600 Years of History and Heritage: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Leuven
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600 Years of History and Heritage: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Leuven

Active
(7 reviews)
1h - 1h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Are you looking for a way to see Leuven without joining a tour group? Explore at your own pace with this affordable audio tour.

• Find the beating heart of Leuven on this attraction-packed tour from the Stadhuis, or town hall, to the city’s studious ethos, as represented by the statue of Fonske
• Hear from producer Denzil Walton, a passionate local guide
• Do it all in an hour or take your time, with complete control over when you start and finish
• Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it
• Use the virtual tour option at home

Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code.

The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

Available options

600 Years of History and Heritage: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Leuven

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English
VoiceMap app for Android and iOS
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Detailed itinerary

1

Tour the center of Leuven, in Belgium.

2

Leuven is the capital of Flemish Brabant province.

3

Walk the Leuven city center with this self-guided audio tour

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Begin your tour in the central market square of Leuven.

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Hear about the hall's construction and statues as you gaze up at it.

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Hear about the church-site's resilient history of destruction and reconstruction.

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Stop outside the Catholic University of Leuven to hear its history.

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Here about the university's link to the Oude Markt's history.

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Walk down one of the oldest streets in Leuven while I tell you about it's distant story and immediate attractions.

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Pass by without stopping, unless you need some refreshment at the many food and beverage vendors.

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Stop 11 Pass by

Walk through and hear how this square competes with its sister, the Grote Markt, for the title of Leuven’s most famous square.

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Stop past to greet this famous Leuven resident.

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Stop past the "longest bar in Europe".

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See the Holy Trinity College Preparatory School on the Old Market square.

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Hear about Leuven's recent celebrities as you walk down this street.

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Stop by the square to visit Saint Anthony's Chapel.

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Stop in the visit the grave of Father Damien.

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Walk up the "mountainous" incline of Sint-Antoniusberg street.

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Hear the history of the church as you marvel at its impressive façade.

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Walk along the street to see the Hotel De Pastorij followed by the Faculty of Theology.

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Stop at this square so I can tell you where to find a good bite to eat.

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Stand at the college entrance while I share some papal history.

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Let me introduce you to this culinary center of Leuven.

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As I introduce you to this quaint brewery's history, I'll tell you about the delicious beer they've been homebrewing inside since 1985.

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Stop a while for me to tell you about the extensive collection housed inside this exquisite building.

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I'll show your round the largest square in Leuven and tell you how it got its name.

27

Let me tell you about the Beetle totem's link to the library in Ladeuzeplein.

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As you wonder at this impressive building I'll tell you it's short history of only 100 years.

29

Let me introduce you to one of the main shopping areas in Leuven.

30

As you walk past it, I'll point out this theatre that dates from the 1800s.

31

We'll end back in the square where we started, the Rector de Somerplein.

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The last thing we'll do on our tour is say hello to Fonske, a statue dedicated to enlightenment.

What's not included

Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route
Smartphone and headphones
Transportation
Food and drink

Available languages

Audio guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

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Tripadvisor 5.0
4 reviews
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Important information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
───
Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
───
Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
───
• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
───
For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Brussels

Brussels, the heart of Europe, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-renowned cuisine. As the de facto capital of the European Union, it's a melting pot of cultures and languages, offering a unique blend of medieval charm and modern sophistication.

Top Attractions

Grand Place

The Grand Place is the central square of Brussels and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's famous for its ornate guildhalls and the impressive Town Hall.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Atomium

The Atomium is a unique structure built for the 1958 World's Fair. It's a symbol of Brussels and offers panoramic views of the city.

Architecture 2-3 hours €16 (adults), €10 (children)

Manneken Pis

The Manneken Pis is a small bronze statue of a boy peeing, which has become one of Brussels' most famous landmarks. It's often dressed in costumes for special occasions.

Cultural 15-30 minutes Free

Royal Palace of Brussels

The Royal Palace is the official palace of the King and Queen of the Belgians. While the royal family does not reside here, it's used for official events and ceremonies.

Historical 1-2 hours €12.50 (for the Royal Greenhouses, open only in spring and autumn)

Parc du Cinquantenaire

Parc du Cinquantenaire is a large urban park with a triumphal arch, museums, and green spaces. It's a great place for a leisurely walk or picnic.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (museums have separate fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Moules-frites

Mussels cooked in white wine, cream, or other sauces, served with a side of fries.

Main course Can be made vegetarian by omitting the mussels and using a vegetable-based sauce.

Waffles

Belgian waffles are a must-try, with various toppings like whipped cream, chocolate, and fruit.

Dessert/Snack Can be made vegetarian or vegan by choosing appropriate toppings.

Fries

Belgian fries are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often served with various sauces.

Snack/Side Can be made vegetarian by choosing vegetable-based sauces.

Carbonade flamande

A traditional Flemish beef and beer stew, often served with fries or bread.

Main course Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Popular Activities

Cycling tours Kayaking on the Senne River Escape rooms Spa days Picnics in parks Café hopping Museum visits Art gallery tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous festivals. The city is lively, but also more crowded and expensive.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Dutch, French, German
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Brussels is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas. Be cautious with your belongings and stay aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep your belongings secure and out of sight
  • • Be cautious with ATMs and avoid using them at night
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air
  • Brussels Airport • 11 km (7 miles) from city center
By train

Brussels-South Station, Brussels-Central Station

By bus

Brussels-North Station, Brussels-South Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient and covers most of the city. It's a great way to get around, especially during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Heetch

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Sablon Saint-Géry European Quarter

Day trips

Bruges
100 km (62 miles) • Full day

Bruges is a medieval city with a well-preserved historic center, canals, and cobblestone streets. It's often referred to as the 'Venice of the North'.

Ghent
60 km (37 miles) • Full day

Ghent is a vibrant city with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a lively student population. It's known for its medieval buildings, castles, and museums.

Antwerp
45 km (28 miles) • Full day

Antwerp is a dynamic city known for its fashion, diamond district, and vibrant cultural scene. It's home to numerous museums, galleries, and historic sites.

Festivals

Ommegang • Early July Flower Carpet • Every two years in August Christmas Market • Late November to early January

Pro tips

  • Visit the Grand Place early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the square's beauty in peace.
  • Try a Belgian waffle from a street vendor, but be cautious with toppings that may not be suitable for dietary restrictions.
  • Explore the city's neighborhoods on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and local culture.
  • Learn a few basic phrases in French or Dutch to connect with locals and show respect for the language and culture.
  • Consider purchasing a Brussels Card for unlimited public transport and discounts on attractions.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 6-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
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Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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