- Must visit
Fries Museum
The main museum of Friesland, covering regional history, art, and major temporary exhibitions in a modern city-center building.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Maastricht to Leeuwarden
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Maastricht to Leeuwarden among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $27. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 48m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $27, and a train costs an average of $177.
Distance: 162 miles (262 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$177 Average price | $40 Average price Cheapest | $72 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 18m Average total duration Fastest 3h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 9m Average total duration 9h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 34m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Maastricht to Leeuwarden is a bus with an average price of $40 (€33).
This is compared to other travel options from Maastricht to Leeuwarden:
A bus is $137 (€112) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Maastricht to Leeuwarden costing on average $177 (€145).
The fastest way to travel from Maastricht to Leeuwarden is by train with an average journey time of 3h 48m.
Other travel options to Leeuwarden take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 39m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Maastricht and Leeuwarden including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Maastricht to Leeuwarden 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 $177 (€145) compared to roughly $72 (€59) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-105.01 (€-86.02). The journey takes 3h 48m versus 3h 34m 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.
Compare prices and tickets Maastricht to Leeuwarden by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
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Why should you book Maastricht to Leeuwarden trains with Omio?
Intercity as well as Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) or Arriva NL offer trains services from Maastricht to Leeuwarden.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Maastricht to Leeuwarden.
Why book with Omio vs Intercity?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Intercity, but also compare tickets for the likes of Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) or Arriva NL to find the best option for your trip from Maastricht to Leeuwarden.
- 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 Intercity with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Maastricht to Leeuwarden.
Why book with Omio over Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Maastricht to Leeuwarden.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Maastricht to Leeuwarden
NetherlandsNetherlands
Trains from Maastricht to Leeuwarden run on average 24 times per day, taking around 3h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $177 (€145) but you can travel from only $27 (€22) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 20:46. The fastest train covers the 162 miles (262 km) distance in 4h 3m.
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 $27 (€22)
Distance 162 miles (262 km) |
Average train duration 3h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $177 (€145) |
Trains per day 24 |
Fastest train 4h 3m |
First train 5:07 AM |
Last train 8:46 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
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 $27 (€22)
Train companies: Intercity, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), Arriva NL from Maastricht to Leeuwarden trainsIntercity, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), Arriva NL trains will get you between Maastricht and Leeuwarden from $27 (€22). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Intercity
About
Intercity is a widely recognized brand for express train services that connect cities over longer distances, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "Intercity" originated in the United Kingdom in 1966 with British Rail's electrification of the West Coast Main Line, becoming a brand for their main-line passenger routes. Today, Intercity services vary across Europe, with some countries like Switzerland offering modern, high-standard trains, while in others, they may be older compared to newer high-speed options. Many European countries use "InterCity" as an official brand name for regular, long-distance train services meeting specific speed and comfort criteria. For example, PKP Intercity is a major Polish rail operator connecting cities and tourist resorts within Poland and across Europe. Trenitalia's Intercity trains in Italy offer an affordable and widespread means of rail transport, connecting various cities and towns. These trains typically offer Standard and First Class services, with amenities like power sockets and sometimes catering.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Intercity frequency
24 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 13m
Cheapest Price
$177 (€145)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
14 a day
Arriva NL
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 3m
Cheapest Price
$177 (€145)
Arriva NL frequency
11 a day
Complete guide to Leeuwarden
Things to do in Leeuwarden
Discover the best of Leeuwarden — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Leeuwarden trip today.
- Recommended
Keramiekmuseum Princessehof
National museum for ceramics set in a historic palace, with collections ranging from Asian porcelain to Dutch pottery and design.
- Recommended
Natuurmuseum Fryslân
Family-friendly natural history museum focused on Friesland’s wildlife, landscapes, and interactive science displays.
- Must visit
Nieuwestad
Leeuwarden’s best-known shopping and canal street, lined with historic facades, bridges, and busy city-center activity.
- Recommended
Oldehoofsterkerkhof
Central square beside the Oldehove, used for events and one of the most recognizable open spaces in the city.
- Recommended
Prinsentuin
Elegant waterside park ideal for walking and relaxing, popular for boats, greenery, and classic city views.
