Comedy Night in Leuven
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AB InBev Brewery Leuven
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The Anheuser-Busch InBev brewery in Leuven is the global headquarters of the world's largest brewing group and a symbol of Belgian brewing heritage. Its origins can be traced back to the 'Den Hoorn' brewery in 1366, making Leuven a historic center of beer culture. The current flagship product, Stella Artois, was first brewed in 1926 as a special Christmas beer and is now exported from Leuven to over 80 countries. The state-of-the-art, highly automated facility combines centuries-old knowledge with the latest technology to ensure consistent quality at an industrial scale. As a major employer and economic driver, AB InBev significantly shapes the cityscape and local identity of Leuven. Beyond production, the site houses a global research and development center where new brewing processes and sustainable packaging are developed. The company is also heavily committed to water stewardship and reducing the carbon footprint across its entire supply chain.
- Location: Belgium
- Top sights: Onze-Lieve-Vrouw Middelareskerk · Cas-co · Het Depot
- Nearby: Aarschot (14 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 3 | 3 | 6 | 10 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 18 | 15 | 11 | 7 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 69 | 61 | 55 | 38 | 59 | 63 | 75 | 79 | 55 | 63 | 69 | 78 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
This is the global headquarters of Anheuser-Busch InBev and home to the iconic Stella Artois brewery, a symbol of Belgium's legendary brewing heritage and its massive modern economic power.
Visiting
The Stella Artois brewery typically has official guided tours where visitors can learn about the complex brewing process, explore the extensive modern facilities, and enjoy a tasting session.
Where to view it
The massive industrial complex can be seen from the surrounding roads in Leuven, with its prominent silos, vast logistics areas, and historic branding clearly visible from public streets nearby.
Local products
You will find fresh Stella Artois and a variety of other InBev beers served in almost every local pub and restaurant in Leuven, representing the region's most famous everyday consumer product.
Active season
The brewery operates continuously throughout the entire year, but visitor activity is highest during the warm summer months and local beer festivals when the historic university town is most lively.
Nearby
Combine this brewery tour with a walk through the beautiful historic center of Leuven, visiting the famous University Library and enjoying the bustling atmosphere of the many bars on the Oude Markt.
Geography
Facts
- The brewing tradition at this site can be traced back to the year 1366.
- Stella Artois was first brewed here in 1926 as a seasonal Christmas beer.
- Leuven serves as the global headquarters for Anheuser-Busch InBev.
- Beer produced in Leuven is exported to more than 80 countries worldwide.
- The site is home to the Global Innovation and Technology Center (GITEC).
- The brewery is one of the most modern and highly automated facilities globally.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town AB InBev Brewery Leuven (10)
Sluispark🌳 park
Park in Leuven, Belgium, green space with paths and trees.
Scouts- en Gidsenmuseum🏛 museum
Museum in Leuven, Belgium, dedicated to the history of scouting.
Sint-Geertruikerk
Church in Leuven, Belgium, named after Saint Gertrude of Nivelles.
Sint-Geertruiabdij⛪ monastery
Abbey in Leuven, Belgium, former monastery of Saint Gertrude.
Stadsschouwburg 30CC
Theatre building in Leuven, Belgium, venue for plays and opera.
Openbaar Entrepot voor de Kunsten (OPEK)
Artistic centre and former warehouse in Leuven, Belgium, space for artists.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Are there brewery tours at AB InBev in Leuven?
Yes, the visitor center gives guided tours of the home of Stella Artois.
Do you need to book the tour in advance?
It is highly recommended to book tickets online as places are limited.
Can you taste beer after the tour?
Yes, a tasting of fresh beer is usually included in the price of the tour.
How to reach the brewery?
It is located just a short walk from Leuven train station.
Is there a brewery shop?
Yes, in the shop you can buy merchandise and various types of beer.
AB InBev Brewery Leuven: where is it located?
AB InBev Brewery Leuven is located in Belgium.
AB InBev Brewery Leuven: what is there to see?
Highlights include Onze-Lieve-Vrouw Middelareskerk, Cas-co, Het Depot.
AB InBev Brewery Leuven: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
AB InBev Brewery Leuven: why is it worth visiting?
The Anheuser-Busch InBev brewery in Leuven is the global headquarters of the world's largest brewing group and a symbol of Belgian brewing heritage.
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