Getting Around Leuven: Walkability, Public Transit & Biking

Leuven is exceptionally walkable, thanks to its compact and pedestrian-friendly city center. Travelers can easily access most amenities, shops, cafes, and cultural attractions on foot, making it convenient to navigate the city without a car. The lively street life, enhanced by a large student population, adds to the overall enjoyable walking experience. The city's circulation plan actively prioritizes pedestrians, reinforcing its walkability.

Leuven offers a solid public transport system, primarily through its extensive and reliable bus network operated by De Lijn. Buses run frequently to all key areas and are easily accessible, allowing travelers to navigate the city with ease. Leuven's train station, situated near the city center, provides convenient connections to major cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent, as well as to Brussels Airport, making regional travel seamless. However, specific local routes may require further improvement to match the ease of inter-city connections.

Leuven is a cyclist's haven, featuring extensive cycling infrastructure that includes dedicated bike lanes and cycling streets. The popularity of cycling, especially among students, has led to a well-established cycling culture. "Cycling highways" even provide direct routes to Brussels and other nearby cities. The relatively flat terrain makes the city not only bike-friendly but also inviting for enjoyable and efficient rides across urban and neighboring areas.