Leuven

Leuven (Louvain) is Belgium's most important university city — home to KU Leuven, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world (founded 1425), and thoroughly shaped by that academic identity. Located just 25 kilometres east of Brussels, it combines a stunning collection of Gothic and neo-Gothic architecture with an unpretentious, student-driven energy that makes it one of the most enjoyable cities in Belgium. The Grote Markt (Main Square) is surrounded by some of the finest Gothic civic architecture in the Low Countries — the flamboyant 15th-century Town Hall, encrusted with 236 statues, is described by Victor Hugo as a "reliquary in stone" and is genuinely extraordinary. The Sint-Pieterskerk (St. Peter's Church) contains masterpieces by Dirk Bouts and the Museum M has excellent Flemish art. The old library (Librarium KU Leuven), destroyed twice in World Wars and rebuilt with American donations, is architecturally fascinating. The Stella Artois brewery was founded in Leuven in 1926 (it became AB InBev, the world's largest beer company). The InBev/Stella Artois heritage and the excellent Belgian beer culture pervade the city's bars. The Naamsestraat student bar strip is extremely lively during term time. Leuven is significantly cheaper than Brussels for accommodation and restaurants. The Arenberg Castle and Heverlee parks are pleasant green escapes. Leuven is an excellent and underrated alternative base for exploring Brussels, Ghent and Antwerp.