- Must visit
M Leuven
The city’s main museum, known for art, history, and strong temporary exhibitions in a restored historic complex in the center.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lausanne to Leuven
Showing times and prices for Jun 28
Cheapest price
$340
Average price
$340
Fastest journey
8 h 50 m
Average duration
8 h 50 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
505 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lausanne to Leuven is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lausanne to Leuven will cost around $340 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $340.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Lausanne for Leuven on Sun, Jun 28, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 28 the direct trains cover the 505 km distance in an average of 8 h 50 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 8 h 50 m .
On Sun, Jun 28 the slowest trains will take 8 h 50 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.
11:40 AM8h50Lausanne8:30 PMLeuven$3401One-way0 transfers
- 11:40 AM8h50Lausanne8:30 PMLeuven$3401One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Lausanne to Leuven
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lausanne to Leuven among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $64. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 18m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.5 - 1.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $64, and a train costs an average of $113.
Distance: 313 miles (505 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$231 Average price | $183 Average price | $84 Average price Cheapest | $139 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 19m Average total duration 7h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 18m Average total duration Fastest 1h 18m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 20h 40m Average total duration 20h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 10m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
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 Lausanne to Leuven is a bus with an average price of $84 (€70).
This is compared to other travel options from Lausanne to Leuven:
A bus is $99 (€81) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Lausanne to Leuven costing on average $183 (€151).
A bus is $147 (€121) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lausanne to Leuven costing on average $231 (€191).
The fastest way to travel from Lausanne to Leuven is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 18m.
Other travel options to Leuven take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 49m.
Bus takes on average 20h 10m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Lausanne and Leuven including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lausanne 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 21m sooner (7h 49m by train vs 8h 10m by car). Tickets start at around $231 (€191) compared to roughly $139 (€115) 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
Lausanne to Leuven train times
The table below shows live departures for Lausanne to Leuven trains for today, Saturday, June 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:39 AM Lausanne | 9h21 | 7:00 PM Leuven | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Lausanne 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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Jun 28
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Why should you book Lausanne to Leuven trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) offer trains services from Lausanne to Leuven.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lausanne 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 Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) to find the best option for your trip from Lausanne 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 Lausanne 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 Lausanne to Leuven.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Lausanne to Leuven
Switzerland
Belgium
Trains from Lausanne to Leuven run on average 2 times per day, taking around 7h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $113 (€93) but you can travel from only $61 (€50) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:51, the last at 17:40. The fastest train covers the 313 miles (505 km) distance in 6h 28m.
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
Flight from $61 (€50)
Distance 313 miles (505 km) |
Average train duration 7h 49m |
Cheapest ticket price $113 (€93) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 6h 28m |
First train 12:51 AM |
Last train 5:40 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 84 days |
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
Flight from $61 (€50)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Lausanne to Leuven trainsDeutsche Bahn, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Lausanne and Leuven from $61 (€50). 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
8h 50m
Cheapest Price
$113 (€93)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
2 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
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 9m
Cheapest Price
$315 (€260)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) frequency
1 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.
- Recommended
Parcum
A contemporary dialogue museum in Park Abbey that explores religion, culture, and society through well-curated exhibitions.
- Recommended
Treasury of Saint Peter's
A small but significant collection inside Saint Peter’s Church, best known for religious artworks and historic objects tied to Leuven.
- Must visit
Oude Markt
Leuven’s famous central square lined with historic façades, lively day and night, and one of the city’s most recognizable social spaces.
- Must visit
Grote Markt
The ceremonial heart of Leuven, framed by the Town Hall and Saint Peter’s Church, and essential for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Groot Begijnhof Area
A serene network of streets and waterways around the Great Beguinage, ideal for a slower walk and photography.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Stella Artois Beer
Leuven is the historic home of Stella Artois, a classic Belgian lager brewed in the city and closely tied to its brewing heritage.
- Vegetarian
Leuvense Fonskes
Traditional Leuven chocolates shaped after the famous Fonske statue, commonly bought as a local sweet souvenir from city chocolatiers.
Stoofvlees
A classic Flemish beef stew slowly cooked with dark Belgian beer, often served with fries and widely loved across Leuven.
Zarza
Highly regarded upscale restaurant offering creative tasting menus and contemporary fine dining, ideal for a special meal in Leuven.
De Klimop
Established fine-dining restaurant known for refined Belgian and French cuisine, polished service, and an elegant atmosphere.
Improvisio
Recognized restaurant in Leuven serving seasonal Belgian-French dishes with a modern touch in an intimate, upscale setting.
Euro
Prices are moderate by Belgian standards. Student spots help keep meals and drinks fairly affordable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for fries, sandwiches, or kebabs.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4.50 for a coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great service is appreciated but not expected. Round up taxi fares; no tip is needed for counter service.
De Lijn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 2.50 EUR
- Day pass
- 7.50 EUR
To the city center
Leuven Railway Station, Leuven -> Leuven City Center, Leuven
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Use a contactless bank card or mobile payment on De Lijn buses and trams for the best standard fare.
- Leuven city center is walkable from Leuven railway station, so walking is often the simplest option for short trips.
FAQs: Trains from Lausanne to Leuven
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lausanne 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 Lausanne to Leuven can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $113 (€93), while the average price is around $231 (€191).
The train from Lausanne to Leuven takes 6h 28m and runs 2 per day.
The first train from Lausanne to Leuven leaves at 12:51 AM.
The distance by train from Lausanne to Leuven is 313 miles (505 km).
The last train from Lausanne to Leuven leaves at 5:40 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lausanne to Leuven.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lausanne to Leuven.
The train station in Lausanne that goes to Leuven is Lausanne station, which connects to Leuven station.
The cheapest way to get from Lausanne to Leuven is by flight, with a cost of around $61 (€50).
The train journey from Lausanne to Leuven is relatively scenic, particularly in the Swiss section, where it offers views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding Alps. As the train travels into Belgium, the landscape becomes flatter and less dramatic but still pleasant.
A day trip from Lausanne to Leuven is not feasible due to a travel duration of 6h 28m and a distance of 313 miles (505 km). The frequency of trips is 2 per day for trains.
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 Lausanne to Leuven.
Since both Lausanne 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 Lausanne 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 Lausanne to Leuven
Lausanne
Leuven
The major train station for departures in Lausanne is Lausanne. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Lausanne for your trip from Lausanne to Leuven.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:30 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
5Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Access via Rue du Simplon
Dining
- Cafe du Grutli
- Le Chalet Suisse
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Ramps
WC
- CHF 1
Hotel
- Beau-Rivage Palace
- Lausanne Palace
- Hotel Continental
Lounge
- Located in the main hall
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 440 places, covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-5 for trains to France, Germany, Italy, and regional destinations
- Hall 2: Metro connections
Public transit options for Lausanne
- Metro: Line M2
- Bus: Several lines available
- Tram: Line T1
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 Lausanne.
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 Lausanne
More options for your journey from Lausanne to Leuven
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leuven and Lausanne
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