- Recommended
Kurpfälzisches Museum
Heidelberg’s main city museum, covering regional archaeology, art, and history from prehistory to the modern era.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leiden to Heidelberg
Showing times and prices for Jun 30
Cheapest price
$153
Average price
$243
Fastest journey
5 h 18 m
Average duration
6 h 6 m
Trains per day
10
Distance
425 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Leiden to Heidelberg is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leiden to Heidelberg will cost around $243 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $153.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Leiden to Heidelberg without transferring at least 2 times.
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6:58 PM7h19Leiden2:17 AMHeidelberg$1531One-way3 transfers- 5:58 AM6h06Leiden12:04 PMHeidelberg$1671One-way3 transfers
- 5:58 AM6h34Leiden12:32 PMHeidelberg$2591One-way2 transfers
- 9:58 AM6h34Leiden4:32 PMHeidelberg$2591One-way2 transfers
- 11:58 AM6h34Leiden6:32 PMHeidelberg$2591One-way2 transfers
- 7:58 AM5h18Leiden1:16 PMHeidelberg$2701One-way2 transfers
- 5:58 AM6h06Leiden12:04 PMHeidelberg$1671One-way3 transfers
- 3:58 PM6h12Leiden10:10 PMHeidelberg$2701One-way2 transfers
- 6:13 PM6h20Leiden12:33 AMHeidelberg$2591One-way2 transfers
- 5:58 AM6h34Leiden12:32 PMHeidelberg$2591One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Leiden to Heidelberg
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leiden to Heidelberg among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $37. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 10m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $37, and a flight costs an average of $166.
Distance: 264 miles (425 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$128 Average price | $62 Average price Cheapest | $247 Average price |
6h 5m Average total duration 5h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 59m Average total duration 9h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 10m Average total duration Fastest 1h 10m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.4 - 1.1kg CO2 emissions | 1.3 - 2.5kg CO2 emissions |
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 Leiden to Heidelberg is a bus with an average price of $62 (€51).
This is compared to other travel options from Leiden to Heidelberg:
A bus is $66 (€54) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leiden to Heidelberg costing on average $128 (€105).
A bus is $184 (€151) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Leiden to Heidelberg costing on average $247 (€203).
The fastest way to travel from Leiden to Heidelberg is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 10m.
Other travel options to Heidelberg take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 35m.
Bus takes on average 9h 29m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Leiden and Heidelberg including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leiden to Heidelberg among Omio's users.
Live departures
Leiden to Heidelberg train times
The table below shows live departures for Leiden to Heidelberg trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, June 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:58 AM Leiden | 6h06 | 12:04 PM Heidelberg | 3 transfers | |
| 5:58 AM Leiden | 6h34 | 12:32 PM Heidelberg | 2 transfers | |
| 7:58 AM Leiden | 5h18 | 1:16 PM Heidelberg | 2 transfers | |
| 9:58 AM Leiden | 6h34 | 4:32 PM Heidelberg | 2 transfers | |
| 11:58 AM Leiden | 6h34 | 6:32 PM Heidelberg | 2 transfers | |
| 1:58 PM Leiden | 6h34 | 8:32 PM Heidelberg | 2 transfers | |
| 3:58 PM Leiden | 6h12 | 10:10 PM Heidelberg | 2 transfers | |
| 6:13 PM Leiden | 6h20 | 12:33 AM Heidelberg | 2 transfers | |
| 6:58 PM Leiden | 7h19 | 2:17 AM Heidelberg | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Leiden to Heidelberg 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
Jun 30
Jun 30
Wed
Jul 01
Jul 01
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Jul 06
Why should you book Leiden to Heidelberg trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from Leiden to Heidelberg.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leiden to Heidelberg.
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 Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Leiden to Heidelberg.
- 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 Leiden to Heidelberg.
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 Leiden to Heidelberg.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Leiden to Heidelberg
Netherlands
Germany
Trains from Leiden to Heidelberg run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $42 (€35) but you can travel from only $37 (€30) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 01:27, the last at 23:20. The fastest train covers the 264 miles (425 km) distance in 6h 25m.
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 $37 (€30)
Distance 264 miles (425 km) |
Average train duration 5h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $42 (€35) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 6h 25m |
First train 1:27 AM |
Last train 11:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 35 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
Bus from $37 (€30)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Leiden to Heidelberg trainsDeutsche Bahn, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Leiden and Heidelberg from $37 (€30). 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 25m
Cheapest Price
$42 (€35)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
7 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
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 18m
Cheapest Price
$153 (€126)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
8 a day
Complete guide to Heidelberg
Things to do in Heidelberg
Discover the best of Heidelberg — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Heidelberg trip today.
- Recommended
Deutsches Apotheken-Museum
A well-known museum inside Heidelberg Castle with historic pharmacy interiors, medical tools, and apothecary collections.
- Recommended
Dokumentations- und Kulturzentrum Deutscher Sinti und Roma
Important cultural and documentation center on the history and persecution of German Sinti and Roma, with a permanent exhibition.
- Must visit
Altstadt
Heidelberg’s old town is the city’s main strolling area, packed with historic streets, views, shops, and classic architecture.
- Must visit
Philosophenweg
A famous hillside walking path with postcard views of the old town, castle, and river, especially popular at sunset.
