Sightseeing in Leuven - what to see. Complete travel guide
Leuven is a city in Belgium located in the province Brabant. Leuven is a port town that stands on the Dyle River and on a channel that connects Leuven with Scheldt. The population of the city estimated 32.2 thousands of people in 1971.
The main symbol of Leuven is located in the heart of the city; the old Town Hall, Stadhuis, is a true example of the so-called ‘Flamboyant Gothic.’ Construction of the building began … Open
First mentions of Leuven are referred to 884 AD. At that time it was used as a stay for Normans. Starting from the IX century Leuven became the residence of earls. In 1106 it became the official residence of dukes of Louvain. During XI – XII centuries Leuven got sufficient popularity as the center of trading and textile industry. However, it lost its importance already in XV-XVI centuries. During both World Wars the town was occupied by the German troops.
Leuven is the lively student city, where there are beautiful parks, bustling pubs and nightclubs, as well as abundance of stylish shops. Nature lovers will enjoy the local Botanical Garden - … Open
St. Peter's Church, which is also located on Grote Markt, is built in the gothic style. The church has been rebuilt after the World War II. In the crypt of St. Peter you can see such famous pieces of art of the XV century as “The Last Supper” and “The Martyrdom of Holy Erasmus” created by Dirk Boots.
1. Travelers, who are in Leuven for the first time, are sure to visit the tourist office located next to the Town Hall. There you can purchase a great set of colorful cards and booklets … Open
It will be interesting for fans of historical sites to stroll through the Spanish Quarter. There are many beautiful buildings of the 17th century, built from red bricks. The entire territory of this picturesque area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For many travelers this historic area is also known as the old Aborg Castle. By beauty, it can only be compared with the cultural and historical complex of Big Beguinage.
In Leuven, shopping fans will have a chance to explore not only interesting stores but also colorful markets. Near the Cathedral on Smoldersplein Street, you'll find a wonderful flea market … Open
In the vicinity of Leuven is located the beautiful Castle of Arenberg, which is one of the most beautiful buildings in the country in the Gothic style. This castle was built in the 11th century and was originally the residence of the lords of Heverle. However, already in the 15th century the clan was on the brink of ruin and had to sell the castle. The new owner has almost completely rebuilt the castle. From the beginning of the 16th century, he practically did not change its appearance. In 1921, the old building was taken over by the University of Leuven, which now houses a library.
Leuven is famous for its historical monuments and picturesque parks. Special entertainment can be found here for tourists with children. There is an excellent amusement park in the city … Open
This guide to iconic landmarks and sights of Leuven is protected by the copyright law. You can re-publish this content with mandatory attribution: direct and active hyperlink to www.orangesmile.com.
City tours, excursions and tickets in Leuven and surroundings
Reference information
Survived castles around Leuven
♥ Castle 'Arenberg Castle' , 2.1 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Castle 'Château Pastur' , 20.7 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Castle 'Zétrud-Lumay Castle' , 20.8 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Castle 'Royal Palace of Laeken Belgium' , 23.9 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Castle 'Royal Palace of Brussels' , 24.1 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Castle 'Arenberg Castle' , 2.1 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Castle 'Château Pastur' , 20.7 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Castle 'Zétrud-Lumay Castle' , 20.8 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Castle 'Royal Palace of Laeken Belgium' , 23.9 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Castle 'Royal Palace of Brussels' , 24.1 km from the center. On the map Photo
National and city parks around Leuven
♥ National Park 'Grenspark de Zoom - Kalmthoutse Heide' , 61.6 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ National Park 'De Loonse en Drunense Duinen' , 91.2 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ National Park 'De Groote Peel' , 91.6 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ National Park 'De Biesbosch' , 97.1 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Regional Nature Park 'Scarpe-Escaut' , 101 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ National Park 'Grenspark de Zoom - Kalmthoutse Heide' , 61.6 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ National Park 'De Loonse en Drunense Duinen' , 91.2 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ National Park 'De Groote Peel' , 91.6 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ National Park 'De Biesbosch' , 97.1 km from the center. On the map Photo
♥ Regional Nature Park 'Scarpe-Escaut' , 101 km from the center. On the map Photo
Sights around Leuven from our guide 'Extreme places on Earth'
Hallerbos Forest
From the series “Stunning Beauty Places of the Earth, Unknown to Tourists”
Check on the map: Distance from Leuven center - 34.5 km.
The forest is located in the surroundings of the town of Dvorp and is only a 30 minute drive from Brussels. The fact that the sight is located in the immediate vicinity of the large industrial centers makes it even more strange. According to the approximate bills, the age of the unique Blue Forest forms about 400 years. The researchers believe that so extensive hyacinth thickening has formed on its territory in the course of a few centuries. Today, the forest is the unique ecosystem that serves as a location for rabbits, deer and rare birds. If you are lucky, you can meet the forest inhabitants during the hike. …
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Mini-Europe
From the series “Famous Miniature Museums of Architectural Objects and Cities”
Check on the map: Distance from Leuven center - 25.6 km.
The park is famous not only for its variety of realistic miniatures, but also for its amazing landscape decorations. At its registration, beautiful lawn, various dwarf trees and bushes have been used. Enjoy this beauty is best of all in summer. According to approximate estimates, the Mini Europe miniature park is visited by about 375000 people annually. The annual income of the park is about three million euros. As a rule, tourists spend at least two hours on sightseeing. The park can be visited from early March to early January. …
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Atomium
From the series “Top 16 Most Amazing Buildings of the Planet”
Check on the map: Distance from Leuven center - 25.2 km.
The unique building, whose design was developed by the outstanding architect Adre Waterkeyn, is today the landmark of national importance. The huge pipes that connect the spheres have not only a decorative purpose. Inside are the escalators and high-speed trains, with the help of which visitors of the 'atom' can move freely through their entire space. In 2006 the unusual building was completely renovated, after which it even looked more attractive. In the evening Atomium is illuminated by the wonderful illumination. The building is surrounded by the picturesque park with fountains and comfortable recreation areas. …
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Expo 2020 in Dubai Was Visited by More Than 7 Million Visitors
If you haven’t visited this event yet, there is still time to book a hotel in Dubai because Expo 2020 Dubai runs until 31 March 2022. People who are unable to visit the emirate can make a virtual tour on the Expo 2020 website. By the way, the virtual visitation has already reached 31.6 million by the end of December. Read this
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If you haven’t visited this event yet, there is still time to book a hotel in Dubai because Expo 2020 Dubai runs until 31 March 2022. People who are unable to visit the emirate can make a virtual tour on the Expo 2020 website. By the way, the virtual visitation has already reached 31.6 million by the end of December. Read this
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Search touristic sites on the map of Leuven
All about Leuven, Belgium - sightseeings, attractions, touristic spots, architecture, history, culture and cuisine. Prepare your trip together with OrangeSmile.com - find out the 'must see' things in Leuven, which places to visit, which excursions to take, where the breathtaking views are waiting for you. Planning your trip with this travel guide will help your to get the most out of Leuven in few days.