- Must visit
Kunstmuseum Basel
One of Europe’s leading art museums, with outstanding Old Masters and modern works. An essential stop for Basel’s world-class cultural scene.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leuven to Basel
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
$205
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$255
Fastest journey on Sep 18
5 h 50 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
6 h 8 m
Trains on Sep 18
3
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 $255 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $205.
Fast trains
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 3 trains from Leuven to Basel, including 3 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 424 km distance in an average of 6 h 8 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 50 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 6 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.
6:09 AM6h14Leuven12:23 PMBasel$2051One-way0 transfers- 1:42 PM5h50Leuven7:32 PMBasel$2661One-way0 transfers
7:27 AM6h21Leuven1:48 PMBasel$2931One-way0 transfers
- 1:42 PM5h50Leuven7:32 PMBasel$2661One-way0 transfers
- 6:09 AM6h14Leuven12:23 PMBasel$2051One-way0 transfers
- 7:27 AM6h21Leuven1:48 PMBasel$2931One-way0 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 an average ticket price of $97 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 34m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $97, while a flight costs an average of $641.
Distance: 263 miles (424 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$187 Average price | $97 Average price Cheapest | $641 Average price | $193 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 16m Average total duration 5h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 57m Average total duration 10h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 34m Average total duration Fastest 2h 34m Onboard + 2h 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 |
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 Leuven to Basel is a bus with an average price of $97.
This is compared to other travel options from Leuven to Basel:
A bus is $90 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leuven to Basel costing on average $187.
A bus is $544 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Leuven to Basel costing on average $641.
The fastest way to travel from Leuven to Basel is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 34m.
Other travel options to Basel take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 46m.
Bus takes on average 10h 27m.
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. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 16m faster (5h 46m by train vs 6h 2m by car) and roughly $6 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($187 vs $193). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you 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 tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:09 AM Leuven | 6h14 | 12:23 PM Basel | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:27 AM Leuven | 6h21 | 1:48 PM Basel | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:42 PM Leuven | 5h50 | 7:32 PM Basel | 0 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.
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
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
Belgium
Switzerland
Trains from Leuven to Basel run on average 4 times per day, taking around 5h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $133 but you can travel from only $45 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 26m.
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 $45
Distance 263 miles (424 km) |
Average train duration 5h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $133 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 5h 26m |
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 $45
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Leuven to Basel trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Leuven and Basel from $45. 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
5h 26m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$133
Deutsche Bahn frequency
3 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
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
Museum Tinguely
A major contemporary art museum in a former paper mill, known for ambitious temporary exhibitions and a beautiful riverside location.
- Must visit
Fondation Beyeler
A renowned private museum presenting modern and contemporary art in a landmark building by Renzo Piano, set within a landscaped park.
- Must visit
Marktplatz
Basel’s lively market square is framed by historic facades and the town hall. It is a practical and scenic starting point for exploring the old town.
- Must visit
Pfalz and Münsterhügel
This beautifully preserved old-town hill has narrow lanes, fountains, and noble houses. It offers some of Basel’s most atmospheric walks and views.
- Must visit
Rhine Promenade
A riverside promenade packed with locals, swimmers, and postcard views of the old city. It captures Basel’s relaxed everyday life exceptionally well.
- Vegetarian
Basler Läckerli
Basel’s signature hard honey-almond spice biscuit, traditionally made for autumn fairs and Christmas. A protected regional specialty with medieval roots.
- Vegetarian
Basler Mandelbärli
A flaky butter pastry filled with hazelnut or almond mix. It is a classic Basel sweet sold in local bakeries and closely tied to the city’s confectionery tradition.
- Vegetarian
Basler Mehlsuppe
Basel-style flour soup, slowly browned for a deep roasted flavor and often served during Carnival. A comforting local classic linked to Fasnacht traditions.
Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl
Elegant fine dining in Hotel Les Trois Rois, known for refined French-inspired cuisine, Rhine views, and one of Basel’s most celebrated gastronomic experiences.
Atelier im Teufelhof
Stylish restaurant in Teufelhof Basel offering modern Swiss and seasonal cuisine. A polished but relaxed option with a strong local reputation.
Löwenzorn
Historic traditional venue serving Swiss classics in a lively old-town setting. A dependable place to try local dishes with a casual Basel atmosphere.
Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)
Very high hotel, dining, and everyday costs; transit is efficient but not cheap. Basel is pricier than most European city breaks.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CHF 12-20 for fast food or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- CHF 90+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CHF 4.50-6 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up small amounts in cafes, add about CHF 5-10 in restaurants for good service, and round up taxi fares.
Fairtiq
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- CHF 4.90
- Day pass
- CHF 10.90
To the city center
Basel SBB -> Barfüsserplatz, Basel
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 9 min
- Basel trams and buses use zone-based fares; most city trips are in Zone 10. Buy the correct zone ticket before boarding.
- Contactless card payment is available at many ticket machines, but not generally onboard trams or buses. Use the official app or buy at a machine before travel.
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.
Train ticket prices from Leuven to Basel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $133, while the average price is around $187.
The train from Leuven to Basel takes 5h 26m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Leuven to Basel leaves at 5:06 AM.
The distance by train from Leuven to Basel is 263 miles (424 km).
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 $45.
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 26m 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. 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 28
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, Belgium
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.
Which Basel station do trains from Leuven arrive at?
Trains from Leuven to Basel arrive at Basel SBB. Basel SBB is 1 miles (2 km) from Basel city centre.
Basel SBBCentralbahnstrasse 10, 4051 Basel, Switzerland+41 51 221 22 22
City-centre transport
Getting to Basel SBB from Basel city centre
Basel SBB is 1 km from Basel city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainTer · 5m · $1 · every ~2 min
Bus50 · 4m · $2 · every ~15 min
Tram11 · 5m · $2
1, 3, 2 · 7m · $2 · every ~25 min
Basel SBB train station facilities and services
Basel SBB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Da Roberto, Brasserie Bahnhof Basel
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Basel SBB. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Basel SBB. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Basel SBB: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Basel SBB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Basel SBB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Victoria, Hotel Schweizerhof Basel, GAIA Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Leuven
More options for your journey from Leuven to Basel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Basel and Leuven
Most popular train connections to Basel
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