Where to Stay in Leuven: Best Areas & Hotels

On By saar.decosterIn Belgium

If you’re planning a trip to Leuven, Belgium, choosing the right area to stay can make a surprisingly big difference.

Leuven is a relatively compact city, so you can reach most places on foot. However, the atmosphere changes quite a lot depending on where you stay. Some areas are right in the middle of Leuven’s famous student nightlife, while others are quieter, more modern or simply more convenient if you’re arriving by train.

For most visitors, I’d recommend staying in or close to the city centre. That way, you can easily walk to Leuven’s historic buildings, cafés, restaurants and famous squares.

In this guide, I’ll break down the best areas to stay in Leuven, depending on what kind of trip you’re planning, and I’ll also share two hotel options in each area.

If you’re still planning your trip around Belgium, my Belgium Complete Travel Guide has everything you need to plan your route, from the best cities to visit to practical travel tips.

Where to Stay in Leuven at a Glance

If you don’t want to read the entire guide, here’s the quick version:

AreaBest forAtmosphere
Oude Markt & Historic CentreFirst-time visitors, nightlife & sightseeingLively & historic
VaartkomModern surroundings, restaurants & a quieter stayModern & relaxed
Leuven StationTrain travel, day trips & conveniencePractical & central

My top picks

Best area overall: Oude Markt & Historic Centre
Best for first-time visitors: Oude Markt & Historic Centre
Best for nightlife: Oude Markt & Historic Centre
Best for a modern atmosphere: Vaartkom
Best for day trips: Leuven Station
Best hotel overall: Martin’s Klooster

Short on time?

Here are my 3 favourite hotels in Leuven:

1. Oude Markt & Historic Centre

Best area to stay in Leuven for first-time visitors, nightlife and sightseeing

If it’s your first time visiting Leuven, I’d personally choose Oude Markt or somewhere around the historic centre.

This puts you right in the middle of the city, with many of Leuven’s most famous sights within walking distance.

The Oude Markt is particularly famous for its huge number of cafés and bars and is often called the “longest bar in Europe” because of the concentration of cafés around the square.

It’s also one of the liveliest parts of Leuven in the evening, especially when students are around.

From here, you can easily walk to:

  • Oude Markt
  • Grote Markt
  • Leuven Town Hall
  • St Peter’s Church
  • M-Museum Leuven
  • University Library
  • Ladeuzeplein
  • Botanical Garden
  • shopping streets
  • countless cafés and restaurants

This is the area I’d recommend if you want to walk out of your hotel and immediately be surrounded by Leuven’s atmosphere.

What I like about staying here

  • Best location for sightseeing
  • Most major attractions are walkable
  • Lots of restaurants and cafés
  • Excellent nightlife
  • Beautiful historic architecture
  • Great for a short city break
  • No need to rely much on public transport

Downsides

The biggest downside is noise.

The Oude Markt is one of the busiest nightlife areas in Leuven, so if you’re a light sleeper, staying directly on the square probably isn’t ideal.

Accommodation in the historic centre can also be more expensive than staying slightly further away.

Personally, though, if you’re only spending one or two nights in Leuven, I think the location is worth paying a little extra for.

Hotels in Leuven’s Historic Centre

Martin’s Klooster

Martin’s Klooster is a great choice if you want to stay somewhere with a bit more character.

The hotel is located in a historic building close to the centre, making it easy to explore Leuven on foot.

I’d choose it if you want a comfortable hotel with a historic atmosphere and an excellent location.

I’d choose Martin’s Klooster if: you want character, comfort and a central location.

ibis Leuven Centrum

ibis Leuven Centrum is a more straightforward option if your priority is being central without necessarily looking for a luxury stay.

It’s within walking distance of the main sights, restaurants and nightlife.

I’d choose ibis Leuven Centrum if: you want a simple, practical hotel close to Leuven’s historic centre.

My pick: Martin’s Klooster for character; ibis Leuven Centrum for a simpler stay.

Want to know what you can actually see and do while staying here? Check out my Leuven Travel Guide for my favourite sights, cafés, restaurants and local tips.

Drinks on Oude Markt in Leuven, Belgium

2. Vaartkom

Best area to stay in Leuven for modern surroundings, restaurants and a quieter atmosphere

Vaartkom is probably the area I’d choose if you want something a little different from Leuven’s historic centre.

The neighbourhood has been transformed from an old industrial area into one of Leuven’s more modern districts, with new apartments, restaurants, cafés and spaces around the water.

It’s still close enough to the historic centre that you can easily walk into town, but it feels noticeably more modern and relaxed.

