Louvain-la-Neuve - Discovering Belgium

Travelling to Louvain-la-Neuve

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Louvain-la-Neuve, a pretty good destination in Belgium (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Louvain-la-Neuve and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Louvain-la-Neuve, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Belgium, here's everything to know about Louvain-la-Neuve for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Louvain-la-Neuve

Louvain-la-Neuve is a planned university town located in the Walloon Brabant province of Belgium. It was built in the 1960s to accommodate the Université catholique de Louvain, and today it is home to approximately 30,000 residents, most of whom are students or faculty members. The town has a modern and vibrant feel with a wide range of bars, restaurants, and cultural events taking place throughout the year. The town is known for its many parks and green spaces, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. Additionally, Louvain-la-Neuve is conveniently located within easy reach of Brussels, making it a popular day-trip destination for tourists exploring Belgium.

What to visit in Louvain-la-Neuve

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Louvain-la-Neuve with some useful information: 1. Musée Hergé - This museum is dedicated to the life and work of the famous Belgian cartoonist Hergé, creator of Tintin. It features a wide range of exhibits, including original artwork, artifacts, and interactive displays. Visitors can learn about the history of the comic book and how Hergé's work has influenced popular culture.
2. L'esplanade - This pedestrian shopping area is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It features a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as street performers and other entertainment.
3. Aula Magna - This concert hall is known for its impressive acoustics and beautiful design. It hosts a variety of musical performances and other events throughout the year, and is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates live music.
4. Lake Louvain-la-Neuve - This beautiful lake is located in the heart of the city and is surrounded by green spaces and walking paths. It's a popular spot for picnics, boating, and other outdoor activities.
5. Musée de Louvain-la-Neuve - This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the city and its surrounding area. It features a range of exhibits, including artifacts, photos, and multimedia displays that provide a fascinating look into the region's past.
6. Château de Louvain-la-Neuve - This historic castle dates back to the 12th century and is a must-visit for anyone interested in medieval architecture. Visitors can explore the castle's grounds, including its towers and courtyards, and learn about its fascinating history.
7. Hergé Walk - This walking tour takes visitors through the streets of Louvain-la-Neuve and highlights some of the key locations and landmarks associated with Hergé and his Tintin comics. It's a great way to learn more about the city's rich cultural history.
These are just a few of the many attractions that Louvain-la-Neuve has to offer. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or just enjoying the great outdoors, there's something for everyone in this charming Belgian city.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Louvain-la-Neuve.

When to go on holiday to Louvain-la-Neuve

The best time to visit Louvain-la-Neuve is during the months of April to September, as these months generally have pleasant weather conditions, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This is also the high season, so you can expect plenty of tourists around the city. However, if you prefer lesser crowds and lower prices, you may consider visiting during the off-season, which is from October to March. Just keep in mind that it can get quite cold during the winter months, with temperatures dropping to around 0-5°C.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Louvain-la-Neuve

Louvain-la-Neuve is a university town in Belgium, so there are several ways to get there depending on your starting point. Here are some options: - By Car: Louvain-la-Neuve is located about 30km south of Brussels, and can be easily reached by car via the E411 motorway. The journey should take approximately 30 minutes, barring traffic.
- By Train: Louvain-la-Neuve has its own train station, which is served by regular trains from major cities in Belgium such as Brussels, Antwerp, and Liege. The journey from Brussels to Louvain-la-Neuve takes around 20-30 minutes and costs around €4-€5.
- By Bus: There are also several bus routes that serve Louvain-la-Neuve, both from other towns and within the city itself. The TEC bus company operates several routes that connect Louvain-la-Neuve to nearby towns and cities.
Overall, getting to Louvain-la-Neuve is relatively straightforward, as it is well-connected to other parts of Belgium by road and rail.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Louvain-la-Neuve, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Louvain-la-Neuve

