KU Leuven: A Historic Hub of Knowledge and Culture
Explore KU Leuven, Belgium's oldest university, where history meets vibrant student life in the heart of Leuven.
Discover the rich history and vibrant campus life at KU Leuven, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Belgium. Explore its stunning architecture, lively student atmosphere, and engaging cultural events that make it a must-visit for tourists.
A brief summary to KU Leuven
- Oude Markt 13, Leuven, 3000, BE
- +3216324010
- Visit website
Local tips
- Start your visit at the University Library for stunning views and a glimpse into its historical significance.
- Check the university's event calendar for guest lectures and cultural events open to the public.
- Explore the nearby cafes and bars frequented by students for an authentic local experience.
- Don't miss the M-Museum for contemporary art exhibits that often collaborate with university themes.
- Take a guided campus tour if available, as students can provide unique insights into university life.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to KU Leuven, navigate to Oude Markt 13, 3000 Leuven. From Brussels, take the E40 motorway towards Liège and exit at Leuven. Follow the signs to the city center, and then look for parking options near the Oude Markt. Paid parking is available in the nearby parking garages, such as 'Parking Ladeuze' or 'Parking Munt', which typically cost around €1.50 per hour.
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Train
To reach KU Leuven by train, head to your nearest train station in Flemish Brabant, such as Aarschot or Tienen. Purchase a ticket to Leuven station, which usually costs around €5-€10 depending on your starting location. Train services are frequent, with journeys taking about 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Leuven station, exit and walk towards the city center (approximately 15 minutes on foot) or take bus line 1 towards the city center and get off at the 'Oude Markt' stop.
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Bus
If you are using local buses, check the schedules for De Lijn. For instance, if you are in nearby towns like Mechelen or Sint-Pieters-Leeuw, take the bus to Leuven and get off at 'Oude Markt'. Ticket prices vary, but a single journey typically costs around €3. The journey time can range from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your starting location.
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Bicycle
For a more eco-friendly option, consider cycling to KU Leuven. There are various bike paths throughout Flemish Brabant leading to Leuven. Once you arrive in the city, you can park your bicycle at the designated bike racks near Oude Markt. Make sure to check local bike rental services if you do not have your own bicycle. Renting a bike typically costs around €10 per day.
Discover more about KU Leuven
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
KU Leuven
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Het Besloten Land
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Visit Leuven Tourist Information
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Toerisme Leuven
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Sint-Antoniusberg
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M-Street art lodging
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Pater Damiaanplein
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Mercurius
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Ruins of oldest Leuven city walls
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KULeuven Students Mosque (IMSAL)
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Herbert Hooverplein
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Ladeuzeplein
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KU Leuven Bibliotheken Bijzondere Collecties
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St. James the Apostle IOC, Leuven, Belgium
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Cru Leuven
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Unmissable attractions to see
Leuven Oude Markt
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De Kotmadam Leuven
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Waterpomp Markt
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Het Moorinneken
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Historic Leuven Town Hall
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Grote Markt
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Saint Peter's Church
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Sint-Antoniuskapel en Damiaancentrum
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Sint-Antoniuskapel - Damiaancrypte
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Saint Michael's Church
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Fonske (statue)
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Rector De Somerplein
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Graftombe Pater Damiaan
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Sint Anthonius Kerk
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Museum of Zoology KULeuven
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Essential places to dine
De Nachtuil
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DONKI
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Notre Dame
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Savoury( Mu Thai LEUVEN)
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Resto Café Agora
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Raffat
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Tiflis
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Dewerf
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New Holy Cow
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PepeNero
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Trente
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De Blauwe Schuit
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De Valck
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Le chameau s’en fout
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Taste
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
KU Leuven University Shop
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Hops 'N More
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Oxfam Bookshop Leuven
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Rawette 2de Handsmerkkledij
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Style Shop Leuven
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Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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LIV
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Les Soeurs Store Leuven
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Animaux Spéciaux
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Classix OOK Outlet
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Grasshopper
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Brown Betty
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Mixte
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BARBÓÉK
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Bongo Leuven
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Louvain
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Bar Nine
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Bardot
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Farao
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De Giraf
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'T Gewelf
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't Archief
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Barvista
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Café Belge
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De Rector
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Bar Rustic
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De Metafoor
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Ambiorix
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Cocktailbar - Professor
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Thomas Stapleton
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