- Vegetarian
Friese Suikerbrood
Sweet Frisian sugar bread baked with pearl sugar and cinnamon. A classic regional specialty often eaten at breakfast or with coffee.
- Vegetarian
Oranjekoek
Traditional Frisian cake flavored with anise and covered with a pink glaze. It is especially associated with celebrations in Leeuwarden and wider Friesland.
- Vegetarian
Dumkes
Frisian spice cookies made with anise, ginger, cinnamon, and often hazelnut pieces. A well-known local biscuit served with tea or coffee.
Restaurant Eindeloos
Refined restaurant known for seasonal tasting menus and careful presentation, suitable for a more upscale evening out.
Stek Leeuwarden
Popular casual spot in a historic canal-side setting, known for brunch, lunch, cakes, and good coffee with a relaxed atmosphere.
Restaurant Wannee
Well-regarded restaurant with a modern Dutch focus tied to local and seasonal ingredients, offering a thoughtful and contemporary dining experience.
Euro
Moderate by Dutch standards. Groceries and casual meals are manageable, while hotels and restaurant dinners cost more in peak periods.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-15 for street food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60-100+ per person for a multi-course dinner.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4 for a regular cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good restaurant service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares; little or none in cafes.
9292
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 2.60
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Leeuwarden Station, Leeuwarden -> Leeuwarden City Center, Leeuwarden
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Check in and out with your OV-chipkaart or OVpay bank card on buses and trains; card payment is supported via OVpay.
- Use 9292 for live journey planning across buses and trains in Leeuwarden and the rest of the Netherlands.
FAQs: Trains from Maastricht to Leeuwarden
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Maastricht to Leeuwarden 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 Leeuwarden, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Maastricht to Leeuwarden can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $177 (€145), while the average price is around $177 (€145).
The train from Maastricht to Leeuwarden takes 4h 3m and runs 24 per day.
The first train from Maastricht to Leeuwarden leaves at 5:07 AM.
The distance by train from Maastricht to Leeuwarden is 162 miles (262 km).
The last train from Maastricht to Leeuwarden leaves at 8:46 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Maastricht to Leeuwarden.
There is no direct train service currently available from Maastricht to Leeuwarden.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Maastricht to Leeuwarden.
The cheapest way to get from Maastricht to Leeuwarden is by bus, with a cost of around $27 (€22).
The train journey from Maastricht to Leeuwarden offers a scenic experience, passing through picturesque Dutch landscapes, including rolling countryside, charming villages, and lush greenery, especially during the spring and summer months.
A day trip from Maastricht to Leeuwarden is not feasible with a travel time of 4h 3m. However, there are 24 trains per day for this journey.
In Leeuwarden, you can visit AquaZoo Friesland to enjoy a variety of aquatic and land animals, explore vibrant local markets for unique Dutch treats and crafts, and take a canal tour for a different perspective of the city. Discover the historic Waagplein, a lively square with cafes and shops, and enjoy a cycling tour through the scenic Frisian countryside. For cultural experiences, visit the Fries Museum, Oldehove tower, and Princessehof National Museum of Ceramics. Blokhuispoort offers a cultural hub with shops and cafes, while De Groene Ster provides a recreational area with lakes and walking trails for outdoor activities.
For a well-rounded experience in Leeuwarden, plan to spend around 2 to 3 days to explore its historic sites, cultural attractions, and vibrant local scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Maastricht to Leeuwarden.
Since both Maastricht and Leeuwarden 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 Leeuwarden include Utrecht, Groningen, Arnhem, Heerenveen, Zwolle.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Maastricht to Leeuwarden 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.
The currency used in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Travelers generally find it more convenient to use cards, as most places accept debit and credit cards, though having some cash on hand is useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Leeuwarden, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Scams involving overpriced taxi fares or unofficial taxi services can occur, so it is advisable to use licensed taxis or pre-booked transportation. Additionally, travelers should watch out for counterfeit tickets or unauthorized sellers when purchasing transportation tickets. Staying aware of surroundings and keeping valuables secure helps 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.
More options for your journey from Maastricht to Leeuwarden
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leeuwarden and Maastricht
Most popular train connections to Leeuwarden
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