- Must visit
M Leuven
City museum in a historic building opposite Saint Peter’s Church, presenting Leuven’s art, history and changing urban story.
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9:322h53Leiden12:25Leuven£261One-way0 changes- 10:022h23Leiden12:25Leuven£441One-way0 changes
- 6:183h07Leiden9:25Leuven£501One-way0 changes
- 10:022h23Leiden12:25Leuven£441One-way0 changes
- 9:322h53Leiden12:25Leuven£261One-way0 changes
- 6:183h07Leiden9:25Leuven£501One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Leiden to Leuven
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leiden to Leuven among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 23m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £17, and a train costs an average of £25.
Distance: 143 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£32 Average Price | £27 Average Price Cheapest |
2h 53m Average total duration Fastest 2h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 9m Average total duration 6h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Leiden to Leuven train times
The table below shows live departures for Leiden to Leuven trains for today, Saturday 8 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:02 Leiden | 2h23 | 12:25 Leuven | 0 changesdirect | |
| Sunday 9 August | |||||
| 6:18 Leiden | 3h07 | 9:25 Leuven | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Leiden to Leuven by train or coach
Compare train and coach prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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09 Aug
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Why should you book Leiden to Leuven trains with Omio?
Intercity as well as Regional, NS International | IC Brussel, EuroCity, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and more offer trains services from Leiden to Leuven.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Intercity tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Intercity?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Intercity, but also compare tickets for the likes of Regional, NS International | IC Brussel, EuroCity or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Leiden to Leuven.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Intercity with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leiden to Leuven.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Leiden to Leuven
Netherlands
Belgium
Trains from Leiden to Leuven run on average 23 times per day, taking around 2h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £25 but you can travel from only £17 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 05:14, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 143 km distance in 2h 23m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £17
Distance 143 km |
Average train duration 2h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price £25 |
Trains per day 23 |
Fastest train 2h 23m |
First train 5:14 |
Last train 23:36 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £17
Train companies: Intercity, Regional, NS International | IC Brussel, EuroCity, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Leiden to Leuven trainsIntercity, Regional, NS International | IC Brussel, EuroCity, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Leiden and Leuven from £17. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Intercity
About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term \InterCity\" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, \"Intercity\" or \"IC\" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph)."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 51m
Cheapest Price
£35
Intercity frequency
10 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
NS International | IC Brussel
About
NS International, a subsidiary of the Dutch state-owned railway Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), operates international intercity and high-speed connections to various European cities, including Brussels. The \IC Brussel\" refers to their Intercity service connecting the Netherlands and Belgium. These trains offer a direct and comfortable way to travel between major cities like Amsterdam and Brussels. As of late 2024, NS International, in collaboration with the Belgian railway company SNCB, is introducing new Intercity New Generation (ICNG) trains on the Brussels-Amsterdam route. These new trains are faster, reaching speeds of up to 200 km/h, and offer amenities like onboard Wi-Fi and power sockets. They aim to significantly reduce travel times and increase the frequency of services between the two countries."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 23m
Cheapest Price
£25
NS International | IC Brussel frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per person
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car available with hot and cold meals, drinks. First class receives at-seat service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in first class, optional for second class at additional cost
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, assistance for boarding/alighting available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
EuroCity
About
EuroCity (EC) is an international train category and brand for inter-city trains that cross international borders within Europe. These trains are a collaboration between various European rail companies, including Deutsche Bahn (Germany), Trenitalia (Italy), SBB (Switzerland), and ÖBB (Austria). EuroCity trains connect major cities across Europe, offering both first and second-class coaches. They are known for meeting specific criteria for comfort, speed, cleanliness, and onboard food service, including air-conditioned cars and dining facilities. EuroCity services aim to provide convenient and comfortable cross-border travel, with stops typically lasting no more than 5 to 15 minutes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
EuroCity frequency
12 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per passenger
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro service available on most routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended, available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Regional
About
The term \Regional\" can refer to different train companies and services depending on the country. In Germany, \"Regionalbahn\" (RB) is a type of local passenger train that typically stops at all stations on a given line, connecting cities to their surrounding areas. Many RB trains are operated by DB Regio, a division of Deutsche Bahn, but other companies also run these services."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Regional frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type and conditions
Refund
Full refund if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 18m
Cheapest Price
£32
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
16 a day
Complete guide to Leuven
Things to do in Leuven
Discover the best of Leuven — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Leuven trip today.
- Recommended
PARCUM
Museum inside Park Abbey exploring religion, art and heritage through objects linked to faith, ritual and monastic life.
- Recommended
KU Leuven Universiteitsmuseum
University museum combining science, culture and academic heritage, with engaging displays that suit curious visitors and families.
- Must visit
Grote Markt
Leuven’s main square, framed by the town hall, church and cafés, ideal for architecture, people-watching and first impressions.
- Recommended
Kruidtuin
Long botanical garden with themed plant collections, ponds and greenhouses, offering a calm walk close to the historic centre.
- Recommended
Oude Markt
Lively old square and surrounding lanes known for student life and handsome guild houses, especially atmospheric in the evening.
- Vegetarian
Leffe
A strong amber abbey beer traditionally brewed in Leuven. It is one of the city’s signature drinks and closely linked to local brewing history.
- Vegetarian
Stella Artois
A crisp Belgian pilsner originally from Leuven and still strongly associated with the city. It is a classic local beer to try with pub food.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Belgian Frites
Belgian chips twice-fried for a crisp exterior and fluffy centre, commonly served with mayonnaise. A beloved everyday local street food.
