The Cube Hostel
Leuven wasn’t always the most accommodating city for hip backpackers to spend the night, but everything changed in 2014 with the launch of Cube Hostel. The reception desk (built on a bunch of quaint old suitcases) and lounge area lend the place a cozy vintage feel with eclectic flea market finds, from fold-up cinema chairs to colorful couches.
The Cube Hostel, Brusselsestraat 110, Leuven, Belgium +32 016 89 45 85
The Cube Hostel’s check-in area | © Dieter Vyvey, courtesy of The Cube
Theater Hotel
Right across from the city’s official concert hall and a minute’s walk from Museum M, the Theater Hotel is ideally located for those looking to get cultural on their Leuven trip. Add to that the free breakfast in a spacious and light dining hall and we have ourselves a winner.
Theater Hotel, Bondgenotenlaan 20 , Leuven, Belgium +32 016 22 28 19
Pentahotel
Part of a European network of hotels, Leuven’s edition stays true to the Penta formula: an alluring blend of industrial cool and chic, comfortable interiors makes for a very pleasurable stay for any city trip. The nice selection of Belgian beers available at the bar and its convenient central location are both a big plus.
Pentahotel, Alfons Smetsplein 7 , Leuven, Belgium +32 016 31 76 00
Among the newer trendy places to settle down in Leuven is Pentahotel | Courtesy of Pentahotel
Martin’s Klooster
Located on the grounds of an old monastery (or a ‘klooster’ in Dutch), Martin’s boasts an exceptional setting in Leuven’s historic center. By smartly combining comfortably minimalist rooms with glass walkways, a modern feel is maintained. The orangery provides an idyllic view of the beautifully landscaped garden no matter the season.
Martin’s Klooster, Onze Lieve Vrouwstraat 18, Leuven, Belgium +32 016 21 31 41
Guesthouse Begijnhof
Also situated inside the old monastery – known as the ‘Begijnhof’ – this guesthouse takes a different approach to its surroundings by keeping things as authentic as possible. A stay in the Sint-Jan building (which dates back to the early 15th century) is perfect for anyone embarking on a historical exploration of Leuven. Owner Michel first providing you with an elaborate breakfast, replete with homemade jam.
Guesthouse Begijnhof, Schapenstraat 97, Leuven, Belgium +32 016 84 77 58
Gasthof De Pastorij
De Pastorij is essentially the best place in Leuven for anyone who likes a bed & breakfast with loads of personality. Four-poster beds, old chandeliers and your grandmother’s dining room all work together to form the quaintest of atmospheres in this intimate hotel looking out onto Saint Michael’s church.
Gasthof De Pastorij, Sint Michielsstraat 5, Leuven, Belgium +32 016 82 21 09
Getaway Studios
For anyone hoping to truly blend in and shed the tourist vibe, Getaway is probably your best bet. These fully equipped studios stray away from the traditional hotel concept to include kitchenettes, walk-in dressing closets and everything else you need to feel like Leuven is your actual home city for however long you wish, whether that’s a single night or an entire month.
Getaway Studios, Vital Decosterstraat 23, Leuven, Belgium
Leuven’s Getaway Studios aim for a homey feel with fully equipped kitchens and salons | Courtesy of Getaway Studios
The Lodge
Though not in the center of Leuven, The Lodge’s impressive grounds make it well worth being off the beaten track. Housed inside a renovated former farmstead surrounded by greenery and close to the sprawling Arenberg Park, you might just decide to skip town and go for a romantic stroll or picnic near The Lodge instead.
The Lodge, Kantineplein 3, Leuven, Belgium +32 016 50 95 09
Boardhouse Hotel
With one of the most minimalist and modern interiors on the list, Boardhouse Hotel is all about making you feel welcome in the pleasant neighborhood of Heverlee. They are happy to lend you a bike for free, which is helpful in a city like Leuven that prefers cyclists over cars.
Boardhouse Hotel, Jules Vandenbemptlaan 6, Leuven, Belgium +32 016 31 44 44