Berlin › Leuven

Sat, Jul 18, 1 adult

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Berlin to Leuven train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,RE)

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Berlin to Leuven

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Berlin to Leuven among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $47. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 41m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.6kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $47, and a flight costs an average of $66.

Distance: 389 miles (627 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Flight	Bus	Driving
$110 Average price	$181 Average price	$72 Average price Cheapest	$143 Average price (fuel + tolls)
7h 48m Average total duration 7h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	4h 41m Average total duration Fastest 1h 41m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time*	11h 55m Average total duration 11h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	8h 19m Average total duration (door-to-door)
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest	1.9 - 3.8kg CO2 emissions	0.6 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions	- CO2 emissions
Most popular train company	Most popular airline	Most popular bus company	Your own car or car rental
Direct Options	Direct Options	Direct Options	Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Berlin to Leuven is a bus with an average price of $72 (€59).

This is compared to other travel options from Berlin to Leuven:

A bus is $39 (€32) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Berlin to Leuven costing on average $110 (€91).

A bus is $109 (€90) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Berlin to Leuven costing on average $181 (€149).

The fastest way to travel from Berlin to Leuven is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 41m.

Other travel options to Leuven take longer:

Train takes on average 7h 18m.

Bus takes on average 11h 25m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Berlin and Leuven including taking a train, bus, and flight.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Berlin to Leuven among Omio's users.

Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 1h 1m faster (7h 18m by train vs 8h 19m by car) and roughly $33 (€27) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($110 (€91) vs $143 (€118)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Berlin to Leuven train times

The table below shows live departures for Berlin to Leuven trains for today, Friday, July 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
FlixTrain+FlixBus · FlixBus	4:28 PM Berlin Südkreuz station	14h02	6:30 AM Leuven, Diestsepoort	2 transfers
Saturday, July 18
ICE 148 · IC 642 · IC 2042 · ECD 9544	On time 8:16 AM Berlin Hbf	8h09	4:25 PM Leuven station	4 transfers
ICE 642 · 10130 · 20076 · IC 3552	On time 8:47 AM Berlin Hbf	8h38	5:25 PM Leuven station	6 transfers
ICE 952 · ICE 14 · IC 539	On time 9:47 AM Berlin Hbf	7h43	5:30 PM Leuven station	2 transfers
ICE 952 · ICE 14 · IC 539 · R 3088	On time 9:47 AM Berlin Hbf	8h12	5:59 PM Heverlee	3 transfers
ICE 146 · IC 650 · IC 2050 · ECD 9552	On time 10:16 AM Berlin Hbf	8h09	6:25 PM Leuven station	4 transfers
ICE 950 · ICE 12 · IC 541 · R 3090	On time 11:47 AM Berlin Hbf	8h13	8:00 PM Heverlee	3 transfers
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Berlin 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.

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Why should you book Berlin to Leuven trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Berlin to Leuven.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Berlin to Leuven.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixTrain or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Berlin 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 with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Berlin to Leuven.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Berlin to Leuven.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Berlin to Leuven

Germany

Belgium

Trains from Berlin to Leuven run on average 13 times per day, taking around 7h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $51 (€42) but you can travel from only $47 (€39) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:11, the last at 23:52. The fastest train covers the 389 miles (627 km) distance in 6h 44m.

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 $47 (€39)

Distance

389 miles (627 km)

Average train duration

7h 18m

Cheapest ticket price

$51 (€42)

Trains per day

Fastest train

6h 44m

First train

12:11 AM

Last train

11:52 PM

Cheapest Month

Sep

Cheapest Day

Mon

High Season

Jul - Sep

Low Season

Apr - Jun

Busiest Day

Sun

Least Busy Day

Fri

Best time to book

28 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $47 (€39)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Berlin to Leuven trainsDeutsche Bahn, FlixTrain, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Berlin and Leuven from $47 (€39). 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 44m

Cheapest Price

$80 (€65)

Deutsche Bahn frequency

15 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.

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.

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.

Quiet zone

Learn more about Deutsche Bahn

FlixTrain

About

FlixTrain is a German railway company owned by FlixMobility, the parent company of FlixBus. Since 2018, it has connected major German cities such as Hamburg, Cologne, Stuttgart, Berlin, and Frankfurt, and also operates routes in Sweden, including Stockholm to Gothenburg. All FlixTrain services run on 100% renewable energy. Onboard facilities include air conditioning, toilets, USB ports, power outlets, generous legroom, and free Wi-Fi on most trains. Food and drinks are available, and every ticket guarantees a seat. Passengers can bring luggage free of charge, provided it fits in the racks. Popular German routes include Berlin–Hamburg, Frankfurt–Stuttgart, and Cologne–Hamburg, offering a sustainable and comfortable way to travel

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

13h 40m

Cheapest Price

$51 (€42)

FlixTrain frequency

2 a day

Luggage included

1 piece of hand luggage (max 7kg) and 1 piece of luggage (max 20kg)

Luggage storage

Overhead racks and designated luggage areas

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions

Refund

Full refund if train is cancelled by operator

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Snacks and drinks available for purchase from onboard service

Seat reservation

Seat reservation included in ticket price

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available

Pets

Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle

Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

6h 23m

Cheapest Price

$164 (€135)

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency

4 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.

Must visit

M Leuven

University museum with science, culture, and philosophy exhibitions in a striking historic complex. Ideal for understanding Leuven's academic identity.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Damien Experience

Museum and former home of Father Damien, presenting his life and global legacy. A meaningful visit in a historic city-center setting.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

PARCUM

Museum in Park Abbey exploring religion, art, and heritage through the abbey's story. It adds depth to a visit to the wider site.

View on map Visit website

Euro (€)

Moderate for Belgium: hotels and dining are not cheap, but student spots, bakeries, and short local transit keep typical visitor costs manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget: €8-15 for fast food, fries, or bakery meals.
Mid-range: €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining: €60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee: €3-4.50 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis can be rounded up. Cafes usually get small change, not a set tip.

FAQs: Trains from Berlin to Leuven

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Berlin 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 Berlin to Leuven can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $51 (€42), while the average price is around $110 (€91).

The train from Berlin to Leuven takes 6h 44m and runs 13 per day.

The distance by train from Berlin to Leuven is 389 miles (627 km).

The first train from Berlin to Leuven leaves at 12:11 AM.

The last train from Berlin to Leuven leaves at 11:52 PM.

There is no direct train service currently available from Berlin to Leuven.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Berlin to Leuven.

The train station in Berlin that goes to Leuven is Berlin Hbf, which connects to Leuven station.

The cheapest way to get from Berlin to Leuven is by bus, with a cost of around $47 (€39).

The train journey from Berlin to Leuven is moderately scenic, as it traverses through parts of the German and Belgian countryside, offering views of rolling fields, quaint villages, and occasional forested areas, although it primarily focuses on efficient travel between urban centers.

A day trip from Berlin to Leuven is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 44m. However, there are 14 train trips available per day. The distance is 389 miles (627 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 Berlin to Leuven.

Since both Berlin 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 Berlin 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 Berlin to Leuven

Most Berlin to Leuven trains use the Berlin Hbf to Leuven station pair, with some services arriving at Heverlee. Use this guide to compare Berlin and Leuven train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Berlin

Arrival train stations in Leuven

Which Berlin station do trains to Leuven leave from?

Trains from Berlin to Leuven leave from Berlin Hbf. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Berlin city centre at Europaplatz 1, 10557 Berlin, Germany.

Berlin HbfEuropaplatz 1, 10557 Berlin, Germany Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Berlin Hbf from Berlin city centre

Berlin Hbf is 2 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb23, Re2, Rb14, Re7, Fex · 5m · $4 · every ~6 min

U5 · 8m · $4 · every ~25 min

BusN40, 142 · 12m · $2 · every ~8 min

170, 270, 170A, 157A, 157 · 18m · $1

TramM8 · 13m · $4 · every ~12 min

Berlin Hbf train station facilities and services

Berlin Hbf 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: backWERK, Burger King, Costa Coffee, Dunkin' Donuts, Einstein Kaffee, Le Crobag, McDonald's, Hans im Glück, Pret A Manger, Starbucks, & many more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free WiFi (30 minutes limit). ATMs are available at Berlin Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Berlin Hbf. Information desks are located on the ground level near the Europaplatz exit.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located on Level 1 near Platforms 13/14.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Berlin Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Berlin Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Berlin Hbf: Elevators, escalators, step-free access. Contact the Mobility Service Center at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include MEININGER Hotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof, IntercityHotel Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Motel One Berlin Hauptbahnof.

More about Berlin Hbf

Berlin SpandauBerlin-Spandau, Seegefelder Str. 1, 13597 Berlin Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Berlin Spandau from Berlin city centre

Berlin Spandau is 14 km from Berlin city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS3, S9, S5 · 10m · $4 · every ~14 min

S9, S5, S3 · 25m · $4 · every ~14 min

Berlin Spandau train station facilities and services

Berlin Spandau has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.