Leuven Oude Markt, Duchy Of Brabant Travel Guide

4.5 (4979)

Experience Leuven's vibrant heart at Oude Markt, 'the longest bar in Europe,' blending history, architecture, and Belgian beer culture in a lively atmosphere.

The Oude Markt, or Old Market, in Leuven, Belgium, is a rectangular square renowned as 'the longest bar in Europe' due to its high concentration of bars and restaurants. It's a vibrant hub for locals, students, and tourists, offering a blend of history, architecture, and Belgian beer culture.

A brief summary to Leuven Oude Markt

Oude Markt 31, Leuven, 3000, BE
Click to display

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Leuven Oude Markt.

Visit during the weekends for the liveliest atmosphere, often with live music and events.
Try the local Belgian beers, especially the Trappist varieties, for an authentic taste of Leuven.
Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially if you want to sit outside and enjoy the view.
Explore different bars, each offering a unique ambiance and drink selection.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Kasteel van de Hertogen van Brabant

Villers Abbey

Maison des Ducs de Brabant

Manneken Pis

Atomium

Explore Leuven Oude Markt on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Leuven Oude Markt, mapped for you.

Unlock the Best of Leuven Oude Markt

Buy tickets

No tickets available

Book tours with entry

No tours available

Book tours without entry

Getting There

Walking

From Leuven Train Station, the Oude Markt is approximately a 15-minute walk (1.2 km). Exit the station and walk straight along the Bondgenotenlaan towards the city center. Continue until you reach the Grote Markt, with the Town Hall on your right. Turn left onto the Kortestraat, a short street that directly connects to the Oude Markt. The walk is straightforward and well-signposted.
Public Transport

Several buses connect Leuven Train Station to the city center. Take any bus heading towards the city center and get off at the Rector De Somerplein stop, which is a 4-minute walk from the Oude Markt. From the bus stop, walk towards the Grote Markt and then take the Kortestraat to reach the Oude Markt. A single bus ticket costs approximately €2.50.
Taxi/Ride-Share

A taxi or ride-share from Leuven Train Station to the Oude Markt typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and the time of day. The journey takes around 5-10 minutes. Specify 'Oude Markt' as your destination.
Driving

If driving, enter 'Oude Markt 31, 3000 Leuven' into your GPS. Note that the Oude Markt is a pedestrian zone, so parking directly on the square is not possible. The closest parking facilities are 'Parking Ladeuze' and 'Parking Diestsepoort'. Parking charges typically range from €1.00 to €2.50 per hour. After parking, it's a short walk to Oude Markt.

Discover more about Leuven Oude Markt

The Oude Markt (Dutch for 'Old Market') is a rectangular square in the heart of Leuven, Flemish Brabant, Belgium, known as the city's social and historical epicenter. Often called 'the longest bar in Europe' because of its numerous catering establishments, the Oude Markt is a vibrant meeting place for locals, students, and tourists.Historically, the Oude Markt has been Leuven's central marketplace since the 12th century. Market rights were granted in 1150, marking the beginning of its economic and social importance. Originally named the Grote Markt (Grand Market), it housed the city's first town hall, grain exchange, and cloth hall. Over time, as a new square emerged near St. Peter's Church, the original market square became known as the Oude Markt. Throughout the centuries, the square has served as a stage for markets, military displays, and public celebrations, solidifying its role as the heart of Leuven.The architecture surrounding the Oude Markt is a captivating blend of historical Flemish facades and reconstructed buildings. In 1914, the city center of Leuven was heavily damaged during the war, leaving only a few buildings standing on the Oude Markt. The city council seized the opportunity to implement planned changes while preserving the historical character of the square. Today, the Oude Markt showcases a harmonious mix of architectural styles, with buildings dating from the 18th century to the present day. Notable landmarks include the classicist wing of the Old University of Leuven's University Hall and the facade of the Holy Trinity College.The Oude Markt is a pedestrianized zone, creating a welcoming and safe environment for visitors to explore and enjoy the square's many offerings. The cobblestone streets and outdoor terraces add to the charm and ambiance, making it a perfect place to relax.