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Essen - LeuvenCompare Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, National Express
$53
3h 10m
12 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
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.
$202
3h 48m
3 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Included in ticket price for all classes
$80
3h 45m
8 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Seat reservation
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Essen to Leuven
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Essen to Leuven among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 38m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €8, and a flight costs an average of €162.
Distance: 107 miles (173 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€68 Average price | €18 Average price Cheapest | €369 Average price |
3h 8m Average total duration Fastest 2h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 3m Average total duration 3h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 29m Average total duration 5h 29m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Essen to Leuven train times
The table below shows live departures for Essen to Leuven trains for today, Sunday, December 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 12:14 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 ICE 27 · ICE 316 · IC 533 | On time 7:44 AM Essen Hbf | 2h46 | 10:30 AM Leuven station | 2 transfers | |
| ICE 27 · ICE 316 · IC 533 · R 3082 | On time 7:44 AM Essen Hbf | 3h15 | 10:59 AM Heverlee | 3 transfers | |
| 26812 · ICE 16 · IC 535 | 9:09 AM Essen Hbf | 3h21 | 12:30 PM Leuven station | 2 transfers | |
| 26812 · ICE 16 · IC 535 · R 3084 | 9:09 AM Essen Hbf | 3h50 | 12:59 PM Heverlee | 3 transfers | |
| 10210 · ICE 225 · ICE 16 · IC 535 | 9:20 AM Essen Hbf | 3h39 | 12:59 PM Heverlee | 4 transfers | |
| 10210 · ICE 225 · ICE 16 · IC 535 | 9:20 AM Essen Hbf | 3h10 | 12:30 PM Leuven station | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Essen 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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Dec 22
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Dec 28
Why should you book Essen to Leuven trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn (RE,ICE,IC) as well as Eurostar and National Express offer trains services from Essen to Leuven. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to Leuven.
Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn (RE,ICE,IC)?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn (RE,ICE,IC), but also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar and National Express to find the best option for your trip from Essen 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 (RE,ICE,IC) with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to Leuven.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Deutsche Bahn (RE,ICE,IC) tickets can be bought on Deutsche Bahn (RE,ICE,IC)'s website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of Eurostar and National Express to help you choose the right option for your journey from Essen 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 Essen to Leuven.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Essen to Leuven
Germany
Belgium
Trains from Essen to Leuven run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $64 (€51) but you can travel from only $11 (€8) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:51, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 107 miles (173 km) distance in 3h 10m.
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 $11 (€8)
Distance 107 miles (173 km) |
Average train duration 2h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price $64 (€51) |
Trains per day 10 |
Fastest train 3h 10m |
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 $11 (€8)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Eurostar, National Express from Essen to Leuven trainsDeutsche Bahn, Eurostar, National Express trains will get you between Essen and Leuven from $11 (€8). 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
3h 10m
Cheapest Price
$53 (€43)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
12 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
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
3h 48m
Cheapest Price
$202 (€162)
Eurostar frequency
3 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
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 45m
Cheapest Price
$80 (€64)
National Express frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
FAQs: Trains from Essen to Leuven
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen 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.
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 journey from Essen to Leuven offers a pleasant view of the Belgian countryside, featuring rolling fields, quaint villages, and occasional glimpses of historical architecture, making it a moderately scenic route.
The train from Essen to Leuven takes 3h 10m and runs 10 per day.
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.
Train ticket prices from Essen to Leuven can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $64 (€51), while the average price is around $84 (€68).
The last train from Essen to Leuven leaves at 11:36 PM.
The cheapest way to get from Essen to Leuven is by bus, with a cost of around $11 (€8).
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to Leuven.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to Leuven.
The first train from Essen to Leuven leaves at 12:51 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to Leuven.
A day trip from Essen to Leuven is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 10m, covering a distance of 107 miles (173 km). However, there are 10 trips available per day by train.
The distance by train from Essen to Leuven is 107 miles (173 km).
The train station in Essen that goes to Leuven is Essen Hbf, which connects to Leuven station.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Essen to Leuven
Essen
Leuven
The major train station for departures in Essen is Essen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your trip from Essen to Leuven.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Tuesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Wednesday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Thursday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Friday: 07:30 - 19:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Dining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Kiepenkerl
- Cafe Extrablatt
- Tacos
Hotel
- Ambassador
- Gästearpartment Dahl
- WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
- Motel One
Essen Süd
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Haus Wilmes
- Mana Mana
- Karawane
Hotel
- Webers
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Pizzeria Don Camillo
- Lindos
- Zur Platte
- Arman Döner
Hotel
- McDreams
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 Essen.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number 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 RentalWijgmaal
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityMost popular train connections from Essen
More options for your journey from Essen to Leuven
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leuven and Essen
Most popular train connections to Leuven
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