Belgium
End of year shopping while soaking up ancient architecture
Spend your first day in Leuven by exploring cosy shopping streets and stroll through Leuven's Christmas Market. Take a break at the top of the University Library to get a beautiful view (Christmas light included!) of the city.
Christmas Shopping
Leuven is the perfect city for some eco-conscious Christmas shopping. In funky sustainable shops and cool vintage stores such as Cyaankali and Rawette you can snap up clothes by exclusive Belgian designers and well-known brands at bargain prices. Are you into arts and crafts? At Hexagoon you can find everything you need to create your own Christmas cards or menus.
Visit the University Library & Tower
If you want to learn more about the university library’s turbulent history and its impact on the city, you have to climb the five floors of the library tower. A photo exhibition takes you to five significant periods in the library’s history. After the fifth floor, you reach the balcony where you can enjoy a unique panoramic view of the city.
Enjoy the Christmas Market
Experience the authentic atmosphere at one of Belgium’s oldest and liveliest Christmas markets. With piping hot mugs of spiced wine, the warm vibe of many fire baskets, dozens of stalls with artisan gifts, and tasty treats that you won’t find anywhere else. The Leuven Christmas market can be found in Ladeuzeplein and Hooverplein from 11 until 22 December.
