Leuven

I ended up in Leuven almost by accident. I joined a women’s travel group, made a friend, and stayed on her couch for the week. It turned out to be the kind of place that’s easy to settle into — walkable, friendly, and just the right size to get to know without needing a checklist.

Over the week, I explored the city at a slow pace. One of my first walks took me to the Vogelkijkhut, a small bird-watching hut just outside the centre. It was quiet, surrounded by trees and water, and made for a nice break from the city without going far. Not a major attraction, but worth the short detour.

In the centre, Leuven’s Town Hall is hard to miss — one of the most detailed Gothic buildings I’ve seen. You can stand in front of it for ages and still find something new in the carvings. Directly across from it is Saint Peter’s Church, much simpler but just as striking in a different way. Both sit at the heart of the city and feel like they’ve always been there.

The University Library and Tower was one of the more memorable visits. It has a complex history, destroyed and rebuilt after the First World War, and still functions as a working library. The reading room is quiet and grand, and climbing the tower gives you a good view over the city.

One of my favourite places ended up being the Verzonken Tuin — a small, sunken garden tucked between university buildings. It was beautiful and felt like a hidden gem among the busyness of the city.

Spending a week in Leuven gave me time to see more than just the main sights. I met people, found a rhythm, and got a feel for the city beyond the tourist spots. It’s not loud or flashy, but that’s what makes it work — it’s a place that lets you take your time.