I’d especially recommend Vaartkom if you’ve already visited Leuven before or don’t necessarily need to stay directly beside the main tourist attractions.

What I like about staying here

  • Modern architecture
  • Water views
  • Trendy restaurants and cafés
  • More relaxed atmosphere
  • Close to the city centre
  • Good choice for longer stays
  • Less touristy than the historic centre

Downsides

You’re slightly further from Leuven’s main historic sights.

It’s still walkable, but if your main goal is sightseeing and you only have one night in Leuven, I’d probably choose the historic centre instead.

Hotels near Vaartkom

De Hoorn

De Hoorn is a great choice if you want to stay right in the Vaartkom, one of Leuven’s most modern and lively neighbourhoods.

The accommodation is located in the historic former Stella brewery and offers contemporary lofts with views over Leuven. You’re surrounded by restaurants, cafés and the water, while the historic city centre is still within walking distance.

I’d choose De Hoorn if: you want a unique, modern stay in the heart of Vaartkom.

3. Leuven Station

Best area to stay in Leuven for train travel and day trips around Belgium

If you’re planning to use Leuven as a base for exploring Belgium, staying near Leuven Station can be incredibly convenient.

Leuven is very well connected by train, so you can easily travel to other Belgian cities without having to deal with a car.

The station is also only a short walk from the historic centre, meaning you’re not sacrificing too much in terms of location.

I’d particularly consider this area if you’re travelling with luggage, arriving late or leaving early, or planning several day trips.

What I like about staying here

  • Extremely convenient for trains
  • Easy for day trips
  • Good choice with luggage
  • Still close to the city centre
  • Plenty of shops and restaurants nearby
  • Convenient for longer Belgium trips

Downsides

The area immediately around a train station doesn’t have quite the same historic atmosphere as Leuven’s old town.

If you’re mainly interested in experiencing Leuven itself, I’d still prefer staying in the historic centre.

But if Leuven is part of a larger Belgium itinerary, the convenience can be worth it.

Hotels near Leuven Station

Park Inn by Radisson Leuven

Park Inn by Radisson Leuven is one of the most convenient choices if train travel is important to you.

You’re right by the station, while the historic centre is still easily reachable.

I’d choose Park Inn by Radisson Leuven if: you’re using Leuven as a base for day trips around Belgium.

Novotel Leuven Centrum

Novotel Leuven Centrum is another practical choice for travellers who want a comfortable hotel without being right in the middle of the nightlife.

It’s within walking distance of both the station and the historic centre.

I’d choose Novotel Leuven Centrum if: you want a comfortable, practical base for exploring Leuven and Belgium by train.

My pick: Park Inn by Radisson for train convenience; Novotel Leuven Centrum for a practical all-round stay.

If you’re planning to travel between Belgian cities by train, my guide to getting around Belgium explains how the Belgian train and public transport system works.

Historic houses in Leuven, Belgium

Where Should You Stay in Leuven?

Still not sure which area is right for you?

Here’s what I’d recommend.

First time in Leuven

Stay in Oude Markt & the Historic Centre.

This is the easiest option because you’ll be close to Leuven’s most famous sights, restaurants, cafés and nightlife.

You can explore almost everything on foot and won’t have to spend much time figuring out public transport.

Want nightlife?

Stay around Oude Markt.

This is the heart of Leuven’s student nightlife, with bars and cafés surrounding the square.

Just keep in mind that this also means more noise, particularly later in the evening.

Want somewhere quieter?

Look at Vaartkom.

You’ll still be close to the centre, but the atmosphere is more modern and relaxed.

Using Leuven as a base for Belgium?

Stay near Leuven Station.

If you’re planning day trips by train, being close to the station can save you a lot of time and hassle.

Friends enjoying Kasteel Rouge near Leuven railway station

Planning your Leuven trip?

I created a Leuven Google Map with my favourite places and local recommendations, including things to do, coffee & brunch spots, restaurants, bars, shopping and more.
OR
Want to explore more of Belgium?
Get the Complete Belgium Google Map with 540+ saved places across the country.

Leuven Google Map: €2
Complete Belgium Google Map: €5

How Many Nights Should You Stay in Leuven?

For most visitors, I’d recommend 1–2 nights in Leuven.

One night is enough to see the main highlights and experience the city centre.

With two nights, you can slow down a little, enjoy Leuven’s cafés and restaurants and explore beyond the main tourist sights.

If you’re using Leuven as a base for exploring Belgium, you could of course stay longer.

