Leuven to Basel train with Deutsche Bahn

Sat, Jun 20
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
SNCB
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
SNCB
Regionale
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leuven to Basel

Showing times and prices for Jun 20

Cheapest price

$146

Average price

$146

Fastest journey

7 h 21 m

Average duration

7 h 21 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

424 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Leuven to Basel will cost around $146 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $146.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Leuven for Basel on Sat, Jun 20, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 424 km distance in an average of 7 h 21 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 21 m .

On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 7 h 21 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:27 AM7h21
    Leuven
    2:48 PMBasel
    $1461One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Leuven to Basel

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leuven to Basel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $47. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 38m. 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 $47, and a flight costs an average of $81.

Distance: 263 miles (424 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$211

Average price

$72

Average price

Cheapest

$266

Average price

$192

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 8m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

12h 25m

Average total duration

11h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

15h 43m

Average total duration

12h 43m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

6h 2m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.1kg

CO2 emissions

1.3 - 2.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

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 Leuven to Basel is a bus with an average price of $72 (€59).

This is compared to other travel options from Leuven to Basel:

A bus is $139 (€114) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leuven to Basel costing on average $211 (€173).

A bus is $195 (€159) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Leuven to Basel costing on average $266 (€218).

The fastest way to travel from Leuven to Basel is by train with an average journey time of 5h 38m.

Other travel options to Basel take longer:

Bus takes on average 11h 55m.

Flight takes on average 12h 43m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Leuven and Basel including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leuven to Basel 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 24m sooner (5h 38m by train vs 6h 2m by car). Tickets start at around $211 (€173) compared to roughly $192 (€157) 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

Leuven to Basel train times

The table below shows live departures for Leuven to Basel trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Eurostar1:42 PM Leuven
5h50
7:32 PM Basel0 transfersDirect
Saturday, June 20
Deutsche Bahn7:27 AM Leuven
7h21
2:48 PM Basel0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Leuven to Basel 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.

Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26

Why should you book Leuven to Basel trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as SNCB offer trains services from Leuven to Basel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leuven to Basel.

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 SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Leuven to Basel.
  • 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 Leuven to Basel.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Leuven to Basel.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Leuven to Basel.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Leuven to Basel

BelgiumBelgium
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Leuven to Basel run on average 4 times per day, taking around 5h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $75 (€62) but you can travel from only $47 (€38) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 05:06, the last at 23:13. The fastest train covers the 263 miles (424 km) distance in 5h 44m.

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 $47 (€38)
Distance
263 miles (424 km)
Average train duration
5h 38m
Cheapest ticket price
$75 (€62)
Trains per day
4
Fastest train
5h 44m
First train
5:06 AM
Last train
11:13 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
4 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 $47 (€38)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, SNCB from Leuven to Basel trainsDeutsche Bahn, SNCB trains will get you between Leuven and Basel from $47 (€38). 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 21m
Cheapest Price
$75 (€62)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 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.
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

SNCB

About
SNCB is Belgium’s national railway company and the country’s main train operator, offering First Class and Second Class tickets. It runs a variety of services, including Intercity trains for the fastest domestic connections, Interregio trains with more local stops, and international options such as EuroCity, Thalys, and ICE International. Thalys trains connect Belgium with France, Germany, and the Netherlands at high speed, while EuroCity and ICE International link Belgium to Germany and other European destinations. Onboard facilities typically include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Popular routes include Brussels to Antwerp, Brussels to Bruges, Brussels to Ghent, and Brussels to Liège.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 21m
Cheapest Price
$140 (€115)
SNCB frequency
7 a day

Complete guide to Basel

Things to do in Basel

Discover the best of Basel — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Basel trip today.

  • Must visit

Kunstmuseum Basel

Switzerland’s oldest public art museum, renowned for its outstanding collection from Holbein to modern masters. A top choice for art lovers visiting Basel.

