Leuven Car Hire

Guide of Leuven

Geography

Leuven is located around 25 km east of Brussels, in the Flemish region of Belgium, making it extremely easy to access. Its population is approximately 100k, with a large and rife student population, thanks to the city’s 4 universities. The city is also home to a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Groot Begijnhof.

Climate in Leuven

The average climate in Leuven is mild, pleasant and cloudy. Summers are comfortable, and winters are long and cold. The coldest months are December-February, with the most rainfall from November-March. For the most part, Belgium’s climate remains cloudy and mild, so time your trip for the hotter months of June-August if you want to experience Leuven in its absolute prime.

Culture

Leuven’s culture is heavily based on its beer scene, being the HQ of the Anheuser-Busch brewing company. There is also a large history and art scene, with many museums showcasing both. Leuven has a lively student population, most of whom contribute to its rich nightlife. Leuven also hosts an annual beer festival, and several concerts are played in its historic town hall building.

Things To Do in Leuven

What is the best way to spend your day in Leuven? Visit a brewery, take a tour, or enjoy the gorgeous architecture in this city. Here are our top suggestions on how to spend your day Leuven to make your trip as memorable and exciting as possible.

Go sightseeing

Leuven is rife with historical, Baroque and Gothic-style architecture, which is showcased through its Town Hall, St Peter’s Church, KU University and numerous abbeys, all of which are perfect for sightseeing. Make sure you bring your camera to get some professional-looking shots of the architecture that comprises Leuven’s central square, or ‘Grote Markt.’

Head down the Grote Markt or Oude Markt

Leuven’s Grote Markt and Oude Markt, known in English as ‘big market’ and ‘old market’ respectively, is the main central square in Leuven’s city centre. It’s also where you’ll find some of the most opulent buildings in Belgium. Head to the Oude Markt for some high-quality restaurants, bars, and architecturally pleasing establishments.

Visit the Groot Begijnhof

This is a historic landmark site consisting of approx. 3 hectares of restored beguinages. Now a UNESCO world heritage site and student accommodation consisting of apartments and houses, the Groot Begijnhof is renowned among native Belgians, and may be unheard of by new tourists or visitors to Leuven. The site is accessible and owned by the University of Leuven, so be sure to take a tour of this historic site on your way through Leuven.

Visit the Kruidtuin

If you want a break from the busy main market squares in Leuven’s lively city centre, head to this large historical botanical garden for a refreshing dose of nature. Established in the 1700s, this garden has had many uses in its centuries of history and is now a favoured spot among tourists and locals. The garden is also sometimes used to host events or exhibits.

Sample some beer

Home to the HQ of world-renowned brewing company Anheuser-Busch InBev, you can visit this historic brewery and take an interactive tour. Sample some famous Stella Artois in its birthplace, and see the brewing process in action from start to finish. Afterwards, head out to the Oude Markt and enjoy some authentically crafted beer alongside your dinner. There’s no better experience than trying beer you have seen being created or enjoying it in its birthplace alongside some authentic Belgian or French cuisine.

Eating Out in Leuven

Leuven’s culinary scene is rich and varied, with a variety of cuisines available for tourists and locals to enjoy. From French and Italian to Japanese and Indian cuisines, as well as popular dishes like burgers, pizza, seafood and bistro-style food, you’re guaranteed to be spoiled for choice on what to try first. Leuven’s most popular dining spots include Baracca, an Italian-style restaurant, Zarza, serving authentic Belgian/French dishes, and Zorba, a Mediterranean and Greek-style restaurant, among many others.

Expect to find only the most authentic Belgian cuisine and dishes in this city. Some of the most popular dishes and drinks in Leuven include:

Moules-Frites: Belgium’s national dish of mussels served with a generous helping of fries/chips. Belgium is known for its mussels and seafood, given its numerous waterways where mussels are grown in abundance.

Waffles: When thinking of Belgium, waffles often spring to mind. Often served drizzled with melted Belgian chocolate, waffles are commonly enjoyed as a mid-afternoon snack or sweet treat after a main meal.

Beer: Leuven is known for its beer scene, being the HQ of Anheuser-Busch brewing company. Wash down your waffles or moules with a generous glug of Stella or Budweiser.

Transport

Leuven is a very walkable city and is home to a railway station, a reliable network of buses, and taxi cabs. Many native Belgians and tourists like to get around by bike too. A journey from Leuven to Brussels takes around 15 minutes on the train too. However, the most efficient way to get around the city is by hiring a car. We at Enjoy Travel can help you there.

Range of vehicles for car hire in Leuven

At Enjoy Travel, we can help you get around your chosen destination quickly and efficiently with our range of vehicles. The type of car you select is ultimately up to you, and you can choose from our range of luxury cars like Mercedes Benz, Audis and BMWs, to economy cars and SUVs like Jeeps or Landrovers. No matter your need for a car, we have the perfect vehicle to suit your requirements. Some of the vehicles we offer include:

● Luxury cars – Mercedes Benz, BMWs and Audis. Give yourself a driving tour around Leuven and marvel at its beauty, while enjoying the comfort of your luxury car.

● Economy cars – Ford, VW, Hyundai, Toyota, the choice is yours. We can offer a Ford Fiesta, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Accent, Volkswagen Golf, and more. Perfect for those who prioritise comfort over luxury.

● SUVs – Hyundais, Toyotas, you name it. Accommodate large groups who may be travelling with you with a little extra legroom!

Working with the best car hire suppliers in Leuven

Our customers have the opportunity to compare car hires around Leuven. We work with only the best car hire brands and suppliers, such as Europcar, Enterprise and more. Upon enquiring about a vehicle with us, we will get to work immediately to find you the best car hire deals in Belgium and ensure you are as comfortable and as satisfied as possible with your chosen vehicle.

If you’re concerned about the technical aspects, like mileage, costs or extra charges, we offer a number of additional services included in our prices, such as:

● Airport surcharge

● Insurance

● Taxes

● Roadside assistance

● Unlimited mileage, etc

Don’t delay in securing your vehicle for your upcoming Leuven trip. You won’t want to miss out on what this charming and historic city has to offer. From towering opulent architecture, quaint gardens and historical sites, to numerous restaurants, bars and a lively student scene, you’ll feel right at home and instantly welcomed by this beautiful Belgian city.

And, why not try a road trip around Belgium while you’re at it? Driving around Belgium is easier than ever. With Belgium’s capital Brussels a mere 40-minute drive away, plus nearby cities Antwerp and Ghent just over an hour’s drive from Leuven, there’s no excuse not to stretch your car’s wheels and head around to some of the world’s most renowned places. Leuven is located within close proximity to numerous surrounding towns and cities, allowing you to get the absolute most out of your trip and make it as memorable as possible.