- 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 Rotterdam to Leuven
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 20 Oct
Cheapest price on 20 Oct
£13
Average ticket price on 20 Oct
£24
Fastest journey on 20 Oct
1 h 8 m
Average journey duration on 20 Oct
1 h 51 m
Trains on 20 Oct
7
Distance
117 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Rotterdam to Leuven is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Rotterdam to Leuven will cost around £24 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £13.
Fast trains
On Tue 20 Oct, we found 7 trains from Rotterdam to Leuven, including 7 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 117 km distance in an average of 1 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 8 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 4 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
9:102h04Rotterdam11:14Leuven£131One-way0 changes- 8:102h04Rotterdam10:14Leuven£161One-way0 changes
- 7:102h04Rotterdam9:14Leuven£191One-way0 changes
10:151h59Rotterdam12:14Leuven£241One-way0 changes- 6:102h04Rotterdam8:14Leuven£271One-way0 changes
20:581h08Rotterdam22:06Leuven£361One-way0 changes- 7:151h59Rotterdam9:14Leuven£301One-way0 changes
- 10:151h59Rotterdam12:14Leuven£241One-way0 changes
- 8:102h04Rotterdam10:14Leuven£161One-way0 changes
- 9:102h04Rotterdam11:14Leuven£131One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Rotterdam to Leuven
Netherlands
Belgium
Trains from Rotterdam to Leuven run on average 29 times per day, taking around 1h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £13 but you can travel from only £12 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 00:11, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 117 km distance in 1h 16m.
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 £12
Distance 117 km |
Average train duration 1h 39m |
Cheapest ticket price £13 |
Trains per day 29 |
Fastest train 1h 16m |
First train 0:11 |
Last train 23:54 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 £12
Live departures
Rotterdam to Leuven train times
The table below shows live departures for Rotterdam to Leuven trains for today, Monday 19 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
9398+ 2622 | 21:58 Rotterdam Centraal | 1h36 | 23:34 Leuven station | 1 change | |
| Tuesday 20 October | |||||
| 6:10 Rotterdam | 2h04 | 8:14 Leuven | 0 changesdirect | |
| 7:10 Rotterdam | 2h04 | 9:14 Leuven | 0 changesdirect | |
| 7:15 Rotterdam | 1h59 | 9:14 Leuven | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:10 Rotterdam | 2h04 | 10:14 Leuven | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:10 Rotterdam | 2h04 | 11:14 Leuven | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:15 Rotterdam | 1h59 | 12:14 Leuven | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Rotterdam to Leuven trains with Omio?
EuroCity as well as Intercity, Eurocity Direct, Regional, Eurostar and more offer trains services from Rotterdam to Leuven.
Omio is the only official third party seller for EuroCity tickets.
Why book with Omio vs EuroCity?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for EuroCity, but also compare tickets for the likes of Intercity, Eurocity Direct, Regional or Eurostar to find the best option for your trip from Rotterdam 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 EuroCity with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Rotterdam to Leuven.
Train companies: EuroCity, Intercity, Eurocity Direct, SNCB, Regional, Eurostar from Rotterdam to Leuven trainsEuroCity, Intercity, Eurocity Direct, SNCB, Regional, Eurostar trains will get you between Rotterdam and Leuven from £12. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
Average EuroCity Duration
1h 35m
Cheapest EuroCity Price
£13
EuroCity frequency
16 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
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 Intercity Duration
1h 16m
Cheapest Intercity Price
£20
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
Eurostar
About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Eurostar Duration
1h 17m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
£62
Eurostar frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
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 Regional Duration
1h 39m
Cheapest Regional Price
£23
Regional frequency
4 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
Eurocity Direct
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Eurocity Direct Duration
1h 28m
Cheapest Eurocity Direct Price
£21
Eurocity Direct frequency
8 a day
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 SNCB Duration
1h 16m
Cheapest SNCB Price
£36
SNCB frequency
10 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.
Best day trips from Leuven by train
The most popular day trips by train from Leuven are Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, Bruges and Liège. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Leuven on Omio.
Day trip from Leuven to Brussels by train
Why visit Brussels for the day?
Brussels mixes stately squares and Art Nouveau buildings with a relaxed café culture and multilingual character. Known as Belgium’s capital and a hub of European politics, it is also closely associated with waffles, chocolate and comic art.
How to get from Leuven to Brussels by train?
There are 76 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 25 km distance in 14m.
