Irish College Leuven
A restored 17th-century monastery offering a peaceful stay with historic charm and authentic Irish hospitality in Leuven.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Irish College Leuven
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A restored 17th-century monastery offering a peaceful stay with historic charm and authentic Irish hospitality in Leuven.
"This place is a real treasure, an absolute gem. Restored 17th century monastery."
🎯 Embrace the History
It's a restored monastery, not a modern hotel. Enjoy the historic charm and peaceful vibe!
☕ Simple but Catered Breakfast
Enjoy a good, simple breakfast. Many find it to be a great start to the day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Restored 17th-Century Monastery
Step back in time in this beautifully restored historic building, offering a unique and peaceful stay.
Tranquil Garden and Courtyard
An oasis of peace with stunning architecture, perfect for quiet contemplation or a leisurely stroll.
Authentic Irish Hospitality
Experience genuinely friendly and professional staff, many with an authentic Irish touch.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Seasons
Embrace the Historic Ambiance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Embrace the History
It's a restored monastery, not a modern hotel. Enjoy the historic charm and peaceful vibe!
☕ Simple but Catered Breakfast
Enjoy a good, simple breakfast. Many find it to be a great start to the day.
🚶♀️ Walk to City Center
Conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Leuven's city center.
🎶 Check for Events
The college hosts various events, from music celebrations to art residencies.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Embrace the History
It's a restored monastery, not a modern hotel. Enjoy the historic charm and peaceful vibe!
☕ Simple but Catered Breakfast
Enjoy a good, simple breakfast. Many find it to be a great start to the day.
🚶♀️ Walk to City Center
Conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from Leuven's city center.
🎶 Check for Events
The college hosts various events, from music celebrations to art residencies.
📶 Wifi Can Be Spotty
Be aware that Wi-Fi connectivity might be inconsistent in some areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Irish College Leuven's stunning historic architecture, peaceful garden, and exceptionally friendly staff, often describing it as a hidden gem offering great value. While the rooms are basic, they are comfortable and clean, complemented by a good breakfast. Some minor drawbacks include potentially spotty Wi-Fi and an older reservation system.
"I stayed here for 4 days back in April/May this year.
The staff are nice, the service is pretty good. Their self-service breakfast is awesome.
The neighborhood is calm and peaceful and just 10-minute walk away from the city center.
I dont have pics/videos from the Irish College itself, so I'm just gonna leave 2 videos of the surrounding areas :)))"
Soren Zabihi
"I'm impressed: all the staff without exception is beyond adorable, the architecture, garden, courtyard are stunningly beautiful on top of being an oasis of peace, the breakfast is simple but very catered, and the room is basic but very comfortable, good beds and good shower for a reasonable price. I will go back there anytime!"
Jean-Baptiste Milon
"Other than the overly archaic reservation system, this place is a real treasure, absolute gem. Restored 17th century monastery. We stayed in a cute duplex dorm type of deal. The staff are very professional, polite and kind, also authentically Irish 😂. The convention they hosted was also fairly well done. Maybe the technical aspects need to be upgraded. Wifi can be spotty. The catering was pretty on par, the bbq was super tasty and all the deserts were always super good."
Joanna
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Irish College Leuven is conveniently located about a 10-minute walk from the city center of Leuven. You can easily reach it by foot from most central Leuven locations. If arriving by train, it's a pleasant walk or a short bus ride from Leuven Station.
Information regarding specific parking availability can vary. It's best to check directly with the Irish College Leuven if you plan to arrive by car, as on-site parking might be limited due to its historic nature.
The neighborhood is described as calm and peaceful, offering a tranquil environment while still being very close to the city's amenities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Irish College Leuven primarily functions as accommodation and an event venue. If you are attending an event or staying overnight, you will need to book accordingly. General entry for sightseeing might be limited to specific times or events.
Opening hours for general visitors are not always clearly defined as it's a working college and accommodation. It's advisable to check their official website or social media for any public visiting hours or event schedules.
Yes, the Irish College Leuven offers accommodation, often described as comfortable and reasonably priced, with basic but good amenities. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak times.
While not always advertised, the historic nature of the college might lend itself to guided tours during certain periods or for groups. Inquire directly with the college for any available tour options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is often described as historic, peaceful, and like stepping into a different era, with some comparing it to a castle or a Harry Potter scene due to its architecture.
Rooms are generally described as basic but comfortable, with good beds and showers, offering good value for the price.
Wi-Fi is available, but some visitors have noted that it can be spotty in certain areas.
Amenities include comfortable rooms, good showers, and a self-service breakfast. Laundry services are also mentioned as being available.
The Irish College Leuven is associated with KU Leuven and hosts various academic and student-related events, making it a relevant place for students, especially those studying abroad. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The college offers a self-service breakfast that is highly praised. Catering for events, including BBQs and desserts, has also received positive mentions.
Breakfast is typically offered as a self-service option and is often included or available for a reasonable price with accommodation.
Being just a 10-minute walk from Leuven's city center means there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars easily accessible.
📸 📸 Photography
The stunning architecture, the peaceful garden, and the historic courtyard are prime locations for photography. The overall ambiance provides a unique backdrop.
Visitors staying at the college or attending events can generally take photos. If you are not a guest or attendee, it's best to inquire about photography permissions.
Specific restrictions are not widely mentioned, but it's always good practice to be respectful of guests, residents, and any ongoing activities within the college.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider checking for any family-friendly events that might be happening during your visit. The proximity to Leuven's city center also means easy access to other attractions and dining options that might appeal to younger visitors.
📚 Students and Academics
Keep an eye out for academic conferences, lectures, or workshops hosted at the college, which can be excellent networking opportunities. The authentic Irish staff also contribute to a welcoming atmosphere for international students.
✈️ Budget Travelers
Its location, just a 10-minute walk from the city center, means you save on transportation costs and can easily explore Leuven on foot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
This historic setting has also become a venue for cultural events, art residencies, and academic gatherings, blending its past with a vibrant present. The restoration efforts have been praised for maintaining the integrity of the building while making it functional for modern use.
+1Exploring the college allows you to appreciate the restored architecture, the peaceful courtyard, and the garden, all contributing to an atmosphere that many find deeply impressive and a welcome escape from the everyday.
Experiencing Irish Culture in Leuven
+1Travelers have noted the presence of authentically Irish staff, adding to the welcoming and genuine atmosphere. This cultural connection extends to its role in hosting international students and academic exchanges, fostering a bridge between Ireland and continental Europe.
Whether attending a St. Patrick's Day celebration or an art residency, the Irish College provides a distinct platform for cultural exchange, making it more than just a place to stay, but a destination for experiencing shared heritage and cultural programming.
+1Accommodation and Amenities
Guests can enjoy a simple but well-catered self-service breakfast, which is a highlight for many visitors. The college also provides practical amenities such as laundry facilities, making it convenient for longer stays.
Despite the charm, some practical aspects like Wi-Fi connectivity can be spotty, and the reservation system is noted as being archaic. However, these minor points are often overshadowed by the overall positive experience of staying in such a unique and historic environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit