The cheapest and fastest trains from Brussels to Leuven
Cheapest price
€8
Average price
€8
Fastest journey
15 m
Average duration
15 m
Trains per day
60
Distance
25 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Brussels to Leuven is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Brussels to Leuven will cost around €8 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €8.
Of the 60 trains that leave Brussels for Leuven on Mon, Dec 08, 60 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Dec 08 the direct trains cover the 25 km distance in an average of 15 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 15 m .
On Mon, Dec 08 the slowest trains will take 15 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.
407
507
409
1510
407
407
506
509
409
507Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Brussels to Leuven
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Brussels to Leuven among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €3. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 34m. 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 bus costs an average of €3, and a train costs an average of €4.
Distance: 15 miles (25 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€8 Average price | €7 Average price Cheapest |
1h 4m Average total duration Fastest 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 12m Average total duration 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Brussels to Leuven train times
The table below shows live departures for Brussels to Leuven trains for today, Sunday, December 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2808 | 9:25 AM Brussels-North | 0h19 | 9:44 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
1509 | 9:36 AM Brussels-Midi | 0h28 | 10:04 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
1509 | 9:41 AM Brussels-Central | 0h23 | 10:04 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
1509 | 9:48 AM Brussels-North | 0h16 | 10:04 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
509 | 9:56 AM Brussels-Midi | 0h27 | 10:23 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
509 | 10:01 AM Brussels-Central | 0h22 | 10:23 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
509 | 10:09 AM Brussels-North | 0h14 | 10:23 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
2809 | 10:13 AM Brussels-Midi | 0h31 | 10:44 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
2809 | 10:18 AM Brussels-Central | 0h26 | 10:44 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
2809 | 10:25 AM Brussels-North | 0h19 | 10:44 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
1510 | 10:36 AM Brussels-Midi | 0h28 | 11:04 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
1510 | 10:41 AM Brussels-Central | 0h23 | 11:04 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
1510 | 10:48 AM Brussels-North | 0h16 | 11:04 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
510 | 10:56 AM Brussels-Midi | 0h27 | 11:23 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, December 8 | |||||
506 | 7:01 AM Brussels-Central | 0h22 | 7:23 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
506 | 7:08 AM Brussels-North | 0h15 | 7:23 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
3607 | 7:11 AM Brussels-Midi | 0h28 | 7:39 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
2806 | 7:14 AM Brussels-Midi | 0h38 | 7:52 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
3607 | 7:16 AM Brussels-Central | 0h23 | 7:39 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
2806 | 7:19 AM Brussels-Central | 0h33 | 7:52 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
3607 | 7:22 AM Brussels-North | 0h17 | 7:39 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
2806 | 7:27 AM Brussels-North | 0h25 | 7:52 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
407 | 7:28 AM Brussels-Midi | 0h27 | 7:55 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
407 | 7:33 AM Brussels-Central | 0h22 | 7:55 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
1507 | 7:36 AM Brussels-Midi | 0h29 | 8:05 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
407 | 7:40 AM Brussels-North | 0h15 | 7:55 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
1507 | 7:41 AM Brussels-Central | 0h24 | 8:05 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
1507 | 7:48 AM Brussels-North | 0h17 | 8:05 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
507 | 7:56 AM Brussels-Midi | 0h27 | 8:23 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
507 | 8:01 AM Brussels-Central | 0h22 | 8:23 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
507 | 8:08 AM Brussels-North | 0h15 | 8:23 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
3608 | 8:11 AM Brussels-Midi | 0h29 | 8:40 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
2807 | 8:13 AM Brussels-Midi | 0h40 | 8:53 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
3608 | 8:16 AM Brussels-Central | 0h24 | 8:40 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
2807 | 8:18 AM Brussels-Central | 0h35 | 8:53 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
3608 | 8:22 AM Brussels-North | 0h18 | 8:40 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
2807 | 8:26 AM Brussels-North | 0h27 | 8:53 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
408 | 8:28 AM Brussels-Midi | 0h28 | 8:56 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
408 | 8:33 AM Brussels-Central | 0h23 | 8:56 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
1508 | 8:36 AM Brussels-Midi | 0h28 | 9:04 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
408 | 8:40 AM Brussels-North | 0h16 | 8:56 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
1508 | 8:41 AM Brussels-Central | 0h23 | 9:04 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
1508 | 8:48 AM Brussels-North | 0h16 | 9:04 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
508 | 8:56 AM Brussels-Midi | 0h27 | 9:23 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
508 | 9:01 AM Brussels-Central | 0h22 | 9:23 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
508 | 9:08 AM Brussels-North | 0h15 | 9:23 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
3609 | 9:11 AM Brussels-Midi | 0h28 | 9:39 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
2808 | 9:13 AM Brussels-Midi | 0h39 | 9:52 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
3609 | 9:16 AM Brussels-Central | 0h23 | 9:39 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
2808 | 9:18 AM Brussels-Central | 0h34 | 9:52 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
3609 | 9:22 AM Brussels-North | 0h17 | 9:39 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Brussels to Leuven by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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 Brussels to Leuven trains with Omio?
PKP Intercity as well as Regional, Deutsche Bahn and Renfe offer trains services from Brussels to Leuven. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Brussels to Leuven.
Why book with Omio vs PKP Intercity?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for PKP Intercity, but also compare tickets for the likes of Regional, Deutsche Bahn and Renfe to find the best option for your trip from Brussels 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 PKP Intercity with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Brussels to Leuven.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While PKP Intercity tickets can be bought on PKP Intercity's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of Regional, Deutsche Bahn and Renfe to help you choose the right option for your journey from Brussels to Leuven.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Brussels to Leuven.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Brussels to Leuven?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Brussels to Leuven
Trains from Brussels to Leuven run on average 15 times per day, taking around 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $5 (€4) but you can travel from only $4 (€3) by bus.
There are 15 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 15 miles (25 km) distance in 26m.
Distance 15 miles (25 km) |
Average train duration 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $5 (€4) |
Trains per day 15 |
Direct trains 15 |
Fastest train 26m |
First train 00:20 |
Last train 23:58 |
Train companies: PKP Intercity, Regional, Deutsche Bahn, Renfe, SNCB from Brussels to Leuven trainsPKP Intercity, Regional, Deutsche Bahn, Renfe, SNCB trains will get you between Brussels and Leuven from $4 (€3). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
PKP Intercity
Deutsche Bahn
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.
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.
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.
Renfe
Regional
SNCB
Traveling by train from Brussels to Leuven
The train connection between Brussels and Leuven is efficient and convenient, making it easy for travelers to explore these vibrant cities. The journey typically takes around 25 minutes, with frequent services provided by Intercity, BSB, and Regional trains. Whether you're heading to Leuven's historic university or enjoying the bustling atmosphere of Brussels, you can rely on these providers for a comfortable ride.
Train Connection: Brussels to Leuven
The train connection between Brussels and Leuven takes approximately 15 minutes, with direct trains available throughout the day. There are around 50 connections per day, making it a convenient option for travelers. Passengers can depart from various stations in Brussels including Bruxelles-Central, Brussels-Schuman, and Brussels-Luxembourg before arriving at Leuven station.
Brussels to Leuven Train Connection
The first daily train from Brussels to Leuven departs at 06:15, providing an early start for travelers. The last journey of the day leaves at 21:30, allowing visitors ample time to explore and return comfortably in the evening.
Train Tickets Price for Brussels to Leuven
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Brussels and Leuven is €9. The average ticket price typically hovers around €9 as well, making it an affordable option for travelers looking to explore these two vibrant Belgian cities.
Exploring Leuven: A Journey Through History and Culture
Welcome to the University Library and Bell Tower, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that dates back to the 16th century. This landmark not only serves as a repository for centuries of knowledge but also symbolizes the city's rich academic heritage, attracting scholars from around the globe. One unique feature is its impressive bell tower, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city when you climb its winding staircase.
Next on our journey is Old Market Square (Oude Markt), known as one of Europe’s liveliest squares filled with vibrant cafes and bustling markets. Historically significant as a central hub for trade since medieval times, it continues to be a focal point for social gatherings and cultural events in Leuven today. What sets this square apart are its charming cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings that create an inviting atmosphere perfect for relaxation or exploration.
Finally, we arrive at St. Peter's Church (Sint-Pieterskerk), an architectural masterpiece completed in the 15th century that showcases exquisite examples of Brabantine Gothic style. The church holds great significance not just as a place of worship but also due to its remarkable art collection including works by renowned Flemish painters like Dirk Bouts. A standout feature here is its intricately carved altarpiece and stunning stained glass windows that tell stories dating back hundreds of years—truly captivating!
FAQs: Trains from Brussels to Leuven
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Brussels 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.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Brussels to Leuven
- 6:30 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 7 days a week. Access is available via Rue du Progrès.
- Chabrol Brasserie
- Winok Café
- Félix Wine Bar
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps.
- €0.50
- Hotel Progress
- Hilton Brussels City
- Hotel Siru
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-6 for international and intercity trains
- Hall 2: platform 7-12 for regional and local trains
- Metro: Line 3, Line 4
- Tram: Line 25, Line 55
- Bus: Several lines available
- Mon - Sun: 06:15 - 22:00
- Free Wi-Fi available in Starbucks.
- Luggage lockers are located on Level 0 near Platforms 1 and 2.
- Starbucks
- Brasserie 28 Brewery
- Panos
- Delitraiteur Eat & Go
- Station has a wide range of facilities for passengers with limited mobility: elevators and escalators to platforms, wheelchair lifts and mobile ramps, barrier-free toilets and accessible parking spaces. Additional assistance can be contacted via the SNCB Mobility Call Center.
- Hilton Brussels Grand Palace
- Hotel NH Brussels Carrefour de l'Europe
- Hôtel The Moon
- Mon - Sun: 06:15 - 22:00
- Travel Center / information desk is located on the left side from the main entrance.
- Metro lines: 1, 5
- Train lines: IC, Intercity Direct 9200, RER (S1, S2, S3, S6, S8, S10)
- Mon - Sun: 05:45 - 21:30
- Wi-Fi is available for a fee.
- Baggage storage facility is located across from the Thalys business lounge.
- Pullman Hotel Bar
- Quick Gare du Midi
- Subway
- EXKi Zuid
- Starbucks
- Häagen-Dazs
- Sbarro
- The Coffee Club
- The Belgian Chocolate House
- PAUL
- & many more
- Station has a wide range of facilities for passengers with reduced mobility: elevators and escalators to all platforms, wheelchair lifts and mobile ramps, disabled toilet and parking spaces. Additional assistance can be contacted via the SNCB Mobility Call Center.
- Les Lofts De Styliste
- Park Inn by Radisson Brussels Midi
- Pullman Brussels Centre Midi
- Located in the main concourse and next to the international platforms.
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
- Free
- The car park is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Access via Martelarenplein.
- De Klimop
- Domus
- Outside the main entrance.
- Elevators, ramps.
- €0.50
- Hotel La Royale
- Park Inn by Radisson Leuven
- Hotel Mille Colonnes
- Located in the main hall
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
- Located in the main hall
- Free
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-9 for trains to Brussels, Antwerp, and Liège
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Direct connections to Brussels, Antwerp, and Liège
More options for your journey from Brussels to Leuven
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