- 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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The cheapest and fastest trains from Mechelen to Leuven
Showing times and prices for 10 Aug
Cheapest price
£5
Average price
£5
Fastest journey
35 m
Average duration
37 m
Trains per day
14
Distance
23 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Mechelen to Leuven is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Mechelen to Leuven will cost around £5 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £5.
Fast trains
To travel from Mechelen to Leuven you need to make at least one change.
1995+
2604+30760:315h29Mechelen-Nekkerspoel6:00Heverlee£51One-way2 changes- 2623 · 57260:334h50Mechelen station5:23Heverlee£51One-way1 change
- 4113 · 573614:480h35Mechelen station15:23Heverlee£51One-way1 change
- 4115 · 573816:480h35Mechelen station17:23Heverlee£51One-way1 change
- 2616+308817:080h51Mechelen station17:59Heverlee£51One-way1 change
- 4113 · 573614:480h35Mechelen station15:23Heverlee£51One-way1 change
- 4115 · 573816:480h35Mechelen station17:23Heverlee£51One-way1 change
- 4114 · 573715:480h35Mechelen station16:23Heverlee£51One-way1 change
- 4116 · 573917:480h35Mechelen station18:23Heverlee£51One-way1 change
- 1986+4113 · 573614:390h44Mechelen-Nekkerspoel15:23Heverlee£51One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Mechelen to Leuven
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Mechelen to Leuven among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £3. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 29m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £3, and a train costs an average of £3.
Distance: 23 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£5 Average Price | £3 Average Price Cheapest |
59m Average total duration Fastest 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 17m Average total duration 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Mechelen to Leuven train times
The table below shows live departures for Mechelen to Leuven trains for tomorrow, Monday 10 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1995+2604+3076 | 0:31 Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 5h29 | 6:00 Heverlee | 2 changes | |
| 2623 · 5726 | 0:33 Mechelen station | 4h50 | 5:23 Heverlee | 1 change | |
| 2613+3085 | 14:08 Mechelen station | 0h51 | 14:59 Heverlee | 1 change | |
| 1986+4113 · 5736 | 14:39 Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 0h44 | 15:23 Heverlee | 2 changes | |
| 4113 · 5736 | 14:48 Mechelen station | 0h35 | 15:23 Heverlee | 1 change | |
| 2614+3086 | 15:08 Mechelen station | 0h51 | 15:59 Heverlee | 1 change | |
| 1987+4114 · 5737 | 15:39 Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 0h44 | 16:23 Heverlee | 2 changes | |
| 4114 · 5737 | 15:48 Mechelen station | 0h35 | 16:23 Heverlee | 1 change | |
| 2615+3087 | 16:08 Mechelen station | 0h51 | 16:59 Heverlee | 1 change | |
| 1988+4115 · 5738 | 16:39 Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 0h44 | 17:23 Heverlee | 2 changes | |
| 4115 · 5738 | 16:48 Mechelen station | 0h35 | 17:23 Heverlee | 1 change | |
| 2616+3088 | 17:08 Mechelen station | 0h51 | 17:59 Heverlee | 1 change | |
| 1989+4116 · 5739 | 17:39 Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 0h44 | 18:23 Heverlee | 2 changes | |
| 4116 · 5739 | 17:48 Mechelen station | 0h35 | 18:23 Heverlee | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Mechelen 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.
Mon
10 Aug
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Tue
11 Aug
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Wed
12 Aug
12 Aug
Thu
13 Aug
13 Aug
Fri
14 Aug
14 Aug
Sat
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16 Aug
Why should you book Mechelen to Leuven trains with Omio?
Intercity as well as Regional or SNCB offer trains services from Mechelen 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 or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Mechelen 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 Mechelen to Leuven.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Mechelen to Leuven
BelgiumBelgium
Trains from Mechelen to Leuven run on average 13 times per day, taking around 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £3 but you can travel from only £3 by coach.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:14, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 23 km distance in 35m.
