Brussels , Belgium

Pearls of Leuven - Private Walking Tour

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About this experience

Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. Embark on a 2-hour walking tour of Leuven and discover its captivating highlights. Explore the M Leuven art museum, admire the majestic Historical Leuven Town Hall, and marvel at the exquisite Saint Peter’s Church. Experience the tranquility of the Kruidtuin botanical garden and wander through the charming streets of Groot Begijnhof Leuven, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories and insights along the way, offering a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of this remarkable city. Join us for a memorable journey through Leuven’s treasures.

Available options

Pearls of Leuven - Private Walking Tour

What's included

Local Professional Guide

Detailed itinerary

The municipal museum operations that were launched in the early 19th century are still being run by Museum Leuven. The first museum was established in 1823 on the second floor of Leuven City Hall. A century or so later, the collection was transferred to Leuven's historic centre, to Leopold Vander Kelen's former private mansion. The M Museum's main display area is currently here.
The M Museum building was refurbished before it was launched in 2009

On Leuven's Grote Markt (Main Market) square, directly across from the enormous St. Peter's Church, stands the town hall, a well-known structure. Its beautiful, lace-like architecture is renowned for being constructed in a Brabantine Late Gothic style between 1448 and 1469. On the three sides that are visible from the Markt, the Town Hall's three main levels are framed by pointed Gothic windows. Behind the gallery parapet, a high roof with four levels of dormers rises. There are octagonal turrets at the angles of the roof that have openings that let light enter through. (Outside Visit)

Stop 3

The Brabantine Gothic-styled Saint Peter's Church, also known as Sint-Pieterskerk in Dutch, was erected in the 15th century in Leuven, Belgium. The building features a cruciform layout and a partially finished low bell tower. Its length is 93 metres (305 feet). It is situated across from the Town Hall on the city's "Grote Markt" (Grand Square). In acknowledgment of the cultural significance and aesthetic value of the belfries in the area, the church's bell tower and belfry were included in the Belfries of Belgium and France site and added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1999.

Founded in 1738, the Hortus Botanicus Lovaniensis (Kruidtuin in Dutch) is a botanical garden in Leuven, Belgium. It is located in the city's centre and spans 2.2 hectares. Henri-Joseph Rega, a medical professor at the University of Leuven, founded the city's first botanical garden in 1738. Herbs for medicinal purposes were its first goal. Later, the gardens were utilised for research, and a large collection of rare plants, cultivated species with commercial potential, and decorative plants were kept there.

Leuven's Groot Begijnhof, which consists of a dozen streets and is a well-preserved beguinage, has undergone a thorough restoration. It is one of the largest existing beguinages in the Low Countries, measuring about 3 hectares (7.5 acres) and housing over 300 flats in approximately 100 homes. It encompasses both sides of the island created when the river Dijle separates into two canals inside the beguinage.

What's not included

M Leuven Entrance Fee - 12 euros

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

In front of M Leuven.

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.