- Must visit
Kunsthalle zu Kiel
Major art museum of Kiel University with paintings, sculptures, and changing exhibitions from the 19th century to contemporary art.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leuven to Kiel
Showing times and prices for May 28
Cheapest price
$170
Average price
$199
Fastest journey
6 h 54 m
Average duration
7 h 42 m
Trains per day
9
Distance
530 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Leuven to Kiel is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leuven to Kiel will cost around $199 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $170.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Leuven to Kiel without transferring at least 3 times.
6:25 AM7h56Leuven2:21 PMKiel$1701One-way3 transfers- 8:27 AM6h54Leuven3:21 PMKiel$1701One-way3 transfers
- 10:27 AM7h54Leuven6:21 PMKiel$1701One-way3 transfers
- 12:27 PM8h25Leuven8:52 PMKiel$1701One-way3 transfers
- 9:27 AM7h54Leuven5:21 PMKiel$2201One-way3 transfers
- 8:27 AM6h54Leuven3:21 PMKiel$1701One-way3 transfers
- 9:27 AM7h54Leuven5:21 PMKiel$2201One-way3 transfers
- 10:27 AM7h54Leuven6:21 PMKiel$1701One-way3 transfers
- 1:27 PM7h54Leuven9:21 PMKiel$2201One-way3 transfers
- 6:25 AM7h56Leuven2:21 PMKiel$1701One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Leuven to Kiel
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leuven to Kiel among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $61. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 53m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $61, and a flight costs an average of $390.
Distance: 329 miles (530 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$223 Average price | $492 Average price | $65 Average price Cheapest | $128 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 23m Average total duration Fastest 6h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 25m Average total duration 7h 25m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 15h 40m Average total duration 15h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 22m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.6 - 3.2kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.3kg 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 Kiel is a bus with an average price of $65 (€52).
This is compared to other travel options from Leuven to Kiel:
A bus is $158 (€128) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leuven to Kiel costing on average $223 (€180).
A bus is $428 (€346) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Leuven to Kiel costing on average $492 (€398).
The fastest way to travel from Leuven to Kiel is by train with an average journey time of 6h 53m.
Other travel options to Kiel take longer:
Flight takes on average 7h 25m.
Bus takes on average 15h 10m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Leuven and Kiel including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leuven to Kiel among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $223 (€180) compared to roughly $128 (€103) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-94.75 (€-76.53). The journey takes 6h 53m versus 6h 22m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Leuven to Kiel train times
The table below shows live departures for Leuven to Kiel trains for tomorrow, Thursday, May 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:25 AM Leuven | 7h56 | 2:21 PM Kiel | 3 transfers | |
| 8:27 AM Leuven | 6h54 | 3:21 PM Kiel | 3 transfers | |
| 9:27 AM Leuven | 7h54 | 5:21 PM Kiel | 3 transfers | |
| 10:27 AM Leuven | 7h54 | 6:21 PM Kiel | 3 transfers | |
| 11:27 AM Leuven | 8h13 | 7:40 PM Kiel | 3 transfers | |
| 12:27 PM Leuven | 8h25 | 8:52 PM Kiel | 3 transfers | |
| 1:27 PM Leuven | 7h54 | 9:21 PM Kiel | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Leuven to Kiel by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
Thu
May 28
May 28
Fri
May 29
May 29
Sat
May 30
May 30
Sun
May 31
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
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Jun 03
Why should you book Leuven to Kiel trains with Omio?
Deutsche Bahn as well as SNCB offer trains services from Leuven to Kiel.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leuven to Kiel.
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 Kiel.
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leuven to Kiel.
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 Kiel.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Leuven to Kiel.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Leuven to Kiel
Belgium
Germany
Trains from Leuven to Kiel run on average 10 times per day, taking around 6h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $221 (€179) but you can travel from only $61 (€50) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 08:16, the last at 16:26. The fastest train covers the 329 miles (530 km) distance in 8h 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 $61 (€50)
Distance 329 miles (530 km) |
Average train duration 6h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $221 (€179) |
Trains per day 10 |
Fastest train 8h 25m |
First train 8:16 AM |
Last train 4:26 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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 $61 (€50)
Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, SNCB from Leuven to Kiel trainsDeutsche Bahn, SNCB trains will get you between Leuven and Kiel 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 25m
Cheapest Price
$221 (€179)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
8 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
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 54m
Cheapest Price
$170 (€137)
SNCB frequency
10 a day
Complete guide to Kiel
Things to do in Kiel
Discover the best of Kiel — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kiel trip today.
