1,000+ travel companies
1,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Basel to Leuven
Showing times and prices for Dec 07
Cheapest price
€161
Average price
€194
Fastest journey
6 h 24 m
Average duration
6 h 30 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
424 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basel to Leuven is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basel to Leuven will cost around €194 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €161.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Basel to Leuven without transferring at least 2 times.
ICE 76 · ICE 314 · IC 537 · R 308609:06AM6h53
Basel SBB03:59PMHeverlee
€1611One-way
3 transfers
ICE 76 · ICE 314 · IC 53709:06AM6h24
Basel SBB03:30PMLeuven station
€1611One-way
2 transfers
ICE 70 · ICE 10 · IC 543 · R 309203:06PM6h53
Basel SBB09:59PMHeverlee
€1851One-way
3 transfers
ICE 74 · ICE 14 · IC 539 · R 308811:06AM6h53
Basel SBB05:59PMHeverlee
€1851One-way
3 transfers
ICE 70 · ICE 10 · IC 54303:06PM6h24
Basel SBB09:30PMLeuven station
€1851One-way
2 transfers
ICE 76 · ICE 314 · IC 53709:06AM6h24
Basel SBB03:30PMLeuven station
€1611One-way
2 transfers
ICE 70 · ICE 10 · IC 54303:06PM6h24
Basel SBB09:30PMLeuven station
€1851One-way
2 transfers
ICE 74 · ICE 14 · IC 53911:06AM6h24
Basel SBB05:30PMLeuven station
€1851One-way
2 transfers
ICE 72 · ICE 12 · IC 54101:06PM6h24
Basel SBB07:30PMLeuven station
€2441One-way
2 transfers
ICE 76 · ICE 314 · IC 537 · R 308609:06AM6h53
Basel SBB03:59PMHeverlee
€1611One-way
3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Basel to Leuven
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Basel to Leuven among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €20. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 32m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €20, and a flight costs an average of €85.
Distance: 263 miles (424 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€155 Average price | €43 Average price Cheapest | €279 Average price |
6h 2m Average total duration Fastest 5h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 15m Average total duration 10h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 53m Average total duration 5h 53m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 2.5kg CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Basel to Leuven train times
The table below shows live departures for Basel to Leuven trains for today, Saturday, December 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 4:02 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICE 76 · ICE 314 · IC 537 · R 3086 | On time 8:06 AM Basel SBB | 6h53 | 2:59 PM Heverlee | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 76 · ICE 314 · IC 537 | On time 8:06 AM Basel SBB | 6h24 | 2:30 PM Leuven station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 370 · IC 1745 · ICE 14 · IC 539 | On time 9:13 AM Basel SBB | 7h17 | 4:30 PM Leuven station | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 370 · IC 1745 · ICE 14 · IC 539 | On time 9:13 AM Basel SBB | 7h46 | 4:59 PM Heverlee | 4 transfers | |
| ICE 74 · ICE 14 · IC 539 · R 3088 | On time 10:06 AM Basel SBB | 6h53 | 4:59 PM Heverlee | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 74 · ICE 14 · IC 539 | On time 10:06 AM Basel SBB | 6h24 | 4:30 PM Leuven station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 72 · ICE 12 · IC 541 · R 3090 | On time 12:06 PM Basel SBB | 6h54 | 7:00 PM Heverlee | 3 transfers | |
| ICE 72 · ICE 12 · IC 541 | On time 12:06 PM Basel SBB | 6h24 | 6:30 PM Leuven station | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basel 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.
