- Must visit
M Leuven
The city’s main museum of art and culture, combining historic works with contemporary exhibitions in a central location near the Grote Markt.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven
Showing times and prices for Jul 11
Cheapest price
$38
Average price
$59
Fastest journey
2 h 48 m
Average duration
3 h 2 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
159 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven will cost around $59 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $38.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Amsterdam Airport Schiphol for Leuven on Sat, Jul 11, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jul 11 the direct trains cover the 159 km distance in an average of 3 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 48 m .
On Sat, Jul 11 the slowest trains will take 3 h 12 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.
10:11 AM2h48Amsterdam Airport Schiphol12:59 PMLeuven$381One-way0 transfers
10:14 AM3h06Amsterdam Airport Schiphol1:20 PMLeuven$641One-way0 transfers
8:47 AM3h12Amsterdam Airport Schiphol11:59 AMLeuven$741One-way0 transfers
- 10:11 AM2h48Amsterdam Airport Schiphol12:59 PMLeuven$381One-way0 transfers
- 10:14 AM3h06Amsterdam Airport Schiphol1:20 PMLeuven$641One-way0 transfers
- 8:47 AM3h12Amsterdam Airport Schiphol11:59 AMLeuven$741One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 6m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $22, and a flight costs an average of $240.
Distance: 98 miles (159 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$49 Average price | $461 Average price | $37 Average price Cheapest | $46 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 36m Average total duration Fastest 2h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 36m Average total duration 5h 36m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 52m Average total duration 8h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 32m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven is a bus with an average price of $37 (€30).
This is compared to other travel options from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven:
A bus is $12 (€10) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven costing on average $49 (€40).
A bus is $424 (€348) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven costing on average $461 (€379).
The fastest way to travel from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven is by train with an average journey time of 2h 6m.
Other travel options to Leuven take longer:
Flight takes on average 5h 36m.
Bus takes on average 8h 22m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and Leuven including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 26m sooner (2h 6m by train vs 2h 32m by car). Tickets start at around $49 (€40) compared to roughly $46 (€38) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven train times
The table below shows live departures for Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven trains for tomorrow, Saturday, July 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:47 AM Amsterdam Airport Schiphol | 3h12 | 11:59 AM Leuven | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:11 AM Amsterdam Airport Schiphol | 2h48 | 12:59 PM Leuven | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:14 AM Amsterdam Airport Schiphol | 3h06 | 1:20 PM Leuven | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight 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.
Sat
Jul 11
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Why should you book Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven trains with Omio?
NS International | IC Brussel as well as Eurocity Direct, Eurostar, EuroCity, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and more offer trains services from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven.
Omio is the only official third party seller for NS International | IC Brussel tickets.
Why book with Omio vs NS International | IC Brussel?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for NS International | IC Brussel, but also compare tickets for the likes of Eurocity Direct, Eurostar, EuroCity or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol 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 NS International | IC Brussel with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven
Netherlands
Belgium
Trains from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven run on average 25 times per day, taking around 2h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $32 (€27) but you can travel from only $22 (€18) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:11, the last at 19:27. The fastest train covers the 98 miles (159 km) distance in 1h 39m.
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
Bus from $22 (€18)
Distance 98 miles (159 km) |
Average train duration 2h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price $32 (€27) |
Trains per day 25 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 1h 39m |
First train 6:11 AM |
Last train 7:27 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Bus from $22 (€18)
Train companies: NS International | IC Brussel, Eurocity Direct, Eurostar, EuroCity, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven trainsNS International | IC Brussel, Eurocity Direct, Eurostar, EuroCity, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and Leuven from $22 (€18). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
NS International | IC Brussel frequency
4 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
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 Duration
2h 7m
Cheapest Price
$111 (€91)
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
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
20 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
Eurocity Direct
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 47m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€27)
Eurocity Direct frequency
8 a day
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 7m
Cheapest Price
$89 (€73)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
13 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
Museum Park Abbey
Museum inside Abdij van Park exploring religion, art, and heritage in a beautifully preserved abbey setting just outside the center.
- Recommended
Parcum
Contemporary dialogue museum for art, religion, and culture housed at Park Abbey, known for thoughtful exhibitions in a serene setting.