- Recommended
Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel
Kiel’s maritime museum in a historic fish auction hall, covering naval, port, and shipping history closely tied to the city.
- Recommended
Zoologisches Museum Kiel
University museum with notable zoological collections, including marine specimens, skeletons, and exhibits linked to Baltic Sea research.
- Must visit
Kiellinie
Kiel’s signature waterfront promenade along the fjord, ideal for walks, harbor views, naval atmosphere, and major event watching.
- Recommended
Alter Markt
Historic market square in the old center, anchored by St. Nikolai Church and surrounded by shops and city life.
- Recommended
Rathausplatz
Central square by the town hall and opera house, often used for events and a practical orientation point in central Kiel.
- Gluten-free
Kieler Sprotten
Lightly smoked sprats traditionally linked with Kiel. They are eaten whole on bread or as a snack and are one of the city’s best-known regional specialties.
- Gluten-free
Labskaus
A classic North German sailor’s dish of corned beef, potatoes and beetroot, often served with herring, pickles and fried egg. It reflects Kiel’s maritime heritage.
- Gluten-free
Matjes Mit Hausfrauensoße
Young pickled herring served with a creamy apple-onion sauce, usually with potatoes. A beloved northern coastal dish strongly associated with Schleswig-Holstein.
Restaurant Ahlmanns
Refined dining venue in Kiel recognized for contemporary German cuisine, careful service and an elegant atmosphere suited to a special meal.
Pier 16
Stylish restaurant in Kiel with a more upscale feel, known for modern regional cuisine, seafood and well-presented seasonal menus.
Längengrad
Established waterfront restaurant at Kiellinie known for fish, northern German dishes and harbor views in a polished but relaxed setting.
Euro
Moderate by German standards. Daily costs are manageable, with mid-range dining and hotels priced below Munich or Hamburg.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up in cafes and taxis, or tip about 5-10% in restaurants for good service.
NAH.SH
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.10
- Day pass
- EUR 8.60
To the city center
Kiel Hbf, Kiel -> Kiel Rathaus, Kiel
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- You can buy Schleswig-Holstein local tickets in the official NAH.SH app before boarding. Check whether your route is covered by regional bus or ferry zones.
- On many local buses, card payment may not always be available directly on board, so buying in the app is the safest option. Validate ticket rules before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Leuven to Kiel
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leuven to Kiel 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 Kiel, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Leuven to Kiel can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $221 (€179), while the average price is around $223 (€180).
The train from Leuven to Kiel takes 8h 25m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Leuven to Kiel is 329 miles (530 km).
The first train from Leuven to Kiel leaves at 8:16 AM.
The last train from Leuven to Kiel leaves at 4:26 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Leuven to Kiel.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leuven to Kiel.
The train station in Leuven that goes to Kiel is Leuven station, which connects to Kiel Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Leuven to Kiel is by bus, with a cost of around $61 (€50).
The train journey from Leuven to Kiel offers varied scenery, including picturesque views of the Belgian countryside, charming rural landscapes, and stretches of the North German plains. While not traditionally considered among the most scenic European routes, it provides a pleasant and diverse visual experience.
A day trip from Leuven to Kiel is not feasible as the travel duration is 8h 25m. However, there are 7 trains per day covering a distance of 329 miles (530 km).
To fully explore Kiel's maritime history, museums, and nearby attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Leuven to Kiel.
Since both Leuven and Kiel 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 Kiel include Hamburg, Rødekro, Neumünster, Padborg, Flensburg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leuven to Kiel 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 Kiel, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the harbor and public transport. Common scams include overcharging in taxis and unofficial currency exchange offers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and official exchange offices, and to keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Overall, Kiel is considered a safe city with typical urban precautions.
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 Kiel
Leuven
Kiel
The major train station for departures in Leuven is Leuven. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leuven for your trip from Leuven to Kiel.
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 - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
9Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, 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 RentalThe major train station for arrivals in Kiel is Kiel Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Kiel Hbf for your journey to Kiel from Leuven.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Monday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Tuesday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Wednesday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Thursday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Friday: 05:45 - 20:30
- Saturday: 06:45 - 20:00
- Sunday: 06:45 - 20:00
Dining
- MUM&DAD
- Lunatique
- McDonald's
- Campus Suite
Hotel
- Hotel Wiking
- Hotel Berliner Hof Kiel
- Astor
- InterCityHotel Kiel
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Illy Espressobar
- McDonald's
- Gosch
- Citti-Restaurant
Most popular train connections from Leuven
More options for your journey from Leuven to Kiel
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kiel and Leuven
Most popular train connections to Kiel
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