Leuven City Hall
Leuven City Hall is one of the most famous late Gothic buildings in the world and rises like an ornate lacework above the Grote Markt. The building was erected in the 15th century and is richly decorated with more than two hundred statues depicting scenes from the Bible and Leuven's history. Inside are impressive Gothic rooms with frescoes and historic furniture.
Due to its historic character, not the entire building is wheelchair-accessible. A side entrance with a gentle ramp gives access to the ground floor. The ground-floor rooms are largely accessible, but the upper floors with the ceremonial halls can only be reached by stairs. An adapted toilet is available in the nearby city office.
The Grote Markt is partly paved with cobblestones, but paved walking lines have been laid alongside. Within a short walking distance, the Ladeuze and Heilig-Hart car parks offer PRM spaces and lifts.
Good to know
- Reservation
- For a tour of the ground floor, book in advance via Visit Leuven. **Upper floors with the ceremonial halls are accessible ONLY by stairs** — no alternative.
- Busy and quiet times
- Busiest during the Christmas market on the Grote Markt (December) and during the Leuven festivals. Early weekday mornings are quietest for photos and the side entrance.
- Things to note
- A side entrance with a gentle ramp brings you to the ground floor. **Only the ground-floor halls are accessible** — the historic ceremonial halls are not. Accessible toilet in the neighbouring city office (ask at reception).
- Visit tip
- The Grote Markt has a mix of cobblestones and paved walking lines — choose the walking lines for comfort. Disabled parking at Ladeuze or Heilig-Hart, 5 min away with lift access.