Louvain-la-Neuve is a Belgian university town that has a wide range of traditional dishes and snacks. Some of the typical foods of Louvain-la-Neuve are: 1. Stoemp: A dish made with mashed potatoes that typically contains vegetables such as carrots, onions, and spinach. It is usually served with sausage, pork, or bacon.
2. Tomates aux crevettes: A popular appetizer in Belgium, consisting of a tomato stuffed with seasoned shrimp.
3. Croquettes: Fried potato croquettes that can be filled with cheese, shrimp, or meat.
4. Carbonade flamande: A traditional Flemish stew made with beef, onions, and Belgian beer. It is usually served with fries or mashed potatoes.
5. Moules-frites: Mussels cooked in white wine or beer and served with fries. This is a very popular dish in Belgium.
6. Gaufre de Liège: A type of Belgian waffle made with dough instead of batter. It is sweet, crispy, and usually served with powdered sugar.
7. Speculoos: A type of spiced cookie that is often served with coffee or tea. They have a distinct flavor that comes from a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and other spices.
8. Witloof: Also called Belgian endive, it is a leafy vegetable that is often used in salads or cooked in dishes such as gratins or soups.
9. Frites: Belgian fries are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They are typically served in a paper cone with a variety of sauces such as mayonnaise, ketchup, or curry sauce.
10. Cheese: Belgium produces a variety of delicious cheeses, including Gouda, Edam, and Limburger. These can be enjoyed on their own or served with bread and fruit.
You can find general info about typical foods in Belgium here.

Is Louvain-la-Neuve an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other European destinations, Louvain-la-Neuve may be considered moderately expensive. Prices for accommodation, food, and activities can be higher than in some neighboring cities. However, it is possible to find budget-friendly options if you do your research and plan carefully. Additionally, keep in mind that the cost of living in Belgium is generally higher than in other countries, so prices may not be that different from other Belgian cities.

Where to find accomodation in Louvain-la-Neuve

The best area to find accommodation in Louvain-la-Neuve would be the city center or around the Université catholique de Louvain. This area is surrounded by many bars, restaurants, and shopping centers and is easily accessible by public transport. Another good option is the Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve train station area, which is close to the city center and has good connections to other cities in Belgium.
You can check hotel prices at Louvain-la-Neuve here:
Booking.com

Is Louvain-la-Neuve a safe destination for tourists?

Louvain-la-Neuve is generally a very safe place for tourists. The crime rate is relatively low, and visitors can feel comfortable exploring the city without much concern for safety issues. However, it is always important for travelers to take basic safety precautions such as staying aware of their surroundings, not carrying large amounts of cash, and securing their belongings while in public places.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Belgium here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Louvain-la-Neuve.

What type of travelers will enjoy Louvain-la-Neuve the most?

Louvain-la-Neuve is a vibrant university town, located about 30 minutes from Brussels. Its lively atmosphere makes it a popular destination for young people looking for fun and adventure. However, it is also a great place for couples and families to visit, as there are plenty of attractions and activities to keep everyone entertained. Couples will love the romantic setting of the town and the many cozy cafes and restaurants. Meanwhile, families will enjoy the parks, museums, and other family-friendly attractions like the Walibi amusement park, located nearby. Overall, Louvain-la-Neuve offers something for everyone, regardless of their age or interests!

How to get around Louvain-la-Neuve

In Louvain-la-Neuve, a university city in Belgium, the most convenient transportation options to move around are: 1. Walking: Louvain-la-Neuve is a pedestrian-friendly city with many car-free zones, making walking around the city an enjoyable and healthy option.
2. Biking: The city has an extensive network of bike paths and rental bikes available for visitors throughout the town.
3. Bus: There is a regular bus service connecting Louvain-la-Neuve with nearby towns and cities, as well as local bus routes within the town.
4. Taxi: Taxis are also available in Louvain-la-Neuve, but the city is quite small, and most places are accessible by walking or biking.

What to see around Louvain-la-Neuve

Sure, here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Louvain-la-Neuve: 1. Brussels: The capital city of Belgium is just a 30-minute drive away from Louvain-la-Neuve. There are plenty of attractions to discover in Brussels such as the Grand Place, Atomium, Manneken Pis, and many museums.
2. Leuven: This charming city is approximately 15 minutes by train from Louvain-la-Neuve. You can visit the famous Gothic town hall, the lively Oude Markt, and try some delicious Belgium beers at one of the many breweries.
3. Waterloo: This historical town is approximately 20 minutes away by car from Louvain-la-Neuve. Here you can visit the famous battlefields of Waterloo and the museum of the battle of Waterloo.
4. Villers-la-Ville Abbey: This impressive Cistercian abbey is approximately 15 minutes away by car from Louvain-la-Neuve. You can explore the ruins of the abbey and stroll around its picturesque gardens.
5. Genval Lake: This stunning lake is approximately 20 minutes away by car from Louvain-la-Neuve. You can enjoy a walk or cycle around the lake, rent a boat, or simply sit back and enjoy the view.
For every travel information about Belgium you can click here.

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