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 £3
Distance 23 km |
Average train duration 29m |
Cheapest ticket price £3 |
Trains per day 13 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 35m |
First train 0:14 |
Last train 23:58 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 14 days |
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 £3
Train companies: Intercity, Regional, SNCB from Mechelen to Leuven trainsIntercity, Regional, SNCB trains will get you between Mechelen and Leuven from £3. 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
35m
Cheapest Price
£3
Intercity frequency
9 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
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
Average Duration
44m
Cheapest Price
£3
Regional frequency
6 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
SNCB
About
SNCB is Belgium’s national railway company and the country’s main train operator, offering First Class and Second Class tickets. It runs a variety of services, including Intercity trains for the fastest domestic connections, Interregio trains with more local stops, and international options such as EuroCity, Thalys, and ICE International. Thalys trains connect Belgium with France, Germany, and the Netherlands at high speed, while EuroCity and ICE International link Belgium to Germany and other European destinations. Onboard facilities typically include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Popular routes include Brussels to Antwerp, Brussels to Bruges, Brussels to Ghent, and Brussels to Liège.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
26m
Cheapest Price
£5
SNCB frequency
50 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: Mechelen to Leuven train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Mechelen 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 Mechelen to Leuven can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £3, while the average price tends to be around £5.
The train journey from Mechelen to Leuven covers a distance of 23 km and takes approximately 35m. Trains run 13 per day.
The train distance from Mechelen to Leuven is 23 km.
The first train from Mechelen to Leuven leaves at 0:14.
The last train from Mechelen to Leuven departs at 23:58.
Trains from Mechelen to Leuven run approximately 13 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Mechelen to Leuven.
Yes, there is a direct train between Mechelen and Leuven. The service operates 5 times per day, provided by Intercity, Regional, SNCB.
To get from Mechelen to Leuven, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Mechelen to Leuven.
The train station in Mechelen that goes to Leuven is Mechelen station, and it arrives at Leuven station.
The cheapest way to get from Mechelen to Leuven is by coach, costing approximately £3.
Booking trains from Mechelen to Leuven in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Mechelen to Leuven is not particularly scenic, as it primarily travels through urban and suburban areas with views of residential and industrial landscapes.
Yes, a day trip from Mechelen to Leuven is feasible. The journey takes 35m and covers 23 km. Trains run 11 times per day, allowing for flexible travel options.
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 Mechelen to Leuven.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Mechelen and Leuven
Most Mechelen to Leuven trains use the Mechelen to Leuven station pair, with some services arriving at Heverlee. Use this guide to compare Mechelen and Leuven train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Mechelen
Arrival train stations in Leuven
Which Mechelen station do trains to Leuven leave from?
Trains from Mechelen to Leuven leave from Mechelen. The station is 1 km from Mechelen city centre at Stationsstraat 2800, Mechelen, Belgium.
MechelenStationsstraat 2800, Mechelen, Belgium+32 15 29 80 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Mechelen from Mechelen city centre
Mechelen is 1 km from Mechelen city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1, 1a · 3m · £3 · every ~12 min
Mechelen train station facilities and services
Mechelen 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 Graspoort, Il Cardinale
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Mechelen. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Mechelen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Mechelen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Mechelen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Mechelen: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include NH Mechelen, Hotel Elisabeth, Martin's Patershof.
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel2800 Mechelen, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Mechelen-Nekkerspoel from Mechelen city centre
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel is 1 km from Mechelen city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1 · 8m · £3 · every ~5 min
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel train station facilities and services
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Muizen2812 Mechelen, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Muizen from Mechelen city centre
Muizen is 3 km from Mechelen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS7, L, P · 5m · £0.90 · every ~4 min
BusBus · 8m
Muizen train station facilities and services
Muizen has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, WC and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Muizen.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Muizen: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Muizen: Bike Parking.
Which Leuven station do trains from Mechelen arrive at?
Trains from Mechelen 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 Mechelen
More options for your journey from Mechelen to Leuven
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leuven and Mechelen
Most popular train connections to Leuven
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