experience authentic Belgian cuisine at Florida Food Bar in Leuven - where delicious flavors meet warm hospitality.

Noordoever

2.4 km

Discover delicious vegan delights at Noordoever in Leuven – where fresh ingredients meet innovative cuisine in a charming setting.

Hop - gastrobar

2.5 km

Experience the vibrant flavors of Belgium at Hop - Gastrobar in Leuven, where culinary creativity meets local tradition.

De Hoorn Bar & Resto

2.6 km

Experience authentic Belgian cuisine at De Hoorn Bar & Resto in Leuven – where tradition meets modern dining.

Nirvana Kitchen

2.6 km

Experience the best of modern Indian cuisine in Leuven at Nirvana Kitchen - where tradition meets innovation.

EED

2.6 km

Discover EED in Leuven – an exquisite fine dining restaurant offering culinary delights and an unforgettable atmosphere.

Het Strand

2.7 km

Experience the vibrant fusion of flavors at Het Strand – Leuven's premier vegetarian and fusion restaurant.

Bistro Tribunal " Chez Yf"

2.7 km

Experience authentic French bistro dining at Bistro Tribunal in Leuven—where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

De Valck

2.7 km

Experience authentic Belgian cuisine at De Valck in Leuven—a culinary haven offering delightful dishes made from fresh local ingredients.

Baracca

2.7 km

Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Baracca in Leuven – where every meal is an unforgettable journey through Italy's flavors.

Explore Hexagoon in Leuven for unique trinkets and local craftsmanship that capture the essence of Belgium's culture and artistry.

Discover the heart of Ireland in Leuven at Thomas Stapleton, a lively Irish pub with delicious food, a wide selection of beers, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Vlierbeek Abbey: A Historic Sanctuary in Leuven

A brief summary to Vlierbeek Abbey

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Walking

Car

Unlock the Best of Vlierbeek Abbey

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Vlierbeek Abbey

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Kerkfabriek Heilig Hart Blauwput Te Kessel-Lo (Vl

Buurttuin Hal 5

HAL 5

Blauwputplein

RCCG LEUVEN (WINNER'S ASSEMBLY)

Natuurpunt Oost-Brabant vzw

UniQue - Vlaams-Brabants Regenbooghuis

Open tuinen

Escape House

Stadskantoor Leuven

Coptic Orthodox Church of Belgium

Parochiekerk Onze-Lieve-Vrouw Middelares

Toerisme Vlaams-Brabant

Hulpgevangenis te Leuven

Boekentil

Unmissable attractions to see

De boom van Arthur

Provinciedomein Kessel-Lo

Vogelkijkhut

ECOCENTRUM KESSEL-LO

Kessel-Lo Falls

Domein De Bron

Zusters Missionarissen De Jacht, Cultes

Belle-Vue

Martelarenplein

Stella Artois Brewery

Paters Dominicanen

Exitroom Leuven

Universiteitsbibliotheek en bibliotheektoren

Ladeuzeplein

Jan Fabre's Beetle Totem

Essential places to dine

De Klimop

EssenCiel

Den Angelus

Zarza

Zappaz

Florida Food Bar

Noordoever

Hop - gastrobar

De Hoorn Bar & Resto

Nirvana Kitchen

EED

Het Strand

Bistro Tribunal " Chez Yf"

De Valck

Baracca

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

GIFT Leuven - deelpunt

Heem

Night shop

Think Twice Leuven

Kringwinkel Leuven

RIOT Leuven

4GEEKS Leuven

Giraffe Leuven

Double Win

Patio Fashion

VAUDE Store Leuven

DreamLand Leuven

Cyaankali

wowgift

Hexagoon

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Cafe In Den Boule

Gainsbourg

De Blauwe Kater