FRANKFURT AM MAIN to LEUVEN train from €21 with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC)

2,000+ 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

4.9

42K ratings

Google Play

4.6

136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08

Cheapest price on Sep 08

€50

Average ticket price on Sep 08

€81

Fastest journey on Sep 08

2 h 58 m

Average journey duration on Sep 08

2 h 58 m

Trains on Sep 08

Distance

294 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven will cost around €81 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €50.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven without transferring at least once.

ICE 926 · ICE 310
11:43 AM4h28
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
4:11 PMLeuven station
€501One-way
1 transfer
ICE 926 · ICE 310 · IC 5737
11:43 AM4h40
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
4:23 PMHeverlee
€541One-way
2 transfers
4495 · IC 2045 · ICE 14 · IC 539
12:38 PM4h54
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
5:32 PMLeuven station
€691One-way
3 transfers
4495 · IC 2045 · ICE 14 · IC 539
12:38 PM5h21
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
5:59 PMHeverlee
€691One-way
4 transfers
ICE 722 · 10270 · ICE 310
1:08 PM3h03
Frankfurt (Main) Hbf
4:11 PMLeuven station
€701One-way
2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Frankfurt am Main to Leuven

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €28 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 5m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €28, while a flight costs an average of €251.

Distance: 182 miles (294 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight	Driving
€89 Average price	€28 Average price Cheapest	€251 Average price	€59 Average price (fuel + tolls)
3h 36m Average total duration 3h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	5h 54m Average total duration 5h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	3h 5m Average total duration Fastest 1h 5m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time*	4h 8m Average total duration (door-to-door)
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions	0.9 - 1.8kg CO2 emissions	- CO2 emissions
Most popular train company	Most popular bus company	Most popular airline	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 Frankfurt am Main to Leuven is a bus with an average price of €28.

This is compared to other travel options from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven:

A bus is €61 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven costing on average €89.

A bus is €222 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven costing on average €251.

The fastest way to travel from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 5m.

Other travel options to Leuven take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 6m.

Bus takes on average 5h 24m.

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

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Frankfurt am Main 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 1h 2m sooner (3h 6m by train vs 4h 8m by car). Tickets start at around €89 compared to roughly €59 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

Frankfurt am Main to Leuven train times

The table below shows live departures for Frankfurt am Main to Leuven trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
ICE 316 · IC 533	On time 8:33 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	2h59	11:32 AM Leuven station	1 transfer
ICE 316 · IC 533 · R 3082	On time 8:33 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	3h26	11:59 AM Heverlee	2 transfers
4491 · IC 2049 · ICE 16 · IC 535	8:38 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	5h21	1:59 PM Heverlee	4 transfers
4491 · IC 2049 · ICE 16 · IC 535	8:38 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	4h54	1:32 PM Leuven station	3 transfers
ICE 16 · IC 535	On time 10:34 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	2h58	1:32 PM Leuven station	1 transfer
ICE 16 · IC 535 · R 3084	On time 10:34 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	3h25	1:59 PM Heverlee	2 transfers
4493 · IC 2047 · ICE 314 · IC 537	10:38 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	5h21	3:59 PM Heverlee	4 transfers
4493 · IC 2047 · ICE 314 · IC 537	10:38 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	4h54	3:32 PM Leuven station	3 transfers
ICE 926 · ICE 310	On time 11:43 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	4h28	4:11 PM Leuven station	1 transfer
ICE 926 · ICE 310 · IC 5737	On time 11:43 AM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	4h40	4:23 PM Heverlee	2 transfers
ICE 314 · IC 537 · R 3086	On time 12:34 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	3h25	3:59 PM Heverlee	2 transfers
ICE 314 · IC 537	On time 12:34 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	2h58	3:32 PM Leuven station	1 transfer
4495 · IC 2045 · ICE 14 · IC 539	12:38 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	4h54	5:32 PM Leuven station	3 transfers
4495 · IC 2045 · ICE 14 · IC 539	12:38 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	5h21	5:59 PM Heverlee	4 transfers
ICE 722 · 10270 · ICE 310 · IC 5737	On time 1:08 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	3h15	4:23 PM Heverlee	3 transfers
ICE 722 · 10270 · ICE 310	On time 1:08 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	3h03	4:11 PM Leuven station	2 transfers
ICE 14 · IC 539 · R 3088	On time 2:34 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	3h25	5:59 PM Heverlee	2 transfers
ICE 14 · IC 539	On time 2:34 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	2h58	5:32 PM Leuven station	1 transfer
4497 · ICE 2012 · ICE 12 · IC 541	2:38 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	5h45	8:23 PM Heverlee	4 transfers
4497 · ICE 2012 · ICE 12 · IC 541	2:38 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	4h54	7:32 PM Leuven station	3 transfers
ICE 12 · IC 541	On time 4:34 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	2h58	7:32 PM Leuven station	1 transfer
ICE 12 · IC 541 · IC 5741	On time 4:34 PM Frankfurt (Main) Hbf	3h49	8:23 PM Heverlee	2 transfers
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Frankfurt am Main 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.

