From Brussels: Day Trip to Leuven & Mechelen

Set out on a captivating day trip from Brussels to the charming cities of Leuven and Mechelen. This 10-hour adventure offers comfortable bus transportation, guided tours, and free time to explore. Discover Leuven’s stunning architecture, including the Gothic Saint Peter’s Church and the Baroque Old University Library, before heading to Mechelen to admire the majestic St. Rumbolds Cathedral and the Renaissance Palace of Margaret of Austria. For just $51.11 per person, this day trip promises a memorable exploration of Belgium’s cultural gems.

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Key Points

Discover Leuven’s historic architecture, including the Grote Markt, St. Peter’s Church, and the Old University Library, on a guided tour.
Explore the charming streets of Leuven, filled with cafes and boutiques, and learn about the city’s lively student culture.
Set out on a 45-minute bus journey from Leuven to Mechelen, where you’ll uncover the city’s rich history, including the St. Rumbolds Cathedral and the Palace of Margaret of Austria.
Enjoy free time in both Leuven and Mechelen to explore the cities at your own pace and discover hidden gems.
The day trip from Brussels to Leuven and Mechelen is priced from $51.11 per person and includes bus transportation, guided tours, and free time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This day trip from Brussels to the historic cities of Leuven and Mechelen offers travelers a chance to explore Belgium’s rich cultural heritage.

Priced from $51.11 per person, the 10-hour tour includes bus transportation, guided tours, and free time for exploration.

Priced from $51.11 per person, the 10-hour tour includes bus transportation, guided tours, and free time for exploration.

Led by English and Spanish-speaking guides, the itinerary covers Leuven’s Grote Markt, Saint Peters Church, and renowned University Library, as well as Mechelen’s Grote Markt, Palace of Margaret of Austria, and St. Rumbolds Cathedral.

With the option to book a private group tour, travelers can personalize their experience.

Free cancellation and a pay later option provide added flexibility.

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Exploring Leuven

The guided tour in Leuven allows visitors to discover the city’s rich history and architectural gems. Highlights include the Grote Markt, the central square lined with historic guild houses and the imposing Town Hall.

Nearby, the 15th-century Saint Peter’s Church impresses with its towering Gothic spire. The university’s legacy is showcased at the Old University Library, a Baroque masterpiece.

During the break, travelers can explore the city’s lively cafes and shops along the charming cobblestone streets.

With its blend of medieval splendor and vibrant student culture, Leuven captivates all who venture there.

Highlights of Leuven

Leuven’s Grote Markt stands as the city’s central square, a captivating tableau of medieval guild houses and the awe-inspiring 15th-century Town Hall.

Nearby, the Church of St. Peter impresses with its towering Gothic facade and ornate interior.

The University Library, a harmonious blend of Renaissance and Baroque styles, houses an impressive collection of rare books and manuscripts.

Leuven’s historic streets are lined with charming cafes and boutiques, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s vibrant student culture.

With its rich heritage and lively atmosphere, Leuven captivates all who wander its enchanting streets.

Break Time in Leuven

After the guided tour, visitors enjoy a well-deserved break in Leuven, exploring the city’s vibrant streets and indulging in local cuisine.

The charming Grote Markt offers a range of cafes, bars, and restaurants, where travelers can savor Belgian specialties like waffles, chocolate, and beer. Many opt to relax in one of the cozy sidewalk cafes, people-watching and soaking up the lively atmosphere.

Others venture further afield, discovering hidden alleyways, quaint shops, and the historic university campus. With two hours of free time, visitors are free to wander and enjoy Leuven’s captivating ambiance.

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Discovering Mechelen

Departing Leuven, the group boards the bus for the 45-minute journey to Mechelen, a lesser-known but equally captivating Belgian city.

Upon arrival, the guided tour begins at the Grote Markt, admiring the stately 15th-century Town Hall and the impressive St. Rumbolds Cathedral.

Next, the group explores the Palace of Margaret of Austria, a Renaissance masterpiece with intricate facades and beautifully landscaped gardens.

Throughout the tour, the guide shares insights into Mechelen’s rich history and cultural significance.

Visitors are left enchanted by the city’s charming blend of medieval and modern elements, eager to uncover more of its hidden gems during the free time that follows.

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Highlights of Mechelen

As the guided tour in Mechelen commences, visitors are immediately captivated by the Grote Markt, the city’s central square. This historic marketplace boasts an impressive array of architectural gems, including the towering St. Rumbolds Cathedral and the ornate Palace of Margaret of Austria.

| Highlight | Description |

| — | — |

| St. Rumbolds Cathedral | A magnificent example of Brabantine Gothic architecture, featuring intricate spires and vibrant stained-glass windows. |

| Palace of Margaret of Austria | The former residence of the Regent of the Netherlands, showcasing Renaissance-style elegance and grand interiors. |

| Beffroi Tower | A UNESCO World Heritage site, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. |

| St. John’s Church | A stunning Baroque church known for its elaborate altar and impressive organ. |

Break Time in Mechelen

With the guided tour of Mechelen’s highlights now complete, visitors have ample time to explore the city at their own pace.

The charming Grote Markt, lined with historic buildings and cafes, offers an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch or coffee break.

Visitors can wander through the quaint streets, popping into local shops and boutiques.

The imposing St. Rumbolds Cathedral is also open for self-guided visits, allowing travelers to admire its impressive Gothic architecture.

This free time provides a chance to soak up the authentic atmosphere of Mechelen before heading back to Brussels.

Getting Back to Brussels

After the allotted time in Mechelen, travelers board the bus for the return journey to Brussels.

The coach navigates the scenic Belgian countryside, taking approximately one hour to reach the Carrefour de l’Europe in central Brussels.

Along the way, travelers can reflect on the highlights of the day – the impressive architecture and history of Leuven and Mechelen.

Upon arrival back at the starting point, the guided tour concludes, and participants are free to continue exploring Brussels on their own or head to their next destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no formal dress code for this tour. Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking during the guided tours and free time in the cities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour does not include meals, so bringing a packed lunch or snacks is allowed. However, it’s recommended to enjoy the dining options in the visited cities during the scheduled break times.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

The tour does not offer any discounted pricing for students or seniors. However, the operator provides a flexible reservation policy, allowing for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can the Tour Accommodate Special Dietary Needs?

The tour can accommodate special dietary needs, but travelers should inform the tour operator in advance. The company works to provide suitable options for participants with any dietary restrictions or requirements.

What if I Need to Leave the Tour Early?

The tour allows for flexibility, as participants can leave the tour early with no penalty. They’ll need to notify the guide, and transportation back to the starting point can be arranged separately at their own expense.

The Sum Up

This captivating day trip from Brussels to Leuven and Mechelen offers an exceptional value at just $51.11 per person. Travelers can enjoy the stunning architecture, charming streets, and rich history of these two captivating Belgian cities. With comfortable transportation, guided tours, and free time to explore, this 10-hour adventure is a must-do for anyone seeking to discover the charm of Flanders.