To help make your journey seamless, we’ve compiled essential travel information. Local airports and transportation options, including taxis, rideshares, and public transit, are readily available for easy access to the venue. Currency exchange facilities and ATMs are located at the airport and around the city. Finally, be sure to review the local weather forecast and pack accordingly to make the most of your stay. Safe travels, and we look forward to seeing you!

Hotel - Martin's Klooster in Leuven, Belgium
Discover elegance and comfort at Martin's Klooster, the premier conference hotel located in the heart of Leuven, Belgium. Nestled in a historic setting with modern amenities, this charming hotel offers a serene atmosphere ideal for your stay. Enjoy exclusive rates for conference attendees: €175 for a single room and €205 for a double room, including breakfast and premium services. To reserve your room, simply complete THIS FORM and e-mail it to Robin Jaubin at [email protected]. Book now to secure your stay!

Flight to Belgium

• Destination Airport:
• The most convenient airport is Brussels Airport (BRU) - Zaventem, located about 20 km (12 miles) from Leuven.
• Other options:
• Charleroi Airport (CRL): A smaller airport mainly used by budget airlines, about 80 km (50 miles) from Leuven.
• Antwerp Airport (ANR): Limited international flights, approximately 60 km (37 miles) from Leuven.
• Look for flights to Brussels Airport, as it is the most direct and convenient for Leuven.

 From Brussels Airport (BRU) - Zaventem to Leuven

 By Train (Recommended):

• Trains run directly from Brussels Airport to Leuven every 15–30 minutes.
• Duration: ~13–15 minutes.
• Tickets: Available at the airport train station (Level -1) or online via the SNCB (Belgian Rail) website or app.
• Cost: Approximately €10–12 one way.

 By Taxi or Rideshare:

• Taxis are available outside the arrivals hall at Brussels Airport.
• Approximate duration: 20–30 minutes (depending on traffic).
• Cost: ~€50–70.
• Uber is also available in Belgium and can be booked via the app. Prices are generally similar to taxis.

 By Car Rental:

• Car rental services are available at the airport.
• Travel time: ~20–30 minutes to Leuven.
• Note: Parking in Leuven can be challenging due to restrictions in the city center.

From Charleroi Airport (CRL) to Leuven

 By Train:

1. Take a shuttle bus from Charleroi Airport to Charleroi-Sud Train Station (~20 minutes).
2. From Charleroi-Sud, take a train to Leuven (1–1.5 hours).
3. Total duration: ~1.5–2 hours.
4. Total cost: ~€20–25.

 By Taxi or Uber:

• Duration: ~1.5 hours.
• Cost: ~€100–150.

From Antwerp Airport (ANR) to Leuven

 By Train:

1. Take a local bus or taxi to Antwerp Central Station (~15 minutes).
2. From Antwerp Central, take a direct train to Leuven (~45 minutes).
3. Total duration: ~1–1.5 hours.
4. Total cost: ~€15–20.

 By Taxi or Uber:

• Duration: ~1 hour.
• Cost: ~€80–120.

 Once in Leuven

• Leuven’s main venues are easily accessible by walking, taxi, or public transport.
• Public Transport: Leuven has a reliable bus network. Tickets can be purchased via the De Lijn app or at kiosks.
• Taxis and Ubers: Taxis are available at the Leuven train station. Ubers are less common but still an option.

In addition to Brussels Airport (BRU), Charleroi Airport (CRL), and Antwerp Airport (ANR), here are alternative airport options for attendees who may wish to combine travel with leisure in France or the Netherlands:

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG):

• Train Option:
• Take a high-speed Thalys or TGV train directly from CDG to Brussels Midi (Bruxelles-Midi/Zuid).
• Duration: ~1 hour 30 minutes.
• From Brussels Midi, take a local train to Leuven (~30 minutes).
• Total time: ~2 hours.
• Cost: ~€70–100 for Thalys tickets + ~€10 for the local train.

• Flight Option:
• Flights from CDG to Brussels Airport (BRU) take ~1 hour.
• From BRU, follow the instructions above to reach Leuven.
• Flying might save time for those preferring air travel but can be less convenient than trains due to airport processing times.

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS):

• Train Option:
• High-speed Thalys or Intercity Express (ICE) trains connect Amsterdam Schiphol to Brussels Midi.
• Duration: ~1 hour 45 minutes.
• From Brussels Midi, take a local train to Leuven (~30 minutes).
• Total time: ~2–2.5 hours.
• Cost: ~€60–90 for Thalys tickets + ~€10 for the local train.

• Flight Option:
• Flights from Schiphol to Brussels Airport (BRU) take ~1 hour.
• Follow instructions from BRU to Leuven.

Advantages of Paris and Amsterdam Options

• These routes are ideal for attendees wishing to spend time in Paris or Amsterdam before or after the conference.
• Eurostar Trains:
• For those traveling from London, the Eurostar connects directly to Brussels Midi in ~2 hours, making it a convenient option to combine travel to Leuven with a stop in Belgium or neighboring countries.

Summary of Train Connections to Leuven

Visa and Passport Requirements for Traveling to Belgium

General Information

Belgium is a member of the Schengen Area, which allows visa-free travel for many nationalities and a single visa for entry into multiple participating countries.

Passport Requirements

• Validity:
• Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area.
• Some countries recommend having at least 6 months' validity for smoother travel.
• Blank Pages:
• Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages for stamps.

Visa Requirements

• Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C):
• For nationalities requiring a visa, apply at the Belgian Embassy or Consulate in your country.
• The visa allows travel to Belgium and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days.

• Transit Visas:
• If passing through another Schengen country before reaching Belgium, confirm if a transit visa is required.

Additional Requirements

• Proof of Accommodation: Hotel or conference confirmation.
• Return/Onward Travel Ticket: Evidence of your departure from Belgium or the Schengen Area.
• Travel Insurance:
• Minimum coverage of €30,000 for medical emergencies.
• Required for Schengen visa applicants; recommended for all travelers.
• Sufficient Funds:
• Evidence of ability to cover expenses during your stay, such as bank statements or a credit card.

Entry/Exit Process at the Airport

• Arrival in Belgium (Brussels Airport):
• Present your passport and any required visa to immigration authorities.
• Answer questions about your stay (conference invitation, accommodation, return ticket).
• Departure from Belgium:
• Keep your travel documents handy for inspection if required.
• It is recommended to arrive at the airport 3 hours prior to your flight time.

Staying Longer Than 90 Days

If you plan to extend your stay in Belgium or other Schengen countries beyond 90 days:

• Apply for a long-stay visa (Type D) or residency permit before entering Belgium.

Important Resources

• Belgian Visa Information:
• Visit the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the most accurate and updated visa information.
• Schengen Visa Guidelines:
• Check the Schengen Visa Info website for detailed instructions and forms.