Leuven to Zurich train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE)

Tue, Sep 01
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leuven to Zurich

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 01

Cheapest price on Sep 01

$189

Average ticket price on Sep 01

$216

Fastest journey on Sep 01

7 h 33 m

Average journey duration on Sep 01

7 h 43 m

Trains on Sep 01

8

Distance

481 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Leuven to Zurich will cost around $216 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $189.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Leuven to Zurich without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Deutsche BahnIC 506 · ICE 13 · ICE 2013 · ICE 371
    8:27 AM8h33
    Leuven station
    5:00 PMZurich HB
    $1891One-way
    4 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnR 3057 · IC 506 · ICE 13 · ICE 2013
    8:03 AM8h57
    Heverlee
    5:00 PMZurich HB
    $1891One-way
    5 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnR 3057 · IC 506 · ICE 13 · ICE 105
    8:03 AM7h57
    Heverlee
    4:00 PMZurich HB
    $1961One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnR 3055 · IC 504 · ICE 11 · ICE 103
    6:03 AM7h57
    Heverlee
    2:00 PMZurich HB
    $1961One-way
    4 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnIC 506 · ICE 13 · ICE 105
    8:27 AM7h33
    Leuven station
    4:00 PMZurich HB
    $1961One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Leuven to Zurich

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leuven to Zurich 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 27m. 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 $558.

Distance: 298 miles (481 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$240

Average price

$558

Average price

$97

Average price

Cheapest

$215

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

7h 46m

Average total duration

7h 16m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 27m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 27m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

15h 34m

Average total duration

15h 4m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 51m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

1.4 - 2.9kg

CO2 emissions

0.5 - 1.2kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

KLM

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

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 Zurich is a bus with an average price of $97 (€79).

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

A bus is $143 (€116) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leuven to Zurich costing on average $240 (€194).

A bus is $461 (€373) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Leuven to Zurich costing on average $558 (€452).

The fastest way to travel from Leuven to Zurich is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 27m.

Other travel options to Zurich take longer:

Train takes on average 7h 16m.

Bus takes on average 15h 4m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Leuven and Zurich including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leuven to Zurich 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 $240 (€194) compared to roughly $215 (€174) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-24.51 (€-19.85). The journey takes 7h 16m versus 6h 51m 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 Zurich train times

The table below shows live departures for Leuven to Zurich trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnR 3055 · IC 504 · ICE 11 · ICE 1036:03 AM Heverlee
7h57
2:00 PM Zurich HB4 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 504 · ICE 11 · ICE 103 · IC 7956:25 AM Leuven station
7h35
2:00 PM Zurich HB3 transfers
Deutsche BahnR 3057 · IC 506 · ICE 13 · ICE 105
On time
8:03 AM Heverlee
7h57
4:00 PM Zurich HB
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnR 3057 · IC 506 · ICE 13 · ICE 20138:03 AM Heverlee
8h57
5:00 PM Zurich HB5 transfers
Deutsche BahnR 3057 · IC 506 · ICE 13 · ICE 2523
On time
8:03 AM Heverlee
7h57
4:00 PM Zurich HB
4 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 506 · ICE 13 · ICE 2013 · ICE 3718:27 AM Leuven station
8h33
5:00 PM Zurich HB4 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 506 · ICE 13 · ICE 105
On time
8:27 AM Leuven station
7h33
4:00 PM Zurich HB
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnIC 506 · ICE 13 · ICE 2523 · ICE 105
On time
8:27 AM Leuven station
7h33
4:00 PM Zurich HB
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 Zurich 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
Sep 01
Wed
Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04
Sat
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06
Mon
Sep 07

Why should you book Leuven to Zurich trains with Omio?

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

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 Zurich.
  • 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 Zurich.

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 Zurich.
  • 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 Zurich.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Leuven to Zurich

BelgiumBelgium
SwitzerlandSwitzerland
Icon of train

Trains from Leuven to Zurich run on average 5 times per day, taking around 7h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $113 (€91) but you can travel from only $57 (€46) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 22:26. The fastest train covers the 298 miles (481 km) distance in 6h 22m.

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 $57 (€46)
Distance
298 miles (481 km)
Average train duration
7h 16m
Cheapest ticket price
$113 (€91)
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
6h 22m
First train
12:08 AM
Last train
10:26 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Thu
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 $57 (€46)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Leuven to Zurich trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Leuven and Zurich from $57 (€46). 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
6h 22m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$113 (€91)
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

Complete guide to Zurich

Things to do in Zurich

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

  • Must visit

Kunsthaus Zürich

Switzerland's leading art museum with major works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art, including Monet, Giacometti, and important Swiss collections.

  • Must visit

Swiss National Museum

National museum in a castle-like building near the main station. It offers essential insight into Swiss cultural history, design, and nationhood.

  • Recommended

Museum Rietberg

Remarkable private collection in a villa, featuring Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and early modern masterpieces in an intimate lakeside setting.

Swiss franc (CHF, Fr.)

Zurich is pricier than most European cities. Hotels, dining, and local transit are costly, though supermarkets and takeaway spots can help lower daily spend.

Average meal costs

Budget
CHF 15-25 for fast food or takeaway.
Mid-range
CHF 30-50 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
CHF 90+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
CHF 4.50-6.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for excellent service. Small rounding is common in cafes and taxis.

FAQs: Trains from Leuven to Zurich

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Leuven to Zurich can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $113 (€91), while the average price is around $240 (€194).
The train from Leuven to Zurich takes 6h 22m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Leuven to Zurich is 298 miles (481 km).
The first train from Leuven to Zurich leaves at 12:08 AM.
The last train from Leuven to Zurich leaves at 10:26 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Leuven to Zurich.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leuven to Zurich.
The train station in Leuven that goes to Zurich is Leuven station, which connects to Zurich HB.
The cheapest way to get from Leuven to Zurich is by bus, with a cost of around $57 (€46).
The train journey from Leuven to Zurich offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Belgian countryside, the rolling hills of Luxembourg, and the stunning Swiss Alps, providing a visually enriching experience.
A day trip from Leuven to Zurich is not feasible, as the travel duration is 6h 22m and the distance is 298 miles (481 km). Trains run 4 times per day.
In Zurich, you can hike or take a train to Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic views of the city and Alps, shop along the exclusive Bahnhofstrasse, explore diverse wildlife at Zurich Zoo, and enjoy performances at the Opera House. Wander through the Botanical Garden, offering a variety of plant species. Visit Lake Zurich for scenic views and recreational activities, explore the historic Old Town with its medieval buildings, and admire artworks at Kunsthaus Zurich. Discover Swiss cultural history at the Swiss National Museum and enjoy a peaceful moment at Lindenhof with views over the city.
Two to three days are generally sufficient to explore Zurich's main attractions, including the Old Town, Lake Zurich, museums, and nearby Uetliberg Mountain.
Yes, you can take the train from Leuven to Zurich.
Since both Leuven and Zurich 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 Zurich include Lucerne, Basel, Bern, Chur, Engelberg.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leuven to Zurich 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 Zurich, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overcharging by taxis can also occur. It is advisable to use official transportation services and remain vigilant with personal belongings to 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 Zurich

Most Leuven to Zurich trains use the Heverlee to Zürich HB station pair, with some services arriving at Zürich Stadelhofen. Use this guide to compare Leuven and Zurich 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 Zurich

Which Leuven station do trains to Zurich leave from?

Trains from Leuven to Zurich 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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