Tue
Sep 08

Wed
Sep 09

Thu
Sep 10

Fri
Sep 11

Sat
Sep 12

Sun
Sep 13

Mon
Sep 14

Why should you book Frankfurt am Main to Leuven trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) offer trains services from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Frankfurt am Main 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 Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Frankfurt am Main 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 Frankfurt am Main 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 Frankfurt am Main to Leuven.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven

Germany

Belgium

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven run on average 10 times per day, taking around 3h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €42 but you can travel from only €21 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:51, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 182 miles (294 km) distance in 2h 56m.

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 €21

Distance

182 miles (294 km)

Average train duration

3h 6m

Cheapest ticket price

€42

Trains per day

Fastest train

2h 56m

First train

12:51 AM

Last train

11:48 PM

Cheapest Month

Apr

Cheapest Day

Sun

High Season

Apr - Jun

Low Season

Oct - Dec

Busiest Day

Sun

Least Busy Day

Tue

Best time to book

1 day

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from €21

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) trains will get you between Frankfurt am Main and Leuven from €21. 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration

2h 56m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price

€42

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

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Duration

2h 56m

Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) Price

€61

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency

7 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 Frankfurt am Main to Leuven

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Frankfurt am Main 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 Frankfurt am Main to Leuven can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €42, while the average price is around €89.

The train from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven takes 2h 56m and runs 10 per day.

The first train from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven leaves at 12:51 AM.

The distance by train from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven is 182 miles (294 km).

The last train from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven leaves at 11:48 PM.

There is no direct train service currently available from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven.

The train station in Frankfurt am Main that goes to Leuven is Frankfurt (Main) Hbf, which connects to Leuven station.

The cheapest way to get from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven is by bus, with a cost of around €21.

The train journey from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven offers scenic views primarily in the sections passing through the lush landscapes of the Rhine Valley and the rolling hills of the Ardennes, providing a picturesque travel experience.

A day trip from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven is not feasible, as the journey takes 2h 56m and covers 182 miles (294 km). However, trains operate 11 times 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.

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 Frankfurt am Main to Leuven.

Since both Frankfurt am Main 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 Frankfurt am Main 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 Frankfurt am Main to Leuven

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

Departure train stations in Frankfurt am Main

Arrival train stations in Leuven

Which Frankfurt am Main station do trains to Leuven leave from?

Trains from Frankfurt am Main to Leuven leave from Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Frankfurt am Main city centre at Im Hauptbahnhof, 60329 Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

Frankfurt (Main) HbfIm Hauptbahnhof, 60329 Frankfurt am Main, Germany Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Frankfurt (Main) Hbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf is 1 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS9, S8, S6, S5, S4, S3, S2, S1 · 5m · €1 · every ~51 min

BusN5, N12, N4 · 5m · every ~1 min

Tram18, 14, 12, 11 · 6m · €3 · every ~38 min

SubwayU5, U4 · 4m · €3 · every ~39 min

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf train station facilities and services

Frankfurt (Main) Hbf 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.

Food and drink

Food options include: asiagourmet, Burger King, Ciao Bella, Coffee Fellows, Crepes de France Express, dean&david, Starbucks, Uddin's Sky Sportsbar, McDonald's, Dunkin Donuts, & many more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf. Information desks are located opposite Platforms 12 and 13.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located in the main hall. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Frankfurt (Main) Hbf: Step-free access and step markings. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Cristall, Grand Hotel Empire, Hotel Carlton.

More about Frankfurt (Main) Hbf

Frankfurt Flughafen FernbfFrankfurt am Main Flughafen Fernbahnhof, 60549 Frankfurt am Main, Germany+49 69 2651055 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf from Frankfurt am Main city centre

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf is 10 km from Frankfurt am Main city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainIce · 11m · €2

Trn · 12m · €3

S8, S9 · 19m · €3 · every ~5 min

BusS8e · 28m · €6

X61, 61 · 41m · every ~13 min

61, X61 · 42m · every ~13 min

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf train station facilities and services

Frankfurt Flughafen Fernbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.