EssenCiel
Established restaurant focusing on seasonal Belgian-French cooking in an intimate, more formal setting suited to a longer dinner.
Domus
Historic beer hall in the city centre known for a huge Belgian beer selection and classic Flemish dishes in a lively traditional setting.
Brasserie De Abdijmolen
Stylish brasserie beside the Park Abbey site, serving refined Belgian and French dishes with a calm atmosphere and terrace seating.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Belgium: rooms, dining and drinks are cheaper than Brussels, but tourist stays and central eating out still add up; local buses are fairly affordable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis are often rounded up. In cafés, small change is enough.
De Lijn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.10
- Day pass
- €9.00
To the city centre
Leuven Station -> Grote Markt, Leuven
- Distance
- 1.4 km
- Travel time
- 18 min
- You can pay contactlessly on all De Lijn buses and trams using a bank card, phone or smartwatch.
- Leuven city centre is walkable from Leuven Station, so you may not need a bus for central sights.
FAQs: Leiden to Leuven train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leiden to Leuven by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Leuven, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Leiden to Leuven can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £25, while the average price tends to be around £32.
The train journey from Leiden to Leuven covers a distance of 143 km and takes approximately 2h 23m. Trains run 23 per day.
The train distance from Leiden to Leuven is 143 km.
The first train from Leiden to Leuven leaves at 5:14.
The last train from Leiden to Leuven departs at 23:36.
Trains from Leiden to Leuven run approximately 23 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Leiden to Leuven.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Leiden to Leuven.
To get from Leiden to Leuven, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Leiden to Leuven.
The train station in Leiden that goes to Leuven is Leiden Centraal, and it arrives at Leuven station.
The cheapest way to get from Leiden to Leuven is by coach, costing approximately £17.
Booking trains from Leiden to Leuven in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
In Leuven, you can visit the University Library and Bell Tower to explore its historic significance and enjoy panoramic city views. Explore the Old Market Square, renowned as the longest bar in the world, offering numerous cafes and vibrant nightlife. Discover the M-Museum Leuven for contemporary and historical art exhibitions. Stroll through the Botanical Garden Kruidtuin, the oldest botanical garden in Belgium, featuring diverse plant species. Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the Town Hall, adorned with intricate sculptures.
To fully explore Leuven's historical sites, vibrant culture, and enjoy its local cuisine, plan for a stay of two to three days.
Yes, you can take the train from Leiden to Leuven.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Leiden and Leuven
Most Leiden to Leuven trains use the Leiden Centraal to Leuven station pair, with some services arriving at Heverlee. Use this guide to compare Leiden and Leuven train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Leiden
Arrival train stations in Leuven
Which Leiden station do trains to Leuven leave from?
Trains from Leiden to Leuven leave from Leiden Centraal. The station is 1 km from Leiden city centre at Stationsplein 3, 2312 AJ Leiden, Netherlands.
Leiden CentraalStationsplein 3, 2312 AJ Leiden, Netherlands+31 30 751 5155
City-centre transport
Getting to Leiden Centraal from Leiden city centre
Leiden Centraal is 1 km from Leiden city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus45 · 6m · £2 · every ~7 min
54, 1, 2, 3, 4, 169 · 7m · £3 · every ~24 min
54, 56, 3, 4 · 9m · £4 · every ~16 min
Leiden Centraal train station facilities and services
Leiden Centraal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant De Bruine Boon, Grand Café Van Buuren
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Leiden Centraal. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Leiden Centraal. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Leiden Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Leiden Centraal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Leiden Centraal: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ibis Leiden Centre, Golden Tulip Leiden Centre, City Hotel Nieuw Minerva.
De VinkAlexandrine Tinneplein 110, 112, 2331 PP Leiden, Netherlands
City-centre transport
Getting to De Vink from Leiden city centre
De Vink is 2 km from Leiden city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSprinter · 3m · £0.90 · every ~7 min
Bus54 · 10m · £3 · every ~3 min
54, 1, 2, 4 · 30m · £4 · every ~14 min
De Vink train station facilities and services
De Vink has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at De Vink.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at De Vink.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at De Vink: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at De Vink: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at De Vink.
Which Leuven station do trains from Leiden arrive at?
Trains from Leiden to Leuven most often arrive at Leuven. Some services arrive at Heverlee, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Leuven arrival station.
LeuvenMartelarenplein 16, 3000 Leuven, Belgium+32 2 528 28 28
City-centre transport
Getting to Leuven from Leuven city centre
Leuven is 1 km from Leuven city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1, 2, 3, 4, 5a, 5b, 4b, 40, 41, 42, 43, 406, 520, 524, 525, 597, N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8 · 8m · £3 · every ~49 min
Leuven train station facilities and services
Leuven has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: De Klimop, Domus
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Leuven. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Leuven. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Leuven: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Leuven: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Leuven: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel La Royale, Park Inn by Radisson Leuven, Hotel Mille Colonnes.
Heverlee3001 Leuven, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Heverlee from Leuven city centre
Heverlee is 1 km from Leuven city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS20, L · 9m · £2 · every ~3 min
Heverlee train station facilities and services
Heverlee has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Heverlee.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Heverlee.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Heverlee: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Heverlee: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Heverlee.
Most popular train connections from Leiden
More options for your journey from Leiden to Leuven
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leuven and Leiden
Most popular train connections to Leuven
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