Leuven is a lively university town in the centre of Western Europe.
Historic city
The earliest mention of Leuven dates back to 891. It became an important trade centre between the 12th and 14th centuries. KU Leuven, the oldest university in the Low Countries, was founded in 1425. In the beginning of the 18th century Sebastien Artois took charge of the local brewery that would eventually become the world’s largest beer producer.
Beautiful architecture
Leuven is most famous for its examples of the Gothic architecture: Town Hall, St.Peter’s Church, and many others. Groot Begijnhof, the conference venue, is the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Numerous churches, abbeys, historical and modern buildings, and parks are scattered in and around the town. Leuven is a pedestrian-friendly town, and all sights can be easily reached on foot. See more on the tourist information website of the city of Leuven.
Tasty food
Thanks to a large number of restaurants and bars, Leuven provides plenty of opportunities for leisure and entertainment. Oude Markt, the old market square widely known as “the largest pub in Europe”, is an excellent place to taste famous Belgian beers and feel the atmosphere of a university town, full of students.
Belgium
Well-known Belgian tourist destinations, such as Bruges and Brussels, can be easily reached from Leuven. For example, Bruges is only a 90-minute train ride away.