- Recommended
Marktplatz
The historic market square at the center of the old town, framed by the Church of the Holy Spirit and traditional facades.
- Gluten-free
Saumagen
A classic dish from the Palatinate near Heidelberg, made from pork, potatoes, and spices stuffed into a casing and sliced or fried. It is one of the region’s most famous specialties.
Pfälzer Bratwurst
A traditional coarse pork sausage from the surrounding Palatinate region, commonly served with mustard, bread, or sauerkraut. It is a staple in local taverns and markets.
Leberknödel
Liver dumplings served in broth or with sauerkraut and potatoes. This hearty dish is typical of southwestern German home cooking around Heidelberg.
Schnitzelbank
A well-known traditional Heidelberg restaurant in the Old Town, famous for schnitzel, regional dishes, and a rustic historic atmosphere.
Zum Roten Ochsen
One of Heidelberg’s most historic student taverns, offering classic German fare, local wine, and a lively old-world setting.
Weisser Bock
An established upscale restaurant and hotel dining room known for refined regional cuisine and a polished setting in Heidelberg’s Old Town.
Euro
Moderate by German standards: dining and coffee are manageable, while hotels rise in peak tourist and university periods.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-14 for kebab, bakery, or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale venues.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up in cafés and taxis; in restaurants, 5-10% is customary for good service, handed directly to staff.
myVRN
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.40
- Day pass
- EUR 8.70
To the city center
Heidelberg Hbf, Heidelberg -> Bismarckplatz, Heidelberg
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- You can buy VRN tickets in the myVRN app, at ticket machines, and at many stops; validate paper tickets if required before travel.
- Card payment is available in the myVRN app and at many ticket machines, but not always on board buses or trams, so carry a backup payment method.
FAQs: Trains from Leiden to Heidelberg
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leiden to Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Leiden to Heidelberg can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $42 (€35), while the average price is around $128 (€105).
The train from Leiden to Heidelberg takes 6h 25m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Leiden to Heidelberg leaves at 1:27 AM.
The distance by train from Leiden to Heidelberg is 264 miles (425 km).
The last train from Leiden to Heidelberg leaves at 11:20 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Leiden to Heidelberg.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leiden to Heidelberg.
The train station in Leiden that goes to Heidelberg is Leiden Centraal, which connects to Heidelberg Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Leiden to Heidelberg is by bus, with a cost of around $37 (€30).
The train journey from Leiden to Heidelberg offers scenic views, especially as you pass through the picturesque landscapes of the Netherlands and Germany, including charming countryside, small towns, and the Rhine Valley's natural beauty.
A day trip from Leiden to Heidelberg is not feasible as the travel time is 6h 25m with a distance of 264 miles (425 km). There are 7 train trips available per day.
In Heidelberg, you can visit the historic Heidelberg Castle for panoramic views, stroll along the Old Bridge for picturesque scenery, and take a scenic walk on the Philosopher's Walk. Explore Hauptstrasse, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets, and discover Heidelberg University. The Church of the Holy Spirit offers Gothic architecture in the Old Town. Enjoy a family-friendly day at Heidelberg Zoo or learn about pharmacy history at the German Pharmacy Museum within the castle. A boat tour on the Neckar River provides unique city views, and nearby Baden region offers delightful wine tasting tours.
For a fulfilling experience, spending 2 to 3 days in Heidelberg allows you to explore the historic Heidelberg Castle, stroll along the Philosopher's Walk, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Old Town.
Yes, you can take the train from Leiden to Heidelberg.
Since both Leiden and Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg include Frankfurt am Main, Stuttgart, Strasbourg, Baden-Baden, Mainz.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leiden to Heidelberg 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.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Heidelberg, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Old Town and near the train station. Common scams include distraction techniques in busy spots and overpriced taxi rides. Staying vigilant in popular tourist zones and using official transport services can help ensure a safe visit.
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 Leiden to Heidelberg
Leiden
Heidelberg
The major train station for departures in Leiden is Leiden Centraal. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leiden Centraal for your trip from Leiden to Heidelberg.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
9Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, accessible from the main entrance
Dining
- Restaurant De Bruine Boon
- Grand Café Van Buuren
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- €0.70
Hotel
- Ibis Leiden Centre
- Golden Tulip Leiden Centre
- City Hotel Nieuw Minerva
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Bike Parking
- 4720 places, some covered
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-4 for intercity trains
- Hall 2: platform 5-9 for local trains
Public transit options for Leiden Centraal
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Intercity and local services
Leiden Lammenschans
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCBike ParkingCar RentalDe Vink
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
2 kmThe major train station for arrivals in Heidelberg is Heidelberg Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Heidelberg Hbf for your journey to Heidelberg from Leiden.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Tuesday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Wednesday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Thursday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Friday: 07:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 09:00 - 19:00
- Sunday: 09:00 - 19:00
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Heid´s Grill
- McDonald's
- Uuuhmami
- Taj Mahal
Hotel
- Leonardo Hotel
- Qube Hotel
- NH Heidelberg
- Krokodil
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Persepolis
- Zum Brückenaff
- 'S' Kastanie
- Choa
Hotel
- Parkhotel Atlantic
- Hackteufel
- Goldener Falke
- Hotel zum Ritter St. Georg
Most popular train connections from Leiden
More options for your journey from Leiden to Heidelberg
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Heidelberg and Leiden
Most popular train connections to Heidelberg
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