Sun
Dec 07
Dec 07
Mon
Dec 08
Dec 08
Tue
Dec 09
Dec 09
Wed
Dec 10
Dec 10
Thu
Dec 11
Dec 11
Fri
Dec 12
Dec 12
Sat
Dec 13
Dec 13
Why should you book Basel to Leuven trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE) as well as Trenitalia EuroCity offer trains services from Basel to Leuven. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Basel to Leuven.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE)?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE), but also compare tickets for the likes of Trenitalia EuroCity to find the best option for your trip from Basel 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 Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE) with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Basel to Leuven.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE) tickets can be bought on Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE)'s website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of Trenitalia EuroCity to help you choose the right option for your journey from Basel to Leuven.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Basel to Leuven.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Basel to Leuven
Switzerland
Belgium
Trains from Basel to Leuven run on average 4 times per day, taking around 5h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $116 (€93) but you can travel from only $25 (€20) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:51, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 263 miles (424 km) distance in 6h 19m.
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 $25 (€20)
Distance 263 miles (424 km) |
Average train duration 5h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $116 (€93) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 6h 19m |
First train 00:51 |
Last train 23:36 |
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 $25 (€20)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Trenitalia EuroCity from Basel to Leuven trainsDeutsche Bahn, Trenitalia EuroCity trains will get you between Basel and Leuven from $25 (€20). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Deutsche Bahn
About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 19m
Cheapest Price
$116 (€93)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone
Trenitalia EuroCity
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 26m
Cheapest Price
$227 (€183)
Trenitalia EuroCity frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Trains from Basel to Leuven
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basel 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.
A day trip from Basel to Leuven is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 19m and covers a distance of 263 miles (424 km). Trains operate 4 times per day.
The train journey from Basel to Leuven offers picturesque views, especially as it passes through the Swiss countryside and the rolling hills of Belgium. Passengers can enjoy scenic landscapes, charming villages, and lush greenery along the way.
The distance by train from Basel to Leuven is 263 miles (424 km).
The train from Basel to Leuven takes 6h 19m and runs 4 per day.
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.
The train station in Basel that goes to Leuven is Basel SBB, which connects to Leuven station.
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.
The last train from Basel to Leuven leaves at 11:36 PM.
Train ticket prices from Basel to Leuven can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $116 (€93), while the average price is around $192 (€155).
There is no direct train service currently available from Basel to Leuven.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basel to Leuven.
The cheapest way to get from Basel to Leuven is by bus, with a cost of around $25 (€20).
The first train from Basel to Leuven leaves at 12:51 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Basel to Leuven.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Basel to Leuven
Basel
Leuven
The major train station for departures in Basel is Basel Bad Bhf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Basel Bad Bhf for your trip from Basel to Leuven.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
2 km
Number of platforms
8Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access via Schwarzwaldallee.
Dining
- Restaurant Les Gareçons
- Restaurant Bahn Kantine
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 1
Hotel
- Hotel Alexander
- Hotel Wettstein
- Hotel Balade
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 330 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-4 for trains to Germany
- Hall 2: platforms 5-8 for regional trains within Switzerland
Public transit options for Basel Bad Bhf
- Tram: Line 2, Line 6
- Bus: Several lines available
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
10Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible via Centralbahnstrasse.
Dining
- Restaurant Da Roberto
- Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- CHF 2
Hotel
- Hotel Victoria
- Hotel Schweizerhof Basel
- GAIA Hotel
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 800 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-5 for Swiss domestic trains
- Hall 2: platform 6-10 for international trains
- Hall 3: shopping and services area
Public transit options for Basel SBB
- Tram: Line 1, Line 2, Line 8, Line 10, Line 11
- Bus: Several lines available
The major train station for arrivals in Leuven is Leuven. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leuven for your journey to Leuven from Basel.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
9Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Access via Martelarenplein.
Dining
- De Klimop
- Domus
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Hotel La Royale
- Park Inn by Radisson Leuven
- Hotel Mille Colonnes
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-9 for trains to Brussels, Antwerp, and Liège
Public transit options for Leuven
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Direct connections to Brussels, Antwerp, and Liège
Heverlee
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike RentalMost popular train connections from Basel
More options for your journey from Basel to Leuven
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leuven and Basel
Most popular train connections to Leuven
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
