Cultural Leuven: museums and monuments

Leuven is a university town with an unrivalled cultural offering: medieval monuments, contemporary art and vibrant stages lie just a stone's throw from one another. This day trip combines five iconic locations, each accessible to wheelchair users, that together give a rich picture of Leuven's past and present. The old centre is largely level, although you will encounter cobbles in places.

Start your day at M Museum Leuven, one of the most accessible museums in the country. Lifts connect every floor, there are adapted toilets and wheelchairs are available at the desk. The varied exhibitions combine old masters with contemporary art. Then head to the Groot Begijnhof (Great Beguinage), UNESCO World Heritage. The main axes are paved, but a few narrower alleys have cobbles; take the loop via Schapenstraat for the flattest route.

Plan an afternoon visit to the impressive Abdij van Park on the edge of the city, with restored buildings and accessible walking paths around the abbey ponds. Finish with a performance at the Arenberg Schouwburg or — if a trade fair or concert is on — at the Brabanthal. Both venues have spacious entrance halls, lifts where needed and reserved wheelchair spaces; it is best to book these a few days in advance.

Practical tips: park at Parking Ladeuze or Parking Mgr. Ladeuze for the centre; the Brabanthal has its own reduced-mobility car park. It is 800 metres' walk between M Museum and the Beguinage; for the Abdij van Park and the Brabanthal it is best to use the car or adapted transport. Adapted toilets are present in M Museum, the theatre and the Brabanthal. For lunch, the museum café of M has a step-free terrace.