  • Must visit

Fondation Beyeler

A celebrated museum in nearby Riehen with an exceptional collection of modern and contemporary art, set in a striking Renzo Piano building and landscaped park.

  • Recommended

Museum Tinguely

Dedicated to Jean Tinguely’s kinetic sculptures, this riverside museum is one of Basel’s most distinctive cultural attractions and especially appealing for modern art fans.

Swiss Franc

Basel is costly by European standards. Hotels, dining, and transport are pricey, though supermarkets and lunch specials can help reduce daily costs.

Average meal costs

Budget
CHF 12-20 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
CHF 25-45 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
CHF 90+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
CHF 4.50-6 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service is included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving about 5-10% for very good service is appreciated. Round up for taxis; small tips are optional in cafés and bars.

FAQs: Trains from Leuven to Basel

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leuven to Basel 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 Basel, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Leuven to Basel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $75 (€62), while the average price is around $211 (€173).
The train from Leuven to Basel takes 5h 44m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Leuven to Basel is 263 miles (424 km).
The first train from Leuven to Basel leaves at 5:06 AM.
The last train from Leuven to Basel leaves at 11:13 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Leuven to Basel.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leuven to Basel.
The train station in Leuven that goes to Basel is Leuven station, which connects to Basel SBB.
The cheapest way to get from Leuven to Basel is by bus, with a cost of around $47 (€38).
The train journey from Leuven to Basel offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the Ardennes region in Belgium and the picturesque landscapes of the Rhine Valley in Germany, providing travelers with charming countryside vistas and glimpses of historic towns along the way.
A day trip from Leuven to Basel is not feasible as the travel time is 5h 44m each way. Trains run 4 times per day. The distance is 263 miles (424 km).
In Basel, you can visit the Tinguely Museum to see kinetic sculptures by Jean Tinguely, enjoy a scenic Rhine River Cruise, and explore the charming Old Town with its medieval buildings and vibrant markets. Art enthusiasts can visit the Fondation Beyeler for modern and tribal art or attend Art Basel for contemporary artworks. Notable sights include the Gothic Basel Minster, the Kunstmuseum Basel, the playful Tinguely Fountain, Basel Zoo, and the historically significant Rathaus Basel with its red sandstone facade.
Two to three days are sufficient to explore Basel's key attractions, including its museums, old town, and the Rhine River.
Yes, you can take the train from Leuven to Basel.
Since both Leuven and Basel 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 Basel include Colmar, Strasbourg, Zurich, Lucerne, Bern.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leuven to Basel 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.
Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards; however, credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and larger establishments, making card payments convenient. Cash is still useful for small purchases, local markets, or remote areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Basel, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transportation and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overpriced taxi rides have also been reported. Staying alert and using official transportation 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 Leuven to Basel

Most Leuven to Basel trains use the Leuven to Basel SBB station pair, with some services arriving at Basel Markthalle. Use this guide to compare Leuven and Basel train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Leuven
Arrival train stations in Basel

Which Leuven station do trains to Basel leave from?

Trains from Leuven to Basel leave from Leuven. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Leuven city centre at Martelarenplein 16, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
LeuvenMartelarenplein 16, 3000 Leuven, Belgium+32 2 528 28 28WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Leuven from Leuven city centre

Leuven is 1 km from Leuven city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus1, 2, 3, 4, 5a, 5b, 4b, 40, 41, 42, 43, 406, 520, 524, 525, 597, N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8 · 8m · $4 · every ~49 min

Leuven train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food options include: De Klimop, Domus

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Leuven. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Leuven. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Leuven: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Leuven: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Leuven: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel La Royale, Park Inn by Radisson Leuven, Hotel Mille Colonnes.

Heverlee3001 Leuven, BelgiumParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Heverlee from Leuven city centre

Heverlee is 1 km from Leuven city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS20, L · 9m · $2 · every ~3 min

Heverlee train station facilities and services

Heverlee has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Heverlee.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Heverlee.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Heverlee: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Heverlee: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Heverlee.

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