Louvain-la-Neuve Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local culture and customs in Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium. Whether you're looking for natural attractions, outdoor adventures, cultural landmarks, or local cuisine, this guide has got you covered.


Introduction to Louvain-la-Neuve

Louvain-la-Neuve is a youthful and vibrant city in the province of Walloon Brabant, Wallonia, Belgium. Known for its modern architecture, cultural landmarks, and expansive green spaces, Louvain-la-Neuve is a popular destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, nature, and modernity. The city was founded in the 1960s and was designed to be a university town, housing the Catholic University of Louvain.

List of Places to Visit in Louvain-la-Neuve

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Musée Hergé: A museum dedicated to the life and works of the famous Belgian cartoonist, Hergé, creator of Tintin.
  • Musée L: A museum of contemporary art that hosts exhibitions and events throughout the year.
  • Château de Louvain-la-Neuve: A historic castle that dates back to the 15th century.
  • Centre de la Gravure et de l’image imprimée: A museum dedicated to printmaking and contemporary graphic arts.

Natural Attractions of Louvain-la-Neuve: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bois des Rêves: A spacious park that provides visitors with a serene escape from the city. It offers walking and biking trails, picnic areas, and sports facilities.
  • Lac de Louvain-la-Neuve: A beautiful lake that serves as a perfect spot for a peaceful walk or a picnic. The lake is surrounded by a 4.2 km running track.
  • Fond des Bruyères hiking trail: A 6 km trail that runs alongside the forest, across the countryside, and up the hills.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Louvain-la-Neuve

  • Ravel of Wavre: A relaxing route that links Louvain-la-Neuve to the city of Wavre. This easy path is perfect for a family-friendly bike ride or a morning walk.
  • Ravel of Nivelles: A cycling path that runs 21 km through the countryside of Walloon Brabant. It offers breathtaking views and diverse landscapes.
  • Louvain-la-Neuve to Charleroi Canal bike ride: A scenic route that follows the waterway of Charleroi Canal, covering 45 km.

Best Things to Do in Louvain-la-Neuve: Activities and Tours

  • Explore the city on foot: Louvain-la-Neuve is perfect for walking because of its pedestrian-friendly streets. Don’t miss to check out the Place des Sciences which is designed to resemble different aspects of scientific knowledge.
  • Visit local breweries and vineyards: The region has a rich history of beer and wine-making, and there are plenty of local breweries and vineyards to explore.
  • Attend local festivals and events: Louvain-la-Neuve is known for its vibrant local culture and hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Land’Art festival, the Summer Music Festival, and the Christmas Market.

Week-Long Itinerary for Louvain-la-Neuve

Day Activity
1 Visit Musée Hergé and Musée L
2 Explore the city center and local markets, enjoy local cuisine
3 Take a bike ride along the Ravel of Nivelles
4 Hike the Fond des Bruyères trail and visit Bois des Rêves
5 Visit the Château de Louvain-la-Neuve and Centre de la Gravure et de l’image imprimée
6 Explore local breweries and vineyards, attend a local event
7 Relax around the Lac de Louvain-la-Neuve and enjoy picnic, visit the nearby cities of Wavre and Walibi Theme Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Louvain-la-Neuve

Must-Try Dishes

  • Gaufre de Liège: a sweet waffle made with yeast dough, pearl sugar, and toppings.
  • Waterzooi: a creamy soup made with chicken, vegetables, and herbs.
  • Stoemp: a dish made with mashed potatoes and root vegetables, typically served with sausage.

Local Beverages

  • Belgian beer: Belgium is known for its vast variety of beer, with nearly 1,500 different brands. Don’t miss to explore the local breweries like Brasserie du Brabant Wallon and Brasserie de la Croix.
  • Jenever: It is the traditional Belgian version of gin that comes in many different flavors.

Where to Stay in Louvain-la-Neuve: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Martin’s Louvain-La-Neuve: A four-star hotel that is one of the top-rated hotels in Louvain-la-Neuve, located in the heart of the city.
  • Gîte Boutonneux: A cozy bed and breakfast located in the countryside near Louvain-la-Neuve.
  • Auberge de Jeunesse: A youth hostel located in the city center that is perfect for budget travelers.

What to Buy in Louvain-la-Neuve: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Beer: Belgium is famous for its beer, and there are many local breweries in and around Louvain-la-Neuve.
  • Chocolate: Belgium is also known for its delicious chocolate, and there are many chocolatiers in the city.
  • Tintin souvenirs: Since Louvain-la-Neuve is the hometown of famous Belgian cartoonist Herge, visitors can find numerous Tintin souvenirs throughout the city.

Local Culture and Customs of Louvain-la-Neuve

Louvain-la-Neuve has a vibrant and multicultural society, but there are a few cultural customs to keep in mind. Belgians are generally reserved and polite, and it is customary to say “hello” and “goodbye” when entering and leaving a store, restaurant, or other public place.

Best Time to Visit Louvain-la-Neuve

The best time to visit Louvain-la-Neuve is from May to September when the weather is pleasant, and there are more activities and events going on. However, the city is beautiful and has something to offer year-round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Louvain-la-Neuve

Do:

  • Try to learn some French: French is the official language of Wallonia; therefore, it will be useful to learn some basic phrases.
  • Be respectful of local customs: Belgians are generally polite and reserved, and it is essential to be respectful of their customs and culture.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages: Belgian food and drinks are some of the best in the world, and it would be a shame not to indulge in them.

Don’t:

  • Forget your manners: As with any foreign country, it is essential to be respectful of locals and local customs.
  • Speak too loudly in public: Belgians tend to be more reserved, and speaking too loudly in a public place is considered impolite.
  • Overdo the chocolate and beer: While it’s tempting to indulge in Belgium’s famous beer and chocolate, be sure not to overdo it.

Safety and Health

Safety in Louvain-la-Neuve

Louvain-la-Neuve is a safe city, and the crime rate is low. However, as with any city, it is wise to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions like not leaving valuable items unattended in public areas.

Health in Louvain-la-Neuve

Belgium has excellent healthcare, and all visitors are advised to have travel insurance. Pharmacies can be found throughout the city, and it is easy to find over-the-counter medication for minor ailments.

Getting to Louvain-la-Neuve: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Louvain-la-Neuve

The Brussels Airport is the closest airport to Louvain-la-Neuve, about 30 km away. Visitors can take a train from the airport to Louvain-la-Neuve.

Bus Stations Near Louvain-la-Neuve

Louvain-la-Neuve has an extensive bus network that connects the city to nearby towns and cities.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Louvain-la-Neuve by train. The city has a train station that connects to the rest of the country.

How to Get Around in Louvain-la-Neuve

The best way to explore Louvain-la-Neuve is on foot or by bicycle. The city is pedestrian-friendly, and there is an extensive network of bike paths. Taxis and buses are also available for longer trips or transportation to other cities.

Where to Go Next from Louvain-la-Neuve: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Brussels: Belgium’s capital city is only a 30-minute train ride away from Louvain-la-Neuve.
  • Leuven: A university town with beautiful architecture, historic landmarks, and a vibrant nightlife.
  • Namur: The capital of Wallonia, where visitors can explore the stunning Citadel and wander the charming old town.

Conclusion

Louvain-la-Neuve is a city that has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, nature, or modernity. With a rich cultural heritage, stunning scenery, and delicious cuisine, it is an excellent destination for travelers in search of culture and adventure. Plan your trip today and discover the beauty and charm of Louvain-la-Neuve.

Small pedestrian pathway in Louvain-la-Neuve Small pedestrian pathway in Louvain-la-Neuve