Day trip from Leuven to Antwerp by train
Why visit Antwerp for the day?
Antwerp is known for diamonds, fashion and the baroque legacy of Rubens. Its compact centre pairs grand guild houses and lively squares with a creative, modern waterfront.
How to get from Leuven to Antwerp by train?
There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 43 km distance in 35m.
Day trip from Leuven to Ghent by train
Why visit Ghent for the day?
Ghent is known for its canals, medieval centre and lively student atmosphere. Historic quays, Gravensteen and Saint Bavo's Cathedral give the city a cultured yet relaxed character.
How to get from Leuven to Ghent by train?
There are 23 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 71 km distance in 54m.
Day trip from Leuven to Bruges by train
Why visit Bruges for the day?
Bruges is known for its canals, cobbled streets and well-preserved medieval centre. Gothic buildings, Flemish art and a slower pace give the city a calm, historic character.
How to get from Leuven to Bruges by train?
There are 15 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:52, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 110 km distance in 1h 22m.
Day trip from Leuven to Liège by train
Why visit Liège for the day?
Liège is a lively Walloon city on the Meuse, known for its industrial heritage and strong food culture. Historic streets, busy markets and the Montagne de Bueren give it an energetic, down-to-earth character.
How to get from Leuven to Liège by train?
There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:51, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 67 km distance in 28m.
FAQs: Rotterdam to Leuven train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam to Leuven can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £13, while the average price tends to be around £42.
The train journey from Rotterdam to Leuven covers a distance of 117 km and takes approximately 1h 16m. Trains run 29 per day.
The train distance from Rotterdam to Leuven is 117 km.
The first train from Rotterdam to Leuven leaves at 0:11.
The last train from Rotterdam to Leuven departs at 23:54.
Trains from Rotterdam to Leuven run approximately 29 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Rotterdam to Leuven.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Rotterdam to Leuven.
There is no night train service from Rotterdam to Leuven.
The train station in Rotterdam that goes to Leuven is Rotterdam Centraal, and it arrives at Leuven station.
Booking trains from Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam to Leuven offers pleasant views of the Dutch and Belgian countryside, featuring picturesque landscapes with flat fields, quaint villages, and occasional waterways, providing a relaxing and enjoyable trip.
Yes, you can take the train from Rotterdam to Leuven.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Rotterdam and Leuven
Most Rotterdam to Leuven trains use the Rotterdam Centraal to Leuven station pair, with some services arriving at Heverlee. Use this guide to compare Rotterdam and Leuven train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Rotterdam
Arrival train stations in Leuven
Which Rotterdam station do trains to Leuven leave from?
Trains from Rotterdam to Leuven leave from Rotterdam Centraal. The station is 1 km from Rotterdam city centre at Stationsplein 1, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands.
Rotterdam CentraalStationsplein 1, 3013 AJ Rotterdam, Netherlands+31 302357822
City-centre transport
Getting to Rotterdam Centraal from Rotterdam city centre
BusStopbus ipv trein · 9m
4 · 10m · £2
Rotterdam Centraal train station facilities and services
Rotterdam Centraal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Smullers, Albert Heijn to go, Starbucks, La Place, Julia's, Ekmekci, LEON, The Doner Company, StationsHuiskamer, De Broodzaak, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are aTM machines are located outside the north side entrance and south side entrance.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 00:00 - 24:00. Information desks are located inside the central hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located at the north side of the station, next to the escalator to Platform 15. A small safe costs €6.00 and a large safe costs €9.00 for 24 hours.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rotterdam Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rotterdam Centraal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam Centraal: Escalators, elevators, wheelchair access, personalized mobility assistance.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Rotterdam Marriott Hotel, Layin’ Rotterdam Central, Hostel Ani & Haakien.
Rotterdam NoordBergweg 273, 3037 EM Rotterdam, Netherlands
City-centre transport
Getting to Rotterdam Noord from Rotterdam city centre
Rotterdam Noord is 2 km from Rotterdam city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSprinter · 5m · £1 · every ~4 min
BusStopbus ipv trein · 11m
Tram4, 6 · 12m · £2 · every ~14 min
Rotterdam Noord train station facilities and services
Rotterdam Noord has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Rotterdam Noord.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Rotterdam Noord.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Rotterdam Noord: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Rotterdam Noord: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Rotterdam Noord: Ramps.
Which Leuven station do trains from Rotterdam arrive at?
Trains from Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam
More options for your journey from Rotterdam to Leuven
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leuven and Rotterdam
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