- Must visit
Oude Markt
Leuven’s famous central square packed with historic facades and lively atmosphere, a top place to feel the city’s student energy.
- Must visit
Grote Markt
The monumental heart of Leuven, framed by the Town Hall and Saint Peter’s Church, ideal for classic city views.
- Must visit
Groot Begijnhof
Atmospheric cobbled quarter of bridges, lanes, and brick houses, perfect for a quiet walk away from busier central squares.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Stella Artois Beer
Leuven is the historic home of Stella Artois, a classic Belgian lager brewed in the city and closely tied to its beer culture.
- Vegetarian
Leuvense Fonskes
Small chocolate pralines shaped like a scholarly figure, created as a local sweet souvenir that reflects Leuven’s university identity.
Stoofvlees
Traditional Flemish beef stew slowly braised in dark beer, commonly served with fries and a staple of Belgian comfort food.
Zarza
Highly regarded Michelin-starred restaurant offering creative seasonal tasting menus in an elegant modern dining room.
De Klimop
Established fine dining restaurant known for refined Belgian-French cooking, careful plating, and an intimate upscale atmosphere.
Bar Stan
Popular all-day venue loved for quality brunch, coffee, and casual plates in a stylish but relaxed setting.
Euro
Moderate by Belgian standards. Student areas offer cheaper eats, while central hotels and dinner spots cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for fries, kebab, or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person for a casual restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60-100+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4.50 for a coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for very good restaurant service is appreciated. Round up taxis; no tip needed for cafes.
De Lijn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 2.50 EUR
- Day pass
- 7.50 EUR
To the city center
Leuven Railway Station, Leuven -> Leuven City Center, Leuven
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless card payment is available on De Lijn trams and buses, but onboard fares can cost more than advance tickets.
- The city center is walkable from Leuven Railway Station, so walking is often the simplest option for short trips.
FAQs: Trains from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol 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.
Train ticket prices from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $32 (€27), while the average price is around $49 (€40).
The train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven takes 1h 39m and runs 25 per day.
The distance by train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven is 98 miles (159 km).
The first train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven leaves at 6:11 AM.
The last train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven leaves at 7:27 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven.
There is no direct train service currently available from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven.
The cheapest way to get from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven is by bus, with a cost of around $22 (€18).
The train journey from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven offers a mix of urban and rural views, including glimpses of the Dutch and Belgian countryside, quaint towns, and some industrial areas, but it is not particularly noted for being exceptionally scenic compared to other European routes.
A day trip from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven is not feasible since the journey takes 1h 39m. However, there are 12 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 98 miles (159 km).
In Leuven, you can visit the University Library and Bell Tower to explore its historic significance and enjoy panoramic city views. The Old Market Square offers vibrant nightlife with numerous cafes and is famously known as the longest bar in the world. Art enthusiasts can discover the M-Museum Leuven, which features both contemporary and historical art exhibitions. For a peaceful retreat, stroll through the Botanical Garden Kruidtuin, the oldest botanical garden in Belgium. Lastly, admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the Town Hall, adorned with intricate sculptures.
Two to three days in Leuven is ideal to explore its historic university, visit the M-Museum, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at the Oude Markt, and wander through the picturesque streets and parks.
Yes, you can take the train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven.
Since both Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and Leuven are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Leuven include Brussels, Paris, Antwerp, Cologne, Bruges.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Leuven, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the train station and city center. Common scams include overcharging at bars or restaurants and unofficial taxi services. It's advisable to keep belongings secure and use licensed transportation options to ensure safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven
Most Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven trains use the Amsterdam Zuid to Leuven station pair, with some services arriving at Heverlee. Use this guide to compare Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and Leuven train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Amsterdam
Arrival train stations in Leuven
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 · $4 · 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.
Wijgmaal3018 Leuven, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Wijgmaal from Leuven city centre
Wijgmaal is 5 km from Leuven city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainP, Ic, L · 5m · $1 · every ~4 min
Bus4, 4b, N7 · 25m · $4 · every ~5 min
4, 4b, N7 · 28m · $4 · every ~5 min
4, 4b, N7 · 30m · $4 · every ~5 min
Wijgmaal train station facilities and services
Wijgmaal has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Wijgmaal.
Most popular train connections from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
More options for your journey from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol to Leuven
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leuven and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
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