However, if your goal is to see lots of Belgium, I wouldn’t necessarily stay in Leuven for your entire trip.

For that, I personally prefer Ghent as a base, since it makes a great starting point for visiting several Belgian cities.

→ If you’re planning to see Belgium beyond Leuven, check out my Ultimate Belgium Itinerary for the route I’d recommend.

Tips for Booking a Hotel in Leuven

Before booking your accommodation, there are a few things I’d keep in mind.

1. Check the exact location

Leuven is walkable, but there is still a difference between staying directly in the historic centre and staying near the station or Vaartkom.

Look at your hotel on a map and check how far it is from the places you actually want to visit.

2. Think about noise

If you’re staying around Oude Markt, check recent reviews for comments about noise.

It’s an amazing area for nightlife, but that also means it isn’t necessarily the best choice if you want complete peace and quiet.

3. Consider your Belgium itinerary

If you’re visiting Leuven as part of a bigger trip around Belgium, being close to the train station can be more valuable than being directly in the historic centre.

4. Compare prices for your exact dates

Hotel prices can change depending on the season, weekends, university events and other events happening in Leuven.

Always compare prices for your actual dates before booking.

5. Don’t automatically choose the cheapest hotel

Leuven is compact, so paying a little more for a convenient location can be worth it, especially if you’re only staying for one night.

My Personal Recommendation

If you’re visiting Leuven for the first time, I’d stay around Oude Markt and the historic centre.

You’ll be surrounded by Leuven’s beautiful historic architecture, cafés and restaurants, and almost everything you’ll want to see is within walking distance.

If you prefer something more modern and relaxed, Vaartkom is a great alternative.

And if you’re travelling around Belgium by train, Leuven Station is probably the most practical choice.

So, in short:

Oude Markt & Historic Centre: Best overall and best for first-time visitors
Vaartkom: Best for a modern and relaxed atmosphere
Leuven Station: Best for train travel and day trips

→ Want to know what to actually do in Leuven? Check out my Leuven Travel Guide for my favourite things to do, places to eat and local tips.

Planning Your Trip to Belgium?

Planning a trip to Belgium can be surprisingly difficult, especially when you’re choosing between historic cities, lively student towns, coastal destinations and smaller hidden gems.

That’s why I’ve created my Belgium Travel Guide, where I share destination guides, things to do, local tips and my personal experiences from travelling around Belgium.

→ START HERE: Belgium Travel Guides
→ GET MY GOOGLE MAP: Belgium Google Map

Related Posts

You May Also Like

Belgium Planning Guides

Belgium Food and Drinks Guides

More Belgium Guides

Frequently Asked Questions About Where to Stay in Leuven

What is the best area to stay in Leuven?

The Oude Markt and Historic Centre is the best area to stay in Leuven for most visitors, especially if it’s your first time. You’ll be within walking distance of Leuven’s main sights, restaurants, cafés and nightlife.

Where should I stay in Leuven for nightlife?

If you want to experience Leuven’s nightlife, stay around Oude Markt. The square is surrounded by cafés and bars and is one of the liveliest parts of the city, particularly when the student population is around.

Where should I stay in Leuven for a quieter stay?

Vaartkom is a good option if you want a more modern and relaxed atmosphere while still being within walking distance of the historic centre. It’s also home to restaurants, cafés and the water.

Is Leuven a walkable city?

Yes. Leuven is a compact and very walkable city, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Staying in the historic centre means you can reach most major sights without relying on public transport.

Is it better to stay near Leuven Station?

Staying near Leuven Station is a great choice if you’re planning day trips around Belgium or arriving and departing by train. The historic centre is still within walking distance, making the station a convenient base.

How many nights should I stay in Leuven?

For most visitors, 1–2 nights in Leuven is enough. One night allows you to see the main highlights, while two nights gives you more time to enjoy the city’s cafés, restaurants and atmosphere.

Is Leuven expensive to stay in?

Hotel prices in Leuven vary depending on the season, weekends, university events and other events in the city. Staying slightly outside the historic centre can sometimes be cheaper, although it’s worth comparing prices for your exact dates.

Where should I stay in Leuven for a first visit?

For a first visit, I’d choose Oude Markt or the Historic Centre. It’s the most convenient area for sightseeing and gives you the best opportunity to experience Leuven’s historic architecture, cafés, restaurants and nightlife.

Is Leuven a good base for exploring Belgium?

Yes, especially if you want to travel around Belgium by train. Leuven has excellent rail connections to cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent and Bruges. However, if you’re planning to visit many different Belgian cities, I personally prefer Ghent as a base.

Leave a Reply